Chicago is the third largest city in the United States and boasts some of the world’s best cuisine, shopping, music, and architecture, along with an impressive skyline. Chicago is no doubt a fun city with tons of fun things to do, especially in the summer. The focal point for much of this fun is Lake Michigan.

Staying at an expensive hotel downtown is a great way to experience the lake. This may not be an option for those budget-minded. Staying in a hotel a couple miles from the lake may be a more inexpensive choice.

While public transportation is plentiful, if you do not want to take public transportation, get a car to rent in Chicago. Parking is expensive and traffic is quite busy, but for those that want the freedom to come and go as they please, a rental car may be a good choice.

Lake Michigan alone has plenty to keep you busy. With all the beaches, the paved path, and the fantastic skyline views, the lake is a good way to spend the afternoon just relaxing or getting in some exercise along the lakefront path. All along Lake Michigan, a visitor has access to some of the other free attractions.

Millennium Park provides gardens, an open pavilion, and a stainless steel sculpture, known as “The Bean’ because of its kidney bean-like shape. Another attraction here is the Crown Fountain which produces a cascading waterfall to cool off and run through.

Navy Pier offers free entertainment throughout the year with daily shows that include magic, jugglers, artists, and circus acts. In the evenings, there is free live music on the Bud Light Stage in the Beer Garden. In the summer, the Pier also has a fireworks display twice a week.

Lincoln Park Zoo houses many species of animals with over 1,250 animals in all. There is a children’s petting zoo and the newer Pritzker Family Children’s Zoo with trees available for climbing and a pleasant landscape to stroll through. The Lincoln Park Lagoon, surrounded by trees, is a peaceful place to walk around or have a picnic. To save money, look for alternatives for parking.