This 70 degree weather has us looking forward to all things spring and summer here in Chicago and what better way to spend a sunny morning than at a farmers market!?
Fresh fruits, vegetables, and delectable homemade jams and breads are ripe for the picking as you stroll down the closed off streets lined with different vendors. No matter what Chicago neighborhood you live in we have a list of all the great summer markets that are only a hop, skip and okay maybe a jump away!
Lincoln Park – Green City Market:
Beginning in April (through November), this Lincoln Park farmers market is open Saturdays from 7am-1pm and at the start of May (through October) they add a market on Tuesdays from 7am-1pm. Popular among Chicago chefs, you can rest assured the quality of the produce is there. The market also has a focus on sustainability so as you stroll around admiring the produce and planning your next meal you are also supporting the environment and local farmers! From time to time they also offer special chef event series with proceeds going back into the Market to support local farmers, food access and education. So be sure to check out the calendar on their website to get tickets!
Wicker Park:
Wicker Park’s outdoor market arrives in June and runs every Sunday (8am – 2pm) through October. Though a more modestly sized market, the baked goods are worth every calorie and if you’re not in the mood to cook, their grab and go section offerings are unmatched! Be sure to bring your own reusable shopping tote, to cut down on plastic waste vendors no longer offer shopping bags.
Gold Coast / Streeterville – SOAR Market:
Conveniently located on the border of Streeterville and the Gold Coast and situated just outside the Museum of Contemporary Art, this market is open Tuesdays (7am-2pm) beginning in June. Supported by Northwestern Medicine and MCA among others, this small but mighty market is a great place to stop by on the way to work or on your lunch break. If you stop by during lunch may we suggest a grilled cheese from Gayle V’s Best Ever Grilled Cheese, we promise you won’t regret it! Pair with a cup of soup from Karl’s Craft Soup and you’ll have an incredible meal.
Gold Coast – Division Street Farmers Market:
Well known and open from May – October (Saturdays 7am-12noon) this is one of the larger markets in Chicago with over 70 vendors. It’s also dog friendly, so make this a family affair and welcome in the weekend with a stroll through the market on a sunny Saturday morning!
Lincoln Square Farmers Market:
The Lincoln Square farmers market is held twice a week (Tuesday’s from 7am-12noon and Thursday’s from 3pm-7pm) from May through November. Start your morning off right and pick up a cup of coffee as you select your baked goods and fresh veggies. Have a special occasion or just want to fill your house with flowers – Blooms N’ Bees offers a vast selection of fresh cut flowers and bouquets. And don’t forget to grab a taco or tamale from Tamale’s Express on your way out for lunch!