There is a unique energy that takes over the Windy City once the lakefront warms up. Whether you are trekking through new neighborhoods, hanging out at the playpen, or wandering through a museum, there is nothing like summer in Chicago.
No matter how you plan to spend these sunny days, the perfect pour elevates every experience. On The Rocks™ simplifies your summer entertaining by providing bar-caliber cocktails right at home, making them ideal for those craving a traditional recipe or a vibrant, modern interpretation. Here are some of Chicago’s most quintessential summer activities, expertly matched with an On The Rocks™ cocktail to help you sip in style.

Picnic under the stars at Millennium Park Concert Series
What could be better on a warm evening in Chicago than spreading a blanket out at Millennium Park for a free concert? Settle in and soak in the music beneath the skyline – and then get the post-show debrief running at your place afterwards. Pick up a few On The Rocks™ Classic Margaritas to sip on while you chat!
Get crafty at Pottery Studio 1
If you’re looking to beat the heat with an indoor activity, why not try something a little bit hands-on? The pottery sessions at Pottery Studio 1 are BYOB, so you can round up some friends (and some drinks) to sip while you create! We suggest leaning into that vibrant, creative energy with an On The Rocks™ Mango & Mint Mojito.
Have a beach day at Oak Street Beach
When the heat really creeps in, there’s just no better feeling than a day spent on the beach – especially when the beach is so close to home! This summer, carve out a day to spend on the water with friends, just laying back and enjoying the sun and waves – you’ll feel like you’re on vacation without even leaving the city. Afterwards, keep the vacation vibes going at your place with a canned On The Rocks™ Mojito.

Cool down with a Mario’s Italian Ice Twist
There are certain local spots in the city that achieve icon status – Mario’s is one of those places. Whether you’re showing off the city to a visiting friend or just want to lean into some of that childhood nostalgia, a visit to Mario’s is a must for any summer bucket list. Follow it up at home with an On The Rocks™ Watermelon Margarita can to keep those bright summer flavors going.
Catch the fireworks at Navy Pier
A surefire hit for your bucket list should be the summer fireworks show over Lake Michigan – and it’s free, so you really can’t go wrong with a night spent here. The fireworks take place every Wednesday at 9pm and Saturday at 10pm until September 5, so there are plenty of opportunities to spend a night here. Why not host a post-fireworks gathering at yours after? We suggest serving up On The Rocks™ Cosmopolitans to lean into that city glamour at home.
Dedicate a whole day to exploring a neighborhood
Sometimes the best summer days are those spent slowly wandering around – checking out thrift stores, trying new local coffee spots and seeing where the night takes us. If you can’t decide where to start, we suggest Logan Square as the perfect starting spot for exploring. At the end of the day, pick up an On The Rocks™ Whiskey Sour at home for a cozy night-in after a packed itinerary.

Host a dinner party at home
Hosting dinner at home is often a summer highlight – something about those warm nights and late sunsets just screams for a long, relaxed dinner with friends. A laid-back night at home can feel a bit like a vacation, so serve up an On The Rocks™ Mango & Mint Mojito to really lean into the feeling.
