Where to Relax with a Book in Chicago
Peace and Quiet in the Big City
Chicago is a big and busy city with a lot of energy and personality. But even those who thrive in this setting sometimes just need a place to escape into a quiet oasis. Below are some of those quiet retreats, right in the heart of the city.Grant Park
Printer's Row, Chicago, Illinois
Lincoln Park Conservatory
2391 N Stockton Dr, Lincoln Park, Chicago, IL, 60614
Chicago has plenty more to offer, so see also our other articles: The Best Summer Activities in Chicago and Where to Rest and Relax in Chicago.
Lurie Garden
Lurie Garden is a 2.5 acre garden in Millennium Park. It has a number of plants including perennials, bulbs, shrubs, and trees. It's also notable for being the location of the world's largest green roof.
Loop, Chicago, Illinois
Garfield Park
Garfield Park is a popular city park on the West Side of the city in the Garfield Park neighborhood. It has a number of recreational facilities including baseball, boxing, basketball, tennis, and swimming. There's also a playground and trails for running, walking and bike riding. When the weather isn't cooperating, you can head inside to the Garfield Park Conservatory, which has about 120,000 plants from 600 different species in a 1.6 acre indoor space.
300 N. Central Park Ave., Garfield Park, Chicago, IL, 60624
Jackson Park
This is a 600 acre park that sits on the edge of Lake Michigan on the South Side of Chicago. It has a variety of facilities including basketball, tennis courts, and playgrounds. The Osaka Garden is also on the grounds, which is a Japanese style garden that's on an island in the park's east lagoon. There are also several beaches and a running track that visitors can take advantage of.
6401 S Stony Island Ave, South Shore, Chicago, IL, 60637
12th Street Beach
Follow the path from Adler Planetarium to reach this quiet beach. At night there are often bands playing nearby so it's a chill place to spend the evening.
1200 S. Linn White Dr., Northerly Island Park, Chicago, IL, 60605
Winnemac Park
This 22 acre park offers a number of sports and activities as well as a playground and an impressive Fourth of July fireworks display.
5100 N Leavitt St, Lincoln Square, Chicago, IL, 60625
Foster Beach
Foster Beach is a family-friendly beach in the Edgewater neighborhood of Chicago. It's a quieter beach than some of the more popular options, but it's perfect for people with kids or dogs who want to enjoy a picnic, barbecue, or simply hang out by the water. While it's generally a quieter beach, it does get quite busy during the Chicago Full Moon Jam, when fire dancers, musicians, and drummers all come out to perform and celebrate.
5200 N. Lake Shore Dr., Edgewater, Chicago, IL, 60611
Planning a trip to Chicago? You might also be interested in Best Places To Enjoy A Picnic In Chicago and The Best Things to do in Chicago with Kids.
How much does it cost?
Prices for activities, things to do, and tours range from $10 to $249. The average cost for a tour or tickets is $73. A few of the best options are below.
Where to Stay in Chicago
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Chicago has plenty more to offer, so see also our other articles: Where to Rest and Relax in Chicago.
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