Active Things to Do in Chicago

Active Things to Do in Chicago
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Nestled along Lake Michigan, the busy Midwestern city of Chicago offers a variety of outdoor activities and recreation. From jogging and biking paths to boating and fishing, there are a number of outdoor opportunities. Whether you're vacationing for the weekend to catch a baseball game, soak in the sun or attend a Segway tour of the city, there are a number of activities.

Winter Activities

Situated on Addison Street in the Wrigleyville neighborhood, the Rink at Wrigley consists of a full-size ice skating rink. Organized by the Chicago Park District, the family-friendly ice skating rink sits on the Chicago Cubs parking lot and is open to all ages. Guests can skate at the rink from December through February. There is an admission fee to skate and visitors may rent skates at the rink for an additional fee.

Beaches

Home to one of the deepest water areas in Chicago, the Oak Street Beach is commonly used by Scuba divers, triathletes and swimmers. Free of charge and open to all ages, the Oak Street Beach is situated in the downtown area of Chicago and offers views of the skyline. Maintained by the Chicago Park District, the Oak Street Beach provides paved paths for joggers, walkers, skaters and bikers. All public beaches in Chicago are open May 22 through Labor Day.

Biking Tours

Open April through May, the Bike and Roll Chicago offers a variety of daytime and nighttime tours throughout the city by bicycle. Guests can rent bicycle through the tour group by the hour. Bicycle rentals range from mountain bikes, hybrids and quadcycles. Children equipment rentals and strollers are also available. Tours vary from a Chicago Parks and Rivers Tour where you explore Millennium Park and various beaches to the Presidential Tour which takes you to President Barack Obama's residency and favorite spots in the city.

Golfing

Situated 16 minutes from downtown Chicago, the Harborside International Golf Center offers two 18-hole golf courses; Port and Starboard. Designed by Dick Nugent, the 57-acre facility provides a practice facility for those working on their short game, private and group lessons and a club house with a golf shop. The clubhouse's restaurant, Pier 37, prepares local and American-style cuisines by Phil Stefani.

Indoor Activities

Located in Roscoe Village, the McGetridge Sports Center is an indoor recreational facility that offers an indoor ice skating rink, six tennis courts, outdoor swimming pools and a baseball field that is wheelchair accessible. Throughout the year, various lessons and camps are given at the center. The sports center is open every day and welcomes all ages and skill levels. Locker rooms, a fitness center and pro shop are located on the property.

References

Article reviewed by Allen Cone Last updated on: Dec 7, 2010

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