Visiting Chicago in August

August is a month of enjoying the last burst of summer with beautiful sunny weather, outdoor activities, fresh food, and preparing for crisp air and cooler weather. Visiting Chicago during this time of the year is perfect because you will get to enjoy the sunny beaches and the most beautiful skyline views. Check out this guide to learn how to make the most of your trip! 

Is August a Good Time to Visit Chicago?

August is the right time to visit Chicago because it is a high season and tourists from around the world visit this place. You can enjoy Chicago’s beautiful sandy beaches and do lots of activities like playing beach volleyball on Lake Michigan or kayaking. And you can sip delicious cocktails at rooftop bars with some of the most incredible skyline views. 

(Credit: Sawyer Bengtson / Unsplash)

Reasons to Visit Chicago in August

If I list reasons for you to visit Chicago in August, it'll take all day. But here are some of the things that you'll really enjoy while visiting Chicago. 

1. Chicago Beaches 

In Chicago, you'll find some of the most beautiful lakefront beaches. You can visit Rainbow Beach and explore the skyline views. You've got kids with you? No problem! Let them run around at Foster Beach. What's more? Rent a beachfront cabana and enjoy the beautiful views. And if you love jet skiing or kayaking, rent a jet ski, a kayak, or a paddle board at Chicago Water Board Rentals. 

2. The Summer Festivals and Events in Chicago

Although every season in Chicago is festival season, music festivals in August are truly unmatched. Some of the greatest events in Chicago are: 

Lollapalooza 

People from around the world come to see Lollapalooza in Chicago. Not all of them are lucky enough to secure the tickets, but those who do, experience the legendary musical performances and beautiful lakefront setting in the perfect summer atmosphere.

Millennium Park Music Series

If you're in Chicago, you wouldn't want to miss the Millenium Park Summer Music Series. It hosts established as well as emerging talents from around the world. Grab a spot on the lawn and enjoy spectacular views of the Pritzker Pavilion (one of the most well-known concert halls) and the beautiful skyline that lights up as dusk falls. Musicians from different genres, such as jazz, country music, pop, and R&B, participate in the Millenium Park Music Series. 

Moreover, Millenium Park is designed in a way that is accessible to people from around the country. You will find American Sign Language Interpreters available for all the concerts. Also, wheelchairs and assistive listening devices are available, and you can get them from the Patron Service Tent.

Grant Park Music Festival 

This iconic 80-year tradition is one of the highlights of the Millennium Park. All summer long, you can enjoy free classical music and have a great time. 

Glenwood Avenue Arts Fest

For more than a decade, this Arts Fest has been a huge success in Chicago. It is organized by the community with more than 100 artist booths, live music and performances, and exploration of open studios. This Arts Fest is the only neighborhood festival where people can directly engage with the creators. 

It is located among the beautiful streets of Chicago's historic Rogers Park neighborhood. The festival’s main highlights are free live music, art demonstrations, incredibly delicious food, and craft beer prepared by the local community. Also, you will find the most friendly restaurants and bars here, all close to the vicinity.

Millennium Park Summer Film Series 

The Millenium Park Summer Film Series hosts free movies all summer. Every year, you will find people from around the world who visit Chicago for this particular event. You can watch movies against the city's most spectacular backdrop skyline. The movies include all the best classics, cult favorites, blockbusters, and whatnot. Also, all the seats within the pavilion seating ball are free. Arrive early and secure a spot. Bring snacks and beverages with you, and enjoy your little picnic at Millenium Park. 

3. Outdoor Dining 

Chicago is famous for outdoor dining spots. You can find some of the best local patios and rooftop bars in Chicago. There are a variety of options to choose from; you can enjoy your food and a pina colada at the sandy beaches, or sip wine on the riverfront patio. Check out all the beachfront restaurants if you're interested in lakefront views. You can also explore the Chicago Riverwalk or walk through any neighborhood street, and you'll find plenty of options to choose from. 

4. Chicago's Boat Cruises 

All summer long, you will find Chicago's boat tours setting sail on Lake Michigan and the Chicago River. You can choose from several options; for a laidback experience, book a leisurely dinner cruise and relax. To get more interesting information about the city, hop aboard a Chicago Architecture Center River Cruise to hear stories about the city's iconic history and architecture. Or you can book a high-speed thrill ride and enjoy the time of your life.

Things to do in Chicago in August

(Credit: Gaby / Unsplash)

Here's a list of some of the things you can do while you're in Chicago:

The Beautiful Lakefront on Navy Pier 

Lakefront on Navy Pier is the city’s one of the most popular attractions and there's something for everyone to enjoy at this place. Hop onto a lakefront cruise and enjoy the most spectacular views. You can see the famous summer fireworks rated as one of the best. Do something more fun and ride the Centennial Wheel. What's more? Entertain yourself with free live music and a refreshing drink at the Navy Pier's Beer Garden.

Explore a City Park 

At the heart of the Loop, an important part of Chicago, you will find Millennium Park's Lurie Garden, a beautiful urban oasis. Maggie Daley Park is another amazing spot if you've got kids with you - let them roam around, climb, and skate at the park without any worry. 

Also, at Jackson Park, located in Hyde Park and Woodlawn Community, you will find the amazing Japanese Garden, also known as the Osaka Garden. Lastly, don't forget to visit Lincoln Park's South Pond, a hidden lily pond. Lincoln Park is also quite popular because of its historic indoor botanical garden. 

Music at Shedd Aquarium 

Don't forget to visit this place for beautiful encounters with sea otters, bluegills, sturgeons, and whatnot. Also, you can enjoy live jazz at the aquarium, and as the sun goes down, relax with a refreshing drink and take a stroll around the aquarium. From across the glimmering lake, you will get to see the stunning fireworks. 

Art Institute of Chicago 

The Art Institute of Chicago is rated as one of the top museums in the world. If you don't visit this place, your trip to Chicago will be incomplete. It has one of the greatest collections of paintings, including works by Van Gogh, Seurat, Renoir, Monet, and others. Also, explore the Renzo Piano, you will love it. Overall, this art institute has something for everyone.

Wicker Park

Wicked Park, part of West Town, an urban suburb, is one of the most famous neighborhoods of Chicago. Famous for its restaurants, offbeat galleries, record stores, boutique shops, performance venues, and vibrant nightlife, there's nothing quite like Wicker Park. This place attracts all kinds of food lovers, art lovers, and bar lovers who enjoy a late night out. 

Watch a Baseball Game 

Chicago's one of the iconic ballparks, which is home to two MLB teams: the Chicago White Sox and the Chicago Cubs. In August, this is something you don't want to miss. The Chicago Cubs play their game at the Wrigley Field, one of the oldest stadiums in the country. And the Chicago White Sox takes the field at Guaranteed Rate in Bridgeport, where you'll find tailgating and firework displays. 

Lastly,

Willis Tower 

Willis Tower, also known as the Sears Tower, is a 110-story building in the Loop community area of Chicago. There is something for everyone at the Willis Tower. Discover the catalog and enjoy a diverse dining experience, or step out on The Ledge, which has glass-floored balconies mounted 4.3 feet outside of Willis Tower. You can also enjoy the spectacular art of the neighborhood.

(Credit: Pedro Lastra / Unsplash)

Chicago August Weather

In August, the weather in Chicago is quite pleasant at 22°C, which rises to a maximum of 28°C. After dark, the temperature drops to the low of 16°C. Wear light clothing and keep a jacket with you, because it can be a bit chilly at night.

Wrapping Up!

So, there you have it—a small guide to Chicago and a list of some of the reasons why you should visit this place in August. From Millenium Park to Willis Tower, there's something for everyone to see. Plan your tour now with Tripshepherd and enjoy some of the most amazing sights out there!