Summer has finally arrived in Chicago – and with its bags packed, it looks like the season has moved in for good. Or at least until September.

River North is one of the most conveniently located neighborhoods to enjoy Chicago’s summer delights. Far away from the masses of Wrigleyville and tucked just far away from the throngs of Lincoln Park zoo and beach revelers, it is River North that really has summer bragging rights.

Winding through many condo owners’ yards, the Chicago River is pure entertainment to be had. Whether it is kayaking for sports fanatics, architecture tours for city lovers, or leisurely boat rides, the river has a little something for everyone.

For those lucky enough to have a balcony, the sights of the city – bridges opening to make way for tall ships, twinkling lights of buildings, sun sparkling off the water, and tourists running about below – is sheer entertainment. With the balcony also come the barbecues and a personal al fresco dining option. For those who are not as fortunate to have outdoor dining outside the living room, there are plenty of eateries in River North that will take care of any craving.

(Above) The private charter yacht Chicago’s First Lady passes Fulton’s on the River, located at 315 North LaSalle Street in the Reid Murdoch Center. (Top of page) Patio at Marina City’s Dick’s Last Resort. Photos by Steven Dahlman.

West of Clark Street, Fulton’s on the River has a sprawling patio that offers views of the Chicago River and downtown. Fulton’s is an upscale steak and seafood restaurant with high quality ingredients and a vast wine list. One of the quintessential River North summer experiences for all seafood lovers is Fulton’s Summer Clambake series. On the first Tuesday of every summer month, Fulton’s patio turns into a scene from Cape Cod, featuring giant skillets of Chef Biggers’ clams with brown butter bread crumbs, mussels, sausage, shrimp and all the other essentials. The $25 person price includes two Holy Moses Great Lakes Beers and all the food you can pack in.

Just up the river, Dick’s Last Resort has a reason to party every day on the patio. The outdoor space is perched enough above the Chicago River that the view seems endless – and anchored by the opening State and Dearborn Street Bridges. Happy tourists wave as the sightseeing boats cruise by, indicating that summer is indeed in full swing. Once the sun goes down, the city lights add sparkle and sensation to the view.

Even without a pocket full of cash, summer revelers can partake and enjoy, with a different five-dollar drink special each day during the week. Monday’s special drink is Citrus Cooler, Tuesday’s is Pina Colada, Wednesday’s is Strawberry Daiquiri, Thursday’s is The Grape Ape and Friday’s is the extremely popular Cuervo Margarita.

Looking for a perch high above the city? Wander on over to Roof at theWit, one of the luxurious and trendy new rooftop bars in River North. Located at State and Lake and open year-round since 2009, the hotel and bar have especially felt the impact of Chicago summers. ABC News even rated it as one of the World’s Best Rooftop Bars. The 27th floor space is well equipped with 7,000 square feet of fire pits, telescopes, suspended tables overlooking the Chicago skyline, and live music. An upscale menu by Chef Todd Stein and a well-appointed wine list make it a great late night, early evening, or anytime stop. It is a prime Chicago and, even better, River North neighborhood destination that cannot be missed.

While there is a lot to be said for throwing steaks on a grill right outside the condo, there is even more to be said about getting out and mingling with neighbors at one of the local hot spots. Splurge at least once or twice and try one of River North’s best al fresco dining options!