Navy Pier combines everything you could ever hope for in an area of a city you're visiting, and it has placed it right on the shores of Lake Michigan. There are shops, places to eat, boat tours, mini golf and a Ferris wheel. You might also find the Children's Museum of interest if you're there with family. Regardless of weather Navy Pier offers indoor and outdoor activities, and seasonal events pop up year round so be sure to see if there's one planned during the time you're visiting!
Chicago is lucky enough to sit on the shore of this wonderful lake. There are "bike share racks" along the shore that make for great transportation alternatives to the car. They're great for a relaxing ride along the shore, and perfect because you'll be able to stop at will for pictures or strolls on the beaches. Stop at one of the piers, have a lemonade or a beer, and watch the boats pull in and out of the marina. Or, if you're more of an adventurer, you can actually scuba dive.
Among Chicago's favorite beaches is North Avenue Beach, a great place for every type of beach goer. The beach even offers free wifi for its guests! Many sporty types flock for the volleyball scene here, which is second to none as far as Chicago beaches go. The view from the beach still encompasses much of the city's skyscrapers while also offering up the obvious ability to check out the water. If North Avenue Beach doesn't sound like it's for you, there's also Oak Street and Ohio.
Wrigley is home to the Chicago Cubs but is also famous for its brick outfield wall, covered in ivy vines. The area around the stadium is called "Wrigleyville," a residential area that serves as a great nightcap after catching a baseball game with its many lively bars and restaurants. This is one of the best views of Chicago's tall downtown buildings, and one of the most traditional Chicago experiences that the city offers.
The Riverwalk is a series of walkways and benches where you can admire some of Chicago's finest architecture, stop for lunch or dinner at one of the waterfront cafes, then take a water taxi or a boat tour to top off your afternoon or evening. The bridges and buildings are breathtaking whether you're viewing them from the Riverwalk or from the boats, and you can't beat the restaurants down there!
