Every year, Chicago’s brutally cold winter arrives like an unwelcome wake-up call (or like a b*tch slap to the face). So whenever Spring rolls around, you’ll find Chicagoans transitioning out of hibernation-mode to welcome in the glorious embrace of the sun. That’s when a picnic, complete with potato salad and cold cuts, must be had.
(Cover Photo: Kris Arnold/Flickr)
1. Jay Pritzker Pavilion, Millennium Park
Designed by architect Frank Gehry, the Jay Pritzker Pavilion serves as an outdoor amphitheatre for a variety of musical acts. When a concert is taking place, it’s one of the few places you can go to have a nighttime picnic. 201 E Randolph Street
Photo via Sergio Perez
2. Lincoln Park Zoo
Designated picnic areas can be found throughout the Lincoln Park Zoo, which is free to the public, and open all-year round. Have your lunch in a secluded section of the natural oasis, or feast on your meal next to wildlife. 2001 N. Clark Street
Photo via Alanscottwalker
3. Adler Planetarium
The front lawn of the Adler Planetarium offers a low-key spot for lunch along the lakefront. You’ll have an expansive view of the city, and the 31st street beach is also nearby. 1300 S Lake Shore Drive
Photo via Baseball636
4. Humboldt Park
Humboldt Park, spanning 216 acres, offers a variety of recreational amenities, including an artificial turf field, an inland beach and the historical lagoons. 1400 N. Sacramento Avenue
Photo via Steven Kevil
5. Calumet Park
Located on the East Side, Calumet Park is idyllically surrounded by nature. It offers large, open picnic groves and other amenities, including a fitness center and sports fields. Calumet Beach is also open to the public during the beach season. 9801 S. Avenue G
Photo via Calumet Park Fieldhouse
