Chicago by the Lake: Summer Adventures Steps from Your Hotel

There’s something magnetic about a Chicago summer. It’s in the way people linger outside cafés, how rooftops fill up by 5 p.m., and how every sidewalk seems to lead to the water. From the sweeping blue expanse of Lake Michigan to the lively currents of the Chicago River, this city comes alive at the water’s edge.

If you’re planning a summer visit, make the most of it by staying where the shoreline is never far away. Each property within The Chicago Hotel Collection places you close to the action—whether that means early morning walks along the lakefront, an afternoon at the beach, or a cocktail cruise as the sun sets behind the skyline.

Here’s your guide to the ultimate lakefront summer in Chicago, curated around each CHC location.

Start Your Day on the Lakefront Trail

There’s no better way to greet a Chicago summer morning than by hitting the Lakefront Trail. This 18-mile paved path winds along the lake, connecting beaches, parks, harbors, and some of the city’s most iconic skyline views.

If you're staying at The Chicago Hotel Collection Mag Mile or Ambassador Gold Coast, the trail is only a few blocks away. Start with a grab-and-go coffee from a nearby café (we love Dollop, La Colombe, or Elaine’s) and walk east toward Oak Street Beach. The path here is calm and scenic in the morning—ideal for a jog, bike ride, or leisurely stroll.

As you head north, the trail offers a front-row view of the lake to your right and the skyline to your left, with plenty of spots to pause for photos or people-watching.

Beach Days Just Minutes from Your Room

You don’t have to leave the city to have a classic beach day. Chicago’s lakefront is lined with soft sand, volleyball courts, water sports, and even beach bars—making it a go-to summer escape for locals and travelers alike.

From the Ambassador Gold Coast and Mag Mile locations, it’s a short walk to Oak Street Beach, where you can swim, sunbathe, and grab food and drinks from the beachside café. For something livelier, head north to North Avenue Beach, one of the city’s most energetic lakefront spots. You’ll find volleyball tournaments, water equipment rentals, and an elevated beach house with rooftop dining and skyline views.

If you're staying at The Chicago Hotel Collection Wrigley, Montrose Beach is your go-to spot. Less crowded than the downtown options, Montrose offers space to spread out, food trucks, dog-friendly areas, and scenic harbor views. It’s perfect for guests who want the beach experience without the bustle.

Cruise, Paddle, or Kayak Your Way Through the City

The water isn’t just for swimming. One of the most unique ways to experience Chicago in summer is from the river or lake itself. Fortunately, The Chicago Hotel Collection River North and Mag Mile are within walking distance of the Chicago Riverwalk, where adventure awaits.

From here, you can rent a kayak or paddleboard and float past architectural marvels, or book a guided river tour that dives into the city’s storied skyline. If you’d rather kick back, hop on a lakefront dinner cruise, fireworks boat ride, or sunset cocktail sail—most depart from the Navy Pier or docks just off Michigan Avenue.

Whether you’re gliding under iconic bridges or out on the open lake, the views from the water are unmatched.

Lunch with a View

Once you’ve worked up an appetite, there are plenty of lakeside restaurants and cafés to recharge at—many with unbeatable views of the water.

Steps from North Avenue Beach, grab a table at Castaways Bar & Grill, a ship-shaped rooftop bar serving up casual beach fare and frozen drinks with panoramic lake views. If you’re exploring Navy Pier, Offshore Rooftop offers elevated dining and cocktails with both lake and skyline vistas.

Over near Montrose Beach, The Dock at Montrose is a relaxed spot with a tropical vibe—perfect for fish tacos, burgers, and live music on summer afternoons.

Golden Hour on the Shore

As the sun begins to set, the lakefront transforms again. Locals head back to the water to wind down the day—many bringing wine, picnic blankets, and speakers for an impromptu happy hour by the waves.

From Ohio Street Beach to the rocks along Fullerton, there are dozens of places to catch golden hour. The views from the Astor Street Overlook near the Ambassador Gold Coast are particularly stunning, with sailboats silhouetted against the fiery sky.

For guests staying at The Chicago Hotel Collection Wrigley, an evening walk along the lakefront path near Belmont Harbor offers quieter views of the lake, with less foot traffic and plenty of photo-worthy spots.

More Than a Hotel—Your Summer Launch Pad

Each CHC location offers more than a place to sleep—it’s a jumping-off point for your summer adventure.

• Ambassador Gold Coast puts you closest to the beaches and historic lakeside neighborhoods like Old Town and Lincoln Park.

• Mag Mile is perfect for pairing lakefront access with shopping, museums, and city energy.

• River North gives you quick access to both the Riverwalk and nightlife.

• Wrigley provides easy access to Montrose Beach, Wrigley Field, and local dining favorites.

Wherever you stay, you’ll enjoy our Guest Benefits Package, which includes exclusive travel perks, discounts at top attractions, and local savings even after check-out. It’s all designed to help you get more out of your time in Chicago.

Plan Your Lakefront Escape Today

Chicago’s waterfront is waiting—and summer won’t last forever. Whether you want to kayak down the river, dance at the beach, or sip wine while the sun sets over the lake, it’s all right here.

When you book directly through The Chicago Hotel Collection, you unlock more than a room. You get access to our exclusive Guest Benefits Package, the best available rates, and personalized support from our local team.

Book direct today and make this summer one to remember—with a stay just steps from the water.