There’s a reason people say, “There’s nothing like a Chicago summer.” When I finally experienced it for myself, I couldn’t agree more. I traveled to Chicago often for work, and it quickly became my favorite U.S. city, but I was often there in the fall and winter. It’s lovely then too if you don’t get caught in a blizzard, but during the summer is when the city really shines. The weather is perfect, the food is great, and there is always something to do, even if that’s a casual walk around the city. Here’s why I think Chicago deserves to be your next summer destination.

1. Beautiful Weather

Summer in Chicago is a treat. The skies are generally sunny, there’s a nice breeze, and it’s warm but not insanely hot. You will want to be outdoors whenever you can. Personally, I would walk to and from work, to the art museum or wherever I could in the city just to enjoy the weather. After cold and harsh winters, people in Chicago definitely make the most of their summer days, so it’s really a vibe to be in the city and in community at that time.

2. A Walkable City

One of my favorite things about Chicago is how walkable it is. You can stroll along the Riverwalk, explore Millennium Park, or walk by the lakefront and find iconic landmarks and maybe even hidden gems on foot. Depending where you stay and what you have planned, you could theoretically make it through a trip without using rideshare at all. It’s a pretty easy city to navigate and you’ll rarely find yourself totally alone anywhere.

3. A Great Place for Food Lovers

No trip to Chicago is complete without getting involved in the incredible food scene. There’s deep-dish pizza, Italian beef sandwiches, Michelin-starred restaurants and favorite neighborhood spots. Whatever you’re looking for, you can probably find. In addition to the great food, people from Chicago are very hospitable. I’ve always received great service at restaurants, especially once they realize i’m traveling alone. Check out everywhere I’ve eaten here.

4. There’s Always Something To Do

Summer in Chicago means always having something to do. There are summer concert series, fireworks at Navy Pier, movies in the park, music festivals and so many other activities outdoors, but there’s also plenty to do indoors, many of those things family friendly, like The Art Institute of Chicago, interactive exhibits at the Museum of Science and Industry, or the Lincoln Park Zoo, which happens to be free.

Click here for my Top 7 Chicago Experiences You Can’t Miss.

5. A City That Feels Alive

More than anything, I love the city’s energy because it actually does come alive in the summer. These days, it’s just really nice to see people outside enjoying each other and being in community, even if it’s just taking a walk and laughing and talking with friends. I went to a baseball game at Wrigley field and although I was by myself, it never seemed like it because we were all rooting for one team and having the time of our lives united by a love for a city, even those of us not from there. People from Chicago really embrace summer, and that joy is contagious.

Chicago isn’t just a destination; it’s an experience. With its beautiful weather, walkable streets, incredible food, and vibrant culture, it’s the perfect place to make the most of your summer. If you’re planning a summer trip to this great city, I couldn’t recommend it more.