Discover the Green Side of Chicago
Chicago is renowned for its stunning skyline, rich cultural scene, and offbeat neighborhoods — but it’s also full of a wealth of parks and recreation areas that make it a fantastic place to visit for nature lovers. For anyone considering a move to Chicago, sampling the city’s parks, trails, and recreational facilities is a great way to get a feel for the region before moving. Chicago has everything from a peaceful walk in nature to a day in the pool or playing for a local league sports team.
Unwind before Play at Chicago’s Best Parks
Chicago has over 600 parks, each offering a unique blend of nature, recreation, and community space. Millennium Park is one of the city’s most iconic green havens, renowned for its shiny Cloud Gate sculpture (also known as “The Bean”), beautiful gardens, and outdoor concerts during the summer. Grant Park is along the lakefront and is another favorite where locals and visitors alike enjoy open fields, walking trails, and special seasonal activities.
Lincoln Park combines tree-shaded paths and peaceful gardens with the bonus of proximity to the Lincoln Park Zoo — the country’s oldest free zoo. Humboldt Park boasts a historic lagoon, a beautiful boathouse, and open green space for picnics and recreation. Smaller community parks like Wicker Park and Oz Park provide a quieter atmosphere with playgrounds, dog parks, and peaceful areas to sit or stop by for coffee.
Hit the Trails: Urban Biking and Hiking
Chicago is a hectic city, but there are plenty of opportunities to get outside and get in touch with nature on bike or foot. The Lakefront Trail is an 18-mile path along Lake Michigan’s shores, with the skyline on one side and the lake on the other.
The North Branch Trail is extended through the north suburbs and into the Cook County Forest Preserves for a more wooded escape, offering a less congested, tree-lined excursion. The 606 Trail, built over a former railroad bed, winds its way through multiple neighborhoods and is ideal for strolls and intense workouts.
Chicago is even bike-friendly, with more than 200 miles of bike paths and the Divvy bike-sharing program, so exploring is a cinch without needing to bring your gear.
Fun for the Family at Oasis Water Park and More
Families with children will have a range of recreational activities. Oasis Water Park, located just outside Bloomingdale, is a summer hotspot with water slides, splash pads, and a lazy river. It’s an excellent place to escape the heat on a hot day.
The Chicago Park District operates several sports programs for youth and adults, including youth soccer leagues, basketball activities, and swimming lessons. Adults have organized basketball leagues, volleyball leagues, and softball leagues, and they also offer fitness classes at community recreation centers.
During winter, ice skating at Millennium Park and sledding down the hill of Soldier Field provide winter entertainment for friends and families. The park district also organizes winter festivals, holiday markets, and outdoor movies to keep the community involved throughout the year.
Become a Part of Chicago’s Recreational Community
Beyond the parks and trails, the recreation programs of Chicago offer socializing opportunities and getting active. Community centers in the neighborhood host yoga, dance, and art classes where residents can connect and feel at home. Neighborhoods also have farmers’ markets and street festivals where residents gather to share food, music, and community pride.
Make the Move and Experience All That Chicago Has to Offer
If you’re considering relocating to Chicago, exploring the city’s parks and recreational spaces is a great way to settle in and feel at home. Whether you’re unwinding at Millennium Park, biking the Lakefront Trail, or taking the kids to Oasis Water Park, you’ll find plenty of ways to enjoy the outdoors and meet new people. When you are ready to relocate, 2 Guys and a Van can help make the process smooth and stress-free so that you can focus on discovering everything Chicago offers.
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