As the sun shines brighter and temperatures rise, Chicagoans are ready to embrace the beautiful outdoors this June.
The city offers an array of community-led events that invite residents to get active, celebrate diversity, and connect with nature.
From bicycle rides to family nature meet-ups and eco-friendly festivals, here is a roundup of 18 engaging outdoor activities happening throughout the month.
Kick off your June adventures on June 7 with the Femmes + Thems bike ride, where participants will pedal from Blackstone Bicycle Works to 63rd St. Beach.
This 10-mile ride is a celebration of inclusivity, bringing together women, femme, nonbinary, and trans-identifying cyclists in a supportive atmosphere.
Notably, this event is in partnership with Blackstone Bicycle Works, a nonprofit devoted to youth biking education.
For families, City Kids Outdoors is hosting a nature play date at Forest Glen Woods on the same day, focused on fostering connections among little ones and their guardians.
In addition to outdoor play, there will be discussions on maternal mental health for the adults attending.
Remember to RSVP if you’re interested.
The 47th Ward’s annual EcoFest at Welles Park will follow the next event on June 7 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
With over 50 vendors, this free event is focused on sustainability and provides an opportunity for attendees to shop from eco-conscious vendors, while meeting neighbors who share similar interests.
Later in the day, participants can join a kayak clean-up organized by Openlands Chicago along the Little Calumet River.
This paddling trip is aimed at cleaning up local waterways, and you must RSVP in advance to participate.
Fast forward to June 8, and adventure seekers can take part in the Chicago Climbathon for Palestine at Steelworkers Park.
This beneficial event supports Palestinian causes while offering an opportunity for climbers of all levels to engage with the local climbing community.
Participants are encouraged to make a $15 donation to support the associated charities.
On June 14, the Illinois Brewery Running Series invites you to a 5K fun run that starts and finishes at Midwest Coast Brewing Company.
With registration packages including options for post-race beers and themed t-shirts, there’s something for everyone looking to combine fitness and fun.
Later that day, join Out Our Front Door for a scenic bike ride along the Lakefront Trail to the DuSable Black History Museum, paired with a guided museum tour.
Participants should ensure they purchase tickets in advance for the guided experience.
Another special event on June 14 features ‘Drag at the Crag’ at First Ascent Avondale.
This exhilarating mix of climbing and drag performance is a fundraiser that showcases local drag talent, welcoming both members and non-members of the climbing gym.
The Chicago Bike Sox group will hold their Tuesday Night Ride on June 18, culminating in a trip to the Sox stadium for a Pride night game.
Participants are encouraged to wear their best Sox gear and can purchase discounted tickets online in advance.
As we celebrate Juneteenth, the Major Taylor Trail Keepers invite cyclists to join their Freedom Ride on June 19.
This community-focused 16-mile loop ride starts and ends at the Dan Ryan Woods Visitor Center.
All participants are welcomed to bring their own bikes and helmets for the ride.
Environmental lovers can lend a hand during the Lincoln Park Conservancy’s EcoStewards Workday on June 21, where volunteers will assist in restoration efforts at North Pond.
Volunteers must RSVP ahead of time to participate in this vital work for the park’s ecosystem.
Meanwhile, South Shore Nature Sanctuary will host a Volunteer Stewardship Day, welcoming all ages to beautify the preserve on the same day.
Tools and gloves for the clean-up will be provided, making it easy for everyone to join in.
Locavore Farm, located just south of Chicago, will host a unique Dine on the Land event on June 21, where guests will enjoy a farm-to-table feast prepared with freshly harvested local ingredients.
Attendees can expect a memorable evening filled with delicious food, live music, and a guided farm tour, although tickets are required in advance.
Then, prepare to celebrate the Summer Solstice on June 21 with an exciting kayaking tour led by the Illinois American Canoe Association, followed by a taco dinner at a nearby cantina.
Tickets for this adventure are limited, so securing a spot is essential.
As the month progresses, the Chicago Ornithological Society will hold a stewardship workday at Montrose Point Bird Sanctuary on June 21, inviting community members to support local bird habitats.
Participants can enjoy nature while learning more about bird conservation efforts.
On June 26, a culinary foraging workshop hosted by Urban Rivers will guide guests in discovering edible flora along the waterways of Chicago’s Wild Mile.
This free event is open for RSVP and aims to educate participants about local foraging.
The month of fun culminates on June 28 with Proud to Run Chicago hosting a Pride Race featuring 5K, 10K, and half-marathon distances.
Proceeds from the race will support organizations dedicated to empowering the LGBTQ+ community, providing a meaningful opportunity for runners.
Lastly, the Feminist Bird Club Chicago will lead a morning bird walk at Park No. 566 on June 28, inviting all levels of birders to participate in this enriching experience.
Participants can also find spare binoculars available for use.
With such a diverse selection of events lined up, Chicagoans have plenty of opportunities to engage in outdoor activities this June while connecting with community and nature.
image source from：https://blockclubchicago.org/2025/06/02/18-things-to-do-outside-in-chicago-this-june/
