Top 5 Outdoor Spots in Chicago for a Quick Workout 🌳💪

Chicago isn’t just about skyscrapers, deep-dish pizza, and the Bean — it’s also full of incredible outdoor spaces where you can break a sweat and recharge your energy. Whether you’re short on time, craving some fresh air, or simply want a change of scenery from the gym, these five spots are perfect for a quick, effective workout.

1. Montrose Beach & Harbor

Why it’s great:With sandy stretches for sprints, grassy patches for bodyweight circuits, and gorgeous lake views, Montrose Beach is a workout dream. You can also finish your sweat session with a refreshing walk by the water.

Quick Workout Idea:

• 5 rounds of 30-second sprints on the sand

• Walk or lunge back to your starting point

• 10 push-ups and 15 air squats between sprints

2. The 606 Bloomingdale Trail

Why it’s great:This 2.7-mile elevated trail is ideal for running, walking, or doing quick bodyweight moves along the way. Multiple entry points make it convenient no matter where you start.

Quick Workout Idea:

• Jog 1 mile

• Stop for 15 push-ups, 15 dips, and 20 squats at a rest area

• Jog back to your starting point

3. Lincoln Park

Why it’s great:Lincoln Park offers wide-open spaces, park benches for strength training, and plenty of shade in the warmer months. You’ll also have a beautiful city backdrop for motivation.

Quick Workout Idea:

• Bench step-ups: 12 per leg

• Incline push-ups: 10 reps

• Tricep dips: 12 reps

• Run a lap around the park

• Repeat 3 rounds

4. Grant Park

Why it’s great:Right in the heart of the city, Grant Park has flat open areas perfect for circuit training — plus, the skyline views can be surprisingly motivating.

Quick Workout Idea:

• 10 burpees

• 15 push-ups

• 20 squats

• 30-second plank

• Repeat for 4 rounds

5. Jefferson Park (Neighborhood Spotlight)

Why it’s great:Close to home and convenient for our Dream Team Group Fitness members, Jefferson Park is a great option for combining a cardio session with strength training.

Quick Workout Idea:

• Jog to the park (warm-up)

• 15 jump squats

• 20 push-ups

• 30 mountain climbers

• Cool down with a walk back home or to the studio

Final Tip:

Outdoor workouts are an awesome way to mix things up and keep fitness fun — but nothing beats the energy, accountability, and results you get from training with others.

💡 Join us at Dream Team Group Fitness in Jefferson Park for a free class and see how much more you can achieve with the right team by your side!

📍 Dream Team Group Fitness – Jefferson Park, Chicago

🔗 Click here to view our class schedule