Atly Logo
New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of Streeterville

Outdoor spaces

Made for those who feel confined by four walls and insist on fresh air regardless of the activity.

Based on 616 Opinions
+613
User
User
User
Updated April 2026
01
Tribune Tower image 1
Tribune Tower image 2
Tribune Tower image 3
View all
Historical landmark

Neo-gothic skyscraper features historic fragments embedded in its walls, blending old and new. Outdoor space boasts a courtyard with businesses and decorative walls. Rooftop terrace and pool offer modern comfort with stunning city and river views.

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.

02
Lake Shore Park image 1

City park blends lakefront views with a 1/4-mile running track and lit tennis courts. Families enjoy playgrounds while fitness fans use outdoor exercise gear. Peaceful green space near tall buildings and a museum invites picnics and strolls.

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 place to take your dog for some fetch."

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

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.

03
Odyssey Cruise River North image 1

Boat cruise offers amazing river views and nighttime cityscape outside. Inside, loud 80's DJ music fills the air, making conversation tough. Guests often step out to enjoy the calm outdoor ambiance and occasional snowfall.

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.

04
Polk Bros Park image 1

City park shines with spectacular lake views and a splash park that kids love. Live music on two outdoor stages adds cultural vibrancy while illuminated fountains create a peaceful atmosphere. Open spaces invite relaxing walks by the water.

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.

05
Lizzie McNeill's Irish Pub image 1

Small Irish bar buzzes with a lively atmosphere like an American sports bar. Outdoor patio offers comfortable furniture and great river views. Free popcorn and darts add casual fun to the energetic vibe.

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."

"I enjoyed the cold, delicious beer selection."

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

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
the Albert image 1
American restaurant

Space blends vintage scholarly decor with modern touches and thousands of old books. Guests relax on a breezy patio that fills up fast, perfect for warm days. Live music from guitar duos or bands and a full bar with Smokey Old Fashioned cocktails create a lively vibe.

Outdoor seating includes a cute patio area that offers a breezy and comfortable atmosphere even in hot weather. Seating happens quickly, making the patio a nice spot to enjoy the weather.

People are saying

"The dinner spots here are seriously so good and delicious."

"The cocktails here are cleverly done and fun, especially the Vesuvius."

"The patio seating is a nice touch, especially when it's breezy."

Good to know

1

Wednesdays feature live music, enhancing the dining experience.

2

Unlimited mimosas for two hours at $26 are available during brunch.

3

Happy hour offers three daily bar specials, perfect for budget-friendly drinks.

07
Le French Patisserie image 1

Elegant bakery shines with European decor and marble interiors creating a bright, luxurious feel. Outdoor patio offers a quiet escape with comfy seating and soft music. Pastries are artfully crafted, perfect for enjoying in the alfresco vibe.

A beautiful patio offers a charming escape a bit away from busy areas. The small outdoor area provides a great spot to enjoy desserts and relax with an alfresco vibe.

People are saying

"I thought the desserts were awesome and yummy."

"The French food, especially the crรจme brรปlรฉe, has a perfectly caramelized top and smooth custard."

"The patio seating is right next to Navy Pier."

Good to know

1

Parking costs $21 at Navy Pier, where the bakery is located.

2

Cash payments may offer discounts compared to credit card transactions.

3

The bakery often runs out of popular pastries early in the day.

08
Chapel Street Cafรฉ and Restaurant image 1

Open, light-filled space blends stylish decor with Aussie sunshine vibe and a welcoming neighborhood feel. Outdoor patio with a full bar offers relaxed seating perfect for people watching. Bar area features a massive TV and unique cocktails for casual socializing.

Outdoor seating includes a patio with a full bar. The space feels relaxed and welcoming, good for sitting outside and people watching.

People are saying

"I loved the Aussie-style brunch and excellent coffee."

"The breakfast service was wonderful and so friendly."

"The outdoor space is charming, relaxed, and welcoming."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm with great deals on drinks and appetizers.

2

Trivia night is every Monday at 7pm with a $5 entry fee.

3

Expect a wait time of about 40 minutes during peak hours.

09
Paris Baguette image 1

Corporate bakery style meets French cafรฉ decor with clean, fresh design. Enjoy outdoor patio seating that offers a pleasant spot to eat outside. Atmosphere shifts from quiet to lively, perfect for breakfast or casual meetups.

A cute outdoor dining area complements an air-conditioned indoor space, with a temporary summer patio added for extra seating. The outdoor seating is nice and offers a pleasant spot to eat outside.

People are saying

"I found the selection of food and coffee amazing."

"I found the pastries here outstanding and very yummy."

"I loved the fresh, flaky pastries and delicious iced chai."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required for special cake orders.

2

The bakery is open until 8pm on weekdays.

3

Expect limited pastry selection later in the day.

10
Hendrickx Belgian Bread Crafter image 1

Quaint bakery offers authentic Belgian pastries and a cozy indoor seating area tucked behind the kitchen. Small patio provides limited outdoor seating perfect for people-watching. Warm, inviting atmosphere suits those seeking a quiet spot for coffee and food.

A small patio offers limited seating for outdoor dining. It provides a spot to people-watch while enjoying pastries and coffee.

People are saying

"I found the croissants to be legit and authentic."

"I thought the coffee here was some of the best I'd had."

"You can sit outside on the patio and people watch."

Good to know

1

Expect limited seating due to space constraints, especially during peak hours.

2

The bakery is known for its authentic Belgian pastries and freshly baked goods.

3

Prices for macarons are $3.75 each, which may be considered pricey.

11
DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Chicago - Magnificent Mile image 1

Hotel boasts a rooftop pool with stunning city views and a lively terrace featuring games like Cornhole and Jenga. The grand lobby adds an elegant touch, but expect a busy atmosphere with noise from construction and sirens. Rooms are comfortable yet a bit outdated.

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 scenic views from the room were pretty 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.

Discover more

Streeterville, Chicago

Area guide
Loading Map...