Things to Do Near Chicago

The Chicago area is a popular vacation choice, not just for its stunning architecture and typical urban diversions, but also for its myriad offerings for more active tourists. It's one of those places where you could spend several weeks and never experience a dull moment. Be sure to pack appropriately for the time of year you are going to visiit the area. Winters can be especially harsh, so bring lots of warm clothes.

Local Food

Chicago might be famous for unhealthy food items like pizza and hot dogs, but the culinary scene is a lot more diverse than that. Stay fit and healthy while satiating your appetite with a hearty falafel plate at the Sultan's Market, which has two locations in the Chicago metropolitan area. Another highlight of the Chicago dining scene is the Ethiopian Diamond. The hip Earwax Café is recommended for those following strict meat-free diets.

Green Places to Stay

Chicago is one of the leading cities in the United States for green hotels. The Hotel Felix is a luxury boutique property noted for its eco commitment and fine perks such as a spa and a state-of-the-art fitness center. Another popular green spot is the Hotel Burnham, which has the added luxury of being located in a historic building.

Hiking

Explore the forest preserves on the northern outskirts of the city, with their fantastic hiking trails. The Indiana Dunes can be accessed easily by car if you're staying in the Chicago area; there, you can tackle the Calumet Trail, which runs in an east-west direction through a national park, where you'll encounter indigenous forms of flora and fauna, such as beavers, muskrats, Dutchmen's breeches, marsh marigold and skunk cabbage.

Water Sports

Along Lake Michigan in the summer months, you can enjoy rowing, kayaking, jet skiing and sailing. Jet skis can be rented from Windy City Watersports, which is located right on the lakefront. Wateriders offers tours by kayak as well as kayak rentals, for those who wish to explore on their own. Windsailing supplies can be acquired from Windward Sports.

Biking

In Chicago, there is a great 18-mile long bike path lining the lakefront. In fact, you might want to consider renting a bike for the duration of your visit, as it is probably the best way to explore Chicago, and the city certainly ranks as one of the country's most bike-friendly. All city buses contain bike racks. On the last Friday of the month, you can take part in Critical Mass, in which thousands of bike riders take over the city street--the departure point is Daley Plaza in the Loop. It begins at 5:30 p.m.