The Taste of Chicago is an annual summer tradition in Chicago. The popular festival originated in 1980 and is held in Grant Park, located downtown at Columbus Drive and Jackson Boulevard and accessible by public transportation. Grant Park can accommodate thousands of people. More than 70 restaurants in the Chicago area participate in the festival by offering a variety of mouthwatering treats. Each year more than 6 million visitors flock to the 10-day summer event, which also includes outdoor entertainment.
Visitors to Chicago or residents of the Windy City can attend a free concert at Millennium Park. The park, near Michigan Avenue in the hub of Chicago, offers more than 24 acres of recreational opportunity amid the work of famous architects, planners, artists and designers. Visitors can listen to a reading of the Declaration of Independence and listen to American patriotic classics including "The Star Spangled Banner" and "Stars and Stripes Forever." While listening to the music, patrons can enjoy a picnic in the park.
Departing from Navy Pier, the Spirit of Chicago offers a Fourth of July cruise on Lake Michigan. Passengers can view the spectacular skyline from the ship, which can accommodate more than 500 guests. The cruise includes a buffet and entertainment and there are observation decks from which to enjoy the illuminated skies celebrating America's birthday. The Spirit of Chicago offers three climate-controlled inside decks, two outdoor decks for strolling, and a spacious outside patio deck. Other amenities include full service bars and two dance floors.
The Fourth of July would not be the same without a dazzling fireworks display. Chicago annually offers a great selection of fireworks. Thousands of visitors flock to Grant Park to watch the night sky light up. Prior to the display, fans can enjoy free live entertainment. Once the fireworks begin, spectators can enjoy the show listening to local radio stations which choreograph music to the light show.
What can be more American than going to a baseball game on the Fourth of July. Chicago is home to not one, but two, Major League Baseball teams. The Cubs play in the National League and the White Sox compete in the American League. Wrigley Field, home of the Cubs, is on the North Side of Chicago at 1060 W. Addison St. in Wrigleyville. U.S. Cellular Field, located at 333 W. 35th Street on the South Side, is home to the Chicago White Sox. Both parks are accessible by public transportation.
