As summer months approach across the globe, people start planning trips. It’s like the itch to travel needs to be scratched at this time of year. But, here in Chicago, it’s when the city starts to come alive. Everyone who  loathes the city in the winter remembers just why they continue to live here and what they love so much about Chicago, when summer arrives. So, Chicagoans and nearby neighbors, I ask, why go anywhere for summer vacation? There is so much here you’ve likely yet to explore, or maybe simply haven’t visited in awhile. So I say, itch that summer travel bug by being a tourist in your own city!

Let’s start with where to stay. That’s right, you’re in your own city, but a great way to truly enjoy a Chicago summer staycation is to treat yourself to a night away from home. Of course you’ll want to stay in the heart of it all, where you can easily access the best that our fine city has to offer. The Fairmont Chicago Millennium Park is the perfect spot! When you stay at the Fairmont, just blocks from your door you will have Millennium Park, the Mag Mile, the Chicago Riverwalk, the Art Institute and Lake Michigan (to name a few). Plus, you’ll be close to all the major L trains and buses, making it simple to get anywhere else in the city you may want to go. While at the hotel you can enjoy drinks and music in the lobby bar, a classic American meal at Columbus Tap or maybe even catch one of the fun themed pop-up events the hotel often hosts. You can even just sit in your room, sipping champagne and enjoying the beautiful views of Lake Michigan and Grant Park.

You’ll have lots to keep you busy on your Chicago summer staycation, but every vacation needs a little relaxation, and a staycation is no different! Luckily at the Fairmont that relaxation is only an elevator ride away, at Leaf Spa. As you enter the spa you’ll walk under the weeping willow, into tranquil music and aromatic scents. Before your seasonal treatment of choice (yes, they customize their treatments to the season), enjoy a moment in the steam room, or lounge with a cup of tea in the relaxation room. Heck, you’re on a staycation, why not both?! Whatever your treatment of choice is at Leaf Spa I can guarantee you will leave feeling refreshed and glowing. I certainly did after the Dosha Detox Body Treatment – my skin was the softest it’s been in ages, like literally since I was 7. After your treatment be sure to set an intention and make a wish on the wishing tree, then mix your own magic potion at the alchemist bar to keep the relaxation (and the glow) going at home.

As you plan your staycation, you will for sure think of things you want to do for fun, and what’s summer without a visit to the ballpark? Well, it’s not really summer! In Chicago not only can you go to a ball game you can visit one of the most iconic ball parks in America. Wrigley Field has to have a space on the Chicago summer staycation itinerary. You may wish to go to a baseball game and cheer on the Chicago Cubs, or maybe see one of your favorite musical artists in concert. Maybe you just want to take a tour of the ballpark and enjoy all the new hotspots in Wrigleyville. If the latter is the route you choose to take, I highly recommend popping into Alma at the Hotel Zachary. If you aren’t familiar with it, Hotel Zachary opened in 2018 and is named after Zachary Taylor Davis, the architect who gave us Wrigley Field. This boutique hotel didn’t just change the skyline of Wrigleyville, it brought a beautiful place for visitors to stay and wonderful dining options for guests and locals alike to the nighborhood. Alma is Hotel Zachary’s signature restaurant which recently underwent a beautiful transformation. The decor is modern with an art deco touch, the music will make you want to dance, the cocktails are unique and vibrant and the food is so flavorful you’ll be glad it’s served small plate-style so you can keep ordering more. With a view of Wrigley Field and an outdoor terrace, a meal at Alma is a summer staycation must!

Depending on how long you can “getaway” for this Chicago summer staycation, maybe the above will fill your itinerary. But, if you have more time and need more things to add to your agenda, might I suggest some of my all time Chicago summertime favorites!

• Skydeck Chicago at Willis Tower: If you want to see the city from a whole new angle there really is no better way than stepping out onto the ledge, literally. The Ledge is a glass balcony extending four feet outside Willis Tower’s 103rd floor. Quite the view!
• Chicago River Architecture Cruise: If I had to pick my favorite summertime Chicago activity, this would be it. I have done this cruise probably a dozen times, yet I still learn something new each and every time. It’s a wonderful way to see your city and learn how it came to be.
• Museum of Illusions: On a hot summer day, a moment to cool off indoors is a welcome diversion. A chance to trick your senses will let you have loads of fun while chilling out.
• Navy Pier: Most Chicagoans will tell you they loathe Navy Pier. I am not one of them! I have always loved this touristy spot. It’s got the best views of the city, endless food options and puts you literally right on the water.
• Oak Street Beach: Chicago is home to miles and miles of Lake Michigan shoreline, with plenty of beaches, but my faorite is Oak Street. It’s clean, it’s small and it’s got the Mag Mile as it’s backdrop.
• Movies in Millennium Park: Sitting under the city stars (aka lights from the buildings) with a picnic and a classic movie playing, neslted next to hundreds of your fellow Chicagoans – there is not much more that screams summer in Chicago than this scene.
• Chicago Riverwalk: Along the south side of the river you can enjoy a long leuisurely walk. You will pass by bars, restaurants and ice cream shops. You’ll have ample time for people and boat watching, and plenty of places to stop and rest and take in the skyline views. On the north side of the river, Pizzeria Portofino provides the perfect summer vibes and the yummiest food.

See more Chicago highlights on Sarah In Style by clicking here, or on the linked posts below.

The 5 Best Chicago Rooftops; A Day in Millennium Park; Movie Homes of Chicago; Best Things to do with Kids in Chicago; An Evening in Chicago

Signed with Style,

 

 

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