Our Favorite Things To Do in Chicago
Below is a list, in no particular order, of some of our favorite things to do in Chicago. We love our city and hope that you get to love it as much as we do! Please feel free to reach out if you want additional recommendations.
The Chicago Riverwalk
As the location of our first date (yes, we walked the whole thing from end to end!) and a spot we still love in the summer, the Chicago Riverwalk holds a place in our hearts. If you’re looking for a low-key stroll it’s the perfect spot for a walk totaling 1.25 miles from end to end. Start down by Navy Pier and walk through the city admiring the architecture or walk a shorter segment. There are a plethora of restaurants and bars with patios so it’s also a great spot to stop and grab a snack or a beverage outside and enjoy the weather. In the evenings check out Art on the Mart from 9:00-9:30 pm Thursday through Sunday. As a bonus, unless you stop for a snack it’s free!
The Lakefront Trail
Perpetually one of our favorite spots in Chicago and another free option, the lakefront trail is a great spot for a longer walk or a bike ride in the summer! Totalling 18 miles from end to end it’s a great way to get exercise while moving between the city’s neighborhoods. You can go as far south as Hyde Park and as far north as Edgewater. Enterances and exits from the trail exist at Navy Pier, Chicago Avenue, Oak Street, and North Avenue among others. If you’re looking for a beach day stop at one of the 6 sandy beaches along the northern part of the trail. At least 5/6 of the beaches have an outdoor restaurant or concession stand and there are typically vendors roaming the beaches selling paletas and other ice cream treats on summer weekends. For those with dogs, Maisie would like to include a special shout-out to Montrose Dog Beach (her favorite spot in the summer). Complete with a dog wash station and a large fenced-in sandy area with water access for swimming its the perfect place for your furry family member to cool off on hot days! If you’re looking for water-related activities there are lots of opportunities for boat/jetski/kayak rentals at the beaches or along the river.
Museums
Chicago has a plethora of museums geared towards a range of ages.
If you’re traveling with kids, the Shedd Aquarium is the perfect place to spend several hours exploring the ocean world. We highly recommend seeking out the touch pool for an opportunity to interact with the wildlife! The Shedd Aquarium recommends purchasing tickets in advance in order to ensure entry.
The Field Museum also appeals to a range of ages. The PlayLab allows kids ages 2-6 to get hands-on STEM experience while various exhibits showcase archeology, history, and the earth’s natural resources. Be sure to check out the Grainger Hall of Gems (Carrie’s favorite) and SUE the T-rex!
The Art Institute of Chicago is another favorite of ours. From the iconic lion statues out front to the unique quietude found inside, it’s the perfect place to spend a few hours wandering. We recommend venturing to the basement to find the Thorne Miniature Room. It’s full of dioramas detailing historical homes and few casual visitors find it during their visit.
