Chicago
Chicago has a vibrant and accessible running scene, shaped by its flat terrain, scenic routes, and strong neighborhood spirit. The Lakefront Trail, a 18-mile paved path stretching along Lake Michigan, is the city’s signature running route, offering stunning skyline views, breezy miles, and easy access to beaches and parks. The Chicago Marathon, one of the seven World Marathon Majors, embodies the city’s love for running, taking participants through 29 distinct neighborhoods filled with cheering crowds and local flavor. The city’s running community is anchored by large groups like 3Run2, GumboFit, Lakeview Run Club, and Venados Running Club, as well as supportive hubs like Heartbreak Hill Running Company, a beloved running store that doubles as a community gathering point for group runs and training programs. Together, they reflect Chicago’s uniquely social and neighborhood-driven running culture.
City Runner's Picks
The Lakefront Trail is a popular 18-mile multi-use path that runs along the Lake Michigan shoreline in Chicago, passes through city landmarks like Navy Pier, Museum Campus, and several parks and beaches including Montrose Beach, Lincoln Park, Grant Park, and Jackson Park.
Route: Lakefront Trail
The 606, also known as the Bloomingdale Trail, is an elevated park and multi-use trail on Chicago's northwest side. This urban greenway repurposes a former railway line into a beloved recreational space, stretching approximately 2.7 miles with multiple access points to crossing streets.
Route: The 606
The Des Plaines River Trail is a long, scenic and popular multi-use trail that stretches along the Des Plaines River in northeastern Illinois from Chicago's west suburbs to Wisconsin state line. It is primarily unpaved and passes through more than a dozen forest preserves.
Route: Des Plaines River Trail
Run Club: 3RUN2
The unique and spirited running club combines a love for running with a passion for exploring the city's vibrant coffee culture. The club meets every Friday morning at rotating west and north side coffee shops.
Run Club: West Town Brew Crew
@heartbreak.chi / Website
2148 N Halsted St
The specialty running store in Lincoln Park is a beloved hub for local runners. Heartbreak hosts weekly group runs and special events year-round.
Store: Heartbreak Hill Running
@chidistanceseries / Website
8K / March
The Shamrock Shuffle is one of Chicago's most beloved and iconic running events, known for kicking off the spring running season with a festive and energetic atmosphere.
Race: Shamrock Shuffle
@lobapastry
3600 N Lincoln Ave
Loba is known for its small batch, creative pastries and high-quality coffee. The café has a cozy, welcoming vibe, with a minimalist interior that features plenty of natural light and comfortable seating.
Cafe: Loba Pastry + Coffee
@coffeelab.lakeview
2823 N Lincoln Ave
Coffee Lab is a locals’ favorite and on Lakeview, offering not only top-notch brews but also a welcoming atmosphere that keeps customers (The City Runner, for sure) coming back time and time again.
Cafe: Coffee Lab & Roasters
@metriccoffee
2021 W Fulton St
Metric Coffee one of Chicago's best coffee roasters. Its petit, chic West Loop café offers a variety of espresso drinks, pour-overs, cold brews, and expertly crafted seasonal drinks.
