7 Heart-pumping and exciting outdoor activities in Chicagoland

Sure, Chicago is known for its cold and brutal winters, but Chicagoans put up with it because they know once the sun comes out, the outdoor fun begins. Hiking, kayaking, biking, playing—this massive urban city has so much to offer for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. When you live at our apartments in Chicago, you’re never far from adventure and one of the 580 city parks. Here are some of the best outdoor activities that Chicago has to offer.

Pedal, Jog, or Stroll the Lakefront Trail

The Lakefront Trail is both cyclist- and pedestrian-friendly and is an impressive 18-miles long. Take in some vitamin D as you walk, jog, or bike past gorgeous harbors of Lake Michigan, parks, boardwalks, and a stunning view of the Chicago skyline. Find trail maps, access points, and more at the Chicago Park District website.

Climb High at Maggie Daley Park

Part of Millenium Park, Maggie Daley Park features incredible climbing walls for every skill level that reach up to 40-feet high. Not only that, but you’ll find mini-golf, tennis courts, and a skating ribbon where you can rollerskate or rollerblade in the warmer months and ice skate during the winter months. Check their website for upcoming programs and events.

Kayak Down the Chicago River

Take in the gorgeous views of the Chicago skyline while getting some exercise at the same time. Chicago offers many tours by kayak that takes you past famous buildings from well-known architects such as Ludwig Mies van der Rohe and Frank Lloyd Wright. Or, you can simply rent a kayak and explore on your own. Kayak Chicago has all the info you need.

Rent a Divvy Bike and Explore

Don’t feel like walking but don’t want to bother with public transport? Or perhaps you’re just looking to get a bit of a sweat on. Either way, Divvy Bike is the answer. Bike share stations are scattered all across the city where residents can rent a bicycle 24/7, 365 days a year. Don’t worry about having enough bikes to go around, they have a fleet of bikes 3,000 strong. Visit their website for pick-up and drop-off information.

Get Your Fitness on at The 606

Get your lungs pumping on The 606—a 2.7-mile long elevated walking, running, biking, rollerblading, and skateboarding path that takes Chicagoans and tourists through some of the city’s best neighborhoods with art installations along the way. Feel free to detour off to explore Bucktown, Wicker Park, Logan Square, Humboldt Park, and more. Check out The 606’s official website for more information.

Spend a Day at the Beach at Lake Michigan

Chicago boasts 26 miles of breathtaking shoreline which provides plenty of opportunities for beachgoers to soak in the rays and get active with watersports. Take a dip in the refreshing water, participate in a volleyball tournament, let your pup play at Montrose Beach, or rent paddleboards and jet skis for a little adrenaline rush.

Zipline Your Way Through Bemis Woods

If you like being surrounded by the forest and trees, you could spend hours hiking along the hundreds of trails in the Forest Preserves of Cook County. But, if you’re looking to experience the forest with some more excitement, then you’ll definitely want to soar through the treetops on a 2,000-foot-long zipline in Bemis Woods. Go Ape Zipline and Adventure Park’s website has all the details.

When you live at one of our Chicago apartments, you’ll never find yourself bored—especially when the sun is shining. Browse our Chicago communities and schedule a tour today.

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