Best Outdoor Activities in Chicago

Lincoln Park is ranked right alongside New York's Central Park as one of the nation's finest urban playgrounds. A scenic expanse commemorating US President Abraham Lincoln, the park has been inscribed into the National Register of Historic Places. Spread along North Avenue all the way up to Ardmore, Lincoln Park encompasses over 1,000 acres (405 hectares) of rolling green spaces and restful lakes. The viewing bridge over its North Pond is one of the park's most frequented spaces that offers spectacular views of the sweeping Michigan Avenue Skyline. Statues of General Grant, Goethe, Shakespeare, Sir George Solti, Ben Franklin and Hans Christian Anderson add artistic elements to the park's scenic environs. The Lincoln Park Zoo, the Lincoln Park Conservatory and the Chicago Historical Society are all located within the park.

Spread over an impressive 27 acres (10.9 hectares), the Palmisano (Stearns Quarry) Park has a rather rich history dating back to about 400 million years! The land, of which the park is a part, was home to an ancient coral reef, which has also yielded some archeological treasures. A former limestone quarry, the park has been designed keeping in mind its environmental heritage and is one of the best places to go fishing, a stroll, or catch a stunning view of the city. A beautiful pocket of calm in an otherwise urban jungle, this park calls out to many.

Located close to Lake Michigan, Maggie Daley Park is a lush green, spacious expanse with several interesting features to keep you entertained. The park is named after the former first lady of Chicago who passed away in the year 2011. Within its premises, the park has rock-climbing facilities, a ribbon like space for ice-skating, wooded picnic spots, a cafe, a playground for kids, and more. All in all, this is a great place to spend a fun day out with the family.

Despite being in the Midwest, Chicago sits surrounded by water. From its various rivers to the massive expanse of Lake Michigan, what better way to experience The Windy City than on a kayak? On offer are several tours, from the Architectural Tour to the City Lights Night Paddle and even a Fireworks Tour from Memorial Day till Labor Day! Each tour consists of approximately 8-10 people, all navigated by an expert tour guide. Chicago River, Montrose Beach, and North Avenue Beach are the three locations to set up a tour.

Nestled in Lincoln Park, Chess Pavilion and North Avenue Beach are popular haunts in this famous parkland. The pavilion was built as a haven for chess players who used to frequent the beach during summers in the 1930s. Made of concrete and limestone, the shelter is ornamented by sculptural chess pieces. The lakefront beach offers several water sports facilities for beachgoers. Chess enthusiasts can gather around the numerous tables, engaging in friendly matches or engaging in spirited discussions about the nuances of the game. A must-visit for lovers of chess.

From its versatile journey as a crucial dock for freights to becoming a training complex for the Navy during World War II and to finally being redeveloped as a massive one-stop entertainment destination on Chicago's Lake Michigan shoreline, the Navy Pier has served diverse functions over the centuries. This 3,300-foot-long (1,010 meters) pier named in honor of the Great War's naval veterans hosts a legion of recreational options that span museums, restaurants, retail, entertainment, and outdoor activities. A whirlwind attraction that juts out into the Great Lake, the pier's highlight is the iconic Ferris Wheel that spins against the Chicago skyline. Dinner cruise ships ply the waters around the pier, inviting visitors to step aboard a vibrant extravaganza. The pier is also home to the botanical Crystal Gardens, Chicago Children's Museum, and the Chicago Shakespeare Theater that showcases Shakespearean productions.

This is Chicago's most famous beach and the perfect place to relax and people watch. The beach is man-made and the sand is shipped in, but people here don't seem to care. Unfold the pool chair and soak in the view of Lake Michigan and the John Hancock building, as well as the avenue that bears the lake's name. A cafe has been added, and various vendor carts dot the bordering paths frequented by runners, bikers and bladers.

This downtown rink is festive and fun, located in Millenium Park. With a convenient location in the middle of the city, this is a terrific spot for a fun day out due to its superb setting amidst skyscrapers and steps away from the iconic Cloud Gate. After an enjoyable time gliding and spinning around the rink, you may want to stop in the warming area and indulge in some hot refreshments and snacks. With free admission, it garners many footfalls. Skate rental is also available here, and the skate rentals are basis a session.

William W. Powers State Recreation Area is a lovely expanse of lakeside greenery inviting local families and visitors to enjoy the natural sights of Chicago. The park is centered around Wolf Lake, a 419-acre (170 hectares) expanse of water that offers six miles of fishing along its sandy banks. The site housed a Nike Ajax missile at the height of the Cold War crisis, with a defunct model of the same missile present on the site today. A diverse assortment of wildlife in the park ranges from Monk Parakeets to deer and coyotes.