Vera’s Guide to Summertime in Chicago

It’s not a coincidence that so many of our favorite artists reference summertime Chi. Call us biased, but there's truly nothing like Summer in Chicago. We recently asked our team to highlight their ideal summer day and curated this diverse guide just for you!

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Colin Hill’s Recommendations

Morning ☕️

Start your day with brunch at Uncle Mike’s. Colin recommends the Longanisa. While waiting for your table, head to The Center of Order and Experimentation to shop for houseware.

Afternoon 🌞

After breakfast, head to the Garfield Park Conservatory for a garden stroll. Enjoy a serene, peaceful afternoon surrounded by diverse plants.

Evening 🌙

Hit Best Intentions for delicious cocktails and cheeseburgers to finish the day. Then, catch a concert at the Empty Bottle or go dancing at California Clipper.

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Estrella Salgado’s Recommendations‍

‍Morning ☕️

Start your day by getting an iced vanilla latte and a wrap or sandwich from Kusanya Cafe on the south side of Chicago.

Afternoon 🌞

Next, head over to Chinatown and enjoy a walk around the neighborhood. Stop and get some boba milk tea or snow ice from Bingo Tea! Later, walk around Tom Ping Memorial Park and hop on the water taxi that takes you downtown for only $6 on weekends!

Evening 🌙

End the night by enjoying Mexican food and watching the sunset at Panchos Rooftop Cantina!

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Elijah Olige's Recommendations

‍Morning ☕️

Morning yoga at the lake led by @unicityyoga. Afterward, get a coffee from Fat Milk and a Ba Le Sandwiches and enjoy the weather by eating on the patio.

Afternoon 🌞

Enjoy Montrose Beach with your friends. Pack water, beer, and all the necessary snacks to survive the heat.

Evening 🌙

Dinner at home and then go for cocktails with friends at Ninebar in Chinatown.

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Joel Lopez's Recommendations ‍

‍Morning ☕️

Start your morning off with a cup of coffee and a daily devotional or self-reflection time. Next, head over to the lake for a quick run.

Afternoon 🌞

In the afternoon, check out a new cafe! Joel recommends Our Mutual City in Irving Park. Then spend a few hours at a neighborhood street fest, like Tacos y Tamales Festival coming up July 19–21 in Pilsen or Wicker Park Fest on July 26–28.

Evening 🌙

Head over to a friend's house for a game or movie night! Then, wind down by doing something creative. Joel likes to work on personal design projects — check out a few of Joel’s designs here.


There are a million different ways to enjoy Chicago. Whether you're into live music, yoga, cultural exploration, or a mix of it all, there's something here for everyone. This Summer, take advantage of the weather and all the city has to offer and make memories that will last for years.