My first Chicago summer as a resident has ended. It came and went as fast as a speeding train and there I was left standing at the platform. I guess things do change when you actually live in the city and not just visiting as a “tourist”. But between jobs and responsibilities, I managed to sneak in a few summer escapades in the Windy City. The best thing about Chicago summer is that you can finally enjoy walking along the beautiful Riverwalk or hangout at one of the outdoor waterfront establishments in the city.
When some of my friends from Connecticut came for a few days, we did the infamous architecture tour. It is a Chicago MUST!
We also grabbed brunch at Bridge House Tavern, a polished waterfront restaurant with a docking space. You know, so you can park your boat.
Earlier in the summer, I went to my first Lollapalooza Music Festival. This year, it took place for three days (July 28 to 31). I only went on the last day, which was enough for me. Some of the more popular acts I saw were Ellie Goulding, Third Eye Blind, LCD Soundsystem & Haim.
Chicago is also a city of music festivals. Friends I made opened this whole new world of festival life. Most of them go to every single festival AND would do its entire run. They love music and they love to party!
Here are some of the popular summer music festivals:
Lollapalooza
Chicago Blues Festival
Spring Awakening Music Festival
LakeShake Festival
Green Music Fest
Pitchfork Music Festival
Wicker Park Fest
Chicago Jazz Festival
Riot Fest
I wish I was able to enjoy more of the summer festivities, but adult life always get in the way especially now that I’m a resident and not just visiting Chicago. On the other hand, since I NOW reside in this beautiful city, I now have the luxury of taking my time exploring. Still, time flies by when you’re having fun and so I found myself already bundling up for fall. Hopefully, I get to enjoy fall as well before I see snow on the ground!
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Jen is a Chicago-based traveler and creative. She is a full-time development & communications executive specializing in non-profit organizations. Originally from the East Coast, she created The Jetsetter as a place to share her travel stories and photos with friends and family. Now, it is a place for adventurers and dreamers. Its purpose is to inspire and encourage busy professionals to see the world and achieve a better work-life balance.
I’ve never been to Chicago, except at the airport. I didn’t even realize there was a river running through the city. I would love to take the architecture tour. What beautiful photos!
Summer in Chicago looks wonderful – so much to see! I’ve never been but I’d love to catch a music festival there. I also love cities with lots of skyscrapers as there aren’t that many in the UK. Hope winter isn’t too cold!
Summer in Chicago looks incredible- the city has done such a wonderful job of showcasing its waterfront. Great photos.
Only know Chicago from films and TV series and looks like such a great city. Thank you for your post and all the photos that really inspire us to go there.