Things to do in Chicago

Listeners exploring Chicago this summer are in for a city pulsing with energy, local pride, and a roster of one-of-a-kind experiences. This week especially, the buzz is palpable as Chicago celebrates the Fourth of July weekend and kicks off the heart of its summer event calendar.

The city’s most iconic spectacle tonight is the Navy Pier fireworks display at 10 p.m., an annual tradition set to patriotic music and visible from the pier, beaches, rooftop bars, or by booking a boat cruise for front-row seats, as highlighted by Choose Chicago. Navy Pier itself isn’t just for the...

Listeners looking for unforgettable things to do in Chicago this week are in for a treat. The Independence Day weekend brings extra excitement, starting with the iconic Navy Pier fireworks on Saturday, July 5 at 10 p.m. This annual event lights up Lake Michigan’s shoreline, complete with patriotic music, and the spectacle can be enjoyed from Navy Pier, the adjacent beaches and parks, or even aboard a boat cruise for a truly front-row experience. Navy Pier itself offers a playground of delights: ride the famous Centennial Wheel, check out the immersive FlyOver Chicago experience, relax in rooftop bars and beer ga...

If you're in Chicago this week, consider catching a thrilling baseball game between the Chicago Cubs and the Cleveland Guardians at Wrigley Field on July 2 and 3. Wrigleyville offers a lively atmosphere with its historic field and vibrant bars and restaurants.

For a unique outdoor experience, visit the Wild Mile, where you can explore native plant species on a guided tour. This area is also known for its fishing opportunities, with monthly events allowing visitors to catch a variety of fish species.

Chicago is renowned for its architecture, and taking a 90-minute architecture river tour is a...

Listeners headed to Chicago this week are in for a vibrant mix of classic landmarks, live music, sports thrills, eye-catching art, and hidden gems that make the city a true summer playground. Today, catch the Chicago White Sox facing the San Francisco Giants at Guaranteed Rate Field, game time 1:10 pm, a quintessential Windy City sports experience. At the same time, the city’s beloved outdoor pools are now open, so those looking to cool off can take a dip at one of Chicago Park District’s dozens of pools, a local favorite during warm weather.

Millennium Park continues to b...

Chicago, a city renowned for its vibrant culture, rich history, and diverse entertainment options, offers a plethora of activities that cater to all interests. For tourists and locals alike, here are some fun, entertaining, and unique things to do in this dynamic city.

If you are in Chicago on June 21, 2025, you might want to check out the Winnetka Music Festival, which kicks off at 4:00 PM. This event promises a day of music, making it a great way to spend your afternoon. Alternatively, if you're a fan of rock music, Queens of the Stone Age will be performing at...

Chicago, a city known for its vibrant culture, rich history, and diverse entertainment options, offers a plethora of activities that cater to all interests. Whether you are a music enthusiast, an art lover, a sports fan, or someone who enjoys outdoor adventures and unique cultural experiences, Chicago has something for everyone.

For music lovers, the Millennium Park Music Series is a must-attend, featuring free outdoor concerts with top local and touring acts set against the stunning backdrop of the city skyline. This series runs throughout the summer, providing numerous opportunities to enjoy live music in a beautiful setting.<...

Chicago, a city renowned for its vibrant culture, stunning architecture, and diverse entertainment options, offers a plethora of activities that cater to all interests. For tourists and locals alike, here are some fun, entertaining, and unique things to do in this dynamic city.

To start your Chicago adventure, consider taking a guided architecture cruise on the Chicago River. You can choose from a 1.5-hour guided architecture cruise or a 45-minute family-friendly version, both of which provide a unique perspective on the city's iconic skyline and architectural landmarks[1][4].

For outdoor enthusiasts, June is an excellent time to...

Chicago, a city known for its vibrant culture, stunning architecture, and diverse entertainment options, offers a plethora of activities that cater to all interests. Whether you are a music enthusiast, an art lover, an outdoor adventurer, or a foodie, Chicago has something for everyone.

For those interested in music, the city is hosting several events in May 2025. Starting May 23, 2025, Navy Pier will feature "Live on the Lake!", an outdoor live music series that takes place every weekend. This is a great opportunity to enjoy music by the lake while taking in the beautiful views of the city skyline...

Chicago, known for its vibrant culture, rich history, and stunning architecture, offers a plethora of activities that cater to all interests and ages. As you plan your visit, here are some fun, entertaining, and unique things to do in this magnificent city.

For architecture enthusiasts, taking an architecture river cruise is a must. These cruises, such as the 1.5-Hour Guided Architecture Cruise, provide a detailed look at Chicago's iconic skyline and historic buildings. You can also opt for a combination river and lake cruise to enjoy both the architectural marvels and the city's skyline from a different perspective.<...

Chicago, known for its vibrant culture, rich history, and stunning architecture, offers a plethora of activities that cater to all interests and preferences. For visitors looking to explore the city in May 2025, here are some exciting and unique things to do.

To start your day, consider taking an Architecture River Cruise, a 45-minute or 1.5-hour guided tour that highlights Chicago's iconic architectural landmarks along the Chicago River. This cruise is not only educational but also provides a unique perspective on the city's skyline[1][5].

For those interested in music, attend a Candlelight Concert, a series of intimate...

Chicago, a city renowned for its vibrant culture, rich history, and stunning architecture, offers a plethora of activities that cater to all interests and preferences. As of May 10, 2025, one of the most anticipated events is the activation of Buckingham Fountain in Grant Park. This iconic landmark, one of the largest fountains in the world, will begin its seasonal water displays today, featuring a center jet that shoots water 150 feet into the air, accompanied by a spectacular light and music display at dusk.

For those interested in architecture, a guided Chicago River Architecture Cruise is a must. This 1.5-hour...

Chicago, a city renowned for its vibrant culture, rich history, and diverse attractions, offers a plethora of activities that cater to all interests and preferences. For tourists and locals alike, here are some fun, entertaining, and unique things to do in Chicago, especially during the first week of May 2025.

To start your day, consider visiting the Chicago Cultural Center for the "Under The Picasso Noontimes" event, which takes place on Fridays, including May 3, 2025. This free event features live music performances under the iconic Picasso sculpture in the Daley Civic Center Plaza, providing a perfect blend of art and...

Chicago, known as the Windy City, is a vibrant and diverse metropolis that offers a plethora of activities for tourists and locals alike. Whether you are interested in music, sports, art, outdoor adventures, cultural spots, or food experiences, Chicago has something for everyone.

For those looking to immerse themselves in Chicago's vibrant culture, the St. Patrick’s Day Parade and River Dyeing on March 15, 2025, is an event not to be missed. Watch as the Chicago River transforms into a stunning emerald green, followed by one of America’s largest St. Patrick’s Day parades along Columbus Drive, featuring bagpip...

Chicago, a city renowned for its vibrant culture, rich history, and stunning architecture, offers a plethora of activities that cater to all interests and preferences. Here are some fun, entertaining, and unique things to do in Chicago, both for this week and throughout the year.

If you are in Chicago today, March 15, 2025, you cannot miss the St. Patrick’s Day Parade and River Dyeing. This iconic event begins with the dyeing of the Chicago River at 10:00 AM, followed by one of America’s largest St. Patrick’s Day parades at noon on Columbus Drive. The parade features spirited bagpip...

Chicago, known as the Windy City, is a vibrant and diverse metropolis that offers a plethora of activities for tourists and locals alike. Whether you are interested in music, sports, art, outdoor adventures, cultural spots, or unique food experiences, Chicago has something for everyone.

This week, starting from March 8, 2025, you can catch some exciting sports events. For instance, on March 10, the Chicago Bulls will face off against the Indiana Pacers at the United Center, promising an evening of high-energy basketball action[3].

If sports aren't your thing, consider the Chicago Blackhawks games. On March 3, the Blackhawks will...

Chicago, a city known for its vibrant culture, rich history, and diverse entertainment options, offers a plethora of activities that cater to all interests. If you are visiting or living in Chicago, here are some fun, entertaining, and unique things to do that you won't want to miss.

Starting this week, on March 1, 2025, you can participate in the Women’s History Hike at the Little Red Schoolhouse Nature Center. This guided hike takes you through potentially snow-covered trails while learning about the contributions of women in environmental conservation. Later the same day, join the Femmes + Thems March Social Bi...

Chicago in February 2025 is a vibrant and exciting place to be, offering a diverse array of activities that cater to all interests. For those looking to immerse themselves in the latest automotive trends, the Chicago Auto Show at McCormick Place is a must-visit, running from February 8 to 17. This event showcases the newest in automotive technology and design, featuring interactive exhibits and test-drive opportunities that are perfect for families and car enthusiasts alike.

If you're in the mood for something more culturally enriching, the Lunar New Year Parade on February 9 in Chicago's Chinatown is an excellent choice. This parade...

Chicago, in the heart of February, offers a vibrant array of activities that cater to all interests, from outdoor adventures and cultural experiences to unique events and hidden gems.

For those who enjoy the cold, outdoor ice skating is a must. You can skate at the McCormick Tribune Ice Rink in front of The Bean, although it's closed after February 2. Alternatively, the skating ribbon at Maggie Daley Park is open and offers a path twice the length of a traditional skating rink. If you're looking for more skating options, Maggie Daley Park and the MLK Skating and Bowling...

Chicago in February offers a vibrant mix of activities that cater to various interests, from outdoor adventures and cultural events to unique entertainment and culinary experiences.

For those who enjoy the cold, outdoor ice skating is a must-try. The McCormick Tribune Ice Rink in front of The Bean, although closed after February 2, is replaced by other enticing options like the skating ribbon at Maggie Daley Park, which boasts a path twice the length of a traditional skating rink.

Music lovers can indulge in the Candlelight Concerts series, featuring beautiful venues bathed in candlelight. This February, concerts...

Chicago, in the heart of February, offers a vibrant array of activities that cater to all interests, from outdoor adventures and cultural events to unique food experiences and entertaining sports matches.

For those who enjoy the chill of winter, outdoor ice skating is a must. You can skate at the iconic McCormick Tribune Ice Rink in front of The Bean, although it closes on February 2, 2025. Another picturesque spot is the skating ribbon at Maggie Daley Park, which boasts a path twice the length of a traditional skating rink.

If you're looking for something to warm your...

Chicago in January offers a diverse array of activities that cater to various interests, from outdoor adventures to cultural and culinary experiences. Here are some fun, entertaining, and unique things to do in Chicago, both this week and throughout the month.

For music enthusiasts, the Candlelight Concerts series is a must-attend. These special classical music concerts take place in beautiful venues bathed in candlelight. In January 2025, you can enjoy concerts such as "Rings and Dragons," "The Best of Hans Zimmer," and "Coldplay X Imagine Dragons"[1].

If you're looking for outdoor fun, ice skating is a great...

Chicago, in the heart of January 2025, offers a vibrant array of activities that cater to all interests, from sports and music to art, outdoor adventures, and unique culinary experiences.

For sports enthusiasts, this week is packed with exciting events. On January 18, you can catch the Chicago Bulls in action against the Charlotte Hornets at the United Center, a venue known for its electric atmosphere[2].

If you're a fan of baseball, even in the off-season, the Cubs Convention is a must-attend event, taking place on January 17 at the Sheraton Hotel & Towers. This convention offers a chance to...

Chicago, in the heart of January 2025, is a vibrant city that offers a diverse array of activities and events that cater to all interests, whether you're a local or a tourist. For those looking to immerse themselves in sports, January is an exciting time. Today, January 11, you can catch the Loyola Chicago Ramblers Women's Basketball team facing off against the Fordham Rams at the Gentile Center, or watch the Illinois-Chicago Flames battle the Bradley Braves at the Credit Union 1 Arena. Later in the evening, the Chicago Blackhawks will take on the Edmonton Oilers at the United Center[2].

If...

Chicago, in the heart of January 2025, offers a vibrant array of activities that cater to every interest, from sports and music to art, outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, and delicious food events.

For sports enthusiasts, this week is packed with exciting events. On January 8, 2025, catch the Chicago Blackhawks in action at the United Center, a game that promises thrilling hockey action. If basketball is more your scene, the Chicago Bulls are set to play against the Washington Wizards on January 10, 2025, also at the United Center. For baseball fans, the Cubs Convention takes place on January 17, 2025, at the Sheraton Hotel...

Chicago, in the heart of January 2025, is a vibrant city that offers a diverse array of activities and events that cater to all interests, whether you are a local or a tourist. For those looking to kick off the new year with some excitement, here are some unique and engaging things to do in Chicago.

If you are in Chicago this week, you might want to catch the Chicago Bulls in action at the United Center on January 4, 2025, as they take on their opponents in an exhilarating NBA game. For hockey fans, the Chicago Blackhawks will be playing...

As you step into the vibrant city of Chicago in January 2025, you're greeted with a plethora of activities that cater to every interest, from sports and outdoor adventures to art, culture, and delicious food experiences.

To kick off the new year, consider participating in the Grit Endurance: New Year’s Day Fun Run at Palmer Square Park on January 1. This free public event, hosted by a local triathlon training team, includes a fun run followed by doughnuts, coffee, and socializing. For those who prefer a more leisurely start, the Forest Preserve District of Cook County is hosting a Ne...

Chicago, a city known for its vibrant culture, rich history, and diverse activities, offers a plethora of exciting and unique things to do that cater to all interests. As we approach the end of 2024, here are some fun, entertaining, and interesting activities to consider.

For those looking to immerse themselves in the holiday spirit, Christkindlmarket in Daley Plaza is a must-visit. Inspired by traditional German Christmas markets, this event features artisan vendors offering handcrafted gifts, authentic German food and beverages, and live entertainment. You can enjoy mulled wine in one of the market’s iconic souvenir mugs and so...

Chicago, known for its vibrant culture, rich history, and diverse activities, offers a plethora of exciting and unique things to do, making it an ideal destination for tourists and locals alike.

For those looking to enjoy the winter season, ice skating is a must-try activity. The McCormick Tribune Ice Rink in Millennium Park is a cherished tradition, offering a picturesque skating experience with the city's skyline as a backdrop. Another option is the Skating Ribbon at Maggie Daley Park, a curvy and scenic ice-skating rink that guides you through the park with spectacular views of Lake Michigan. This...

Chicago, known as the Windy City, is a vibrant and diverse metropolis that offers a plethora of activities for tourists and locals alike. As of December 21, 2024, here are some fun, entertaining, and unique things to do in Chicago.

For music enthusiasts, Chicago is a paradise. The city is home to the famous Green Mill Jazz Club, a historic venue that has been hosting jazz performances since 1907. Catch a live jazz set here, especially during the weekends when local and international musicians take the stage. If you're in town this week, check out the holiday concerts at the Chicago...

Chicago, during the holiday season, is a vibrant and festive destination that offers a wide array of activities and attractions that cater to all interests. For those visiting around December 18, 2024, here are some exciting and unique things to do:

Start your holiday adventure at Christkindlmarket in Daley Plaza, a traditional German Christmas market that features unique holiday gifts, authentic German food, and warm beverages like spiced wine (Gluhwein). This market, inspired by the German Christmas markets, offers a charming atmosphere with wooden stalls, live entertainment, and a perfect setting for holiday shopping or simply enjoying a winter day...

Chicago, in the heart of the Midwest, transforms into a vibrant and festive destination during the holiday season, offering a plethora of activities that cater to all interests. For tourists and locals alike, here are some of the most fun, entertaining, and unique things to do in Chicago, especially around this time of year.

If you are looking for magical multi-sensory holiday experiences, Chicago’s light shows are a must-visit. The Chicago Botanic Garden’s Lightscape, running until January 7, 2024, is a standout event that features a trail of twinkling lights, cutting-edge light art installations, and festive cheer. Another high...

Chicago, during the holiday season, is a vibrant and festive destination that offers a myriad of activities and attractions that cater to all interests. For those visiting this week, here are some exciting and unique things to do.

If you're looking for a magical holiday experience, consider visiting the Chicago Botanic Garden's Lightscape, which runs until January 7, 2024. This event features a trail of twinkling lights, cutting-edge light art installations, and festive music, creating a world of light, color, and sound. Another similar attraction is Morton Arboretum’s Illumination: Tree Lights, where you can walk through 50 acres of beautifully li...

Chicago, known for its vibrant culture, rich history, and diverse activities, is a treasure trove of experiences for tourists and locals alike. As the holiday season is in full swing, there are numerous festive and unique things to do in the city.

For a magical holiday experience, visit the Winterland attraction at Navy Pier, open from November 22, 2024, to January 5, 2025. This interactive adventure features high-tech projections, captivating lighting, a giant snow globe, a 16-foot-long Polar Express-themed train, and giant Nutcracker soldiers, making it perfect for families.

Another holiday highlight is the Polar Express Train Ride at Union...

Chicago in December is a vibrant and festive destination, offering a plethora of activities that cater to all interests and ages. For those looking to immerse themselves in the holiday spirit, a visit to the Christkindlmarket is a must. Inspired by traditional German Christmas markets, Christkindlmarket at Daley Plaza and Wrigleyville transforms these areas into bustling holiday markets filled with the smells of roasted nuts, hot pretzels, and mulled wine. Here, you can explore artisan vendors offering handcrafted gifts, savor authentic German food and beverages, and enjoy live entertainment until December 24th[2][3][5].

Ice skating is another quintessential winter...

Chicago in November is a vibrant and festive destination, offering a wide array of activities that cater to various interests, from music and art to outdoor adventures and cultural experiences.

For those interested in music, the Candlelight Concerts series is a must-attend. This November, you can enjoy tributes to Taylor Swift, Beyoncé, U2, and Queen, among other performances, all set in beautifully candlelit venues. For instance, a Tribute to Beyoncé at the Music Box Theatre or The Best of Hans Zimmer are just a few of the concerts scheduled for this month.

If you're looking for un...

Chicago in November is a vibrant and festive city, offering a plethora of activities that cater to various interests, from music and sports to art, outdoor adventures, and cultural experiences.

For music enthusiasts, the Candlelight Concerts series is a must-attend. This November, you can enjoy tributes to Taylor Swift, Beyoncé, U2, and Queen, among other performances, all set in beautifully candlelit venues. For instance, a Tribute to Beyoncé at the Music Box Theatre and a Tribute to U2 are scheduled, providing an intimate and enchanting musical experience[1].

If you're looking for unique outdoor activities, taking an Ar...

Chicago in November is a vibrant and festive time, offering a plethora of activities that cater to various interests, from music and art to outdoor adventures and cultural experiences.

For those visiting this week, the Magnificent Mile Lights Festival is a must-attend event, taking place on November 23, 2024. This annual festival transforms Michigan Avenue into a magical spectacle with over one million lights, festive floats, and performances. The event includes a tree lighting ceremony, marching bands, and a visit from Santa Claus, making it a perfect activity for families and holiday enthusiasts.

Another significant event happening around...

Chicago in November is a vibrant and festive city, offering a plethora of activities that cater to all interests, from holiday celebrations and cultural events to outdoor adventures and unique experiences.

For those looking to kick off the holiday season, the Magnificent Mile Lights Festival is a must-attend event. Taking place on November 23, 2024, this festival transforms Michigan Avenue into a dazzling spectacle with over 200 trees lit up, festive floats, and performances. The event includes a Tree Lighting Parade, music, and a visit from Santa Claus, making it a perfect family outing[2][3][4].

Another iconic holiday event is...

As the autumn leaves fade and the holiday season begins to unfold, Chicago transforms into a vibrant and festive destination, offering a myriad of activities that cater to all interests. Here are some of the most fun, entertaining, and unique things to do in Chicago this November.

For those who love the outdoors and festive atmosphere, the Magnificent Mile Lights Festival is a must-attend event. Taking place on November 23, 2024, this festival features a parade with marching bands, festive floats, and the lighting of over one million lights along Michigan Avenue. The event includes a visit from Santa Claus...

Chicago in November is a vibrant and festive city, offering a diverse array of activities that cater to various interests, from holiday celebrations and outdoor adventures to cultural events and unique experiences.

For those looking to get into the holiday spirit, the Magnificent Mile Lights Festival is a must-attend event. Taking place on November 23rd, this festival features a parade with marching bands, festive floats, and the lighting of over one million lights along Michigan Avenue. The event includes a visit from Santa Claus, music performances, and a spectacular fireworks display. You can also explore the heavily discounted...