Summer in Chicago is warm and sunny, perfect for all kinds of summer activities. From catching a baseball game to enjoying delicious meals at festivals, you’ll find everything you need for a memorable summer. If you’re moving to this beautiful city during the hot season, starting your journey with unforgettable experiences is best. This guide covers all the fun summer activities in Chicago to help you explore your new home.
Chicago is a top sports destination, especially for baseball fans. The city is home to the Chicago Cubs and White Sox, both beloved baseball teams whose rivalry makes for an unforgettable game day experience. One of the fun things to do in Chicago in the summer is visiting Wrigley Field or Guaranteed Rate Field to catch their games.
One of the oldest ballparks in the United States, Wrigley Field was built in 1914 and has been home to the Cubs for over a century. On the South Side of Chicago, you’ll find Rate Field, home to the White Sox. Both of these ballparks offer the classic game experience, from craft beer to Chicago-style hot dogs, while watching the city’s oldest teams at play.
It’s essential to plan ahead to ensure you have the best experience. Here are a few things to check off your list before game day:
Among the many exciting summer activities in Chicago, the city hosts several highly anticipated festivals and events. Chicago is jam-packed with gatherings that blend fun, community and cultural experiences. With warm temperatures and plenty of sunshine, Chicago summers are perfect for festivals. Some of the top activities to enjoy once you move to the city this summer include:
If you enjoy jazz music, delicious food and great company, you’ll love the Chicago Jazz Festival. The event features legendary jazz artists and fresh talent performing live music for the people of Chicago. It all started when thousands of music lovers came together in Grant Park to honor Duke Ellington after he passed away in the summer of 1974.
The Chicago Jazz Festival became official in 1979 and has been an annual celebration of music since then. If you’re considering adding this festival to your list of fun summer activities in Chicago, you’ll be happy to know it’s free and open to the public. The Chicago Jazz Festival is held over Labor Day weekend every year, with the main show at Millennium Park and additional performances across the city.
Another big summer event is the Taste of Chicago Festival in Grant Park. As the name suggests, this festival is about the city’s most iconic food from local food vendors. Leading up to the event, you can enjoy pop-up celebrations in neighborhood parks, including Marquette, Pullman, and Albany Park, throughout the summer. The must-try foods at the festival include a mix of Chicago classics and new dishes from restaurants participating for the first time.
Imagine munching on barbecue ribs or Chicago-style cheesecake and beating the summer heat with the Original Rainbow Cone. In addition to all the must-try foods, the Taste of Chicago Festival also features live concerts with award-winning artists, family-friendly activities and community dance lessons.
Chicago is known as the “City in a Garden” thanks to its beautiful green parks, sandy beaches and numerous spaces for outdoor adventures. If you enjoy the thrill of being outside and in nature, these outdoor summertime Chicago activities might be perfect for you.
When you move to Chicago, the Lincoln Park Zoo will quickly become your favorite place for outdoor fun, especially if you have kids. The zoo is home to nearly 200 unique animal species from all over the world. From African penguins to red pandas, you’ll get to see and learn about all kinds of animals. Lincoln Park Zoo also hosts several events throughout the summer, allowing you to enjoy new experiences.
The zoo is free to enter every day, all year round, so you can explore the exhibits, gardens and grounds without needing a ticket.
Summer is a great time to have some fun in the sun and get a much-needed tan. Luckily, Chicago is situated on the southwestern shores of freshwater Lake Michigan, which means the city is surrounded by beautiful beaches. Some of the most popular beaches along Lake Michigan include Oak Street Beach between the Gold Coast and Streeterville and North Avenue Beach adjacent to Lincoln Park.
The beaches are scenic and have many recreational activities, including kayaking, volleyball, paddleboarding and bike rentals.
Chicago has a rich and diverse art and architecture scene, with numerous ways to explore it. Here are some of the must-do experiences to add to your summer itinerary when you move to this architecturally rich city:
A boat cruise is one of the best ways to explore the city’s architecture, which is characterized by tall skyscrapers and world-famous buildings. The iconic skyline is a sight to see for both locals and tourists. While taking in the stunning views as you cruise along the river or lake, you might also learn new things about Chicago’s history.
Art on The Mart is the largest digital art projection in the world. It displays contemporary artwork on the 2.5-acre façade of The Mart building. The best place to view these projections is on the Chicago Riverwalk, specifically between Wells Street and Franklin Street.
Summer has ideal weather conditions for moving, kids are on school breaks, and you’ll arrive in time to enjoy summer activities in Chicago. Here are a few tips to help you prepare for your move:
Hiring reputable movers like Corrigan Moving Systems can help make your experience stress-free and efficient. We assist families and individuals relocating to Chicago with our comprehensive moving services.
Moving to Chicago in the summer allows you to explore your new surroundings and a diverse range of activities in accommodating weather. Start this new chapter in your life by creating lasting memories. At Corrigan Moving Systems, we’ll help you transition into your new home with ease. If you’re considering moving to Chicago, connect with our team for assistance.
