Best Local: Urban Gardens

Enjoy summer weather by visiting these urban Chicago gardens!

With summer approaching, enjoy the warm weather by spending some time outside! Chicago is home to rooftop gardens, beautiful parks and outdoor patios for summer night gatherings. Check out any of these Chicago locations to make the most of summer!

Courtesy of chicagomag.com

Take a stroll through the Lurie Gardens! Located in Millennium Park, the garden pays tribute to Chicago’s transformation from marshland to a green city. The garden’s four season design includes lush flora in the summertime, along with a 15 foot hedge mimicking the city’s nickname “City of Big Shoulders.” Only an 8 minute walk from 73 East Lake.

Courtesy of ecosalon.com

Visit Chicago’s most famous rooftop garden, the City Hall Rooftop Gardens. Located on top of the 11-story city hall building in the Loop, the garden was built in 2000 as part of the City’s Urban Heat Island Initiative to test how urban gardens affect temperature and air quality. It features over 20,000 plants  — most native to the prairie plains of the region  — along with two trees. Only a 4 minute walk from Marquee at Block 37 or 215 West Apartments.

Courtesy of photobooths.com

Take the beauty of the outside, inside with the The Crystal Gardens Navy Pier. Along with strolling the pier, stop by the gardens to see palm trees, indoor fountains and lush foliage. Crystal Gardens is also enclosed in glass to offer a breathtaking view of the skyline and lake. Only a 10 minute walk from Moment!

Courtesy of kensingtonroof.com

Enjoy a drink with views of the city skyline with Kensington Roof Garden and Lounge. Guests can take the glass elevator up to the roof and be welcomed to an outdoor bar with greenery and a sleek, modern design. Sip champagne while enjoying the view, or rent the rooftop for a summer soirée! Only an 11 minute walk from State & Chestnut!