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It's summertime! That means bbqs, lazy days and family vacays! You may be looking for some place new to visit outside of the ordinary theme parks and trips to grandma's house. Why not visit Chicago? Located on Lake Michigan, Chicago has something for the entire family.
Chicago can be easily accessible for most U.S. flying into Chicago O'Hara via Southwest. Southwest always has flight deals! After flights are booked, book a hotel like the Omni Chicago Hotel located on the Magnificent Mile. Staying on Michigan Ave or at least off of the Magnificent Mile will make navigation extremely easy! If you can't walk there cabs are plentiful and would be a short ride to your destination.
Things to do
Shedd Aquarium
One of the largest indoor aquarium's in the world, Shedd Aquarium, is home to more than 8000 aquatic animals! The aquarium is pretty big and draws a huge crowd. This is perfect for families with kids of all ages or friends visiting Chicago for the summer. There are different aquatic shows, feeding tours and animal encounters. Make sure to add Shedd to your list of things to do! Photos courtesy of sheddaquarium.org
Festivals
Who doesn't love a good festival?! Chicago has plenty of them during the summertime! There's a taste of everything: Taste of Lincoln Avenue, Taste of Randolph Street, Taste of Greektown etc. There's a Jazz Festival, Square Roots festival..well you get it! Festivals are a great way to experience the city and mingle with the locals. Try local foods and get cheap souvenirs.
Beaches/Boating
Boating on the lake is popular during the summer in Chicago---perfect way to cool off! Boating not really your thing? Grab a beach chair & blanket and head to Chicago's most popular beach North Avenue Beach. There are plenty of amenities around the beach like Castaways Bar & Grill if you get hungry.
Navy Pier
The infamous Navy Pier- has so much to do, that a day may need to be dedicated just to it! From the Centennial Wheel to the different sightseeing cruises Navy Pier is definitely a must for families visiting the pier. Make sure to check the nightly fireworks schedule at the pier, it is an amazing show!
Field Museum
If you or your family are history fanatics, a trip to the Field Museum may be right up your alley. The museum holds displays on dinosaurs, ancient Egypt, Africa and more. There is a planetarium and you can even speak with a scientist. This may be one of the coolest museums! Photos courtesy of fieldmuseum.org
Street Markets
Visiting a street market or flea market while out is a must! The Randolph Street Market had a plethora of great finds it was almost hard to leave empty handed. The market was outdoors as well as more antique items inside. Great way to meet local artist and chefs.
Chicago has so much more than what is listed here. Shopping on the Magnificent Mile, Visiting the Sears Tower for spectacular views and trying different deep dish pizzas around the city to name a few. You will never run out of things to do. July is one of the hotter months for Chicago, so while it may be situated on the lake during the day it can be pretty hot. The summer months between June and August are also peak tourist months so the crowds will be thick and hotel prices will be high!
What are some of your favorite things to do in the Windy City?