Explore a Sustainable and Green Chicago with iBestTravel

Chicago is increasingly positioning itself as a leader in sustainable urban design. Notably, 99.9% of Chicagoans can walk to a park within 10 minutes, and over 20,000 commute by bike each year. With 575 green spaces to explore, along with a growing selection of vegetable-forward menus, it might be more fitting to refer to this windy city as the “City in a Garden.”

Whether you’re an eco-conscious traveler, a nature lover, or simply seeking a rejuvenating vacation, these green experiences in Chicago provide healthy choices for both you and the planet.

Hit the Trails

To enjoy Chicago like a local, hike or bike along The 606: a stunning 2.7-mile trail that has transformed an elevated railroad built in 1873. This trail links four trendsetting neighborhoods—Wicker Park, Bucktown, Logan Square, and Humboldt Park—offering a relaxing way to appreciate each area’s unique architectural style.

For a more expansive experience of green Chicago, exit along the western section and head south to Humboldt Park. This 207-acre park features two lagoons, rose gardens, and remarkable examples of Medieval architecture, including the Humboldt Park Fieldhouse—a recreation center located right on a man-made beach.

Furthermore, the Chicago Lakefront Trail stretches 18 miles along the beautiful Lake Michigan shoreline. You’ll find soccer fields and beach volleyball courts for outdoor activities, while tranquil parks attract nature enthusiasts. For an insider’s perspective, join Bobby’s Bike Hike to explore the North Side’s lakefront neighborhoods.

Go Park-Hopping

At the southern end of the Lakefront Trail lies Millennium Park. Built atop two parking garages, the Harris Theater, and a railroad yard, this 24-acre park features the world’s largest green roof. Find serenity at the iconic Cloud Gate (commonly known as “The Bean”) and enjoy a stroll through the Lurie Garden, which thrives year-round atop a former landfill. For an active greenery experience, visit the neighboring Maggie Daley Park to explore climbing walls and the Climbing Wall that reaches up to 40 feet.

If winter weather restricts your outdoor endeavors, the Garfield Park Conservatory offers a delightful indoor experience for all nature enthusiasts. This donation-based conservatory—the largest in the U.S.—includes 10 acres of outdoor gardens (open from May through October) and numerous green rooms, along with free weekly programming.

Admire the Architecture and Wildlife from the Water

As the birthplace of the world’s first skyscraper, Chicago boasts a diverse architectural history that should not be missed. Experience it from the river with a First Lady Cruise, led by knowledgeable volunteers from the Chicago Architecture Foundation. Alternatively, enjoy a private kayak tour on the tranquil north end of the river with Kayak Chicago. You can also rent kayaks or paddleboards at Montrose and North Ave Beaches for some added summer activity.

Bird-watchers will want to visit Montrose Beach. Here, over 300 species of birds can be spotted at the Montrose Point Bird Sanctuary, where migratory songbirds gather at the 150-foot “Magic Hedge” during spring and fall.

Learn from Eco-Conscious Locals

For a taste of local produce, visit Lincoln Park and experience the Green City Market: Chicago’s largest year-round sustainable farmers market featuring over 60 vendors offering fresh produce, prepared foods, and insights into green Chicago.

From November to April, the Saturday market moves indoors to the Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum, which is worth a visit year-round. Highlights include five green roofs and hands-on exhibits that explore the natural history and conservation of the Chicago region. Don’t skip the daily butterfly hatchings at the Judy Istock Butterfly Haven.

Eat Your Vegetables

While Chicago’s Italian beef sandwiches and Chicago-style hot dogs are iconic for meat-lovers, those who avoid meat can still enjoy a vibrant vegetable-forward dining scene.

For a sophisticated farm-to-table experience, visit Michelin-starred Sepia, where chef Andrew Zimmerman employs French techniques with regional ingredients in an 1890s print shop. If you prefer a casual atmosphere, check out Bad Hunter, a trendy brunch and dinner destination that embraces hyper-seasonal fare for vegetarians and the veggie-curious.

In addition, urban hydroponic gardens and Oprah Winfrey’s former property, Blue Door Farm, provide fresh ingredients for chef Art Smith’s Southern-inspired dishes at Blue Door Kitchen and Garden in Chicago’s Gold Coast District. Over in West Town, chef Devon Quinn uses produce from the restaurant’s on-site greenhouse to create intricate flavors at Eden, which is best experienced through the five-course tasting menu.

Sleep in Eco-Boutique Style

Recharge and unwind at the Kimpton Hotel Monaco Chicago, where guests can enjoy complimentary wine hours and in-room yoga mats. The hotel is dedicated to sustainability by recycling leftover soap for use in developing countries and encouraging guests to participate in volunteer beach cleanups. Additionally, their on-site restaurant, Fisk & Co., features cocktails accompanied by hay straws and coasters made from recycled materials.

At The Talbott Hotel, guests can expect 1920s-inspired rooms equipped with the latest green technology, alongside options to purchase carbon offsets during check out. As the American city with the highest number of Green Seal certified hotels, Chicago offers many eco-friendly accommodations for a restful night after a day filled with fresh air and delectable cuisine.