Here are eight fantastic activities to safely enjoy with your elderly loved one this summer in Chicago.
Watch a movie alfresco
On Tuesdays until 30 August, the Millennium Park free summer film series screens old favorites and new blockbusters under the stars at the iconic Jay Pritzker Pavilion. Guests can take a seat at the Pavilion or lounge in the grass on the Great Lawn and enjoy a movie together alfresco. Bring a blanket or comfortable foldable chairs and some snacks and enjoy a movie together. More details
Listen to some jazz
Every Wednesday through 31 August, you can head to the Shedd Aquarium to enjoy live tunes from top Chicago jazz ensembles, and sweeping views of the city skyline at the same time. As the sun goes down and the music starts, you can relax with a cooling drink on the breezy terrace or stroll the aquarium and experience the unbelievable animals that live inside. More details
Enjoy intriguing exhibitions
This summer brings amazing art to Chicago. From Frida Kahlo’s photos to the avant-garde works of Nick Cave, you can find many interesting exhibitions this summer in Chicago. More details
Watch the summer fireworks at Navy Pier
Historic lakefront Navy Pier is one of the city’s most popular attractions. On Wednesday and Saturday nights from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend, find a spot anywhere on the pier and take in a dazzling free display of fireworks. More details
Explore a city park
Chicago is home to more than 600 parks, with an abundance of open space to take a nice summer stroll. Visit Millennium Park’s free Lurie Garden, Maggie Daley Park, or check out one of Chicago’s newest green spaces, The 606, an elevated linear trail and park system that runs along the Bloomingdale Trail for 2.7 miles between Ashland Avenue and Ridgeway Street. A stroll along Lincoln Park’s South Pond is also a fantastic activity to do in summer.
Enjoy Shakespeare in the Parks
Chicago’s favorite summer tradition, Chicago Shakespeare in the Parks brings Shakespeare’s greatest plays, free for all, to audiences in 18 Chicago neighborhood parks throughout the city. Shakespeare’s memorable characters come to life in a unique and surprising mash-up of scenes from his most celebrated plays—from Romeo and Juliet and Macbeth to The Taming of the Shrew and As You Like It. More details
Celebrate the Chicago Botanic Garden’s Birthday
The Chicago Botanic Garden has experienced extraordinary growth over the last five decades and it is marking its 50th birthday in 2022 with Flourish: The Garden at 50. Running through 25 September, members, visitors, and program participants are invited to celebrate 50 years of the Garden connecting people to the natural world. Flourish: The Garden at 50 will feature a series of Garden-wide experiences you can enjoy together. More details
Browse at farmer’s markets
A great thing about living in the Chicago suburbs is that you’re never too far from a farmer’s market. In the city, you can find fruit, flowers, sweets, and veggies at Logan Square Farmer’s Market, Green City Market, The Plant, Maxwell Street Market, or at Daley Plaza.
Safety first!
Keep in mind that the summer heat can be especially hard on the elderly, so it’s important to keep safe from the sun. Try to avoid going out between noon and 4pm, make sure your elderly loved one wears something light and comfortable when going out and try to limit exertion outdoors as much as you can. For more information on heat safety, read the article here.
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