Ask any Chicagoan and they’ll tell you, our city LIVES for those precious few months of beautiful weather we get each year. Whether you’re a visitor or a local, summer in Chicago is where it’s at and we’ve got you covered with this itinerary for your perfect Saturday!
See Chicago in a whole new (morning) light with the Capture Chicago Photography Cruise! Departing summer Saturdays at 9am, you’ll savor the views with friends and family as you enjoy a relaxing morning on the water, well before the sun reaches peak intensity. Move freely around the boat and have access to all angles while a highly-trained volunteer docent points out architectural highlights along the way. Thirsty? Head to our full-service bar and grab a coffee or a delicious cocktail (it’s not too early, we won’t judge)!
Deciding where to get lunch or trying to find an outdoor market to shop? After your cruise, head over to the Fairmont Chicago and check out their summer themed pop-up, The Lake House. Located just above our riverwalk dock area, the hotel features an exceptional seasonal menu, including classics such as fried calamari, easy peel shrimp boil, pork ribs, beef brisket, and an impressive seafood platter. The Fairmont is also hosting a summer market with unique art, clothing, and crafts. Open from 4:30 p.m. to 12:00 a.m. daily, Fairmont Chicago’s new summer getaway is bringing easy-going summer life to the big city.
Music lovers won’t want to miss The Grant Park Music Festival, with evening concerts throughout the summer every Wednesday, Friday and Saturday from June 15–August 20. Programming ranges from world premiere works and performances of symphonies by Mozart, Haydn and Shostakovich to an evening of classic Broadway arrangements and the annual Independence Day salute. Bring a picnic blanket and enjoy the music in Chicago’s front lawn alongside your friends and family.
Finishing off the night, head back to the Riverwalk to check out Art on the Mart. 34 digital projectors display a 30-minute program at 9:00 and 9:30pm every evening in front of the Merchandise Mart Building. Make sure to grab a seat between Wells Street and Franklin Street to see the mesmerizing show as the sun sets on your perfect day.
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