There’s nothing quite like a Chicago summer.  

 After months of frigid temperatures and grey skies, there are few things more comforting than sunny days and the clear blue waters of Lake Michigan. We only get this beautiful weather a few months out of the year, and while it reminds us why we love this city so much, sometimes we forget to take advantage of it between our days in a cubicle. Instead of spending all your days inside an air conditioned building, here are some of the best things to do outside while the weather is still nice. 

 Grant Park Music Festival  

What’s better than free events? The Grant Park Music Festival spans from June through August and is completely free – perfect for those of us on a summer budget. Bring a picnic blanket, pack a cooler full of food, and head over to Grant Park for a night of music in the grass.  

 Head to Wrigley Field 

Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just jumping on the bandwagon, try to score some tickets to a Cubs game this summer. After winning the World Series, the Cubs are more popular than ever before. With games on almost any night of the week, there’s sure to be some free time in your schedule to root on the Cubs.  

 Hit the beaches 

While the water is frozen for the greater majority of the year, Chicago beaches are packed from late May through August. While the sun beats down, head to the beach to jump in the clear waters and lay out with your friends – but don’t forget your sunscreen to protect your summer tan! Trust me, these are the days you’ll dream of when the temperatures drop again.    

 Street Festivals 

In the summer, there’s literally a festival for anything you may love. While Taste of Chicago is behind us, there are still so many festivals to enjoy. In July alone, there’s Pitchfork Music Festival, a Thai Festival, Art Fest on Michigan Avenue, Taste of River North, South Loop Beer & Cider Fest and so many more. There are always a dozen pages on Facebook dedicated to all of the food festivals on Chicago, so check out some more of the events near you each weekend.  

 Architecture River Cruise 

Chicago has a ton of history that can be told through the buildings. There’s so much to learn about our city, and one of the most beautiful ways to do it is on the Architecture River Cruise. While not all of us get excited by the workings of Chicago’s architecture, the view alone is amazing.  

 River Walk 

Chicago has more than just Lake Michigan. With high rises all along the Chicago River, it’s beautiful to walk around in the summer. There’s an abundance of restaurants along the river too, so you can dine with a view of the city all summer long. 

 Lincoln Park Zoo 

Not only can you see animals at the zoo, but it’s just beautiful to walk through in the summer. The zoo is completely free and is a great daytime activity to get you out of the house. There’s also a conservatory just outside the gates of the zoo which is beautiful to walk through.  

 Millennium Park Summer Film Series 

Who knew Millennium Park was so much more than just The Bean? Beyond the free music, Millennium Park shows free movies on Tuesdays all the way until September 5th. From The Blues Brothers, to The Princess Bride and The Shining, there’s a movie for everyone to enjoy all summer long. 

 Lollapalooza 

Lollapalooza is one of the largest events of the summer, attracting music lovers and tourists from far and wide. Starting on August 3 and going until the 6th, Lollapalooza allows you to see all of the greatest musicians in one place – whether you love rap, rock or pop music, it’s all at Lollapalooza. Chicago’s favorite Chance the Rapper is playing again this year along with The Killers, Muse, Arcade Fire and Lorde, just to name a few.  

 This is only the start of what you can do in Chicago all summer long, but it’s certainly enough to keep you busy! While you enjoy your time outdoors, look great doing it with dome BEAUTY’s earth-toned July look. Get our American Summer, sun kissed look using dome’s Gold Dust, Sun Stone, Bronze and Concrete shadows, paired with our Magnetic Mascara. Your makeup will glow under the summer sun but will last through the heat.