Let’s be honest: The best place to spend summer is on the water. There’s just something about the breeze whipping off the river or dipping your toes in the lake that makes you feel like a kid on summer vacation again. Luckily, visiting Chicago means you have access to not one, but two bodies of water: Lake Michigan and the Chicago River. A weekend trip here means sandy beaches to chill at with a frozen cocktail in hand, riverfront cafes to feast on Great Lakes seafood, and plenty of outdoor adventures to be had. So whether you choose to spend your time in Chi-town by the lake, river, or both, we’ve highlighted all the best ways to spend Friday through Sunday on its waterfronts this summer. You’ll be wishing there were more days in the weekend.
Choosing where to make a dinner reservation won’t be easy, but put River Roast at the top of your list. The plates and views are both Instagram-worthy and the menu’s backbone, roasted meats, are all carved tableside for added drama.