Things to Do in Chicago
Discover the best activities, tours, and events in Chicago. Filter by family-friendly, nightlife, outdoors, and more.
Featured Activities
Top-rated activities and experiences in Chicago

Miscellaneous
Balloon Museum | EmotionAir - Art You Can Feel - Chicago
Fri, Oct 2, 2026
Balloon Museum brings EmotionAir to Chicago for the very first time, transforming The Fields Studios into a space where art, inflatables, and emotions collide. This interactive exhibition invites all ages to explore air as both a physical and symbolic medium, featuring large-scale installations, light displays, and hands-on artworks for an unforgettable experience. For more information, please see our FAQ.

Miscellaneous
Balloon Museum | EmotionAir - Art You Can Feel - Chicago
Fri, Oct 2, 2026
Balloon Museum brings EmotionAir to Chicago for the very first time, transforming The Fields Studios into a space where art, inflatables, and emotions collide. This interactive exhibition invites all ages to explore air as both a physical and symbolic medium, featuring large-scale installations, light displays, and hands-on artworks for an unforgettable experience. For more information, please see our FAQ.

Miscellaneous
Balloon Museum | EmotionAir - Art You Can Feel - Chicago
Fri, Oct 2, 2026
Balloon Museum brings EmotionAir to Chicago for the very first time, transforming The Fields Studios into a space where art, inflatables, and emotions collide. This interactive exhibition invites all ages to explore air as both a physical and symbolic medium, featuring large-scale installations, light displays, and hands-on artworks for an unforgettable experience. For more information, please see our FAQ.

Miscellaneous
Balloon Museum | EmotionAir - Art You Can Feel - Chicago
Fri, Oct 2, 2026
Balloon Museum brings EmotionAir to Chicago for the very first time, transforming The Fields Studios into a space where art, inflatables, and emotions collide. This interactive exhibition invites all ages to explore air as both a physical and symbolic medium, featuring large-scale installations, light displays, and hands-on artworks for an unforgettable experience. For more information, please see our FAQ.

Miscellaneous
Balloon Museum | EmotionAir - Art You Can Feel - Chicago
Fri, Oct 2, 2026
Balloon Museum brings EmotionAir to Chicago for the very first time, transforming The Fields Studios into a space where art, inflatables, and emotions collide. This interactive exhibition invites all ages to explore air as both a physical and symbolic medium, featuring large-scale installations, light displays, and hands-on artworks for an unforgettable experience. For more information, please see our FAQ.

Miscellaneous
Balloon Museum | EmotionAir - Art You Can Feel - Chicago
Fri, Oct 2, 2026
Balloon Museum brings EmotionAir to Chicago for the very first time, transforming The Fields Studios into a space where art, inflatables, and emotions collide. This interactive exhibition invites all ages to explore air as both a physical and symbolic medium, featuring large-scale installations, light displays, and hands-on artworks for an unforgettable experience. For more information, please see our FAQ.

Miscellaneous
Balloon Museum | EmotionAir - Art You Can Feel - Chicago
Fri, Oct 2, 2026
Balloon Museum brings EmotionAir to Chicago for the very first time, transforming The Fields Studios into a space where art, inflatables, and emotions collide. This interactive exhibition invites all ages to explore air as both a physical and symbolic medium, featuring large-scale installations, light displays, and hands-on artworks for an unforgettable experience. For more information, please see our FAQ.

Live Music

Miscellaneous
Balloon Museum | EmotionAir - Art You Can Feel - Chicago
Fri, Oct 2, 2026
Balloon Museum brings EmotionAir to Chicago for the very first time, transforming The Fields Studios into a space where art, inflatables, and emotions collide. This interactive exhibition invites all ages to explore air as both a physical and symbolic medium, featuring large-scale installations, light displays, and hands-on artworks for an unforgettable experience. For more information, please see our FAQ.

Miscellaneous
Balloon Museum | EmotionAir - Art You Can Feel - Chicago
Fri, Oct 2, 2026
Balloon Museum brings EmotionAir to Chicago for the very first time, transforming The Fields Studios into a space where art, inflatables, and emotions collide. This interactive exhibition invites all ages to explore air as both a physical and symbolic medium, featuring large-scale installations, light displays, and hands-on artworks for an unforgettable experience. For more information, please see our FAQ.

Miscellaneous
Balloon Museum | EmotionAir - Art You Can Feel - Chicago
Fri, Oct 2, 2026
Balloon Museum brings EmotionAir to Chicago for the very first time, transforming The Fields Studios into a space where art, inflatables, and emotions collide. This interactive exhibition invites all ages to explore air as both a physical and symbolic medium, featuring large-scale installations, light displays, and hands-on artworks for an unforgettable experience. For more information, please see our FAQ.

Miscellaneous
Balloon Museum | EmotionAir - Art You Can Feel - Chicago
Fri, Oct 2, 2026
Balloon Museum brings EmotionAir to Chicago for the very first time, transforming The Fields Studios into a space where art, inflatables, and emotions collide. This interactive exhibition invites all ages to explore air as both a physical and symbolic medium, featuring large-scale installations, light displays, and hands-on artworks for an unforgettable experience. For more information, please see our FAQ.

Miscellaneous
Balloon Museum | EmotionAir - Art You Can Feel - Chicago
Fri, Oct 2, 2026
Balloon Museum brings EmotionAir to Chicago for the very first time, transforming The Fields Studios into a space where art, inflatables, and emotions collide. This interactive exhibition invites all ages to explore air as both a physical and symbolic medium, featuring large-scale installations, light displays, and hands-on artworks for an unforgettable experience. For more information, please see our FAQ.

Miscellaneous
Balloon Museum | EmotionAir - Art You Can Feel - Chicago
Fri, Oct 2, 2026
Balloon Museum brings EmotionAir to Chicago for the very first time, transforming The Fields Studios into a space where art, inflatables, and emotions collide. This interactive exhibition invites all ages to explore air as both a physical and symbolic medium, featuring large-scale installations, light displays, and hands-on artworks for an unforgettable experience. For more information, please see our FAQ.

Miscellaneous
Balloon Museum | EmotionAir - Art You Can Feel - Chicago
Fri, Oct 2, 2026
Balloon Museum brings EmotionAir to Chicago for the very first time, transforming The Fields Studios into a space where art, inflatables, and emotions collide. This interactive exhibition invites all ages to explore air as both a physical and symbolic medium, featuring large-scale installations, light displays, and hands-on artworks for an unforgettable experience. For more information, please see our FAQ.
Activities
Local attractions, tours and experiences in Chicago

Day Trips, Family Friendly, Guided Tours, Romantic, Wheelchair Accessible
Go City - Chicago All-Inclusive Pass - Up to 5 Days of Access to 30+ Attractions
Offering admission to as many as 30+ attractions and tours, the Chicago All-Inclusive Pass by Go City, is the perfect way to save while ensuring you see the best of the Windy City. Take advantage of free general admission to the most popular sights and tours, for one low price. Your All-Inclusive Pass is your key to this fascinating city - opening doors to such highlights as Adler Planetarium, Field Museum, Shedd Aquarium and the Griffin Museum of Science and Industry. Get your cultural fix at the Museum of Contemporary Art and the Chicago History Museum. Get above it all at 360 Chicago and the Willis Tower Sky Deck or entertain the little ones at the Chicago Children's Museum. Get around with ease with a 1-Day Hop-On Hop-Off Big Bus tour, and numerous other tours. Other attractions on offer include the Frederick C. Robie House, Architectual River Cruise and Lake Tour, Navy Pier Ferris Wheel and Rides and much more! With your pass, you’ll also get a free digital app to help you plan your trip of a lifetime! Additional attractions include the Lakefront Speedboat Tour, Museum of Illusions Chicago, Flyover in Chicago and more! *Savings based on sample itineraries on the Go City website. Important information - There may be restrictions
• Some of the attractions will require a booking made in advance. Check the included digital guide here or the app for more information and the full list of attractions included.

Family Friendly, Guided Tours, History, Museums, Romantic, Wheelchair Accessible
The Field Museum
Delve into one of the largest natural history museums in the world: The Field Museum in Chicago. This vast museum maintains its status as a premier natural history because of its impressive size and the high quality of the educational and scientific programs, as well as the fascinating exhibitions, extensive scientific specimen and artefact collections. Enjoy the amazing and exclusive exhibitions that attract up to two million visitors per year. They include a range of the world’s earliest fossils and exhibits on past and current culture from around the world, as well as interactive programming which demonstrates today’s urgent and important conservation needs. You will enrich your knowledge as you discover the professionally maintained collections of over 24 million specimen and the objects that provide the basis for the museum’s invaluable scientific research programs. Walk around and admire the full range of beautiful gems and the rich anthropological collections, as well as fascinating cultural artefacts from across the globe. Enjoy the exhibitions which portray the story of life on earth and solve the scientific mysteries of the world. See the full range of existing biodiversity, meteorites and fossils. From dinosaurs to DNA, take a journey that spans billions of years at Chicago’s field museum. You will love the interactive exhibits and the interesting artefacts. At the Field Museum, visitors of every age will have fun, there is something special about this venue that will catch the attention of people of even those who don’t consider themselves museum lovers. Discovery Pass: Includes general admission to the museum plus one other special exhibition currently running. All Access Pass: Includes general admission to the museum plus entrance into all special exhibitions currently open on the date of visit plus entrance to the 3D theater show. *3D theater tickets are subject to availability, so guests are encouraged to secure their 3D ticket upon arrival. End or closing time: At 5pm. Last admission into a special exhibition is 3:30pm. Others: Closed on Christmas day. Inclusions: Tickets Important Info: N/A Redeem Info: VOCUHERLESS - Printed voucher or E-voucher. Print and bring the voucher or show the voucher on your mobile device to enjoy the activity.

Boat Tours, Guided Tours
Chicago Premier Plus Dinner Cruise on the Chicago River
Indulge in an exquisite evening of gourmet dining, dazzling skyline views, and unparalleled entertainment on our Premier Plus Chicago Dinner Cruise . A decadent plated dinner and craft cocktails will delight your palate while captivating panoramas of Chicago’s iconic architecture are marveled at from our glass-enclosed vessel. Awe-inspiring views of landmarks such as the Willis Tower, Navy Pier, and the Old Chicago Post Office can be enjoyed from the comfort of the spacious indoor areas and open-air spaces. This unforgettable experience is complete with a fully stocked cash bar, masterful DJ entertainment, and top-notch service. Make lifelong memories dining and dancing into a spectacular evening on the Chicago River! Inclusions: Plated Dinner, Live Entertainment, Scenic Chicago River Views Inclusions: Dinner Important Info: N/A Redeem Info: VOCUHERLESS - Printed voucher or E-voucher. Print and bring the voucher or show the voucher on your mobile device to enjoy the activity.

Guided Tours, Museums
The Field Museum - Basic Admission
Visit the Field Museum of Natural History, one of Chicago's great museums . With more than 35 world-renowned natural history exhibitions, there's something for everyone. Fuel your passion for discovery with dinosaurs, ancient artifacts, cultural insights, and groundbreaking science. Explore subterranean life in the Underground Adventure exhibit. Admire gemstones in the Hall of Gems and one of the largest collections of Chinese jade in North America in the Hall of Jades. Next, follow the stories of the Ice Age mammoth hunters and the temples of the Inca and Aztecs. Visit the Dinosaur Hall Evolving Planet exhibit to mingle with giant sloths, woolly mammoths, Sue, and Maximo. Inclusions: Entrance fee Important Info: N/A Redeem Info: PRINTED - Printed Voucher. Print and bring the voucher to enjoy the activity.

Boat Tours, Guided Tours
Chicago Premier Dinner Cruise on Lake Michigan
Elevate any occasion with an elegant experience of fine dining and entertainment on our Premier Chicago Dinner Cruise. This upscale evening on Lake Michigan features a chef-prepared plated meal, craft cocktails, and exceptional service. You’ll soak in sweeping views of Chicago’s iconic landmarks, such as Willis Tower and Navy Pier from the comfortable indoor areas and the open-air decks while our live DJ plays all your favorite hits. Whether it’s a date night, a birthday, or a dinner out, join us for an unforgettable evening of dining and dancing on the water! 3-course, chef-plated menu with freshly prepared entrees, salads, and desserts Climate-controlled interior decks Inclusions: Dinner Exclusions: Drinks Important Info: N/A Redeem Info: VOCUHERLESS - Printed voucher or E-voucher. Print and bring the voucher or show the voucher on your mobile device to enjoy the activity.

Guided Tours
Total Chicago: From Architecture to Food - Half-Day Tour
Ready for the ultimate day out in Chicago? Discover the enchantment of Chicago: A journey through history and flavour, where history and culinary delights intertwine. Explore the city's architectural marvels, a testament to the ambitious spirit of the Prohibition Era, while indulging in its world-renowned cuisine. We start our tour under the dazzling marquee of the Chicago Theatre. We’ll then head towards the Chicago Pedway. This unique feature of Chicago is used by locals and commuters daily to move about the city in a network of underground tunnels. We will pass by the City Hall-County building, commonly known as City Hall, which houses the seats of government of the City of Chicago and Cook County. Next, we’ll make our way to a spot where we’ll share a sweet treat, and a local tradition: Chicago-style popcorn. Weather permitting, we’ll take a stroll along the Chicago Riverwalk while taking in views of several soaring buildings, including Marina Towers. We’ll end up in the picturesque Millennium Park, home to the iconic Bean sculpture. We hope you’ve built up a good appetite by now because we’re on our way to an unforgettable food experience. Your food tour starts with a very well-known Chicago fare: the Chicago-style hot dog. Every Chicagoan has his or her own preference as to how the dog should be made, and you’ll get a chance to try your guides’ favourite version. Next up is the world-famous Chicago deep-dish pizza! An entire meal unto itself, this staple of the Chicago food scene originated in River North in the 1940s, when workers and families needed filling dishes at low prices. Your guide will take you to a pizza place that’s an icon for Chicago natives to try the real deal for yourself. After you’ve filled up on pizza and hot dogs, we’ll then continue our tasting journey with a classic Chicago sandwich: Italian beef. You’ll sample this sandwich in a real Chicago institution — no-frills decor included! Our tour ends here, and your guide will be happy to direct you back to your accommodation or share tips for what else to see and do in the city. Inclusions: Guide 4 food tasting stops. Transport Exclusions: Drinks Hotel pick-up and drop-off Important Info: N/A Redeem Info: PRINTED - Printed Voucher. Print and bring the voucher to enjoy the activity.

Miscellaneous
Chicago CityPASS® - Access to 5 Attractions
Chicago CityPASS® Experience 5 must-see attractions and save up to 49% with Chicago CityPASS® tickets. One simple purchase removes the stress of planning, so you can relax and enjoy your memories in the making. With 9 days to use your tickets, you’ll have plenty of time to explore the top sights. Chicago CityPASS® tickets include one-time admission to 5 attractions.
• Shedd Aquarium - All-access admission, including all exhibits, Animal Spotlights and seasonal Stingray Touch, plus a 4-D Experience (subject to availability)

Guided Tours
Premier Plus Architectural Lunch Cruise on the Chicago River
Fine dining and unrivaled skyline views await from the moment you step aboard our Premier Plus Chicago Lunch Cruise. A selection of delectable plated lunch specials and craft cocktails will delight your palate while captivating panoramas of Chicago’s iconic architecture are marveled at from our glass-enclosed vessel. Breathtaking views of landmarks such as the Willis Tower, Navy Pier, and the Old Chicago Post Office can be enjoyed from the comfortable interior or the open-air spaces. This upscale experience on the Chicago River is complete with light architectural narration, masterful DJ entertainment, and top-notch service. Set sail for an awe-inspiring dining experience!

Guided Tours
Chicago Night Crime - Guided Bus Tour
Light up the night on this longer version of the Chicago Crime Tour with more stops on-and-off the bus . Explore true crime, gangster and mob history through 6 different neighborhoods. Capture Chicago architecture illuminated by the Windy City skyline and the Biograph Theater marquee lights. Your tour guide will inform you about gangster and true crime history through stories about the likes of Al Capone, John Dillinger, Bugs Moran, and Hymie Weiss. Visit famous historic crime scenes. You'll even explore some of them on foot, including the final steps of Chicago's most famous bank robber . Visit landmark buildings such as the Biograph Theater, Holy Name Cathedral and Harry Caray’s Italian Steakhouse . Tour famous Chicago neighborhoods: Streeterville, River North, Gold Coast, Lincoln Park, Old Town, Loop, and Magnificent Mile . Make your trip to Chicago shine with this night tour!

Guided Tours
Chicago Culture and Architecture
Chicago is known as one of the most architecturally striking and culturally dynamic cities in the United States. Join us on a tour of some of Chicago’s greatest hits: incredible architecture both old and new, delicious local treats, a uniquely Chicago transit ride, stunning river views, and much more! We start our tour under the dazzling marquee of the Chicago Theater (where you might recognize the neon sign from the movie musical Chicago) before heading off into the bustling city. Our first stop is inside one of the best-preserved spaces built for shopping in Chicago, featuring an unforgettable atrium at its core. We’ll then head towards the Chicago Pedway. This unique feature of Chicago is used by locals and commuters daily to move about the city in a network of underground tunnels — especially necessary during the Midwest winters. We’ll head back above-ground near City Hall, and on most weekdays, be able to head inside to see the classic interior design and architecture. Next, we’ll make our way to a spot where we’ll share a sweet treat, and a local tradition: Chicago-style popcorn. Weather permitting, we’ll take a stroll along the Chicago Riverwalk while taking in views of several soaring buildings, including Marina Towers, the Britannica Building, and the Sears Tower (now known as the Willis Tower). From there, we’ll either hop on the ‘L’ train or a water taxi on the Chicago River (depending on the weather and time of year). Either option offers a uniquely local Chicago experience! The ‘L’ train is recognized as a Chicago landmark having been featured in movies and TV shows for decades. You’ll enjoy feeling like a local as you zip past buildings and catch even more awesome views. If your guide takes you on a water taxi, you’ll be seeing the Chicago skyline from a totally different perspective, as well as sharing in the daily commute of local Chicagoans late for work. Once you’re back on solid ground, we’ll make our way to another delicious destination. Along the way, you’ll be able to enjoy views of the world-famous Wrigley Building and the incredible Chicago Tribune building, the heart of Chicago’s thriving and historic journalism industry. We’ll end up in the picturesque Millennium Park, home to the iconic Bean sculpture. Here (or nearby), your guide will conclude your tour and point you in the right direction toward more amazing sights, great lunch spots, or a drink recommendation inside one of the most amazing spaces in the city. Important information - There may be restrictions Please note that the Bean sculpture is under construction until Spring 2024 and views will be limited. Inclusions: Popcorn Water taxi ticket Metro Ticket Guide Important Info: N/A Redeem Info: PRINTED - Printed Voucher. Print and bring the voucher to enjoy the activity.

Boat Tours, Guided Tours
Chicago Signature Bottomless Mimosa Brunch Cruise on Lake Michigan
Set sail for a memorable experience on Lake Michigan with a Signature Chicago Brunch Cruise that is as scenic as it is delicious! You'll savor a chef-prepared buffet and bottomless mimosas while in our comfortable indoor areas. Marvel at unparalleled views of Chicago’s iconic landmarks, such as Willis Tower and Navy Pier from inside or enjoy fresh breezes on the open-air decks. This fun-filled dining experience for all ages is complete with lively DJ entertainment, dancing, games, and a fully stocked cash bar. Elevate your weekend plans with a one-of-a-kind brunch on the water! Unlimited mimosas Freshly prepared entrees, salads and desserts Unlimited coffee, hot tea, iced tea and water. Inclusions: Brunch Buffet Unlimited mimosas Live DJ entertainment Scenic Lake Michigan views Inclusions: Meal Important Info: N/A Redeem Info: VOCUHERLESS - Printed voucher or E-voucher. Print and bring the voucher or show the voucher on your mobile device to enjoy the activity.

Guided Tours
Chicago Food Tour
Your Chicago food tour will take you through the River North neighborhood — the original Chicago foodie destination — to sample some world-famous Chicago dishes, local favorites and a sweet treat. It’s an afternoon that will leave you full of delicious food and memories for a lifetime! We start with a very well-known Chicago dish: the Chicago-style hot dog. Perfect for summers at a baseball game (cheering on the Cubs or Sox of course), or for a quick lunch on a work day, this local take on a hot dog is a debate-worthy food in Chicago and is taken very seriously by locals. Every Chicagoan has his or her own preference as to how the dog should be made, and you’ll get a chance to try your guide's favorite version. Next up is the world-famous Chicago deep-dish pizza! An entire meal unto itself, this staple of the Chicago food scene originated in River North in the 1940s when workers and families needed filling dishes at low prices. Your guide will take you to a pizza place that’s an icon to Chicago natives to try the real deal for yourself. After you’ve filled up on pizza and hot dogs, we’ll take a stroll through two more establishments, each one essential when it comes to Chicago’s food culture. One is a sight to behold. This uniquely Midwest phenomenon is filled to the brim with kitsch and 1950s retro love, and you have to see it to believe it. The other stop is a restaurant born in Chicago and recognized by nearly everyone on earth. This location is something special, with impeccable design elements, a live vertical garden, solar panels and a beautiful atrium. We’ll then continue our tasting journey with a classic Chicago sandwich: Italian beef. This hearty meal came about during the Depression, and it’s here to stay. You’ll sample this sandwich in a real city institution — no-frills decor included! Finally, it’s time for something sweet inside a truly local hangout. Your guide will show you to one of the oldest establishments in the city — either a classic Italian restaurant or a local watering hole with deep Prohibition roots. Here, you’ll enjoy a dessert with the opportunity to relax and purchase a beverage of your choice. We’ll conclude your Chicago foodie experience here, with easy access to the ‘L’. Even if you say you’ll never be hungry again, don’t forget to note some great dinner recommendations from you guide. You won’t regret it! Inclusions: Food and local products tasting. Guide Exclusions: Meal Drinks Important Info: N/A Redeem Info: PRINTED - Printed Voucher. Print and bring the voucher to enjoy the activity.

Guided Tours
SmartSIM USA - eSIM All Access Pass
The SmartSIM USA eSIM All Access Pass provides a fast, convenient, reliable, worry-free and economical way to connect your data, tether up to 5 devices and make and receive local calls whilst in the United States, with unlimited talk, text and data plans from just $
3. 60 USD or less per day. That’s 55% or more off regular airtime rates. eSIM All Access Pass Includes: SmartSIM USA eSIM setup, provisioning & line activation. ALL Taxes & fees included. No Hidden charges ever! eSIMs work with any unlocked GSM & eSIM compatible smartphone Device compatibility check With the eSIM All Access PassTM by SmartSIM USA, as long as you own your device, you will never need to order another SIM or eSIM again for access to any of our VIP preferred rate plans- Unlimited Access to VIP Preferred Rate Plans - Access to 55% or more, off retail airtime rates (Regularly $

Guided Tours, Hop On Hop Off
AAA/CAA Member: Big Bus Chicago Hop-On Hop-Off Tour
With the freedom to get on and off as many times as you can manage, you can easily make your way along to all of the top attractions without the need to be floating up and down getting lost. The stops are seemingly perfectly located to make sure you make the most of the city without needing to walk out. Be wowed by the world-class Art Institute, which is jam-packed with pieces that’ll stay in your mind for quite some time afterward. You could decide to brace it and get a 360-degree view from the observation deck from the legendary John Hancock Center. As you listen to the commentary, you’ll come to know about the rich history hidden behind every nook and cranny. If you pick the Explore ticket, you can also go along for a Sunset Live Tour of Chicago. The Discover Ticket includes:
• Red Loop - 1 calendar day, Hop-On Hop-Off The Essential Ticket includes:

Guided Tours, Hop On Hop Off
Special Discount Offer: Big Bus Chicago Hop-On Hop-Off Tour
With the freedom to get on and off as many times as you can manage, you can easily make your way along to all of the top attractions without the need to be floating up and down getting lost. The stops are seemingly perfectly located to make sure you make the most of the city without needing to walk out. Be wowed by the world-class Art Institute, which is jam-packed with pieces that’ll stay in your mind for quite some time afterward. You could decide to brace it and get a 360-degree view from the observation deck from the legendary John Hancock Center. As you listen to the commentary, you’ll come to know about the rich history hidden behind every nook and cranny. If you pick the Explore ticket, you can also go along for a Sunset Live Tour of Chicago. The Discover Ticket includes:
• Red Loop - 1 calendar day, Hop-On Hop-Off The Essential Ticket includes:
Upcoming Festivals in Chicago
Frequently Asked Questions about Chicago
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