Best outdoor experiences for summer
Summer weather provides the perfect backdrop as you find your next memorable outdoor adventure.
By Paul Oswell | May 15, 2025 (Updated June 30, 2025)
Paul Oswell
Paul Oswell is a British award-winning journalist and published travel author based in New Orleans, Louisiana. His books include Bucket List North America and The Great American Road Trip, as well as New Orleans' Historic Hotels. He has also been an editor of and contributor to several guidebooks/editions published by Dorling Kindersley (owned by Penguin), including New Orleans, Florida, Orlando, Los Angeles, California, and The United States. His work has appeared in Conde Nast Traveler, Travel & Leisure (both of which he has written multiple online travel guides for) and The Guardian, as well as dozens of international newspaper and magazine titles, and inflight magazines for major airlines.
Summer sunshine is on the horizon, so it’s time to experience some bucket-list outdoor activities. Whether it’s enjoying a beachside picnic, fishing on calm lakes, or hiking scenic trails, these memorable destinations are ideal for outdoor experiences.
Chicago
Although Chicago is often synonymous with towering skyscrapers, the Windy City offers a surprising amount of outdoor adventure for visitors ready to explore. Boasting an impressive 570 parks, green spaces are easily found. Lincoln Park alone stretches for some 1,200 acres (485 hectares), and the lawns and festivals of Millennium Park and Grant Park welcome thousands of people every week. The shores of freshwater Lake Michigan are home to some 24 beaches, and are popular spots for volleyball games, bike riding, or just enjoying lakeside views. Stay at Waldorf Astoria Chicago, and you’ll be only half a mile (0.8 kilometers) from Oak Street Beach, a mile (1.6 kilometers) from Navy Pier, and one block from the Magnificent Mile. The hotel is also just a 20-minute walk from the Chicago Riverwalk, where you can spot artful displays, most notably the video art that happens during Art on theMART. When you need a break from your city adventures, treat yourself to an appointment at the award-winning Spa, where a massage or facial treatment will have you feeling refreshed and ready to go.
Santa Monica, California
Located on one of the most desirable stretches of the Southern Californian coastline, Santa Monica is made for lovers of the outdoors. The idyllic year-round climate provides an alluring backdrop for a wealth of activities, as well as alfresco dining that celebrates the abundant fresh local produce. The Santa Monica Mountains are home to spectacular hiking trails that boast unforgettably scenic views of the Pacific Ocean. Stay at Hilton Santa Monica Hotel & Suites and you’ll be steps from the iconic Santa Monica Pier, which will keep you entertained with carnival games, exciting rides, and delicious bites. When you want to slow down while still enjoying the California sun, relax in one of the hotel’s poolside cabanas.
Denver
Colorado is renowned for its stunning natural wonders, and when you’re seeking outdoor adventure, it’s hard to beat. Make Denver your destination, and you’ll be close to must-see spots in both city and rural areas. Reset from your travel quickly when you stay at Spark by Hilton Denver International Airport, just 10 minutes from Denver International Airport. The comfortable rooms and free breakfast will have you fueled up for your adventures in the Mile High City. Start at the Rocky Mountain Wildlife Refuge, just 10 miles (16 kilometers) from the hotel, for stellar hiking and biking trails and an 11-mile Wildlife Drive auto tour. You can even fish seasonally at Lake Mary and Lake Ladora or practice archery at the archery range. If you want a more urban escape, head to Denver’s City Center, where you can catch a baseball game at Coors Field. Nearby Denver City Park could easily fill your itinerary, as it’s home to the Denver Zoo, City Park Golf Course, and acres of picnic spots, lakeside trails, and playgrounds.
Find your stay
Read more:
Find travel inspiration