Chicago Summer Bucket List

The snow has finally melted, and the sunlight lasts beyond 8pm, some might say summer is beginning in Chicago. Last winter I created a bucket list to encourage myself to travel outside my neighbor and explore exhibits throughout the city. Here’s my Chicago Summer Bucket List:

Sip wine at Music in the Park

One of my absolute favorite things about Chicago summer, but I never find myself going near enough. Located in Millenium Park, check out the full schedule here. Grab your friends or coworkers, bring a blanket (and wine) and enjoy the show.

Pick up fresh produce at the Farmer’s Market

Chicago is full of Farmer’s markets, and the best part? They are all so incredibly good. From Green City Market in Lincoln Park to the Sunday Market in Logan Square, you’ll want to make time to pick up produce to grill or fresh flowers for your home.

Attend a New Festival

There’s at LEAST one festival a weekend during the summer and they take place ALL over the city. Over the years, I have curated a list of my favorites, but my goal is to make it to a couple NEW festivals this year.

Rent a boat.

Last summer we rented a sailboat to celebrate my birthday (check out the experience here). Looking forward to renting another boat to celebrate, but thinking maybe a full day on a speedboat…

Eat too much at the Chicago Hotdog Festival

Chicago. HOTDOG. Festival. I feel like that’s really all I need to say. Here’s more info.

Attend a Cubs Game

Go Cubs Go, Go Cubs Go. I absolutely LOVE attending Cubs games. You will meet some of the nicest people, enjoy a day of nachos and beer (my summer bod is a struggle), and cheer on the World Champion Chicago Cubs.

Enjoy a Frozen Drink at Parson’s

With all our travels and family visiting during the summer, sometimes we forget to sit back and relax during the summer. Parson’s (in Logan Square) has become a favorite with their massive patio and delicious frozen drinks.

Explore the city on a Divvy Bike

I tell myself that I am going to do this every year, and every year I’ve failed. But we a new commute to work (that I am hoping to do by bike), I am going to check this off the list.

An evening at Disney’s Aladdin

I’m looking forward to taking a magic carpet ride at Disney’s Aladdin, which will be playing through September 10th at the Caladic Theater.

Watch a Movie Outdoors

Numerous parks and neighborhoods (even buildings) offer a movies throughout the summer, just like Music in the Park, grab a friend, some charcuterie, and a large blanket.

Ride the water taxi to Chinatown

Water taxis in Chicago are super cheap and a great way to get around the city while enjoying the skyline. If you haven’t been, Chinatown is a fun neighborhood with amazing food!

Sip a Spritz at Eataly

Aperol Spritz might be my favorite drink of all time — and I always forget just how good Eataly makes them. I just had my first one of the season last night, and refuse to admit how many I will be drinking this summer 🙂

What’s on your summer bucket list?

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