If you only know Chicago as a "forest of buildings," then you're only getting half the picture.

The true star of this city is Lake Michigan.

At first glance, you might think, "Is this really a lake?" You can see the horizon, there are waves, and it almost feels like the ocean.

In the summer, Chicago transforms from a city into a massive water park.

The most basic feature is the beach. Chicago has more official beaches than you might expect.

North Avenue Beach, Ohio Street Beach, and Montrose Beach are some of the most notable.

With sandy shores, waves, and people sunbathing, it feels just like a beach town.

The biggest difference you notice here is the water. It's freshwater, so it's not salty.

After swimming, your skin doesn't feel sticky. There's none of the unpleasantness that comes with ocean water, making it feel much more comfortable.

Plus, lifeguards are on duty, ensuring safety is well managed.

However, Lake Michigan has its own character. It may look calm on the surface, but the mood can change quickly when the wind picks up.

With low water temperatures, the waves can suddenly become dangerous. Locals also know to get out when conditions aren't good.

Even in the height of summer, the water can be chilly, so it's best to go in during the hot summer days when the sun is strong.

When discussing the Korean community in Chicago, it's hard to overlook Lake Michigan.

Korean immigrants began settling in Chicago in the 1970s, and some naturally ended up living near the lake.

For the early community members, Lake Michigan was not just a tourist spot. It was a space to catch their breath in a foreign land.

Many found comfort in gazing at the vast lake during a time when they struggled with language and daily life.

For those who crossed the Pacific Ocean, it provided a somewhat familiar feeling.

In fact, during the 70s and 80s, it was common for community families to pack lunches and gather by the lakeside on weekends.

At a time when the Korean business district wasn't as large as it is now, it served as a place for people to meet, share information, and build connections.

Before a church-centered community formed, this natural space was a meeting point.

Lake Michigan was also tied to livelihoods. Some community members supplemented their food supply through fishing.

They would catch salmon or trout to make spicy soup, often served with kimchi at the table.

While it may seem like a small story now, it was a significant part of their lives back then.

If you want to actively enjoy Lake Michigan, I recommend recreational activities like kayaking, paddleboarding, and banana boating.

You can rent equipment near Montrose Beach or downtown.

Seeing the Chicago skyline from the water is definitely a different experience than just looking at it from land.

If you want to set the mood a bit more, boat rentals are also available. While not yachts, many people rent small boats.

When costs are shared among several people, it's more affordable than you might think. There are also services that include a captain, so you can enjoy without worrying about driving.

Playing music and having a beer really brings the atmosphere to life. It's easy to see why this is so popular.

For those who enjoy fishing, there's another kind of fun.

Salmon and trout can be caught in Chicago.

This might be surprising, but there are actually some great fishing spots.

You can fish right from the lakeshore, but if you want to do it properly, it's best to take a charter boat.

They provide all the equipment and a guide. Just make sure to bring your Illinois fishing license.

For those who don't want to get in the water, there's the Lakefront Trail.

This trail stretches about 18 miles, nearly 29 km, and is great for biking or walking.

Since it runs alongside the lake, the scenery is never monotonous, and you'll see many people setting up picnic blankets along the way.

Just sitting there can change your mood.

What's important here is the weather. It can be clear one moment and suddenly windy, so you need to keep an eye on the conditions.

It's also a good idea to check the water quality. There are days when swimming is prohibited.

In conclusion, Chicago is not just a city of buildings.

It's a city with a large water playground right next to it.

Swimming, kayaking, boating, fishing, and walking are all possible. If you leave without experiencing this, you're really only seeing half of what Chicago has to offer.

Chicago is a "massive playground next to a forest of buildings."

If you visit in the summer, don't just look around; make sure to stop by at least once.