After the famous Chicago winter has cascaded over the Windy City, Chicagoans seem to embrace summer with extreme vigor, and rightfully so. This beautiful, bustling city has a huge variety of activities during the summer to help you keep active and soak in as much of those summer months as possible. The trademark breeze will keep you cool even in the steamy July and August temperatures as you explore Chicago's various summer activity options.
Navy Pier
Navy Pier was a training center for naval pilots during World War I but now it holds a variety of attractions including a Ferris wheel ride with a stellar view, the Chicago Shakespeare Theatre and a stained glass window museum. Taking the hike to the end of the pier is an easy way to get some walking in, and the view coupled with the breeze is worth the trip. Halfway down you'll see the Crystal Gardens, filled with fountains, palm trees and other greenery in a gorgeous glass atrium.
The Chicago Riverwalk
This path follows along the south bank of the Chicago River and takes you from Franklin Street to the lake. As you walk, you'll pass the "Riverwalk Gateway," a mural about the history of the Chicago River made of tile. You'll also see the Centennial Fountain, which spurts forth a stream of water hourly in the summer months. Enjoy the fantastic view of the Loop's skyscrapers, the Riverview condos and "Chicago Rising from the Lake," a sculpture inspired by Chicago's industrial success.
Lincoln Park Zoo
Lincoln Park Zoo is a terrific summer activity for a number of reasons. The zoo provides a great walking path that won't bore, as you'll pass a number of exotic animals including antelope, alpaca, lions and various barnyard creatures. The price is right as well; the Lincoln Park Zoo is free to everyone, so there's really no excuse not to take in this excellent exercise option.
Graceland Cemetery
Visit gravesites of Chicago greats like Dexter Graves, a hotelier from the 1800s, lumberman Martin Ryerson and Ludwig Mies van der Rohe, the modernist architect, at Graceland Cemetery. Trek past the chapel and crypt to find the Peter Schoenhofen tomb, an Egyptian-style pyramid complete with an Egyptian portal and sun disk. Bring sunscreen; although parts of Graceland Cemetery are shaded, much of the graveyard leaves you exposed to the sun.
Rollerblading on the Lakefront
If in-line skating is your preferred method of exercise, check out Londo Mondo on the Gold Coast. You can rent rollerblades if you don't have a pair of your own and skate the lakefront trail from Lincoln Park all the way down to Oak Street Beach. The view is spectacular, and you'll be in good company; just keep an eye out for the cyclists, as there are plenty of them.
Sailing at Belmont Harbor
Chicago Sailing in Belmont Harbor rents sailboats until sunset from May to October. Skippers are available, but if you'd like to sail without assistance, you will need to show your sailing ability and pay an additional $15 fee. Sailing is a great way to sneak in some exercise while socializing with your friends, and the air on the lake is not to be missed. Be aware, however, that the lake is nearly always cold; you may want to wear a wetsuit if you think there's a chance you may dip into the lake.
References
- Frommer's Chicago 2010; Elizabeth Canning Blackwell; 2010
- Michelin Chicago; Cynthia Clayton Ochterbeck; 2007
- Frommer's 24 Great Walks in Chicago; Max Grinnelli; 2009
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