Even though it’s the middle of August, summer isn’t quite over just yet. There are a lot of Chicago festivals and outdoor activities that are scheduled to take place before the end of the warm summer months.
No matter if you’re single, a couple, or have children, there’s a little something for everyone in the summertime in Chicago. We’re going to look at 6 of our favorite mid-to-late summer activities that you and your loved ones can spend a day or two making memories that will last a lifetime.
Chicago Lakefront Path
The Lakefront Path is an 18-mile paved road for pedestrians and bicyclists. There’s no better (or cheaper) way to see the sights and sounds of Chicago than hopping on a bike and exploring at your own pace. If you don’t have a bike, you can always rent a Divvy bike to get around. Be sure to wear a helmet, as it might save you from having to pay a visit to the emergency dentist!
There really isn’t a beginning and end point as you can start your walk/ride anywhere along it’s 18-mile meandering path. Most people park their cars in the public garage near Millennium Park. This is roughly the halfway point of the path and puts you within reach of some of the best eateries, bars, and attractions that Chicago has to offer.
What: Lakefront Path
When: Anytime!
Where: The path runs 18 miles and can be accessed from any point
Cost: Free!
See the Cubbies Play
There’s nothing more iconic than catching a Cubs game at Wrigley Field in the late summer time. The Cubs are doing pretty decent (as of this blog post) this year and finding a home game is as easy as visiting the Cubs website.
While the Cubs games are family-friendly, it’s been said that the bar scene really takes off post-game. Wrigley Field was constructed smack-dab in the middle of a residential area, so parking is extremely limited. If you can’t find a parking spot nearby, there are several lots within walking distance that will set you back anywhere from $10 to $20.
What: Chicago Cubs
When: See website for home game schedule
Where: 1060 W Addison St, Chicago, IL 60613
Cost: Varies depending on seating (and how much beer and hot dogs you buy)
Attend the Farmer’s Market
One of the greatest things about the city of Chicago is our proximity to the breadbasket of America. This means our Farmer’s Markets are overflowing with super fresh produce, meats, and flowers. Fresh, healthy food means less sugars, and that translates to a better bill of health when you schedule your next dental checkup!
The Chicago City Markets is a great beginner’s guide to all of the farmer’s markets scattered throughout Chicago. No matter what you’re looking for, chances are you will find it listed in their 2018 Farmer’s Market guide.
What: Farmer’s Market
When: See website for individual dates
Where: Scattered throughout Chicago
Cost: Free to enter!
Millennium Park Summer Workouts
Chicago is infamous for our hot and humid summers. If the daytime heat makes you want to stay in your air-conditioned bedroom, why not get out in the morning when it’s much cooler?
The Millennium Park Summer Workouts offers free 45-minute workouts on the Great Lawn in Millennium Park. You don’t have to have a yoga mat, but keep in mind that you’ll be performing exercises on grass and it has a way of staining lightly colored clothing.
What: Millennium Park Summer Workouts
When: Tuesdays and Thursdays 7 am to 10 am
Where: Millennium Park
Cost: Free!
Chicago Air and Water Show
The Chicago Air and Water Show is one of the longest-running free events of its kind in America. Running from August 18th-19th, it features skydivers, the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds, and all kinds of aeronautical acrobatic antics.
The show features both military and civilian performers. You’ll find F-35’s flying next to F-18’s and even a Coast Guard rescue copter will be on hand for the festivities. There’s a little bit of something for everyone at the Air and Water show this year.
What: Chicago Air and Water Show
When: August 18-19, 2018 10 am – 3 pm
Where: North Avenue Beach 1600 N. Lake Shore Dr.
Cost: Free!
North Coast Music Festival
This festival marks the end of summer and offers an eclectic mix of electronic, rap, indie, jam, and funk bands. There’s a little bit of everything for everyone at the North Coast Festival. This year’s event will feature a diverse group of local and national artists that will take the stage to perform and entertain.
The day’s events are for people of all ages, but this festival tends to attract a slightly more youthful crowd due to the popularity of electronic music. This is one of the biggest music festivals in Chicago and tickets can be a bit pricey, depending on what tier you buy.
What: North Coast Music Festival
When: August 31st – September 2nd
Where: Union Park, Chicago
Cost: Ticket fees range in price
Chicago in the Fall
While the summer heat may be slowly coming to an end, the outdoor activities in the fall time in Chicago are just heating up. If you can’t make any one of these festivals or events before the end of summer, there are some of the year’s biggest events to look forward to!
From apple picking, to corn mazes, to changing fall foliage, there are a lot of fun outdoor activities that are only a few short weeks around the corner. Check back next month when we release our top things to do in the fall time in Chicago list!
Website Powered by Sesame 24-7™