Your insider's guide to the best things to do, see, and experience in Chicago.
6 MIN READ – Summers are fleeting in Chicago, only to give way to our brutal winters, so get out and enjoy the weather while it lasts. Do everything on your summer bucket list, like listening to live music, going on a bike ride, swimming, seeing art at a museum, and visiting the Chicago Loop’s …
5 MIN READ — Celebrating its 101st season, Goodman Theatre announces 12 productions in the 2026-2027 programming. From the genre- defying the 7 Fingers to Green Day’s generation-defining hit musical. Read the full lineup below. In the Albert Theatre (856 -seat proscenium stage) The Attic September 5 – October 5 | A World Premiere From …
Chicago’s legendary food festival returns to Grant Park July 8-12, with five days of free concerts, diverse local cuisine and family-friendly programming along the iconic lakefront. Read the full details here.
5 MIN READ — This month for our People of the Loop series, we caught up with Alex Linardos — better known to many as “Mr. South Loop.” The Chicago-based content creator took us around the Loop to share his favorite hidden gems, insider tips, and what makes downtown Chicago such a special place to live, work, and explore. From local recommendations to his perspective on the neighborhood’s energy and growth, Alex gives an inside look at why the Loop continues to inspire him. Read the full Q&A below, and don’t forget to check out the video feature on our social channels.
5 MIN READ — The Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE) announces the return of the Millenium Park Summer Workouts, Summer Music Series and Summer Film Series. Running May through August, these signature free programs bring world-class performances, fan-favorite films and energizing fitness experiences all in the heart of the Loop.
5 MIN READ – Celebrate this Mother’s Day in the Loop. Go out to brunch and drink specialty cocktails. Appreciate the spring weather with a boat ride on the Chicago River. For a scenic view, dine at a rooftop bar. To relax, rejuvenate at the spa. Give gifts, sweet treats, and floral arrangements. Regardless of how you spend your day downtown in the Loop, you will bond with Mom, and that’s all that matters.
Want to know where to go for Cinco de Mayo? The Chicago Loop has fantastic specials for the celebration of the May 5 holiday honoring the Mexican army’s victory over France at the battle of Puebla in 1862. Sneak in a siesta before you fiesta, and enjoy some of the hottest deals in town.
3 MIN READ – Take your night to a whole new level at one of the Chicago Loop’s finest rooftop bars, offering some of the best views in the city.
March 14, 2026
Chicago’s top-rated architecture boat tour, 90 minutes with expert CAC guides, stunning skyline views, open-air seating, and onboard amenities.
March 20, 2026
Explore Chicago’s haunted past on a nighttime river cruise featuring ghost stories, mob history, and eerie secrets of the Windy City.
April 16, 2026
Chicago River & Lake Michigan cruise with skyline views, iconic landmarks, and engaging guides sharing the city’s history and stories.
April 16, 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 21, 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 | 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Cruise from the Chicago Riverwalk to Lake Michigan for skyline views and a 3D-enhanced fireworks show with music and narration.
May 31, 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…
June 5, 2026
From June 6th until July 5th, the phenomenal Champions of Magic bring their acclaimed illusion spectacular to Chicago. Featuring their biggest illusions ever, experience the Broadway-scale…
June 19, 2026
MUSIC BY MARK HOLLMANNLYRICS BY MARK HOLLMANN AND JAY REISSBOOK BY ERIN QUINN PURCELL AND JAY REISSDIRECTED BY MARC BRUNISTARRING…
