If you think dining on the lake, or enjoying a nicely chilled brew in the sun are experiences reserved for city dwellers, think again.

Lake County is full of restaurants that offer outdoor seating options to help patrons make the most out of the warm midwestern months. And with fall fast approaching, Lake County Journal talked to some local business owners about their outdoor amenities and what makes dining al fresco so appealing.

Michael Pruitt, co-owner of The Vine in Grayslake, said the restaurant’s back patio offers a more relaxed dining experience for patrons.