Your insider's guide to the best things to do, see, and experience in Chicago.
Chicago Loop Alliance (CLA) recently released its quarter one 2025 State of the Loop report on downtown activity, using a variety of data sources, produced by CLA since July 2020. The report tracks pedestrian and transportation activity, investment, retail, arts and culture, and more. View the quarter one (Jan.-Mar. 2025) State of the Loop report here.
2 MIN READ — Chicago has once again been named the number one metro in the U.S. for corporate relocation and investment by Site Selection Magazine, marking its 12th consecutive year at the top. This ranking—based on project count—highlights the region’s global economic strength, business-friendly environment, and deep talent pool. These competitive advantages are championed worldwide by the Greater Chicagoland Economic Partnership (GCEP)—a collaboration between the city and seven surrounding counties (Cook, DuPage, Kane, Kendall, Lake, McHenry, and Will)—established in 2023 to drive investment and business expansion across the region.
2 MIN READ — Chicago Loop Alliance (CLA) recently released its quarter four 2024 State of the Loop report on downtown activity, using a variety of data sources, produced by CLA since July 2020. The report tracks pedestrian and transportation activity, office workers on-site, retail, arts and culture, investment, and more.
3 MIN READ — Chicago Loop Alliance (CLA) released its quarter three 2024 State of the Loop report on downtown activity, using a variety of data sources, which the organization has produced since July 2020. The report tracks pedestrian activity, hotel occupancy, office workers on-site, arts and culture, multimodal transportation, investment and more.
2 MIN READ – For eight consecutive years, Chicago has claimed the title of Best Big City in the U.S. in Condé Nast Traveler’s Readers’ Choice Awards. Since 2017, Condé Nast Traveler readers have consistently recognized Chicago’s vibrant charm and unparalleled appeal—a true testament to the magic of our city!
1 MIN READ — Chicago Loop Alliance is pleased to announce the Chic Chicago Celebration gathered over 400 key Loop stakeholders and supporters for a glamourous evening honoring the work of the Chicago Loop Alliance Foundation.
It’s always important to fulfill your civic duty. We’ve rounded up everything you need to know for voting in the Loop.
2 MIN READ — Growing up, my Papa shared the story of La Llorona with me—a tale many children in Mexico hear. Maria, in a fit of rage, drowns her children after being abandoned by her husband, and her haunting wails warn children: “Don’t wander alone, or La Llorona will find you.” For years, I viewed Maria as a symbol of fear. But as a mother, I began to ask: What if there’s more to Maria’s story?
March 15, 2026
Chicago’s top-rated architecture boat tour, 90 minutes with expert CAC guides, stunning skyline views, open-air seating, and onboard amenities.
March 21, 2026
Explore Chicago’s haunted past on a nighttime river cruise featuring ghost stories, mob history, and eerie secrets of the Windy City.
April 17, 2026
Chicago River & Lake Michigan cruise with skyline views, iconic landmarks, and engaging guides sharing the city’s history and stories.
April 17, 2026
Experience Chicago at night on a 90-minute river and lake cruise, featuring a glittering skyline, cool breezes, and lively, family-friendly commentary.
April 22, 2026
Directed by Andrew Scoville. Co-created by Academy, Grammy, and Tony Award-winning artist David Byrne* and writer Mala Gaonkar, Theater of the Mind is a new theatrical…
May 23, 2026 | 8:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Cruise from the Chicago Riverwalk to Lake Michigan for skyline views and a 3D-enhanced fireworks show with music and narration.
June 1, 2026
Let your creative potential shine this summer with a class at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago, with options available for kids, teens and…
July 11, 2026
Cruise Chicago’s waterways with your dog. Pet friendly, scenic, and fun. Available July to October every Saturday and Sunday for pups of all sizes.
August 26, 2026 | 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Taste of Greektown comes early to Renaissance! Featuring a special evening celebrating local Mediterranean heritage with an artisanal mezze spread…
