Springtime Chicago Bucket List

Chicago comes alive in the springtime with events, performances, and activities after a long and frigid winter. It’s the ideal time for visitors to take part in outdoor activities that they normally wouldn’t care to do in colder temperatures. The weather is warmer and flowers are blooming, making the city even more picturesque. People are out and about, exploring the exciting attractions that Chicago offers. 

With so many fun and amusing things to do in Chicago in spring, it’s important to prioritize your bucket list items. This list of springtime Chicago bucket list items will help you plan out your trip so that you don’t miss out on any of the best activities. Here are some of the top things to do in Chicago during the spring.

See Cloud Gate at Millennium Park

Millennium Park’s Cloud Gate is one of the most popular bucket list activities in Chicago. However, in the springtime, it’s especially enjoyable, as the flowers are starting to bloom and the park is coming alive with greenery. 

The reflective “bean” sculpture is known for its unique shape, as well as its reflection of the city around it. This location is perfect for photographers of all skills to take pictures, from professional to amateur. It’s one of the iconic places in Chicago, so make sure you plan this activity into your itinerary so that you can show your friends and family your photos of this famous landmark after your trip.

Ride bikes along Lake Shore Trail

If you like the wind in your face and an adrenaline rush from physical activity, then this bucket list item is perfect for you. Select a starting point along Lake Shore Trail near Lake Michigan and rent a Divvy bike—there are various Divvy bike rental stations alongside the trail. Now, it’s time to start pedaling!

Many people enjoy this activity in the spring because the weather is warmer and it’s an easy way to sightsee. While you’re riding your bike, depending on which direction you go, you’ll have views of Navy Pier, various beaches and parks, Lake Michigan, and the city skyline. This bucket list item won’t disappoint with sweeping skyline views and an enjoyable cruise along Lake Michigan. 

Ride Navy Pier’s Centennial Wheel

Visiting Navy Pier in the springtime is an extremely popular activity. Navy Pier is a 3,300-foot long pier on the shoreline of Lake Michigan, containing restaurants, theaters, museums, rides, a botanical garden, and the Centennial Wheel. 

The Centennial Wheel is an iconic part of the Chicago skyline. It reaches to heights of nearly 200 feet, while also providing 360-degree views of Chicago and Lake Michigan. While riding the Centennial Wheel, you’ll be able to take photos of some of Chicago’s most stunning views. Riding the Centennial Wheel should definitely be on your springtime Chicago bucket list.

View greenery at Garfield Park Conservatory

You can visit a lush, green jungle while visiting Chicago this spring. The Garfield Park Conservatory features 2 acres under glass, so you’ll be able to spend time looking at the 70 palm trees and the varied collections of cacti and succulents. 

The Garfield Park Conservatory is one of Chicago’s most Instagrammable locations. Many Instagrammers flock to this colorful paradise, because it houses beautiful flora and fauna to take pictures in front of. So, grab your camera, and get ready to be enveloped in a tropical utopia.

Dine on a restaurant’s patio

Chicago is home to some of the best restaurants in the world, as well as some stunning city and lakeshore views. On a beautiful spring day in Chicago, it can be difficult to choose between finding a delicious new restaurant or spending time outdoors.

Finding restaurants with outdoor patios can give you the best of both worlds. Eating outdoors also allows you to experience your favorite restaurants from a new perspective. 

Better yet, eating in unfamiliar neighborhoods can give you an opportunity to explore new parts of Chicago and truly dine like a local. Try dining in some of Chicago’s eclectic neighborhoods, including Streeterville, West Loop, or Logan Square. Dining on a restaurant’s outdoor patio lets you enjoy the nice spring weather while trying some of Chicago’s top-rated restaurants.

Shop on Magnificent Mile

It’s time to shop till you drop! You’ll love the stores along Michigan Avenue, otherwise known as the Magnificent Mile, if you enjoy shopping. The Magnificent Mile boasts more than 460 retailers including popular brands, department stores, and designer labels. While you’re shopping, don’t forget to look for some of Chicago’s historic landmarks; there are over 50 located along the Magnificent Mile.

Magnificent Mile has three different shopping centers, with luxury brands and local boutiques. You can explore 900 North Michigan Shops, the Water Tower Place, and the Shops at North Bridge. You’ll find department stores like Bloomingdales, Nordstroms, and Macy’s as well as brand names like UGG, Columbia, and Nike. With so many spectacular options along Magnificent Mile, you’ll be able to find exactly what’s on your shopping list, and cross off an item from your bucket list.

Stroll down the Chicago Riverwalk

On any spring day, you’ll find many people leisurely strolling down the Chicago Riverwalk. This 1.25-mile-long pathway extends from Lake Shore Drive to Lake Street in Downtown Chicago. During the springtime, you’ll be able to see flowers and greenery lining parts of the path, as well as open bars and restaurants. 

While walking down the Chicago Riverwalk, grab a glass of wine or coffee from City Winery, and enjoy looking at spectacular sights of some of the city’s best architecture. Strolling down the Chicago Riverwalk is a leisurely activity that can help you see the city in a one-of-a-kind way. If you’re interested in having a more adventurous time, you can take a tour of the Chicago River by kayak instead. 

See a play or musical

Since Chicago is known for its fantastic theater and arts scene, you’ve most likely included attending a show on your bucket list. Chicago is filled with many different types of performances, including top Broadway musicals and plays. With the end of winter approaching and the arrival of spring, many new shows are coming to Chicago’s Theatre District. Since it might be hard to decide which performances in Chicago you want to see when you visit, here are some of the best plays and musicals here this spring.

One of the top plays in Chicago this spring is “What the Constitution Means to Me.” You can see this play at Broadway Playhouse. Some of the top musicals playing in Chicago this spring include “My Fair Lady” at the Cadillac Palace Theatre, “Once Upon a One More Time” at the James M. Nederlander Theater, and “Waitress” at the CIBC Theatre. Visit the theaters’ websites to see times and dates for these performances. Watching one of Chicago’s top plays or musicals while you’re visiting this spring will not disappoint.

Planning Your Trip to Chicago

Whether you choose to visit Chicago during the spring or another season, you’ll have a unique and thrilling experience. There’s truly something for everyone in Chicago, no matter what your interests are. After you’ve booked your flight to the city, you’ll want to select where you’ll stay. Consider booking a hotel located in the heart of the city; a perfect fit for anybody looking to cross any of these Chicago bucket list items off of their list. Next up, pack your bags with the essentials like comfortable walking shoes or a waterproof jacket in case of rain. Now you’re ready for your upcoming trip to Chicago filled with breathtaking adventures and spectacular sights. 

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