When asking yourself about something to do near me in Chicago with a group of friends or family, consider
SOAR Farmers Market
Why SOAR Farmers Market is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
The SOAR Farmers Market is a vibrant weekly event held every Tuesday from June through October on the MCA Plaza in Chicago, running from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. It offers an excellent opportunity for friends and community members to meet and enjoy a lively atmosphere filled with fresh, locally sourced produce and artisanal goods. Visitors can browse a curated selection of vendors that includes farmers, florists, butchers, bakers, and specialty food producers, ensuring a diverse and high-quality shopping experience. Highlights include freshly harvested vegetables, beautiful flowers, delectable baked goods, and specialty cheese from renowned vendors such as Stamper Cheese. The market is not only a great place to shop but also a perfect spot to grab a light lunch from one of the many food vendors and enjoy it while socializing with friends or simply soaking in the vibrant local scene. Its steady popularity, indicated by its strong 4.2-star rating, reflects the community’s appreciation for fresh, sustainable food options and the welcoming atmosphere the market fosters. Whether you're looking for fresh ingredients or a charming local outing, SOAR Farmers Market provides a great meeting place that combines the best of Chicago’s local food culture with an inviting social setting.
Here's what people think of SOAR Farmers Market
As of recent, SOAR Farmers Market holds a 4.2-star rating based on 32 reviews.
User reviews of SOAR Farmers Market generally praise the vibrant variety of vendors and the quality and freshness of the products available. Many reviewers highlight the friendly and knowledgeable vendors, noting that the market creates a welcoming and community-driven environment. Positive reviews often mention the well-curated selection of fresh produce, unique artisanal baked goods, and specialty items such as Wisconsin cheese and beautiful flowers, which make the market stand out as more than just a typical farmers market. The convenient location on the MCA Plaza and the outdoor setting are also appreciated, providing an enjoyable experience rain or shine. However, some negative reviews mention occasional issues such as crowdedness during peak times and limited parking nearby, which can make access a bit challenging. A few visitors wished for extended hours or more frequent market days, as the once-a-week schedule limits accessibility for some. Despite these minor drawbacks, the overall sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, with many visitors returning regularly and recommending the market as a great place to meet friends, buy fresh local products, and enjoy Chicago’s vibrant food scene. This mix of freshness, variety, and community spirit largely justifies its solid 4.2-star rating and strong local reputation.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Haley Matthews
Great farmers market with lots of produce options as well as some other food vendors! Pretty good prices too all around! If the tofu stand is there, I’d highly recommend trying a sample at least - it’s delicious!!
Marcia Scavuzzo
Used to live in the hood and had almost forgotten about this wonderful little farmer's market in front of the Museum of Contemporary Art. It has almost everything the larger markets offer. I scored four of the season's last field-grown tomatoes... a bouquet of fragrant eucalyptus... a loaf of fresh herb bread... a chocolate covered yummy... and a healthy ponytail plant to take the place of my old scraggly one that had outgrown its pot. I would have bought more veggies but had just grocery shopped the day before. Open on Tuesdays, when the museum is closed. Only the gift shop was open... my favorite place for unique gifts. Almost impossible street parking.
Emmanuel Kubasu
Looking for farm fresh and organic produce in Chicago? Just check out the farmers markets. They offer fresh products from vegetables & fruits, meats, eggs, cheese, coffee, live cooking and so on. Soar market is right within the city center. Nice days during summer and fall seasons
Alba Fernandez
A little bit pricy but very good organic local veggies, beautiful flowers and a lot kinds of aromatic herbs
HYLA KALLEN
Missing two stars because of change in rules concerning dogs. Prior to Covid, dogs were allowed into the market. I live in Streeterville and going to the market after my morning walk with my dog was a weekly Tuesday routine enjoyed by both of us. I understand during the height of the pandemic the need for physical space but at this point please reconsider the no dog rule.
How to reach SOAR Farmers Market
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Why SOAR Farmers Market may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at SOAR Farmers Market with your friends?
Gathering your friends for a meetup at SOAR Farmers Market offers a unique blend of community atmosphere, vibrant food culture, and urban charm that few places can match. Located on the Museum of Contemporary Art (MCA) Plaza in Chicago’s lively Streeterville neighborhood, this farmers market invites groups to connect over freshly harvested produce, artisanal baked goods, and beautiful flowers every Tuesday from June through October. The open-air setting allows everyone to enjoy the fresh air and lively surroundings while exploring stalls featuring a colorful array of vendors offering local cheeses, spices, and homemade soups. More than just a marketplace, SOAR Farmers Market doubles as a social hub where friends can stroll, taste, and savor the day together. The market’s location by the MCA adds an inspiring backdrop of contemporary art and culture, creating both a scenic and stimulating meetup spot. Whether your group is looking for a casual breakfast outing, a relaxed lunch spot, or an afternoon spent discovering local flavors and crafts, SOAR Farmers Market caters perfectly to social gatherings with a fun, laid-back vibe.
What activities can groups enjoy at SOAR Farmers Market?
At SOAR Farmers Market, groups have access to a range of activities that make meeting up memorable and engaging. Shopping is the most obvious activity—browsing fresh, seasonal produce, locally made baked goodies, and fragrant flowers sets a pleasant pace for lingering discussions and shared discoveries. The market runs every Tuesday from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m., meaning early birds can grab fresh breakfast items, and the late risers still have plenty of time to explore the offerings. Beyond food shopping, guests can enjoy tasting sessions from vendors who often provide samples of cheeses, spices, and other specialty products, turning the experience into an informal tasting tour. The presence of the MCA’s outdoor Plaza encourages people to gather and relax while enjoying their purchases, especially with food options from the MCA Counter featuring homemade soups and thematic treats. This open plaza space is ideal for groups to linger, chat, and enjoy street-level culture amidst a bustling urban setting. Additionally, the market often features a variety of colorful open-air stalls that provide a festive marketplace ambiance — perfect for those who enjoy photography, people watching, or simply soaking in a bustling urban farmers market vibe.
Why is SOAR Farmers Market perfect for a group meetup?
SOAR Farmers Market offers a unique combination of accessibility, atmosphere, and variety that makes it an ideal spot for groups of friends or family to meet up. Its location in Streeterville near Chicago’s lakefront and Navy Pier gives easy transit options and ample nearby attractions for extending your outing beyond the market. The market’s weekly, reliable schedule on Tuesdays means it can become a recurring gathering place, fostering tradition and regular social connections. Open from early morning to mid-afternoon, it accommodates a range of schedules whether your group prefers an early start or a relaxed late morning arrival. The open-air setting and plaza seating options provide ample room for groups to circulate freely — a big advantage over cramped indoor venues. Moreover, the diverse vendor mix ensures everyone in your group will find something appealing, from fresh fruit lovers to artisan food enthusiasts or those who cherish flowers and handmade gifts. With a solid 4.2-star rating based on 32 reviews, visitors praise its lively ambiance, fresh high-quality products, and welcoming environment, all of which contribute to a positive group experience that blends leisure, shopping, and socializing seamlessly.
What types of vendors and products can visitors expect?
Visitors to SOAR Farmers Market can expect a rich selection of vendors representing the best of local, seasonal, and artisanal products. Typical produce offerings include fresh fruits and vegetables harvested from nearby farms, ensuring peak freshness and flavor that paint the marketplace with vivid colors and aromas. Many booths feature gorgeous cut and potted flowers, perfect for gift-giving or brightening up a home gathering. The baked goods section offers an array of fresh breads, pastries, and sweets made daily by local artisans, giving your meetup a tasty and indulgent edge. Specialty foods such as cheeses, herbs, and spices also abound, inviting guests to discover new flavors and ingredients to take home. The market’s partnership with the MCA provides additional options through the MCA Store and MCA Counter, where homemade soups and creative food-themed products add variety and a culinary twist to the experience. Whether your group prefers to snack on-the-go or pick up ingredients for a shared meal later, the diversity in offerings ensures an enjoyable, multi-sensory experience for every palate.
How accessible is SOAR Farmers Market for group visits?
SOAR Farmers Market is highly accessible, enhancing its appeal for group gatherings. Situated at 220 E. Chicago Ave. on the MCA Plaza in Chicago, it benefits from excellent public transportation options and proximity to other Chicago attractions. Many visitors appreciate the convenience of dropping by after work or during a midday break due to the market’s Tuesday 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. hours. The open design of the market plaza allows groups to navigate easily without feeling crowded or rushed, encouraging a relaxed pace perfect for socializing. The market also operates rain or shine, eliminating concerns about weather disrupting your plans. Parking options nearby, while common for downtown Chicago, do require some planning, but the vibrant neighborhood surroundings offer plenty to see and do, encouraging groups to combine their visit with other outings. Overall, the market’s strategic location, reliable schedule, and welcoming environment make it a straightforward and inviting option for hosting friends and family.
What makes the atmosphere at SOAR Farmers Market unique?
The atmosphere at SOAR Farmers Market is a vibrant mix of local culture, community spirit, and urban life that sets it apart from typical markets. Held on the Museum of Contemporary Art’s outdoor plaza, the market nestles artistic surroundings beside lively vendor stalls, creating a fresh synergy of culture and commerce. This setting elevates the market experience beyond shopping to a gathering spot infused with creativity and city energy. Visitors enjoy a cheerful, colorful ambiance punctuated by the hustle of vendors, neighbors, and visitors sharing smiles and stories as they shop. The open-air environment encourages leisurely strolling and spontaneous interactions, making it easy for groups to connect while exploring. With a calendar that runs through most of the mild Chicago months, SOAR Farmers Market becomes a recurring event that defines summer and fall Tuesdays with freshness and fun. The combination of compelling urban scenery, creative food options, and communal warmth makes meeting here feel less like errands and more like a festive outing.
How can groups extend the meetup beyond the market?
After exploring SOAR Farmers Market, groups can easily extend their meetup with nearby activities that complement the vibrant market experience. The Museum of Contemporary Art itself is adjacent to the market, offering exciting exhibits and events that can enrich your gathering with cultural exploration. Streeterville’s neighborhood presents great nearby restaurants, cafes, and bars where your group can relax and continue the conversation over drinks or meals. The proximity to Navy Pier and the lakefront allows for scenic walks with stunning skyline and water views, adding variety to your meetup agenda. For those interested in more shopping or entertainment, downtown Chicago’s theaters, galleries, and shops are within easy reach. The market’s vibe naturally encourages a slow, social pace, so planning a full-day outing from the market through the surrounding urban attractions can turn a simple meetup into a memorable shared experience.
What should groups keep in mind when planning a meetup at SOAR Farmers Market?
When planning a group meetup at SOAR Farmers Market, considering the early start time and weekly schedule is important. The market operates only on Tuesdays from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m., so organizing your group accordingly will ensure everyone can participate. Since it is a popular destination, arriving early can help secure the best selection of fresh produce and avoid crowds during peak hours. Because it is an open-air event, dressing for the weather and bringing comfortable walking shoes will make the experience enjoyable year-round. Groups might also consider a plan for seating or dining at the MCA Plaza, where open spaces allow for informal picnics or meals with your purchases. Finally, coordinating transportation and parking ahead of time can smooth logistics for everyone. Planning with these practicalities in mind will help your group focus on enjoyment and connection during your time at SOAR Farmers Market.
With all these qualities—fresh local foods, a lively social atmosphere, artistic surroundings, and a central location—SOAR Farmers Market stands out as a perfect spot to rally with friends or family. Its weekly Tuesday rhythm encourages routine get-togethers built around good food, great company, and a true sense of neighborhood connection. The mix of shopping, tasting, and cultural exploration seamlessly combines relaxation with discovery, making your group meetup not just an errand, but a highlight of your week. If you want a refreshing alternative to the usual café or restaurant gathering, SOAR Farmers Market’s vibrant community vibe and excellent offerings provide the ideal urban backdrop for memorable social occasions.