• Chicago is located on the shores of Lake Michigan.chicago image by Tijara Images from Fotolia.com
  
  Although Chicago winters are notorious for being snowy, cold and long, these winters help locals and other visitors of the city appreciate the warmer spring and summer months. After being holed up throughout the winter, many people want to get outside and enjoy the active things to do throughout Chicago.
  
  

Lake Shore Drive Bike Path

• The Lake Shore Drive bike path is located on a 15-mile stretch on the shores of Lake Michigan that stretches from the north Side all the way to the far south side of Chicago. This scenic path welcomes both bikers, runners, and walkers from beginners to experts. If in Chicago and want to experience the Lake Shore Drive bike path, visitors can even rent a bike from different tourist businesses located on the shore. This activity provides great exercise along with a very scenic view of the city.
  
  

Volleyball at the Beach

• There are two major beaches in Chicago where visitors can play beach volleyball. The more famous, and much more crowded, is North Avenue beach. This beach, located on the north side of Chicago, has been home to professional beach volleyball events. However, when the pros aren't using the beach for tournaments, North Avenue beach is open to the public. Nets are available for rent from the park district. Another less crowded beach is Montrose beach. This is much further north from the center of the city, but can be a good alternative for those who do not want to wrestle with a large volume of people.
  
  North Avenue Beach
  1603 N. Lake Shore Drive
  Chicago, IL 60614
  312-742-7529
  
  Montrose Beach
  4400 N. Lake Shore Drive
  Chicago, IL 60640
  312-742-5121
  
  

Walking Tour of Downtown Chicago

• If visiting Chicago, or simply want to get to know the city better, a person can take a walking tour. Downtown Chicago and the surrounding neighborhoods offer many different attractions. There are historical buildings, such as the Sears Tower and the Hancock building. Within walking distance of these attractions is the Magnificent Mile shopping district. Alternatively, visitors can walk further south on Michigan Avenue and visit Millennium Park, the Art Institute of Chicago and Grant Park. Visiting all of these attractions provides active types both exercise and an opportunity to see the major attractions.