What to do and see in Chicago this summer

This is a guest post by Hanna Johnson. Hanna is a free-spirited world traveler currently based in Italy. She loves nature and the environment. When she’s not behind her computer working on a new editorial project, you will probably find her browsing museums or in a local café.

It's a tough task when you try to name some of the best things to do in Chicago. With the city constantly changing during the COVID-19 pandemic, some of the best sites to visit around Chicago are temporarily closed. Luckily, with the COVID-19 vaccine available, domestic travel is slowly coming back to normal.

Many may choose to stay close to home and visit sites around the US as they have much to see in the beautiful country. From Millennium Park to Riverwalk, there is so much to see. Chicago truly is a must-visit city, as it is also set to become one of the megacities of the world by 2030.

Here are some of the best places to visit in Chicago this summer.

1. Chicago lakefront trail

This is an 18-mile long trail that borders the coast of Lake Michigan. It offers all types of activities along the coast. From sandy beaches, awesome views of the city skyline to sprawling green parks. Cyclists and runners enjoy the ease and width of this trail. If you don't feel like running around, there is a lot of room where people can sit, enjoy the view and look at art installations throughout the year.

2. Riverwalk

There is a lot you can do at the Chicago Riverwalk besides just strolling the picturesque river. The Riverwalk is a unique place in Chicago where you can play, drink, eat and explore some stunning restaurants and outdoor bars, public art, boat trips, museums and pier fishing.

3. Art Institute of Chicago

If you are into culture and looking for culture in Chicago, you would love to first step into the art institute. This is the grandest museum in Chicago. Flanked by two lions, they are a symbol of the city. While visiting in this area, make sure to visit millennium park.

4. Millennium park

This is the heart of Chicago. Visitors and locals love to gather in this area for picnics, catch-free concerts, relax in the fountain and watch movie screenings all year round. There is an endless list of things to do in millennium park. And there is something for everyone, fitness fiends, art and architecture, music buffs and kids and families.

5. Architecture river tour

This is one of the most unique and fun experiences in Chicago. The Architecture river cruise takes a deep dive into Chicago’s architectural styles, starting from the origin and history that made this city. Visitors get to enjoy both day and evening tours and in 90 minutes, learn about more than 50 buildings located along the Chicago River and hear all of the secrets of the city’s topography.

6. The Bloomingdale trail- aka the 606

This trail is nearly three miles long. It's elevated and runs east and west on the Northside of the city. The trails are wide to accommodate most outdoor sports: running, cycling, power walking etc. and it’s spacious enough to accommodate everyone without running off casual strollers. It is also filled with public art installations you can admire along the way.

Chicago is a city that has something for everyone. The city is not that crowded and it's filled with activities you can do to pass the time. It also has some great shopping places that you can enjoy, like for example: Lincoln park, Andersonville, River north, State street and Roscoe village.