The city of Chicago comes alive in the summertime, with a plethora of activities to enjoy. From outdoor music festivals and sporting events to cultural attractions and waterfront fun, there’s something for everyone in the Windy City this summer.
Whether you’re a local looking for new ways to experience your city or a tourist planning a memorable trip, this guide will provide you with all the information you need to make the most of your summer in Chicago. So get ready to soak up the sun and explore everything the city has to offer.
Below, you will find a comprehensive list of the best things to do in Chicago during the summer of 2024. From free and family-friendly activities to unforgettable experiences, there’s something for everyone on this list.
Things To Do In Chicago Summer 2024
Here are 8 important things to do in Chicago during the summer of 2024:
- Visit Millennium Park
- See a show at the Chicago Theatre
- Take a boat tour of the Chicago River
- Attend a Cubs game at Wrigley Field
- Spend a day at Navy Pier
- Explore the Field Museum
- Visit the Art Institute of Chicago
- Go shopping on the Magnificent Mile
These are just a few of the many things you can do in Chicago during the summer. With so much to see and do, you’re sure to have a memorable experience in the Windy City.
Visit Millennium Park
Millennium Park is a 24.5-acre park located in the Loop community area of Chicago, Illinois, between Michigan Avenue, Randolph Street, Columbus Drive, and Monroe Street. The park, which opened in 2004, was designed by renowned architect Frank Gehry and landscape architect Kathryn Gustafson.
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Cloud Gate
Also known as “The Bean,” Cloud Gate is a public sculpture by Indian-born British artist Anish Kapoor. The sculpture, which is made of stainless steel, is a popular tourist destination and has been featured in numerous films and television shows.
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Crown Fountain
Crown Fountain is a public artwork by Spanish artist Jaume Plensa. The fountain, which is located in the center of Millennium Park, consists of two 50-foot-tall glass towers that project images of the faces of Chicago residents. The fountain is a popular place to cool off on a hot summer day.
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Jay Pritzker Pavilion
Jay Pritzker Pavilion is a bandshell located in Millennium Park. The pavilion, which was designed by architect Frank Gehry, hosts a variety of free concerts and events throughout the summer months.
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Lurie Garden
Lurie Garden is a one-acre public garden located in Millennium Park. The garden, which was designed by landscape architect Kathryn Gustafson, features a variety of plants and flowers, as well as a fountain and a reflecting pool. Lurie Garden is a popular place to relax and enjoy the outdoors.
These are just a few of the many things you can see and do at Millennium Park. With its beautiful architecture, public art, and free events, Millennium Park is a must-visit destination for any visitor to Chicago.
See a show at the Chicago Theatre
The Chicago Theatre is a historic landmark located in the Loop community area of Chicago, Illinois. The theatre, which opened in 1921, was designed by architect C. W. & George L. Rapp and is known for its ornate architecture and opulent interior.
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Broadway shows
The Chicago Theatre is one of the premier venues for Broadway shows in the United States. The theatre has hosted a wide variety of Broadway shows over the years, including “The Lion King,” “Wicked,” and “Hamilton.”
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Concerts
The Chicago Theatre also hosts a variety of concerts throughout the year. The theatre has hosted a wide range of artists, including Bob Dylan, Bruce Springsteen, and Lady Gaga.
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Special events
The Chicago Theatre also hosts a variety of special events throughout the year, including movie screenings, lectures, and award shows. The theatre has hosted the Academy Awards, the Grammy Awards, and the Tony Awards.
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Tours
The Chicago Theatre offers guided tours of the theatre, which provide a behind-the-scenes look at the theatre’s history and architecture. Tours are available daily.
Seeing a show at the Chicago Theatre is a must-do experience for any visitor to Chicago. The theatre’s beautiful architecture, world-class performances, and special events make it one of the most iconic venues in the city.
Take a boat tour of the Chicago River
The Chicago River is a 156-mile-long river that flows through the heart of Chicago. The river is a major transportation artery for the city, and it is also a popular destination for recreation and tourism.
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Architectural boat tours
Architectural boat tours are a great way to see the city’s famous architecture from a unique perspective. The tours typically last for about 90 minutes and cover a variety of architectural styles, from the neoclassical buildings of the Loop to the modern skyscrapers of the Gold Coast.
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Dinner cruises
Dinner cruises are a great way to enjoy a meal while taking in the sights of the city. The cruises typically last for about two hours and offer a variety of dining options, from casual to fine dining. Some dinner cruises also feature live music and entertainment.
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Sightseeing cruises
Sightseeing cruises are a great way to see the city’s landmarks and attractions from the water. The cruises typically last for about an hour and cover a variety of sights, including the Willis Tower, the John Hancock Center, and the Field Museum. Some sightseeing cruises also feature live narration.
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Private boat tours
Private boat tours are a great way to customize your experience on the Chicago River. You can choose the route, the duration of the tour, and the type of boat you want. Private boat tours are perfect for special occasions, such as birthdays, anniversaries, and corporate events.
Taking a boat tour of the Chicago River is a great way to see the city from a different perspective. The tours are informative and entertaining, and they offer a unique way to experience the city’s architecture, landmarks, and attractions.
Attend a Cubs game at Wrigley Field
Wrigley Field is a historic baseball stadium located in the Lakeview community area of Chicago, Illinois. The stadium is home to the Chicago Cubs, a Major League Baseball team. Wrigley Field is the oldest ballpark in the National League and the second oldest ballpark in Major League Baseball, after Fenway Park in Boston.
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History
Wrigley Field opened in 1914 as Weeghman Park. The stadium was renamed Wrigley Field in 1926 after chewing gum magnate William Wrigley Jr. purchased the Cubs. Wrigley Field has been the home of the Cubs ever since.
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Architecture
Wrigley Field is known for its unique architecture. The stadium is made of brick and concrete and features a distinctive ivy-covered outfield wall. Wrigley Field is also one of the few remaining ballparks in Major League Baseball that has a manually operated scoreboard.
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Atmosphere
Wrigley Field is known for its friendly and lively atmosphere. The stadium is often packed with enthusiastic Cubs fans, and the crowd noise can be deafening. Wrigley Field is also known for its many traditions, such as the singing of “Take Me Out to the Ball Game” during the seventh inning stretch.
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Tickets
Tickets to Cubs games can be purchased online, over the phone, or at the stadium box office. Ticket prices vary depending on the day of the week, the opponent, and the seat location. Cubs games are typically sellouts, so it is important to purchase tickets in advance.
Attending a Cubs game at Wrigley Field is a must-do experience for any baseball fan. The stadium’s unique architecture, lively atmosphere, and rich history make it one of the most iconic ballparks in Major League Baseball.
Spend a day at Navy Pier
Navy Pier is a 3,300-foot-long pier on the shores of Lake Michigan in Chicago, Illinois. The pier is a popular tourist destination, and it features a variety of attractions, including rides, restaurants, shops, and museums.
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Rides
Navy Pier is home to a variety of rides, including the Centennial Wheel, a 200-foot-tall Ferris wheel; the Wave Swinger, a giant swing ride; and the Rock ‘n’ Roll Chicago, a roller coaster. The rides at Navy Pier are suitable for all ages, and they offer a great way to enjoy the views of the lake and the city.
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Restaurants
Navy Pier has a variety of restaurants, from casual to fine dining. The restaurants at Navy Pier offer a wide range of cuisines, including American, Italian, Mexican, and Asian. Whether you’re looking for a quick bite or a leisurely meal, you’re sure to find something to your taste at Navy Pier.
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Shops
Navy Pier has a variety of shops, including souvenir shops, clothing stores, and candy stores. The shops at Navy Pier offer a wide range of merchandise, from souvenirs to high-end fashion. Whether you’re looking for a gift for a friend or a treat for yourself, you’re sure to find something you love at Navy Pier.
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Museums
Navy Pier is home to a variety of museums, including the Chicago Children’s Museum, the Chicago Shakespeare Theater, and the Smith Museum of Stained Glass Windows. The museums at Navy Pier offer a variety of exhibits, from interactive displays to historical artifacts. Whether you’re interested in art, history, or science, you’re sure to find a museum that interests you at Navy Pier.
Spending a day at Navy Pier is a great way to enjoy the outdoors and experience the best of Chicago. With its variety of rides, restaurants, shops, and museums, Navy Pier has something for everyone.
Explore the Field Museum
The Field Museum is a natural history museum located in Chicago, Illinois. The museum is home to a vast collection of artifacts and specimens from around the world, including fossils, minerals, plants, and animals. The Field Museum is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike, and it is one of the most comprehensive natural history museums in the world.
The Field Museum was founded in 1893 as part of the World’s Columbian Exposition. The museum’s original collection was donated by Marshall Field, a wealthy Chicago merchant. The museum has since grown to include over 26 million specimens and artifacts. The Field Museum is organized into four main departments: Anthropology, Botany, Geology, and Zoology. Each department has its own collection of specimens and artifacts, and each department conducts its own research and educational programs.
The Field Museum is home to a number of world-renowned exhibits, including the Sue the T. rex, the largest and most complete Tyrannosaurus rex skeleton ever discovered. The museum also has a large collection of Egyptian artifacts, including the tomb of Pharaoh Merneptah. The Field Museum is also home to a number of interactive exhibits, including the Evolving Planet exhibit, which features a life-sized model of a Tyrannosaurus rex.
Exploring the Field Museum is a great way to learn about the natural world and the history of life on Earth. The museum’s vast collection of specimens and artifacts, its world-renowned exhibits, and its interactive displays make it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in natural history.
In addition to its permanent exhibits, the Field Museum also hosts a variety of temporary exhibits throughout the year. These exhibits often focus on a specific topic or region of the world, and they offer a unique opportunity to see rare and unusual specimens and artifacts.
Visit the Art Institute of Chicago
The Art Institute of Chicago is a world-renowned art museum located in Chicago, Illinois. The museum is home to a vast collection of paintings, sculptures, prints, drawings, and photographs from around the world. The Art Institute of Chicago is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike, and it is one of the most comprehensive art museums in the world.
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European painting and sculpture
The Art Institute of Chicago has a world-renowned collection of European painting and sculpture. The collection includes works by some of the most famous artists in history, including Rembrandt, Monet, Renoir, and Picasso. The museum also has a large collection of medieval and Renaissance art.
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American painting and sculpture
The Art Institute of Chicago also has a significant collection of American painting and sculpture. The collection includes works by some of the most famous American artists, including Winslow Homer, Mary Cassatt, Edward Hopper, and Georgia O’Keeffe. The museum also has a large collection of Native American and African American art.
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Asian art
The Art Institute of Chicago has a large and comprehensive collection of Asian art. The collection includes works from China, Japan, Korea, India, and Southeast Asia. The museum also has a significant collection of Islamic art.
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Modern and contemporary art
The Art Institute of Chicago has a large and growing collection of modern and contemporary art. The collection includes works by some of the most famous modern and contemporary artists, including Pablo Picasso, Salvador Dalรญ, Frida Kahlo, and Andy Warhol. The museum also has a large collection of photography.
Visiting the Art Institute of Chicago is a great way to experience the history of art from around the world. The museum’s vast collection of paintings, sculptures, prints, drawings, and photographs is sure to impress even the most discerning art lover.
Go shopping on the Magnificent Mile
The Magnificent Mile is a famous shopping street located in Chicago, Illinois. The street is home to a variety of high-end stores, boutiques, and restaurants. The Magnificent Mile is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike, and it is one of the most popular shopping streets in the United States.
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Department stores
The Magnificent Mile is home to a number of department stores, including Bloomingdale’s, Macy’s, and Nordstrom. These department stores offer a wide range of merchandise, from clothing and accessories to home goods and electronics.
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Boutiques
The Magnificent Mile is also home to a number of boutiques. These boutiques offer a more unique selection of merchandise, including clothing, accessories, and home goods. Many of the boutiques on the Magnificent Mile are locally owned and operated.
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Restaurants
The Magnificent Mile is home to a number of restaurants, from casual to fine dining. The restaurants on the Magnificent Mile offer a wide range of cuisines, from American to Italian to Asian. Whether you’re looking for a quick bite or a leisurely meal, you’re sure to find something to your taste on the Magnificent Mile.
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Hotels
The Magnificent Mile is also home to a number of hotels. These hotels offer a variety of amenities, from luxury accommodations to budget-friendly options. Whether you’re looking for a place to stay for a few nights or a few weeks, you’re sure to find a hotel that meets your needs on the Magnificent Mile.
Going shopping on the Magnificent Mile is a great way to experience the best of Chicago shopping. The street’s wide variety of stores, boutiques, restaurants, and hotels make it a one-stop destination for all your shopping needs.
FAQ
Here are some frequently asked questions about things to do in Chicago in the summer of 2024:
Question 1: What are some of the most popular things to do in Chicago in the summer?
Answer 1: Some of the most popular things to do in Chicago in the summer include visiting Millennium Park, seeing a show at the Chicago Theatre, taking a boat tour of the Chicago River, attending a Cubs game at Wrigley Field, spending a day at Navy Pier, exploring the Field Museum, visiting the Art Institute of Chicago, and going shopping on the Magnificent Mile.
Question 2: What are some free things to do in Chicago in the summer?
Answer 2: There are many free things to do in Chicago in the summer, including visiting the Lincoln Park Zoo, walking or biking along the lakefront trail, attending a free concert in Grant Park, and visiting the Chicago Cultural Center.
Question 3: What are some kid-friendly things to do in Chicago in the summer?
Answer 3: There are many kid-friendly things to do in Chicago in the summer, including visiting the Shedd Aquarium, taking a ride on the Centennial Ferris wheel at Navy Pier, exploring the Museum of Science and Industry, and visiting the Lincoln Park Zoo.
Question 4: What are some romantic things to do in Chicago in the summer?
Answer 4: There are many romantic things to do in Chicago in the summer, including taking a sunset cruise on the Chicago River, dining at a rooftop restaurant, and seeing a show at the Chicago Theatre.
Question 5: What are some tips for planning a trip to Chicago in the summer?
Answer 5: Here are some tips for planning a trip to Chicago in the summer: book your accommodations in advance, purchase tickets for popular activities in advance, pack for all types of weather, and be prepared for large.
Question 6: What are some of the best places to eat in Chicago in the summer?
Answer 6: There are many great places to eat in Chicago in the summer, including Alinea, The Violet petitesHour, Girl and the Goat, and Au Cheval.
Question 7: What are some of the best places to stay in Chicago in the summer?
Answer 7: There are many great places to stay in Chicago in the summer, including The Ritz-Carlton, Chicago, The Four Seasons Hotel Chicago, and The Sofitel Chicago Magnificent Mile.
Question 8: What are some of the best ways to get around Chicago in the summer?
Answer 8: There are many great ways to get around Chicago in the summer, including the CTA, taxis, and ride-hailing services.
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Tips
Here are a few tips to help you make the most of your summer in Chicago:
Tip 1: Book your accommodations in advance. Chicago is a popular tourist destination, so it’s important to book your accommodations in advance, especially if you’re traveling during peak season (June-August). There are a variety of hotels and vacation rentals to choose from, so you’re sure to find something that fits your budget and needs.
Tip 2: Purchase tickets for popular activities in advance. If you’re planning on visiting any of Chicago’s popular attractions, such as the Field Museum or the Art Institute of Chicago, it’s a good idea to purchase tickets in advance. This will help you avoid long lines and ensure that you get into the attraction at your desired time.
Tip 3: Pack for all types of weather. Chicago weather can be unpredictable, so it’s important to pack for all types of weather. Be sure to bring a raincoat or umbrella, as well as sunscreen and sunglasses. You may also want to pack a light jacket or sweater, even in the summer months.
Tip 4: Be prepared for large crowds. Chicago is a major tourist destination, so it’s important to be prepared for large crowds, especially during peak season. If you’re traveling with children, be sure to keep a close eye on them. You may also want to consider using a stroller or baby carrier to help you navigate the crowds.
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Conclusion
Chicago is a vibrant city with something to offer everyone, especially in the summertime. From outdoor concerts and sporting events to cultural attractions and waterfront fun, there’s no shortage of things to do in Chicago during the summer months.
Whether you’re a local looking for new ways to experience your city or a tourist planning a memorable trip, this guide has provided you with all the information you need to make the most of your summer in Chicago. So get ready to soak up the sun and explore everything the city has to offer.