Top things to do in chicago in june

The city comes to life in a whole new way when the weather warms up. After the temps and wind stop hurting your face, it’s like someone flipped a switch.

The beaches are suddenly packed, parks are filled with people just enjoying the day, and every weekend there’s a new street festival popping up.

I’ve put together the best events, activities, and things to do in Chicago summer.

Get out your calendar, because it’s time to start making your summer plans.

For other seasons, check out our Chicago in Winter and Chicago in Spring guides.

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Things to do Outdoors in Chicago in Summer

Enjoy a Picnic, Concert, and More in Millennium Park

Right in the heart of downtown, Millennium Park is one of the most popular places to be in summer, and for good reason.

You can snap a selfie with the famous Cloud Gate (you know it as ‘The Bean’), cool off in Crown Fountain, or catch a free concert at the Jay Pritzker Pavilion.

And don’t forget to check out Lurie Garden – it’s a little oasis of calm in the middle of the city.

There are free things to do in the park all summer long, including free workouts like yoga and tai chi, free movies, free outdoor concerts, and summer festivals.

Climb the Walls at Maggie Daley Park

Maggie Daley Park has a phenomenal children’s playground, and it’s also got a skating ribbon and outdoor climbing walls.

Play in Chicago’s Front Yard

Don’t miss Grant Park, Chicago’s “front yard.”

It’s no ordinary yard, mind you. With baseball diamonds, an amphitheater, and a rose garden, it’s more like a playground for city dwellers and visitors alike.

And let’s not forget the crown jewel, Buckingham Fountain, which might just be the most photogenic water feature this side of the Atlantic.

You can learn about the HUGE fight to keep this park in Living Landmarks of Chicago.

See a Movie in the Park

Outdoor movies are quite the big deal in Chicago. The Millennium Park Summer Film Series shows blockbuster movies from July through August.

Millennium Park isn’t the only one that hosts movies and music festivals; you can find those summer events all over the city.

Attend a Chicago Cubs or White Sox Game

Experience the excitement of a baseball game at either or both of these crosstown rivals. The Chicago Cubs call the northside Wrigley Field home, and the White Sox play in Guaranteed Rate Field (formerly and always Comiskey Park).

For a real taste of Chicago’s love for baseball, see both teams at the same time.

Visit the Animals at Lincoln Park Zoo

Lincoln Park Zoo is one of the most popular things to do in Chicago, and that’s not just because it’s free. It’s home to over 1,100 animals from all over the world.

The zoo is also a great place to learn about conservation. They have a number of educational programs and exhibits that teach visitors about the importance of protecting our planet’s wildlife.

Don’t miss the complete story of Lincoln Park Zoo in Living Landmarks of Chicago.

See Even More Animals at Brookfield Zoo

Brookfield Zoo, located just outside of Chicago, is home to over 2,000 animals representing more than 450 species.

Visitors can explore a range of fascinating exhibits, meeting creatures from lions and tigers to dolphins and penguins.

Explore Chicago Street Art

Chicago’s like a giant, open-air art gallery. There are tens of thousands of square feet of murals scattered around the city. You’ll find them on bridges, buildings, train stations, heck, even parking garages.

And these aren’t just pretty pictures. They tell stories about life: faith, hope, race, immigration, family, and joy.

Choose Chicago’s a got a great guide to these murals, helping you discover them in the city’s neighborhoods like Pilsen and Wicker Park.

Perambulate the People’s Pier

Navy Pier is a playground for adults, kids, locals, and tourists with 50 acres of dining, shopping, boating, theater, attractions, and so much more. It’s no wonder that nearly ten million people visit every year.

Stop at Harry Caray’s Tavern for barbecue and sports memorabilia, get a rainbow of flavor with the Original Rainbow Cone, and get the best view of the city skyline from Centennial Wheel.

Take a walk along the 606

The 606 Trail is an elevated greenway and urban trail that runs through several Chicago neighborhoods, offering a peaceful and scenic escape from the city’s hustle and bustle.

The trail is perfect for walking, jogging, or cycling and features beautiful landscaping, art installations, and panoramic views of the city.

Shop Local at a Neighborhood Farmers Market

You know summer’s hit Chicago when the farmers markets start popping up all over town. One of the most popular is the farmer’s market in Daley Plaza.

But these aren’t just spots to grab some fresh, local veggies (though you definitely should do that). They often have live music, and it’s a great way to meet the locals.

Drink with a View at Chicago Rooftop Bars

Summer in Chicago isn’t complete without a visit to the city’s rooftop bars. With their breathtaking views and cool summer breezes, these bars offer a unique experience that elevates any summer evening to a night to remember.

Commune with Nature in Chicago Parks

The Chicago Park District has more than 600 parks and 8800 acres of green space, meaning the “City in a Garden” is a great place for nature lovers, families, and anyone who wants to be outdoors. There are even fifty outdoor pools.

Smell the Flowers at Chicago Botanic Garden

Situated in Glencoe, a suburb to the north of Chicago, lies the enchanting expanse of the Chicago Botanic Garden. Spanning 385 acres, this space serves as a refreshing escape from the city.

The Garden’s collection is inspiring; it’s home to over 2.5 million plants, embracing nearly 10,000 distinct varieties.

Chicago Botanic Garden is especially gorgeous in the summer, as the thousands of flowers show off their finery.

Picnic Like a Pro at Ravinia Festival

For a summer night to remember, check out the Ravinia Festival. It’s the oldest outdoor music festival in the U.S. From classical to pop, there’s a performance for everyone.

While you could just pick up a sandwich to eat on the grass, you might feel a fresco envy. Ravinia’s where the serious picnickers come out to play. Don’t be surprised to see candelabra and floral bouquets are practically de rigueur.

Ooh and Aah at Navy Pier Fireworks

Beginning Memorial Day weekend and continuing through Labor Day weekend, Navy Pier hosts free fireworks displays on Wednesday and Saturday nights. You can see them up and down the lakefront.

But of course, a great place to see the show is from a boat.

Take a Tour

Tour the City’s Past with a Chicago Walking Tour

There’s no more intimate way to learn about a place then to take a walking tour. Learn the city’s stories while getting an up-close look at the buildings that make Chicago one of the best architectural destinations in the world.

You could take a food walking tour, a gangster walking tour, or a Chicago architecture and pedway tour, which is great during inclement weather.

I’m on a boat! Take a Chicago Boat Tour

Chicago’s called the Third Coast because of its extensive shoreline. One easy way to get a taste for it is to take a boat tour. You can take a lake cruise or cruise the Chicago River.

There are lots of options, from architectural cruises to racing speedboats to dinner and fireworks cruises. Even for locals, these tours are some of the best summer activities in Chicago.

Check out our guide to Chicago boat tours and book one of these fun adventures today!

Take a Food Tour

Chicago’s a town of foodies, from specific criteria for what makes a proper hot dog, to Michelin-starred restaurants that’ll set you back a few hundred.

For a fun way to get a “taste” of Chicago, take a food tour. There are pizza tours, donut tours, food and biking tours, beer tours, and more.

Take a Segway Tour

A Segway tour is a fantastic way to see Chicago’s world-renowned sights in the summer.

I’ve ridden Segways a few times, and I think you’ll find it’s surprisingly easy to master. In no time, you’ll be gliding along the lakefront and learning the city’s stories.

Ride a Bike

Chicago’s a bike-friendly town, with bike sharing racks all over the place. You can rent one from one of the kiosks and explore the city at your leisure.

Or, you could take a bike tour. There are neighborhood tours, bikes and brews tours, electric bike tours, and foodie bike tours.

Reserve your Chicago bicycle tour here.

Don’t Miss Chicago Festivals

Street festivals in Chicago are where the city’s culture and community truly shine. Every weekend introduces a new celebration, each adding a unique rhythm to the city’s lively summer pulse.

From food stalls to live music, these festivals encapsulate the vibrant spirit of Chicago in summer.

Check out our full guide of Chicago summer festivals.

Go to a Music Festival

Summer season in Chicago is music festival season. Lollapalooza’s the biggie. There’s also Pitchfork Music Festival, Riot Fest, Windy City Smokeout, Chicago Blues Festival, Chicago Jazz Festival, and so many, many more.

Enjoy Classical Music Under the Stars with Grant Park Music Festival

This beloved Chicago tradition spans 10 weeks of free classical music concerts, artistic development initiatives, radio broadcasts, and community engagement programs.

Find your perfect spot in front of Millennium Park’s Jay Pritzker Pavilion on the Great Lawn and enjoy an unforgettable sonic experience with the city skyline as your backdrop.

Discover New Music at Millennium Park Summer Music Series

The Millennium Park Summer Music Series takes place on Mondays and Thursdays from mid-June through mid-August. Both established and emerging artists perform, so there’s always an opportunity to hear someone new.

Taste Chicago at Taste of Randolph Street

Taste of Randolph Street in Chicago’s West Town neighborhood brings together several amazing restaurants, showcasing spots known for their delicious menus and unique flavors.

Kick up your Heels at Chicago SummerDance

At this annual summer series, you’ll be dancing in the parks to live music. Each event starts with a lesson and afterwards, you can try out your new moves with live music.

Different dance styles and music are highlighted throughout the Chicago SummerDance season.

Embrace Island Spirit at Puerto Rican Festival Chicago

Experience the vibrancy of Puerto Rican culture in Humboldt Park during this lively three-day event. Indulge in authentic Puerto Rican cuisine, traditional drinks, and enjoy carnival rides and games for the entire family.

Spend the Day on the Water

Walk, Run, or Bike the Lakefront Path

Stretch your legs and take advantage of one of Chicago’s 18-mile Lakefront Path. It follows the curves of DuSable Lakeshore Drive on one side and the beaches of Lake Michigan on the other.

You’ll pass the South Shore Cultural Club, Museum Campus, Lincoln Park, and Montrose Park. It’s an immediate escape and you’ll forget you’re in the Midwest.

Hit the Beach

For some fun in the sun that’ll make you forget you’re in the Midwest, head to the lakefront. One of Chicago’s coolest features is its miles of beaches.

You can play volleyball at North Avenue Beach, relax in the sand, go swimming, take sailing lessons, and much more. Oak Street Beach sits in the curve of DuSable Lake Shore Drive and has a seasonal restaurant.

If you love water sports, head to 31st Street Beach. You can rent jet skis, pontoon boats, kayaks, and paddleboards.

Kayak on the Chicago River

Take a guided kayak tour for a unique perspective of the city’s famous architecture.

Paddleboard on Lake Michigan

Take lessons or rent a paddleboard from several beaches along Lake Michigan.

Stroll the Chicago Riverwalk

This picturesque promenade is lined with restaurants, bars, and public art. You can get everything from an iconic Chicago dog to wine in Riedel stemware at City Winery.

Make your way to the end of the walk for the party at Island Party Hut. If you keep going, you can walk all the way to Navy Pier.

Check out this guide to Chicago Riverwalk Restaurants

Look! Up in the Sky! It’s the Chicago Air and Water Show

Taking place every August, the Chicago Air & Water Show is the largest free show of its kind in the country.

Rainy Day Chicago Activities

Even the sunniest Chicago summer can’t escape a few rainy days. But don’t let a bit of drizzle dampen your spirits. Chicago is brimming with indoor attractions that promise an equally vibrant experience.

Explore the People’s Palace

Originally built as the Chicago Public Library, the Chicago Cultural Center was the country’s first free cultural center.

Today it hosts multiple free events throughout the year, including the Chicago House Music Festival and Conference in June.

Don’t miss the two stained glass domes, including the largest Tiffany dome in the world.

Want to learn more about the Chicago Cultural Center? Get the whole story in Living Landmarks of Chicago.

Swim wid da’ Fishies at Shedd Aquarium

The Shedd Aquarium maybe on a freshwater lake, but did you know it was the first inland salt water aquarium in the world? When it opened in 1930, it was an engineering marvel.

Today’s aquarium attracts two million visitors a year. During the summer, those visitors can touch stingrays at an outdoor exhibit.

Shoot for the Stars at Adler Planetarium

Looking for a cool way to spend a summer day in Chicago? Head to Adler Planetarium. It’s right on the lake, so you can enjoy the sun and catch some epic views of the city.

But the real magic happens when you step inside.

They’ve got tons of exhibits that make learning about space fun, not to mention the awesome planetarium shows that’ll make you feel like you’re floating among the stars.

Plus, in the summer, they often host special events for stargazing.

Stars and planets aren’t the only great things to see from Adler; its location also offers one of the best skyline views around.

See 5000 years of Creativity at the Art Institute of Chicago

The Art Institute of Chicago isn’t just a rainy day retreat – it’s a journey through time and imagination.

Home to over 300,000 works of art, you’ll find everything from ancient artifacts to modern masterpieces.

Dig into the Past at Field Museum

Step into history at the Field Museum. Get up close with SUE, the biggest T-Rex ever found, explore ancient Egypt, or dive deep into the world of bugs. It’s a trip around the world without leaving the city.

Come face-to-face with ancient mummies, admire the sparkling gem collection, or explore environments from the Amazon to the Arctic, all inside one of Chicago’s living landmarks.

See Chicago from Above

Downtown Chicago is bookended by two of its tallest buildings, and they both have sky-high observatories.

Skydeck is on the 103rd floor of Willis Tower (or, as we call it, Sears Tower). Daring visitors to this Chicago observation deck will step out onto The Ledge, a glass box that extends 4.3 feet into the air.

360 Chicago is located on the 94th floor of 875 North Michigan (formerly the John Hancock Center), and yes, the view is as impressive as you’d imagine.

For the thrill-seekers, there’s TILT – an enclosed moving platform that literally tilts you out over Michigan Avenue from the 94th floor.

At either of these Chicago observatories, you can see for miles in every direction, and on a clear summer day, you can even see across Lake Michigan to Indiana, Wisconsin, and Michigan.

Tips for Visiting Chicago in Summer

Now that we’ve covered the highlights of a Chicago summer, it’s time to plan your own adventure. With so many events and attractions to choose from, your perfect Chicago summer is waiting for you to discover it.

Is June a rainy month in Chicago?

You can expect about 20 days this month to be sunny or at least partly sunny. Rain is reported, on average, on 10 days this month, however, significant rainfalls of 0.5 inches (13 mm) or more occur only on 2-3 days. Humidity levels do increase this month with 6-7 days likely to be considered “muggy”.

What should I pack for Chicago in June?

Your Chicago summer packing lists should include:.

Sunglasses..

Comfortable walking shoes or sandals..

Shorts, skirts, or skorts..

Lightweight shirts or tank tops..

Sundresses..

Lightweight jacket..

Can I wear red in Chicago?

It's no dress code. Nowadays there's no color, you wear what you want and there's practically nothing to signal if someone is part of a distinct gang.

Is June a good time to visit Chicago?

Summer is the peak tourist season in Chicago since there are festivals and outdoor events just about every weekend from Memorial Day through Labor Day. While you'll enjoy the beautiful summer weather, you'll also have to face throngs of other tourists and higher hotel rates and airfare.