SPRING/SUMMER SUMMER MUST-DOS BY KELLY AIGLON Chicago shines during the sunny summer months. Enjoy every second with these must-dos. ESCAPE TO THE LAKE Navy Pier is a great kickoff point for a Lake Michigan adventure. Soar almost 200 feet in the air on the Centennial Wheel , listen to a local band in the Miller Lite Beer Garden , and unwind with a drink and sweeping views at Offshore Rooftop & Bar , the world’s largest rooftop lounge. Stick around on Wednesday and Saturday nights for the Aon Summer Fireworks . Dine, dance, and see the sparkling skyline on a dinner cruise. Odyssey , Mystic Blue , and Spirit of Chicago offer multi-story luxury vessels that depart from Navy Pier and sail the lake. Go for a dip and enjoy some great people watching just steps from The Magnificent Mile at Oak Street Beach . Slam a volleyball over the net at North Avenue Beach and sip a mai tai at the on-site bar, Castaways . A bit further south at 31st Street Beach , ease into a yoga pose on a stand-up paddleboard with Chicago Water Sport Rentals , then grab a burger and listen to live music at Pier 31 Restaurant . The 18-mile Lakefront Trail hugs the shoreline and is great for biking, rollerblading, and walking while taking in the views. Lakefront Trail in July; Lollapalooza , the Chicago Air & Water Show , and the Chicago Jazz Festival in August; and Chicago Gourmet , held in September. HAVE A BLAST IN THE PARKS At Millennium Park , splash in the interactive Crown Fountain , snap a selfie in the reflection of the Cloud Gate sculpture (known as “The Bean” ), catch live music and flicks at the Jay Pritzker Pavilion during the weekly Millennium Park Summer Music & Film Series , and wander through the colorful flowers at Lurie Garden . Cut the kids loose at Maggie Daley Park , where they can captain a pirate ship and skip across bridges in the Play Garden . You’ll be right within reach of Buckingham Fountain , where a nightly light show illuminates the majestic fountain’s waters every hour from dusk to 10 p.m., all summer long. At Chicago SummerDance , held weekly in Grant Park , learn a new dance style from local pros and then show off your moves to live music. DO THE BEST FESTS The city’s popular downtown festivals put Chicago’s vibrant music, food, and culture on display. Put these on your list: Chicago Blues Festival in June; Taste of Chicago and Windy City Smokeout 22 choosechicago.com
Chicago Visitors Guide 2020: Page 22
