Your insider's guide to the best things to do, see, and experience in Chicago.
5 MINUTE READ — When the curtain rises in the Loop, more than a show gets underway. Every theater, museum, gallery and festival that opens its doors sets a downtown economy in motion. Chicago Loop Alliance, the city’s Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events and World Business Chicago released the final Arts and Culture …
5 MIN READ — Big things are on the horizon for the Loop! From brand-new storefronts to exciting expansions, a wave of businesses is set to open their doors. Here’s a sneak peek at what’s coming soon to the heart of Chicago in 2026.
5 MINUTE READ — New investment and exciting events continued in the loop in third quarter: ten new businesses opened, the first residential conversion in the LaSalle corridor was completed, and Morningstar led an uptick in office leasing with a major commitment at the Thompson Center. To learn more about what happened in Q3 of …
5-MINUTE READ — Fall has arrived in the Loop, bringing a fresh lineup of ways to experience downtown Chicago. As the season changes, the neighborhood comes alive with art, culture, entertainment and plenty of reasons to get out and explore. From new experiences to annual fall favorites, here’s your guide to making the most of …
5-MINUTE READ — Looking for ways to make the most of September? Fall is here, and there’s no better place to experience the season than the Loop. From festivals and live performances to cultural experiences and more, we’ve rounded up some of the best ways to explore, experience, and enjoy the Loop this month. September …
5 MIN READ — The Weather Bell has been a long-standing landmark in the Loop for 75 years. Now it’s being restored for a different era. So, what is the Loop Weather Bell, and what makes it so iconic? On the northwest corner of the Rector Building at 79 W. Monroe sits the iconic weather …
5 MINUTE READ — Meet Tom Liravongsa, better known as The Skyscraper Guy, and discover how he’s helping restore Chicago’s iconic Pittsfield Building while sharing the stories that keep the city’s architectural history alive. From Medical Offices to Modern Living The Pittsfield Building, one of Chicago’s most iconic skyscrapers, is entering a new and exciting …
5 MIN READ — Chicago Loop Alliance (CLA) recently released its quarter two 2026 State of the Loop report. CLA has produced reports on downtown activity since July 2020, using a variety of data sources, tracking pedestrian and transportation activity, investment, retail, arts and culture, and more. View the quarter two (Apr.-June 2026) State of …
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.
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…
September 4, 2026
Experience Jaw-Dropping Magic. Enter through the doors at 50 West Randolph to discover a hidden world where the impossible becomes…
November 10, 2026
The original Broadway sensation returns to the road! Celebrating 20 years – Jersey style!
November 13, 2026
Nov 13 - Dec 31, 2026 Charles Dickens' A CHRISTMAS CAROL Adapted by Tom Creamer Directed by Malkia Stampley “I…
November 13, 2026
Discover “The Roots of Kindness,” a new permanent exhibit at Kohl Children’s Museum opening October 27! The exhibit is included with museum admission and membership.
November 13, 2026 | 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Pulitzer on the Road come to the Harold Washington Library Center this fall. Opening October 14, the traveling exhibition will highlight the history and significance of the Pulitzer Prizes, the highest honor in American journalism, and one of the most prestigious in books, drama and music.
