Outdoor Things To Do In Chicago

Chicago is one of the most iconic and vibrant cities in the United States. It has a rich history, stunning architecture, and some of the best outdoor activities available anywhere in the world. From its many parks and beaches to its bustling lakefront and iconic skyline, there is no shortage of things to do and see in the Windy City.

A Brief History of Chicago

Located in the heart of the Midwest, Chicago has been a major player in American history since the early 1800s. The area was first settled by Jean Baptiste Point du Sable, a Haitian-born fur trader and entrepreneur, in 1779. Over the years, the city grew to become one of the most important commercial centers in the region, boasting a booming trade and industry. In 1837, Chicago was incorporated as a city and soon became one of the most important transportation hubs in the country, connecting the Midwest to the rest of the nation.

Today, Chicago is home to over two million people and is one of the largest cities in the United States. It’s a major cultural hub with world-class museums, theaters, sports teams, and music venues, as well as an important financial and business center. The city is also renowned for its stunning architecture, with some of the most iconic buildings in the world, such as the Willis Tower (formerly known as the Sears Tower) and the John Hancock Center.

Outdoor Things To Do In Chicago

Chicago is an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts. With its many parks and beaches, bustling lakefront activities, and vibrant skyline, there is no shortage of things to do for visitors looking for outdoor activities. Here are just a few of the outdoor things to do in Chicago:

Explore the Parks

Chicago is home to an impressive collection of parks and open spaces, from small local parks to sprawling green spaces like Lincoln Park and Grant Park. The city’s parks offer a wide range of activities from jogging paths and playgrounds to concerts and festivals. You can also take a relaxing stroll along the lakefront or explore one of the many nature trails. The city’s parks are also a great place to enjoy spectacular views of the skyline and Lake Michigan.

Visit the Beaches

Chicago boasts more than 20 miles of beautiful public beaches along Lake Michigan’s shoreline. The city’s beaches offer a variety of activities from swimming and sunbathing to beach volleyball and surfing. The beaches are also great spots for fishing, kayaking, and sailing. Many of them offer stunning views of the skyline, making them an ideal spot for a romantic stroll or just for taking in the sights.

Take a Boat Tour

If you want to explore Chicago’s stunning skyline from a unique perspective, then consider taking a boat tour on Lake Michigan. There are several boat tour operators offering sightseeing cruises around Chicago’s iconic skyline, as well as trips to nearby destinations like Navy Pier or Shedd Aquarium. Touring Lake Michigan by boat is also a great way to take in some of Chicago’s stunning shoreline scenery.

Go Ice Skating

Chicago winters can be cold but that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy the outdoors. Ice skating is one of the city’s most popular winter activities, with several indoor and outdoor rinks open year-round. You can find skating rinks at many of the city’s parks and along the lakefront. There are also several private rinks located throughout the city. Ice skating is a fun activity for all ages and it’s a great way to get outside during those cold winter months.

Visit the Zoo

The Lincoln Park Zoo is one of the oldest zoos in North America and it’s a great place to take kids for some outdoor fun. The zoo is open year-round and features an array of animals from all over the world. From lions to gorillas to zebras, there is something for everyone at this popular attraction. The zoo also features several interactive exhibits and playgrounds that kids will love.

Go Cycling

Chicago is a great city for cycling with its many miles of dedicated bike lanes and trails that crisscross the city. You can rent bikes from several companies throughout the city or take your own bike out for a spin. There are also several organized bike tours available that will take you through some of the city’s most iconic sights or on longer rides out into the suburbs or along Lake Michigan’s shoreline. Cycling is a great way to explore Chicago at your own pace and get some exercise at the same time.

Popular Tours

In addition to all of these outdoor activities, there are also several popular tours that will help you get even more out of your trip to Chicago. Here are two popular tours that offer an insight into some of the city’s most iconic attractions:

The Chicago Skyline Tour

This popular tour takes visitors on a two-hour journey along Lake Michigan’s shoreline, offering breathtaking views of Chicago’s skyline from many different angles. You’ll also get to learn about some of the city’s most important landmarks, such as Navy Pier, Millennium Park, and The Bean (Cloud Gate). The tour departs from Navy Pier and offers an ideal way for visitors to explore Chicago from a whole new perspective. Get an up-close look at some of Chicago’s most iconic buildings and landmarks with this popular tour that you can book here.

The Chicago River Cruise

Explore downtown Chicago from an entirely new perspective with this popular cruise down the Chicago River. This 90-minute tour takes you past some of Chicago’s most iconic buildings while providing interesting facts about their history and architecture. You’ll also get to enjoy views of the stunning skyline from this unique angle as well as get an up-close look at some of the city’s many bridges. This tour departs from downtown Chicago and offers an ideal way to explore this vibrant city from a different perspective. Book your Chicago river cruise here.

Conclusion

Chicago is an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts looking for something new and exciting to do. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing stroll along Lake Michigan or an adrenaline-fueled adventure on two wheels, there is no shortage of things to do for outdoor lovers in this vibrant city. From exploring its many parks and beaches to taking a boat tour or ice skating on one of its many rinks, there are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy in Chicago. And be sure to check out some of its popular tours as well, like The Skyline Tour or The River Cruise, for an even more immersive experience.