Few things are as satisfying as a walk in the Windy City during the peak of summer.
The cool breeze coming off of Lake Michigan offers the perfect balance to sunny and warm days. Parents with little ones can still enjoy these memorable strolls with their children in tow.
There are several trails worth checking out when you’re ready to enjoy some quality time in the sun this summer, and we aim to make your search a walk in the park. Let’s take a closer look at some of the best stroller-friendly walks in Chicago.
Chicago Riverwalk
The Chicago Riverwalk is an immensely popular option for parents with infants and toddlers. It features a paved walking path that spans 1.25 miles, making it a reasonable distance to cover while pushing a stroller. An added bonus is that this walking path is free of steps, making navigation all the easier.
While the benefits of a paved and step-free path are reason enough to make plans for a stroller walk on the Chicago Riverwalk, it also offers impressive views of the city’s skyline. Parents will find quaint and charming cafes along the walk, offering an opportune place for breaks, refreshments, or a diaper change.
Lincoln Park Nature Boardwalk
In a city as large as Chicago, it’s natural to have several choices, no matter what you’re looking for. That holds true with stroller-friendly walks, and the Lincoln Park Nature Boardwalk is among the city’s best.
The walk is located near the Lincoln Park Zoo, and is a mix of paved and wooden boardwalk surfaces that are ideal for walking with a stroller. Parents who choose to enjoy this walking path with their little ones will find several shaded areas for snack breaks and to cool down and catch the breeze off of Lake Michigan. It’s also one of the best spots to appreciate Chicago’s skyline.
Lakefront Trail
The Lakefront Trail is one of the longer stroller-friendly options in Chicago. It is closed to motor vehicles, though it has become a popular spot for walkers, cyclists, and Bugaboos alike. Designers have incorporated pedestrian lanes to ensure a safe and stress-free stroll. The path spans 18 miles, with several interesting starting points, including Belmont Harbor and the Museum Campus.
The boats on the lake create opportunities for many fun games parents can play with their children during breaks, such as “Who can spot the most?” There are also many shaded spaces to stop for a break or enjoy a snack. The ultimate highlight is the abundance of free Chicago landmarks families can enjoy, like the aforementioned Lincoln Park Zoo.
The Morton Arboretum
Located in Lisle, the Morton Arboretum is a beautiful location for a walk with a stroller and children. It requires a short drive to one of Chicago’s most popular suburbs, but the 1,700-acre site makes the effort well worth it. Parents will find 16 miles of stroller-friendly trails where they can help their little ones develop a greater appreciation for nature.
Depending on the stroller and parental preferences, there are paved and wood-shipped paths to explore. The wood-chipped paths are an ideal way to get a bit closer to nature without having to venture far from neighborhoods like Logan Square or Roscoe Village.
Harms Woods
The 250-acre Harms Woods is a great fit for families with young children who want to take in the fresh air during an adventurous stroll away from the city center. The well-marked trails offer space for bikers and pedestrians, ensuring a safe walk.
The paths wind along the Chicago River and provide vistas of the surrounding horse pastures. It offers one of the most peaceful stroller-friendly walks in the greater Chicago area, making it a fantastic fit for parents with young children. To top it off, the trails provide access to Hackney’s, a popular local restaurant where little ones can enjoy snacks while parents enjoy tasty menu options and refreshing beverages.
Try one of these stroller-friendly walks in Chicago this summer.