After spending her first summer in Chicago, Yelyzaveta (Lisa) Fedorovska, MPP Class of 2024, shares some of the top summertime activities to enjoy.

Before the ivy at UChicago bursts into an autumn rainbow and we get into the full swing of the fall quarter, I wanted to share an appreciation post about my first summer in Chicago. From music festivals to food fairs and outdoor activities, there's something for everyone to enjoy. All season long, you can play beach volleyball on Lake Michigan, enjoy views of the iconic Chicago skyline, try new foods from a variety of cultures, and visit neighborhood celebrations all over the city. Here are some ideas I’ve gathered for making the most out of summer in Chicago.

Festival Season

Chicago's summer festivals are a vibrant celebration of art, culture, food, and community, captivating locals and tourists alike. The city truly comes alive during the warm months. Here  are a few of the top festivals to check out in Chicago in the summertime:

Time on the Water

Chicago's beaches offer a plethora of opportunities for aquatic adventures, making the most of the city's stunning shoreline. With 26 miles of sandy shores, beachgoers can soak up the sun at popular spots like North Avenue Beach, Oak Street Beach, and Montrose Beach. Kayaking on the Chicago River offers a unique perspective of the city's architectural wonders, gliding under picturesque bridges and along the vibrant cityscape. Chicago's summer water activities promise an unforgettable and delightful aquatic escape for locals and visitors alike.

Outdoor activities

When it comes to outdoor activities, Chicago has something for everyone. You can watch movies under the night sky at film screenings held in various parks across the city. Fitness enthusiasts can take part in outdoor workout sessions—from yoga to cardio boot camps—in parks and other green spaces. Moreover, Chicago hosts a variety of marathons and races that attract runners from all over the country. Read about my classmate Vitor’s experience of the Chicago Marathon.

Chicago Sports

Chicago summer sports events offer an exhilarating and action-packed experience for everyone. Baseball fans can show their support for the Chicago Cubs at Wrigley Field or the Chicago White Sox at Guarnateed Rate Field. Soccer enthusiasts have a chance to witness games by cheering on the Chicago Fire FC at Soldier Field.

 

Whether you have a passion for music, enjoy exploring cuisines, love to dance, or simply want to have some fun, summer in Chicago has something special for you.