20 Relaxing Things To Do In Chicago That Clear Your Mind

Chicago, the windy city, a metropolis buzzing with energy, incredible architecture, and a vibrant arts scene. It’s one of my favorite cities, a place that draws you in with its charm and keeps you coming back for more. From iconic landmarks to hidden gems, there’s always something new to discover.

But let’s be honest, even in the most amazing trip, sometimes the constant activity can leave you feeling a little overwhelmed. If you’re looking for ways to escape the hustle and bustle and find some tranquility in this beautiful city, you’ve come to the right place.

We’ve curated a comprehensive list of 20 relaxing activities and experiences in Chicago that are designed to help you clear your mind, de-stress, and find a little oasis of calm amidst the urban landscape. Whether you’re a local looking for a weekend escape or a visitor seeking some downtime during your trip, these options cater to individuals seeking leisure and stress-relief in this dynamic city.

We understand the need to step back, breathe, and recharge, and this article will provide you with a variety of solutions to help you unwind and find your inner peace right here in Chicago. So, take a deep breath, and let’s dive into some wonderfully relaxing things you can do in the windy city.

Relaxing Encounters with Nature in Chicago

Sometimes, the best way to clear your head is to immerse yourself in the natural world. Chicago offers surprising pockets of serenity amidst its urban sprawl.

1. Stroll Through the Chicago Botanic Garden: Imagine wandering through 385 acres of breathtaking landscapes. The botanic garden, located just north of the city, is a true sanctuary. You can lose yourself in the beauty of over 27 distinct gardens, from the peaceful Japanese Garden with its koi ponds to the vibrant English Walled Garden bursting with color. The calming effect of nature is undeniable as you meander along the tranquil paths, breathe in the fresh air, and admire the diverse plant life. It’s easy to spend an entire day here, letting the beauty of the natural world wash over you and melt away any stress. The sheer variety ensures there’s always something new to discover, making it a perfect recurring escape.
2. Find Peace in Lincoln Park Conservatory: Located within the sprawling Lincoln Park, the Lincoln Park Conservatory offers a tropical escape year-round. Step inside this stunning Victorian-era glasshouse and be enveloped by lush greenery, exotic plants, and a warm, humid air that feels like a mini-vacation. The Palm House, Orchid House, and Fern Room each offer a unique sensory experience, transporting you to different climates and fostering a sense of calm and wonder. It’s a fantastic place to slow down, observe the intricate details of nature, and simply be present in the moment. Compared to the bustling atmosphere of some other popular attractions, the conservatory provides a welcome respite.
3. Enjoy the Quietude of Alfred Caldwell Lily Pool: Tucked away within Lincoln Park, the alfred caldwell lily pool is a hidden gem that feels like stepping into a secret garden. This naturalistic lagoon, designed by landscape architect Alfred Caldwell, offers a tranquil and intimate setting. The gentle sounds of water trickling over the stone edges, the reflections of the surrounding trees on the still water, and the abundance of native plants create a sense of peace and quietude. It’s a perfect spot to sit on one of the benches, close your eyes, and simply listen to the sounds of nature, letting your thoughts drift away. Unlike the larger, more frequented areas of Lincoln Park, this lily pool offers a more secluded and contemplative experience.
4. Relax by the Lakefront Trail: Stretching for over 18 miles along the shores of lake michigan, the Lakefront Trail offers stunning views and a multitude of ways to unwind. Whether you prefer a leisurely walk, a refreshing bike ride, or simply finding a quiet bench to sit and gaze at the vast expanse of the lake, this trail provides a much-needed connection with nature. The sound of the waves, the feel of the breeze on your face, and the panoramic views of the city skyline can be incredibly therapeutic. In the summer months, you can watch sailboats glide across the water, adding to the peaceful scene. Compared to the energy of downtown, the lakefront offers a sense of spaciousness and tranquility.
5. Explore the Nature Boardwalk at Lincoln Park Zoo: While Lincoln Park Zoo is a popular spot, the Nature Boardwalk offers a different kind of experience. This thoughtfully designed area provides a natural habitat for local wildlife, allowing you to observe birds, turtles, frogs, and other creatures in a serene setting. The boardwalk meanders through wetlands and prairie grasses, creating a sense of immersion in nature. It’s a reminder of the biodiversity that exists even within a major city and offers a calming opportunity to connect with the natural world. This area contrasts with the more traditional zoo exhibits, offering a quieter and more contemplative experience.

Culturally Calming Experiences in Chicago

Engaging with art and culture can also be a wonderful way to relax and clear your mind. Chicago boasts a rich cultural landscape with options for every taste.

6. Wander Through the Art Institute of Chicago (Off-Peak Hours): The Art Institute of Chicago is a world-renowned museum, home to masterpieces spanning centuries and cultures. While it can get crowded, visiting during off-peak hours (early mornings or late afternoons) can offer a much more serene experience. Focus on a few specific galleries that pique your interest and take your time to truly appreciate the art. Allow yourself to get lost in the brushstrokes, the colors, and the stories behind each piece. Engaging with art can be a form of meditation, drawing your attention and quieting the mental chatter. Compared to the bustling energy of navy pier, the hushed halls of the Art Institute offer a different kind of stimulation, one that can be deeply calming.
7. Immerse Yourself in the Beauty of the Garfield Park Conservatory: Similar to the Lincoln Park Conservatory but on a grander scale, the Garfield Park Conservatory is one of the largest and most stunning conservatories in the nation. Explore its eight display gardens, each showcasing a different ecosystem, from the lush Palm House to the arid Desert House. The sheer variety and beauty of the plant collections, combined with the tranquil atmosphere, make it a perfect place to escape the city noise and reconnect with nature’s artistry. The expansive space allows for moments of solitude and contemplation, offering a different experience from the more intimate setting of the alfred caldwell lily pool.
8. Attend a Classical Music Concert or Performance: The power of music to soothe the soul is undeniable. Chicago has a thriving classical music scene, with numerous opportunities to attend concerts and performances. Whether it’s the Chicago Symphony Orchestra or a smaller ensemble, the experience of listening to beautiful music in a concert hall can be incredibly relaxing and uplifting. Allow the melodies to wash over you, transporting you to another world and quieting the thoughts racing through your mind. This offers a different kind of relaxation compared to the visual stimulation of an art museum, focusing instead on auditory immersion.
9. Browse the Shelves at a Cozy Bookstore: In our digital age, there’s still something incredibly comforting about Browse the shelves of a bookstore. Find a cozy independent bookstore in one of Chicago’s many charming neighborhoods and allow yourself to get lost in the world of literature. Find a quiet corner, perhaps with a comfortable chair, and start reading a few pages. The act of immersing yourself in a good book can be a wonderful way to escape the stresses of everyday life and give your mind a break. This offers a more introspective form of relaxation compared to the outward engagement of a concert or museum.
10. Visit a Smaller, Less Crowded Museum: While the Art Institute is a must-see, Chicago is also home to many smaller, equally fascinating museums that often draw fewer crowds. Consider visiting the Driehaus Museum, housed in a stunning Gilded Age mansion, or the National Museum of Mexican Art in Pilsen, showcasing vibrant and culturally rich artwork. These smaller museums offer a more intimate and less overwhelming experience, allowing you to explore at your own pace and truly appreciate the exhibits without feeling rushed. This provides a contrast to the larger, more popular tourist attractions, offering a more focused and peaceful cultural immersion.

Relaxing Indoor Retreats in Chicago

Sometimes, the best way to unwind is to find a peaceful indoor space where you can completely relax and recharge.

11. Indulge in a Spa Day: Treat yourself to a spa day and let the stress melt away. Chicago offers a wide range of spas, from luxurious hotel spas to more intimate neighborhood retreats. Whether you opt for a massage, a facial, or other treatments, the focus is entirely on your well-being and relaxation. Consider exploring options like the aire ancient baths tribeca (though technically in New York, Chicago has similar experiences) for a unique and deeply relaxing thermal bath experience. This is a direct approach to stress relief, focusing on physical and mental rejuvenation.
12. Enjoy Afternoon Tea at a Charming Tea Room: Step back in time and indulge in the elegant tradition of afternoon tea. Chicago has several charming tea rooms where you can enjoy a selection of fine teas, delicate pastries, and savory sandwiches in a relaxed and refined atmosphere. The ritual of tea, the beautiful setting, and the opportunity for quiet conversation can be a wonderful way to unwind and de-stress. This offers a more social yet still relaxing experience compared to a solitary spa treatment.
13. Take a Gentle Yoga or Meditation Class: Engage in practices that specifically focus on relaxation and mindfulness. Chicago has numerous yoga studios and meditation centers offering classes for all levels. Whether you prefer a gentle Hatha yoga class to stretch and unwind or a guided meditation session to quiet your mind, these practices can be incredibly beneficial for stress reduction and mental clarity. This is a proactive approach to managing stress and improving mental well-being.
14. Visit a Sensory Deprivation Tank (Float Tank): For a truly unique and deeply relaxing experience, consider visiting a sensory deprivation tank, also known as a float tank. These tanks are filled with salt water heated to body temperature, and once you’re inside, all external stimuli – light, sound, and even gravity – are minimized. This allows your body and mind to enter a state of deep relaxation, promoting stress relief and mental clarity. While it might sound unusual, many people find it to be an incredibly effective way to clear their minds. This offers a very different kind of relaxation, focusing on minimizing external stimuli to promote internal peace.
15. Spend Time in a Quiet Coffee Shop: Sometimes, all you need is a good cup of coffee and a quiet space to gather your thoughts. Chicago has countless independent coffee shops with cozy atmospheres where you can relax, read a book, journal, or simply enjoy the peace and quiet. Look for a spot with comfortable seating, soft lighting, and minimal distractions. Unlike a bustling breakfast spot, a quiet coffee shop offers a more contemplative environment.

Peaceful Water-Related Activities in Chicago

Being near water can have a naturally calming effect. Chicago’s proximity to lake michigan and its intricate river system offer several opportunities for water-related relaxation.

16. Take a Relaxing Architectural Boat Tour (Less Crowded Times): While architectural boat tours can be popular, taking one during a less crowded time (perhaps an early morning or late afternoon tour) can be a surprisingly relaxing experience. Glide along the Chicago River, admire the city’s stunning skyline, and learn about its architectural history in a calm and peaceful setting. The gentle movement of the boat and the unique perspective of the city from the water can be incredibly soothing. This offers a different way to appreciate the city compared to walking or driving, providing a more leisurely and scenic experience.
17. Enjoy a Quiet Picnic by the Riverwalk: The Chicago Riverwalk has transformed into a beautiful pedestrian pathway offering stunning views of the river and the surrounding architecture. Find a quiet spot along the river walk, perhaps away from the main tourist areas, and enjoy a peaceful picnic. The gentle flow of the river, the sunlight reflecting off the water, and the opportunity to people-watch in a relaxed setting can be incredibly calming. This offers a more casual and outdoor way to enjoy the city’s waterways compared to a structured boat tour.
18. Rent a Kayak or Paddleboat on a Calm Day: For a more active yet still relaxing experience, consider renting a kayak or paddleboat on the Chicago River or on a calmer section of lake michigan. Gliding through the water at your own pace, surrounded by the city skyline or the vastness of the lake, can be a wonderful way to connect with nature and get some gentle exercise while clearing your mind. Choose a calm day to ensure a peaceful and enjoyable experience. This provides a more engaging and active form of relaxation compared to simply sitting by the water.

Mindful Moments in Chicago

Sometimes, the most effective way to clear your mind is to practice mindfulness and be fully present in the moment, wherever you are.

19. Practice Mindful Walking in a Park: Choose any of Chicago’s beautiful parks, from the expansive millennium park to the smaller adams park water playground (even without kids, observing the joy can be calming), and practice mindful walking. Focus on your senses – the feel of the ground beneath your feet, the sounds around you, the sights, and the smells. Pay attention to your breath and allow your thoughts to come and go without judgment. This simple practice can help ground you in the present moment and reduce mental clutter. Compared to a regular walk, mindful walking is intentional and focused on sensory awareness.
20. Find a Quiet Bench to People-Watch and Reflect: Sometimes, the best way to clear your mind is simply to sit quietly and observe the world around you. Find a quiet bench in a park, along the river walk, or even in a less crowded corner of millennium park, and simply watch people go by. Observe their interactions, their expressions, and their movements without judgment. This can be a form of passive meditation, allowing your mind to relax and your thoughts to settle. It can also offer a sense of connection to the larger community while still maintaining your personal space and peace.

Key Comparisons of Relaxing Activities in Chicago

To help you choose the perfect relaxing activity for your needs, here’s a table comparing some of the options:

Activity Category	Specific Activity	Cost	Location	Best For	Intensity	Social Interaction
Nature	Chicago Botanic Garden	$$	Glencoe	Scenic beauty, long walks, tranquility	Low	Optional
Culture	Art Institute (Off-Peak)	$$$	Downtown	Artistic appreciation, quiet contemplation	Low	Solitary
Indoor Retreat	Spa Day	$$$$	Various	Pampering, stress relief	Low	Minimal
Water-Related	Architectural Boat Tour (Off-Peak)	$$$	Chicago River	Scenic views, historical learning	Low	Minimal
Mindful Moment	Mindful Walking in Lincoln Park	$	Lincoln Park	Presence, stress reduction	Low	Solitary
Hidden Gem	Alfred Caldwell Lily Pool	$	Lincoln Park	Secluded tranquility, nature immersion	Low	Solitary
Free Activity	Relaxing by the Lakefront Trail	$	Lake Michigan	Scenic views, fresh air, exercise	Low	Optional
Unique Experience	Sensory Deprivation Tank	$$$	Various	Deep relaxation, mental clarity	Low	Solitary
Social Relaxation	Afternoon Tea at a Tea Room	$$$	Various	Conversation, elegant ambiance	Low	Social
Active Relaxation	Kayaking on the Chicago River	$$$	Chicago River	Gentle exercise, scenic views	Medium	Optional

Cost Key: $ = Free or Very Low Cost, $$ = Moderate Cost, $$$ = Higher Cost, $$$$ = Luxury/Significant Cost

Key Insights into Relaxation in the Windy City

Finding relaxation in a bustling metropolis like Chicago might seem challenging, but as you can see, the city offers a diverse range of options to cater to different preferences and needs. Here are a few key insights:

• Nature is Accessible: Despite its urban nature, Chicago has made significant efforts to preserve and create green spaces, offering readily accessible escapes into nature. From the expansive botanic garden to the hidden tranquility of the alfred caldwell lily pool, opportunities to connect with the natural world are plentiful.
• Culture Offers Calm: Engaging with art and culture can provide a different kind of mental stimulation that can be incredibly calming. Whether it’s the hushed halls of a museum or the soothing melodies of a concert, these experiences offer a break from the everyday and allow for introspection and appreciation.
• Indoor Sanctuaries Exist: When the weather isn’t cooperating or you simply prefer an indoor setting, Chicago offers numerous retreats focused on relaxation and well-being, from luxurious spas to cozy coffee shops.
• Water Provides Peace: The presence of lake michigan and the Chicago River adds a unique dimension to relaxation in the city. Whether you’re strolling along the lakefront, enjoying a boat tour, or simply sitting by the river, the water offers a sense of calm and tranquility.
• Mindfulness is Key: Ultimately, finding relaxation often comes down to cultivating a mindful approach to your surroundings. Even in the midst of a busy city, taking a few moments to be present and appreciate the simple things can make a significant difference in your stress levels.

Conclusion: Your Relaxing Escape Awaits in Chicago

Chicago, while known for its vibrant energy and popular spot status, also holds a wealth of opportunities for those seeking peace and tranquility. We hope this comprehensive list of 20 relaxing things to do in this beautiful city has inspired you to explore some new ways to clear your mind and find moments of calm amidst the urban excitement.

Whether you’re drawn to the serenity of nature, the beauty of art, the indulgence of a spa day, or the simple act of mindful observation, Chicago has something to offer everyone seeking a little respite. So, the next time you feel the need to escape the hustle and bustle of the windy city, remember these options and embark on your own relaxing adventure. What are some of your favorite relaxing spots in Chicago? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

FAQs:

What to do in chicago for free?

• Stroll along the Lakefront Trail and enjoy the views of lake michigan.
• Visit millennium park and see the iconic Cloud Gate (“The Bean”) public art.
• Explore lincoln park and visit the free Lincoln Park Zoo.
• Walk or bike along the Chicago river walk.
• Attend free events and festivals that often take place during the summer months (check local listings).
• Visit the Garfield Park Conservatory, which offers free admission (donations are encouraged).
• Wander through the Chicago Cultural Center and admire its stunning architecture and public art.

What are some relaxing things to do in chicago for adults?

• Indulge in a spa day at one of Chicago’s many luxurious spas, perhaps even exploring options similar to the aire ancient baths.
• Attend a gentle yoga or meditation class at a local studio in neighborhoods like art classes hyde park.
• Browse the shelves and find a quiet corner to read in a cozy coffee shop or bookstore.
• Enjoy afternoon tea at a charming tea room for a relaxing and refined experience.
• Visit a smaller, less crowded museum like the Driehaus Museum for a more intimate cultural experience.
• Take a leisurely walk through the Chicago botanic garden and immerse yourself in nature’s beauty.
• Relax by the lakefront or along the river walk, enjoying the peaceful ambiance.
• Attend a classical music concert or performance for a soothing auditory experience.
• Spend time in a sensory deprivation tank for a unique and deeply relaxing experience.
• Find a quiet breakfast spot and enjoy a peaceful start to your day before the city fully wakes up.