Summertime in Illinois

Illinois has a host of cool ways to embrace outdoor adventure this summer.

Venture beyond Chicago where nature parks and water parks are waiting to be explored and enjoyed. Here are 10 perfect ways to make the most of summer in Illinois:

Biking along the scenic 606 trail

Follow an abandoned railway on Chicago’s northwest side at The 606 trail. This 2.7-mile elevated park and trail boasts a chain of street-level parks, scenic lookout points, an observatory, and public art installations. Renting a Divvy classic bike or scooter is an easy, affordable, and super-fun way to explore. Visitors can download the app, hire their mode of transport and be on their way.

Soak up the sun on the beaches of Lake Michigan

Join locals and visitors at Oak Street Beach, one of Chicago’s favorite destinations for sunbathing along Lake Michigan. Easily accessible via the Lakefront Trail, this spot is part of an 18.5-mile-long path that winds along the western shore, passing by various landmarks. Whispers at Oak Street Beach is the perfect spot to enjoy a meal while gazing at the Chicago skyline. North Avenue Beach is a lively hotspot known for its beach house and vibrant atmosphere. Here, you can engage in beach volleyball and people-watching. For families seeking a more relaxed setting, Montrose Beach is a perfect, afternoon spot with playgrounds and picnic areas

Live your best Barbie life

With 27 spectacular gardens across 385 acres, Chicago Botanic Garden is one of the largest public gardens in the world. Walk among wildflowers and native plants while crisscrossing the arching bridges of nine interconnected islands and follow ‘Barbie’s Real-World Day Out’ path. Electric Garden in West Loop has debuted their Malibu Barbie Cafe, a pop-up tribute to Mattel’s iconic doll, open until October 15. Expect pops of Barbie’s trademark Rosco fluorescent pink colour and a human-sized Barbie doll box alongside a pop-up’s menu.. Look out for rainbow pancakes, a wedge salad, and a cauliflower bowl.

Take a Chicago River cruise or kayak tour

Take to the water on a guided kayak tour on the Chicago River or one of the many Architecture River Cruises available, taking in all the major Chicago landmarks.

Thrills at Six Flags Great America & Hurricane Harbor

Six Flags Great America & Hurricane Harbor are two great parks you can experience at one destination. Home to seventeen exhilerating roller coasters and a 20-acre water park to stay cool all summer.

The Forge: Lemont Quarries Adventure Park

Stretching across 300-acres, The Forge: Lemont Quarries  features the largest aerial challenge course, tallest climbing towers, and longest ziplines in the tri-state area. It offers mountain biking, rock climbing, kayaking, canoeing, and paddle boat excursions.

Trails at Starved Rock State Park

Located less than two hours from Chicago, embark on an unforgettable hiking adventure at Starved Rock State Park, where 13 miles of well-marked trails await. There are trails to suit all levels, exploring the bluffs and canyons near the Illinois River. Stay at Starved Rock State Park and Lodge – listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Nearby in Utica is Matthiessen State Park, where a mile-long canyon leads to Lake Falls, a waterfall cascading 45 feet into the Lower Dells.

The Land of Lincoln

Springfield, the capital of Illinois, was Abraham Lincoln’s home for the 17 years leading up to his election as the 16th president of the United States and for its strong connection to historic Route 66, which runs right through town. Start by taking a free tour of Lincoln’s home, led by knowledgeable park rangers. At the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum, visitors can see the world’s largest collection of Lincoln-related materials, incredibly realistic holographic presentations and other interactive exhibits. Lincoln’s Tomb is the second most-visited grave in the country where a gold bust stands guard outside.

Route 66 Experience at the historic Illinois State Fairgrounds 

The Route 66 Experience is a new year-round, free experience on the outskirts of Springfield, where you can walk the entire Illinois Route 66 corridor in microform. Marvel at the Legends Neon Sign Park with new and restored neon signs, lit nightly from dusk. A paved brick road, a 25-fwwt tall grey steel Route 66 Giant, drive-in theatre replica and interpretive signs highlight each Route 66 community from Chicago to the Chain of Rocks bridge.

Get your adrenalin pumping at Aerie’s Resort

Aerie’s Resort in Grafton is known for its spectacular views of the unique bluffs along the Great River Road overlooking the confluence of the Illinois and Mississippi rivers. The Grafton SkyTour scenic aerial lift provides a unique way to reach Aerie’s Resort and showcases those breathtaking views. The Alpine Coaster, a thrilling new ride and the first of its kind in Illinois, sends riders travelling down the hillside over 3,000 feet of track at speeds up to twenty-five miles per hour. The Grafton Zipline offers four zip lines, two suspension bridges, walking trails in between, and an ATV ride through the woods.