Dear Traveler:

Chicago is already the greatest city in the world, but when you throw in warm temperatures, magical events and cruises along beautiful Lake Michigan, you’ll quickly realize Summertime Chi is a season within itself that cannot be topped anywhere else.
 

Iconic music festivals like the Chicago Blues Fest and Lollapalooza provide the soundtrack for Chicago’s summer and the diversity of our 77 neighborhoods is on full display as each community welcomes the summer in its own unique way through street fairs and weekly neighborhood events. See the Summer Event Guide (pg. 26) to find the perfect celebration for you.
 

Speaking of Chicago’s neighborhoods, one step in any of the city’s 77 communities will immediately immerse you in rich history, culture and traditions. That’s why I’m so excited to share this edition’s Neighborhood Spotlight: Jackson Park (pg. 34). Jackson Park was once home to a fair so grand and magnificent, its history and presence still wows visitors today. The park is now the site of majestic Japanese gardens, recreational centers and the South Shore Beach Club, which you’ll read more about (pg. 37). The summer is the perfect setting for the social club to come alive, and you’ll be impressed by the lineup of music artists, DJs and events already planned.
 

This summer also marks the 20th anniversary of Millennium Park (pg. 38). The public park boasts year-round celebrations and features a variety of public art including the iconic “Cloud Gate” — perhaps better known by locals and visitors alike as “The Bean.” With live concerts and the picturesque Lurie Garden, Millennium Park is the perfect stop for any visitor. 

 

Even if your trip to Chicago is merely on a layover, I hope you still feel the essence of our beautiful city in our airports and take a piece of Chicago with you wherever you go.
 

Thanks for reading, and for adding Chicago to your list of summer destinations. As always, we’re glad you’re here!
 

Mayor Brandon Johnson