Four Seasons Hotel Chicago Invites Guests to Experience Summer in the City

At the heart of the Gold Coast, Four Seasons Hotel Chicago offers a refined urban retreat, providing access to the city’s summer attractions, from Oak Street Beach and the Lakefront Trail to river cruises, open-air festivals and Navy Pier’s iconic fireworks.

Along the shores of Lake Michigan, the city features sunlit lakefront paths, architectural icons, vibrant neighbourhoods and a cultural calendar that extends from morning through golden hour and into the night.

“Summer truly showcases the very best of our city, from exceptional culinary experiences to vibrant music, art and the beauty of the outdoors,” says Stephen Wancha, General Manager. “We are grateful for the opportunity to create guest programming that reflects the unique spirit of a Chicago summer and elevates these memorable moments for our guests.”

Chicago remains a leading destination, offering outdoor activities, dining and waterfront experiences. The city was recently named the Best Big City in the U.S. by the Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards (2025).

A City Best Experienced Outdoors

Summer in Chicago brings a range of outdoor experiences. Mornings include bike rides along the lakefront, afternoons are spent on the beach or on architectural river cruises and evenings feature skyline views and fireworks over the water. From Millennium Park and the Art Institute to Lincoln Park Zoo and neighbourhood markets, the city’s cultural and outdoor offerings create a steady rhythm.

Curated Summer Experiences at Four Seasons Hotel Chicago

Four Seasons Chicago Yacht: Chicago can be viewed from a new perspective aboard a private Four Seasons yacht, where the skyline becomes the backdrop and the lake is the primary setting for unforgettable moments.

• Availability: Daily (48 hours advance notice required; subject to availability)

Inclusions:

• Wednesday Fireworks Cruise (3 hours) – starting from USD 5,810
• Saturday Fireworks Cruise (4 hours) – starting from USD 9,740
• Private Architecture Tours (2 hours) – starting from USD 4,290
• River or Lake Michigan Excursions – from USD 1,770/hour (weekday); USD 2,301/hour (weekend)
• Spa on the Lake Experience – featuring face masks and onboard hand and foot massages, from USD 2,301/hour (weekday); USD 2,754/hour (weekend)

Whether cruising along the Chicago River’s architectural corridor or anchoring along Lake Michigan, each experience is tailored for exploration and relaxation.

This year, as part of America’s 250th Independence Day Celebration, the Four Seasons Hotel Chicago Yacht will debut a Liberty on the Lake Yacht Cruise.

• Availability: Saturday, July 4; 6:00 pm to midnight (fireworks at 10:00 pm)
• Location: Four Seasons Yacht, boarding at 900 N Kingsbury
• Activity: Six‑hour private yacht charter with curated dining experience
• Capacity: Up to 12 guests (single exclusive charter)
• Price: USD 20,500
• Inclusions: Executive Chef–led BBQ, premium open bar, professional crew, custom menu and a Four Seasons tote for each guest

Picnic in the City: A curated beach day at Oak Street Beach offers convenient access from the hotel, located just steps away in the Gold Coast. The experience provides an opportunity to enjoy Chicago’s lakefront setting, with views and outdoor surroundings reflecting the summer season.

• Availability: Daily (48 hours advance notice required)
• Price: USD 650
• Inclusions: Picnic lunch for four, beach bag with Four Seasons towels, sunscreen, blanket and games, cooler with chilled beverages, wagon for transport, petite umbrella and two mini loungers

Pedal + Picnic Experience: A cycling experience along Chicago’s scenic lakefront on two wheels, paired with a thoughtfully prepared picnic.

• Availability: Daily (24 hours advance notice required); 8:00 am – noon; 1:00 pm – 5:00 pm
• Price: USD 225 for two
• Inclusions: Picnic lunch for two, bike rentals, beach blanket, towels, sunscreen and water

Wellness Above the City

Between city explorations, guests can retreat to the hotel’s spa and indoor pool. The 44‑foot (13.4-metre) infinity‑edge pool provides a setting for laps or relaxation, with floor‑to‑ceiling windows overlooking the city. Lounge chairs invite moments of pause, creating a year-round sanctuary that feels both restorative and elevated.

In June, the spa hosts a Floatation Therapy Series within the tranquil pool setting. The experience includes a rejuvenating sound bath guided by breath and harmonizing tones, designed to relax the body and mind while participants float on the water. Booking now open for June 9, June 16 and June 23.

Family Moments, Reimagined

Four Seasons Hotel Chicago offers families a range of amenities and curated experiences for all ages. Summer activities include beach days, cycling along the lakefront and visits to nearby attractions such as Lincoln Park Zoo and local parks.

Seasonal programming enhances each stay, with ice cream cart experiences, themed movie nights, and playful in-room touches that bring an added sense of joy and discovery for younger guests and families alike.

The hotel supports family beach outings with the Lakeshore Essentials Wagon, designed to provide families with everything needed for a seamless trip to Oak Street Beach, including curated essentials for a carefree, sun-soaked day by the lake. The wagon accommodates up to six guests and is available for a four-hour rental, starting from USD 650.

Beginning Memorial Day weekend, young guests are invited to enjoy a delightful Ice Cream Hour every Friday and Saturday. Each Friday, a new seasonal flavour debuts, thoughtfully crafted by Executive Pastry Chef Yudith Bustos. The offering takes place at 3:00 pm in the Lobby on Fridays and at 3:00 pm in the Spa & Pool Lounge on Saturdays.

Dining & Social Experiences

Summer at Four Seasons Hotel Chicago extends into vibrant culinary moments. At Adorn Restaurant, guests can enjoy a seasonal summer brunch that celebrates fresh, locally inspired flavours in a lively yet refined setting. As the day transitions into evening, mixology workshops take place at Adorn Bar and Social Lounge, focusing on cocktail preparation techniques in a guided format.

An enhanced dining experience:

Mixology Class: Learn the art of crafting world-class cocktails under the guidance of a seasoned bartender, who will lead participants through the techniques behind exceptional drinks.

• Availability: Noon – 4:00 pm
• Inclusions: Bartender guidance and insights, small bites, three cocktails

Wine Tasting: Guests take part in a guided wine tasting led by the sommelier, focusing on regional styles, tasting techniques and pairings. The experience includes a selection of wines, including two white, two red, one sparkling and one dessert wine, paired with cheeses and charcuterie.

• Availability: Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday; 1:30 pm – 3:00 pm
• Inclusions: Six wines, six artisanal cheese and charcuterie pairings

A Summer Destination Like No Other

From sunrise along Lake Michigan to evenings lit by fireworks over the skyline, Chicago offers a summer experience unlike any other. At Four Seasons Hotel Chicago, every moment is elevated, thoughtfully curated, effortlessly executed and deeply connected to the spirit of the city.

For more information or reservations, visit the website or call 1 (312) 280-8400.