Chicago is quickly positioning itself as a leader in sustainable urban design — 99.9% of Chicagoans can walk to a park within 10 minutes and make more than 20,000 trips by bike each year. With 575 green spaces to explore and a growing number of veggie-forward menus to sample, it would be more appropriate to call the Windy City its original slogan – “The City in a Garden”.
Whether you’re an eco-conscious traveler, a nature lover, or just looking for a rejuvenating, guilt-free vacation, these clean and green experiences in Chicago are good for both you and the planet. So make healthy choices.
Hit the trails
To travel Chicago like a local, hike or bike The 606: A lush 2.7-mile trail built on an elevated railroad built in 1873. The trail provides access to four of the city’s newest neighborhoods. Park—and a relaxing way to take in each one’s unique architectural style.
For a more expansive experience of green Chicago, exit the West Side and head south to Humboldt Park. Aptly named after the German botanist, Alexander von Humboldt, this 207-acre park boasts two lakes, rose gardens, and outstanding examples of medieval architecture, such as the Humboldt Park Field House—a city is a recreational center located on a man-made beach.
Stretching 18 miles along the shores of Lake Michigan, Chicago’s Lakefront Trail is also ripe for exploration. Soccer fields and beach volleyball courts invite budding athletes to make a stop for outdoor play, while tranquil parks and gardens will appeal to nature lovers. For those looking for an insider’s perspective, Bobby’s Bike Hike takes you off the tourist track and into the lakefront neighborhoods of the North Side.
Go park hopping.
At the southern end of Lakefront Trail Located in Millennium Park. Built over two parking garages, the Harris Theater, and a railroad yard, this 24-acre park is the largest green roof in the world. Enjoy a peaceful respite from the crowds at Cloud Gate (also known as “The Bean”) while strolling through Lowry Gardens. Built on a former landfill, the “living art” found here can be enjoyed year-round. For a more active Chicago green experience, head to neighboring Maggie Daly Park. Climbing walls Which up to 40 feet and Skating ribbonbe sure to keep busy bodies warm during the colder months.
If winter keeps you from exploring Chicago’s parks, Garfield Park Conservatory offers a solution to nature cravings. With 10 acres of outdoor gardens (open May through October), eight greenhouses, and 23 hours of free weekly programming, this donation-based conservatory — the largest in the country — is a must-see for locals looking for greener Chicago. There is access. Escape any time of the year.
Admire the architecture and wildlife from the water.
Home to the world’s first skyscraper and a diverse skyline, Chicago’s rich architectural history is not to be missed. to take it in by river, in a ship a First Lady Cruise A private kayak tour of the river’s tranquil north end, led by knowledgeable volunteers from the Chicago Architecture Foundation, or with Kayak Chicago. The outfitter also offers kayak and paddleboard rentals at Montrose and North Avenue beaches, for those looking to add some activity to their summer beach lounging.
Bird watchers will want to stay at Montrose Beach, where more than 300 species of birds can be found. Montrose Point Bird Sanctuary. And migrating songbirds flock to the 150-foot former fence line known as the “Magic Hedge” in spring and fall.
Learn from eco-conscious locals.
For a taste of the local bounty, head to Lincoln Park for Green City Market: Chicago’s largest year-round sustainable farmers market with more than 60 vendors selling fresh produce, prepared goods, and all things green Chicago. Provides information about
From November through April, the Saturday market moves indoors a few blocks north to the Peggy Notebert Nature Museum. But the museum is worth a visit any time of year as five green terraces and hands-on exhibits offer lessons about the natural history and conservation of the Chicago area. But don’t miss the daily butterfly hatching. Judy Istock Butterfly Haven.
Eat your vegetables.
While Italian beef sandwiches and Chicago-style hot dogs are must-sees for meat-eaters visiting the city once known as “Porkopolus,” Chicago’s vegetarian eateries will appeal to all types of foodies. should not be ignored.
For gourmet farm-to-table, head to the Michelin-starred one. Sepia, where Andrew Zimmerman applies his French technique to regional products in a former 1890s print shop adorned with smoke-shaded chandeliers and custom-tiled Art Nouveau floors. For a brighter, more relaxed setting, head two blocks west to Bed Hunter — a hyper-seasonal brunch and dinner hotspot for vegetarians and vegetarian carnivores alike.
Urban hydroponic gardens and Oprah Winfrey’s former estate, Blue Door Farm, provide the ingredients for chef Art Smith’s Southern-inspired creations. Blue Door Kitchen and Garden in Chicago’s Gold Coast District. While at Westtown, Chef Dion Quinn applied his biology background to produce from the restaurant’s onsite greenhouse to create complex flavor profiles. Edenbest experienced as a 5-course tasting menu.
Related Article: Finding Good Food in the Windy City
Sleep in eco-boutique style.
Relax and recharge with complimentary wine hours and in-room yoga mats. Kempton Hotel Monaco Chicago, where leftover soap is recycled in developing countries and guests can volunteer to participate in beach clean-up days. Straws and coasters made from recycled materials accompany cocktails at the on-site restaurant. Fisk & CompanyWhich also offers one of the top happy hours in the city.
Surplus amenities are similarly recycled at the Talbot Hotel, where 1920s-inspired rooms are equipped with the latest green technology and guests are invited to purchase carbon offsets at checkout. As the US city with the most Green Seal certified hotelsChicago offers plenty of eco-friendly options to unwind after an exciting day of fresh air and fresh food.
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