Have a lazy day at the beach
Spend some time on the city's gorgeous lakefront this summer.
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Experience the summer in Chicago you deserve with our guide to festivals, beaches, rooftops and more.
Welcome to summer, Chicago! We've only got a few precious months of warm weather and long days to enjoy, so let us help you make the most of it with our guide to the city's best season. A few ideas: Maximize your time outside at rooftop bars and restaurants, catch outdoor movies in city parks, sample bites at a street festival and spend your weekends dancing to live tunes at the best summer music festivals in Chicago. And if you're looking for free things to do in Chicago, it's tough to beat a long day at the beach! Summer won't stick around forever—scroll through and get ready to explore the best of the city's warm weather offerings.
It's hard to believe but summer will be over before we know it. That's why we've rounded up our favorite must-do summer activities (with a nifty badge to boot). Our challenge to you? Enjoy as many of these experiences as you can before the season ends. Game on.
Spend some time on the city's gorgeous lakefront this summer.
Grab a buddy, some blankets and some snacks!
Find the best courts to play the fastest-growing sport in America.
There's only one thing that can truly cool you down on a scorching-hot summer day.
It's summer, so there's probably a street fest happening near your neighborhood on any given weekend.
Grab tickets for Lolla, Pitchfork, Riot Fest and more.
Snag food and drinks by the river or lake at these waterfront spots.
Order cocktails and beers to enjoy high above the city's streets.
Soak up the AC while you explore galleries filled with amazing art.
Everything tastes better when you're eating outside.
Enjoy the bounty of the Midwest!
Appreciate architectural wonders from a new vantage point.
A warm, sunny day is the ideal time to explore Chicago's public installations.
Check out some of Chicago's longest trails and go for an extended ride.
Beat the heat with a nice, long swim.
Hop in the car for a daylong flower adventure.
Worthwhile destinations that are just a short drive away—no vacation time required.
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