🏙️ Why Project 2025 is on Trump Tower

DNC Day 2: Illinois Democrats Speak

Former President Barack Obama urged voters to get to the polls. Calling on the memory of her late mother, former first lady Michelle Obama espoused messages of hope. Gov. JB Pritzker slid in zingers about former President Donald Trump. Sen. Tammy Duckworth spoke about her IVF journey. Meanwhile, protesters and police clashed near Ogilvie Transportation Center, leading to arrests. Tonight, Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz is set to formally accept the vice presidential nomination. [Sun-Times]

Chicago River Swim → Lake Michigan

The open water swimming event that was going to take place in the river next month is now happening in the lake, organizers announced after a lot of back and forth with the city. [Tribune 🔒]

• Who's most apprehensive about swimming in the river? Chicago natives, an advocate says. [Hey Chicago 💻]

Super Blue Moon is Here

This week's super moon in Chicago is also a blue moon — a rare celestial event. [NBC Chicago]

• Plus, where else to stargaze in the Midwest. [Hey Chicago 💻]

Where to Find Late-Night Eats

Between the long DNC speeches, late-night show tapings, and after-parties, you might be out late this week. We’re sharing our favorite late-night spots for food, drinks, and music. [City Cast Chicago 🎧]

Every week, the City Cast Chicago team asks ourselves if it’s only Wednesday or already Wednesday. This week, it’s definitely the former. Here are spots to get outside, disconnect, and touch some grass.

Visit a Park

With 600 parks, Chicago is living up to its Latin motto “Urbs in Horto,” or “City in a Garden”. Some of our favorite sites are Palmisano Nature Park, where Mt. Bridgeport is great for flying kites, and Welles Park, where lots of Lincoln Square families are out playing or celebrating birthdays.

Head to the Water

Chicago has 26 miles of open lakefront, which means you can see birds at Montrose Bird Sanctuary in the morning and BBQ at Promontory Point in the afternoon. Plus, it’s not Lake Michigan or bust. Off Lake Calumet, Big Marsh Park has BMX biking and bird-watching. LaBagh Woods, on the North Branch of the Chicago River, offers hiking, picnicking, and more.

Seek Out Community

El Paseo Garden in Pilsen is a community hub for folks who want to do everything from picking their own produce to participating in a sound bath. In Englewood, the Peace Campus has a peace garden and nature playlot.