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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Top picks in Streeterville

Nice views with outdoor space

You want to be outside, but only if the vantage point makes the fresh air worth it.

Based on 764 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
Polk Bros Park image 1
Polk Bros Park image 2
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City park offers spectacular lake views and illuminated fountains that create a lively yet peaceful atmosphere. Families enjoy the splash park and playground, while live music and art installations add cultural vibrancy. The space feels safe and welcoming, with open areas perfect for relaxing or walking by the water.

Views include Lake Michigan, the city skyline, and the Navy Pier Ferris wheel. Polk Bros Park offers panoramic city views and quiet spots near the stage. The park provides a serene atmosphere ideal for relaxing walks or sitting by the lake.

Outdoor space includes a water splash play area near the entrance and a low, gentle fountain ring for young kids. Polk Bros Park offers two outdoor stages for performances and stays clean.

People are saying

"You can enjoy a spectacular view of the lake here."

"It's a beautiful, peaceful spot perfect for a relaxing picnic."

"The outdoor space has a water splash play area that's mesmerizing."

Good to know

1

Fireworks are held on Wednesdays at 9 pm and Saturdays at 10 pm.

2

Transformers figures are on display until May 26.

3

The festival returns on September 21st and 22nd after four years.

02
Tribune Tower image 1
Historical landmark

Neo-gothic skyscraper stands with historic fragments embedded in its walls, creating a unique facade. Public plaza offers breathtaking views of the city and river, blending history with urban energy. Indoor amenities include a rooftop terrace and pool with sundeck, adding modern comfort to a timeless landmark.

Spectacular views of the city and river stand out, especially from the public plaza and upper levels. The combination of breathtaking architecture and skyscraper vistas creates a memorable sight.

Beautiful architecture surrounds the area with an outside wall decorated by fragments of world-famous architectures. Historical bricks and blocks are placed sporadically, and a courtyard near the back hosts a few other businesses.

People are saying

"It's amazing how much history these historical sites hold."

"I loved exploring the outdoor space, finding artifacts from around the world."

"I loved the amazing Chicago city views from up high."

Good to know

1

Make sure you use Spot Hero to find parking.

2

The closest parking location is below, where the Museum is on 401 N Lower Michigan Ave.

3

Once you park there, you take an escalator to the floor leading to Michigan and it's not that far from there.

03
Lake Shore Park image 1

City park offers open green space with lakefront views and is surrounded by tall buildings and a museum. It features a busy running track, tennis and pickleball courts, playgrounds, and outdoor exercise equipment. The atmosphere is peaceful and well-maintained, attracting families and active visitors.

Scenery includes beautiful views of the lake and city. Plenty of benches offer spots to rest and enjoy the wonderful view. Walking tracks provide a pleasant way to take in the scenic surroundings.

A 1/4-mile outdoor track surrounds the park with nearby exercise machines for workouts. People picnic on blankets or at coated-wire tables and chairs, stroll, and play tennis or pickleball on lit courts.

People are saying

"It's so quiet and clean, perfect for relaxing outdoors."

"It's a wonderful outdoor space for relaxing and taking in the views."

"I enjoyed the nice view and walking the track."

Good to know

1

During summer nights, the park offers free movies and concerts.

2

The park has a great running and walking track.

3

There are fenced playgrounds for kids with swings and climbing bars.

04
Odyssey Cruise River North image 1

Boat cruise offers amazing river views with dimmed lighting and occasional snowfall enhancing the atmosphere. Interior is loud with high noise levels, featuring a DJ playing 80's style music that affects conversation. Guests often spend time outside to enjoy the nighttime scenery and calmer ambiance.

Cruising offers magnificent city views and interesting sights of buildings and wildlife. Snowfall outside creates a snow globe atmosphere that enhances the scenery.

Nighttime offers great views of the city and wildlife. Spending time outside lets you enjoy the scenery and watch the world go by.

People are saying

"The city views from the river were magnificent."

"The dinner spots here have tasty food and plenty of dessert options."

"The outdoor space offers beautiful nighttime scenery and city views."

Good to know

1

Arrive early to secure your preferred table on the cruise.

2

The A/C is strong, so consider bringing a cardigan.

3

Cocktail attire is suggested, but casual wear is common.

05
Lizzie McNeill's Irish Pub image 1

Small Irish bar with riverfront patio and loud, lively atmosphere resembling an American sports bar. Outdoor seating offers comfortable furniture and great river views. Free popcorn and darts add casual entertainment to the energetic vibe.

Sitting right on the river offers incredible views of the water and city. The outdoor seating area lets you enjoy the pretty river scenery while having drinks or food.

Outdoor seating includes a charming patio with comfortable furniture overlooking the river. Tables along the riverwalk offer a pleasant spot for dining and relaxing.

People are saying

"I really enjoyed the food here; it tasted great."

"The outdoor space offers a great river view for enjoying the water."

"You'll love the great river view from the outside seating."

Good to know

1

Karaoke happens every Saturday night starting at 10pm.

2

Trivia night is hosted every Tuesday at 8pm.

3

The pub offers a happy hour with the best prices in the city.

06
Sable at Navy Pier Chicago, Curio Collection by Hilton image 1

Rooms offer spectacular lake and city views with a quiet, peaceful atmosphere enhanced by restricted pier access at night. The hotel includes varied dining options and convenient valet parking. Guests experience comfortable, well-appointed rooms with upscale amenities.

Rooms offer water-facing views of Lake Michigan and the lakeshore. The corner room shows city skyscrapers and a fireworks display on Saturdays.

A super wonderful patio offers a relaxing spot away from the chaos. Walking inside and outside the pier feels enjoyable with the good weather and water breeze.

People are saying

"I loved the nice view of the lake and skyline."

"The bathroom is spacious and beautifully designed."

"The outdoor space offers amazing views of the city and lake."

Good to know

1

Fireworks occur on Wednesdays and Saturdays at 10pm, visible from many rooms.

2

Check-in is at 4 pm; early check-in incurs a $50 fee.

3

Checkout is at 12 pm; late checkout may incur additional charges.

07
DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Chicago - Magnificent Mile image 1

Hotel offers a rooftop pool with city views and a grand, elegant lobby. Atmosphere tends to be loud and busy, with frequent noise from construction, sirens, and lively groups. Rooms feel comfortable but somewhat outdated.

Rooms offer great views of the city with plenty of space. Clean bathrooms and main rooms add to the overall experience.

Outdoor space features a pool with city views and a terrace. Games like Cornhole, Jenga, and pool table add fun to the hangout area.

People are saying

"The hotel staff were all amazing and so polite."

"The view from my room was great."

"The outdoor pool area has games like Cornhole and Jenga."

Good to know

1

Parking costs $62 per day, regardless of discounts.

2

Breakfast is not included with the room rate, despite some bookings indicating otherwise.

3

The rooftop pool is closed until mid-July, which is not disclosed on the booking site.

08
Blue Bottle Coffee image 1

Small, crowded space with a clean, modern design and limited indoor seating creates a busy, noisy atmosphere. Outdoor tables with umbrellas offer a more open, relaxed setting. The spot attracts coffee enthusiasts seeking a city view and a welcoming vibe despite its compact size.

Incredible city views fill the front window, creating a cozy spot to enjoy coffee. The river walk offers a beautiful urban scene, though views of the avenue are limited in scope.

People are saying

"I found the coffee here to be rich, smooth, and delicious."

"You have to try the sweet latte; it's the best coffee I've ever had."

"The city view from the window is incredible."

Good to know

1

Expect limited indoor seating, especially during busy hours.

2

Coffee prices start at $8 per cup, which is on the higher side.

3

Credit cards and mobile payments are accepted; cash is not mentioned.

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