A Guide to Chicago Summer Activities

Chicago is one of the most vibrant cities in the United States. It’s a city of deep history, with a variety of cultures, communities, and attractions. From its iconic skyline to Lake Michigan, Chicago is a city like no other. With its vibrant summer months, there’s no better time to explore the Windy City than during summertime. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning for an extended stay, there are plenty of exciting Chicago summer activities to enjoy.

History and Culture

Chicago is a city steeped in history and culture. Founded in 1833 as a trading post, it quickly grew into one of the most important cities in the United States. Today, the city is home to some of the world’s most iconic buildings, such as the Willis Tower and the Tribune Tower. It’s also home to the Art Institute of Chicago, one of the world’s premiere art museums, and a variety of cultural institutions, such as the Chicago Symphony Orchestra and the Chicago History Museum.

Architecture

One of the most enjoyable summer activities in Chicago is exploring its unique architecture. From massive skyscrapers to quaint Victorian homes, Chicago’s architecture is a reflection of its history. A great way to explore the city’s architecture is to take an architectural tour. These tours provide an up-close look at the city’s iconic buildings and can provide insight into how Chicago evolved over time. The Chicago Architecture Center offers a variety of guided tours throughout the summer months, giving visitors an in-depth look at the city’s architecture.

Beaches

Chicago is home to some of the best beaches in the Midwest. With miles of sand along Lake Michigan, there’s something for everyone. From swimming and sunbathing to beach volleyball and beach bars, there are plenty of activities to enjoy. The North Avenue Beach, Oak Street Beach, and Montrose Beach are three of Chicago’s most popular beaches. For those looking for a more secluded beach experience, head to 63rd Street Beach or Rainbow Beach.

Sports

Chicago is known for its passionate sports fans, so it’s no surprise that there are plenty of sports activities to enjoy during the summer months. From baseball games at Wrigley Field to basketball games at the United Center, there are plenty of ways to cheer on your favorite team. And for those looking for a more intimate experience, there are plenty of pick-up sports games held in parks throughout the city. Whether you’re looking for a professional or amateur experience, there’s something for everyone in Chicago.

Unique Experiences

In addition to its iconic architecture and sandy beaches, there are plenty of unique experiences that can be enjoyed during the summer in Chicago. From outdoor music festivals to historic boat tours, there are plenty of ways to explore and experience the city.

Music Festivals

Chicago has a vibrant music scene, so it’s no surprise that it plays host to some of the best music festivals in the Midwest. From large-scale festivals like Lollapalooza and Pitchfork Music Festival to smaller festivals like Mamby on the Beach and Ruido Fest, there are plenty of music festivals to enjoy throughout the summer months. Each festival offers an array of musical acts, from rock and roll legends to up-and-coming artists.

Boat Tours

No trip to Chicago is complete without taking a boat tour of Lake Michigan or the Chicago River. There are a variety of boat tours available, from sightseeing tours to dinner cruises. These tours offer a unique way to explore the city from a different perspective and can be an enjoyable and relaxing way to spend an afternoon.

Popular Tours

In addition to all the activities that can be enjoyed in Chicago during the summer months, there are also a variety of popular tours that can be booked throughout the city. Here are two popular tours that offer visitors an up-close look at some of Chicago’s iconic attractions:

The Architecture Boat Tour

The Architecture Boat Tour is one of Chicago’s most popular tours. It takes visitors on a journey down the Chicago River, providing an up-close look at some of the city’s iconic buildings and bridges. The tour offers an in-depth look at the history and architecture of some of the city’s most famous landmarks and can be booked here.

The Navy Pier Fireworks Cruise

The Navy Pier Fireworks Cruise is another popular tour that offers visitors an opportunity to experience a unique view of one of Chicago’s most iconic attractions – Navy Pier. This tour takes visitors on a cruise along Lake Michigan for an up-close look at Navy Pier’s iconic fireworks show. The tour also includes a dinner buffet and live entertainment, making it a great option for those looking for something more than just a fireworks show. The tour can be booked here.

Conclusion

Chicago is one of America’s most vibrant cities, and during the summer months there’s no better place to explore its unique attractions and activities than during the summer months. From exploring its iconic architecture and sandy beaches to taking part in outdoor music festivals and boat tours, there are plenty of activities to enjoy during a visit to Chicago. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning for an extended stay, there are plenty of exciting Chicago summer activities that can be enjoyed by all.