Why Chicago is the best place to visit in the United States this Summer

Sensible Traveler’s Hot Take

Summer is right around the corner and there’s no better place to visit this time of year in the United States than Chicago. Sure, the city has some bad crime and significant debt, but many areas of the city are very safe and offer food and culture that can’t be beat by other destinations. Chicago’s locals suffer through harsh winters because the summers are so grand. Beach parties on Lake Michigan, neighborhood festivals on the weekends and food and drink in some of the world’s top restaurants are just a few of the reasons why you should prioritize a visit in the summer.

Top Things to Do in Chicago in the Summer:

1. Rent a private boat and cruise the Chicago River
   1. Most people will recommend a Chicago Architecture boat cruise. These are interesting and educational but you should also consider renting your own boat (no boating license necessary) and touring the Chicago river on your own. BYOB which keeps costs reasonable but be mindful that there is no bathroom on board!
2. Baseball game at Wrigely Field
   1. Chicago has two baseball teams but Wrigley field has the history and the atmosphere to make this a must do for anybody visiting the city in the summer.
   2. It should be noted that Wrigelyville has changed dramatically over the last 10 years under the team’s new ownership and it’s certainly become more commercialized BUT it’s still worth a visit.
3. Lakeshore walk/run/bike ride/swim
   1. There may not be a prettier skyline in the world and the best way to capture it is a stroll down the lakeshore path. Start at the north part of the city and work your way downtown past the city ending at the museum campus. Faster ways to do this include bikes or Segway’s.
   2. If you’re bold, highly recommend a morning swim near Navy Pier. You’ll find other crazies hoping in the water and there’s no better way to start your day. Bonus points if you do it without a wet suit like most of the locals.
4. Stay in the neighborhoods
   1. While all the fancy hotels are downtown and a great spot for a drink, opt for accommodations in one of the many unique neighborhoods which come with local festivals, better culture and better prices. The Sensible Traveler recommends neighborhoods like Lincoln Park, Lakeview, Wicker Park, Andersonville and Bucktown.
5. Visit the Art Institute to cool down
   1. Chicago can be hot and sticky in the summer so you’ll need to take breaks inside. Don’t miss the Chicago Art Institute which is arguably the best comprehensive art museum in the country. It’s home to that popular painting of the stern farmer and his wife. Get cultured!
   2. The museum is located downtown near Millenium Park which is home to the “Bean” and a pretty awesome kids park.
6. Enjoy a cocktail or two with live music and/or dancing
   1. Keep reading for the best food and drink spots but if you want good live music you need to visit the Green Mill (old Al Capone hangout) or Kingston Mines in Lincoln Park.
   2. If you want to go dancing with a bunch of college kids full of nineties and eighties music you really can’t go wrong at The Hangge-Uppe.
7. Neighborhood festivals
   1. Chicago has tons of summer festivals – from Rib Fest to German Fest to Jazz fest, there’s literally a festival for everyone and everything. While the festivals are not always the cheapest, they can be a pretty unique experience that you likely will not find in other cities.
8. Safety
   1. Chicago has it’s violence problems but they are over exaggerated in the media BUT you need to be vigilant. For better or for worse Chicago is a heavily segregated city so a neighborhood may be extremely safe while the neighborhood a few blocks away may be more dangerous. It’s a big city so be smart and avoid walking alone late at night.

Food to Eat:

1. We all know food is required to live and Chicago has no shortage of amazing food. The food scene can certainly keep up with any other major city’s food scene within the world. Portillo’s for your classic Chicago beef/hotdog needs (and don’t forget the chocolate cake shake!). For fancier foodie needs you have places like Alinea but you’ll needs reservations well in advance and a big budget!
2. Donuts. While most of the world focused on specialty cupcakes, Chicago fast forwarded to specialty donuts years ago and is home to the world’s best donuts. Sensible Traveler highly recommends Firecakes.

Value:

1. Chicago is one of the most affordable big cities in the US. Food is relatively cheap depending on what you’re looking for.
2. Accommodations can be relatively affordable depending on where you stay and how many people are in your group.
3. Chicago has two airports so make sure you check flying into both. If you’re in the mid-west already, you can probably fine a pretty cheap bus that will take you to the City of Big Shoulders.

Time Needed: 4 nights, 3 Full Days

Any other Sensible Travel tips for Chicago? Leave a comment below to help your fellow travelers!