Things to Do in Chicago
Discover the best activities, tours, and events in Chicago. Filter by family-friendly, nightlife, outdoors, and more.
⭐ Featured in Chicago
Hand-picked experiences from local operators

family-friendly
Official Museum of Ice Cream - Chicago
Step into the Museum of Ice Cream, a world of 14+ immersive playscapes, unlimited ice cream treats, and one-of-a-kind desserts you won't find anywhere else. Dive into the iconic Sprinkle Pool, explore bold and colorful rooms, and create memories that last a lifetime. The sweetest adventure for the whole family is waiting. Book your tickets today.
Featured Activities
Top-rated activities and experiences in Chicago

Miscellaneous
Balloon Museum | EmotionAir - Art You Can Feel - Chicago
Wed, Nov 4, 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.

Museums
Kokandy Productions Jekyll & Hyde
Wed, Nov 4, 2026

Miscellaneous
Balloon Museum | EmotionAir - Art You Can Feel - Chicago
Wed, Nov 4, 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
Wed, Nov 4, 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
Wed, Nov 4, 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
Wed, Nov 4, 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
Wed, Nov 4, 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
Wed, Nov 4, 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
Wed, Nov 4, 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
Wed, Nov 4, 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
Wed, Nov 4, 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
Wed, Nov 4, 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
Wed, Nov 4, 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
Wed, Nov 4, 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
Wed, Nov 4, 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.
Holiday Events in Chicago
Parades, parties and seasonal events around the next big holidays in Chicago.
Fall
Veterans Day & Remembrance Day
Nov 9 – Nov 11, 2026
See events
Holiday Season
Christmas & Holiday Season
Nov 20 – Dec 28, 2026
See events
Fall
Thanksgiving
Nov 25 – Nov 29, 2026
See events
Holiday Season
Black Friday & Small Business Saturday
Nov 27 – Nov 29, 2026
See events
Winter
New Year's Eve
Dec 29 – Jan 1, 2027
See events
Winter
Mardi Gras & Carnival
Jan 28 – Feb 9, 2027
See events
Winter
Lunar New Year
Feb 3 – Feb 20, 2027
See events
Winter
Valentine's Day
Feb 11 – Feb 15, 2027
See events
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.

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 Bottomless Mimosa Brunch Cruise on Lake Michigan
Enjoy a picturesque day dining on Lake Michigan with our Premier Chicago Brunch Cruise. You’ll indulge in a chef-prepared buffet meal featuring savory and sweet classics, bottomless mimosas, top-notch service, and breathtaking views of the city skyline, all while our live DJ sets the mood. Capture photos in front of Chicago’s famous landmarks, such as Adler Planetarium and Willis Tower, and soak in the sweeping panoramic views from the comfort of our comfortable indoor spaces and open-air decks. Join us for a spectacular brunch that will not be forgotten. Unlimited mimosas Freshly prepared entrees, salads and desserts Unlimited coffee, hot tea, iced tea and water Guaranteed table for your party size Spectacular views of the Chicago skyline including the Willis Tower and Adler Planetarium Climate-controlled interior decks Inclusions: Meal 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
Downtown Chicago TV and Movie Sites - Walking Tour
Take this walking tour in downtown Chicago and visit sites from Ferris Bueller’s Day Off, The Untouchables, The Dark Knight, The Bear, and more! Visit the infamous theater venue from Public Enemies, where Billie worked at a nightclub reception. Get a glimpse of Harold Washington Library, featured in Ocean’s Eleven. See sites from Ferris Bueller’s Day Off, including the Chicago Board of Trade, the Calder’s Flamingo Statue, the Art Institute of Chicago, and the spot where the parade was filmed. Relive iconic scenes featured in Blues Brothers. Visit Bruce Wayne’s penthouse, the site of Harvey Dent’s fundraiser, and Harvey Dent’s office building, all seen in The Dark Knight Meeting point Buckingham Fountain, 301 S Columbus Drive, Chicago End Point Mr. Beef on Orleans, 666 N Orleans St, Chicago Inclusions: Guide Important Info: N/A Redeem Info: PRINTED - Printed Voucher. Print and bring the voucher to enjoy the activity.

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!

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!

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
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 $

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
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.

Guided Tours, Private Tours
Chicago Tour: The Hopper Heist - City Exploration Game
Play a city game where you will follow clues to discover amazing places and local stories in Chicago. You’ll tour Chicago’s famous Millenium Park and learn about the iconic works of art that populate the area on your way to riches beyond your imagination. Are you up for an adventure in Chicago? Highlights Explore Chicago’s beloved Millenium Park and surrounding campuses Enjoy breathtaking views of the city skyline and Lake Michigan Learn about the artwork and architecture that marked Chicago’s journey from the 20th to the 21st century Storyline You’re an aspiring art thief and you’ve just pulled off your first heist! Now you just need a public place to nonchalantly disappear into… You act casual as you assume the demeanor of just another tourist. No one will know that your messenger bag holds one of the world’s most iconic pieces of 20th century modern art: Edward Hopper’s Nighthawks. If you can avoid attracting heat, you’ll make a cool hand-off, and become wealthy in an instant. Maybe on your walk you’ll even find your next target! Languages Audioguide available in English. How does it work? This quest has 14 challenges. After booking, follow the instructions you receive by e-mail for playing this city game and walking tour. Make sure you download the Questo mobile app from GooglePlay or the Apple App Store. Create a new account inside the Questo app with your email address to begin the game. Please note, in order to play the game, you will need an internet connection. This is a self-guided game type tour. You must be at the starting point (that you'll see in the app) in order to begin, or else the game won’t start. Inclusions: Audioguide Mobile App Mobile App Exclusions: Entrance fee Important Info: Please make sure you answer all the mandatory questions during the booking process and ensure that you have provided your correct email address. Redeem Info: NONE - Voucherless. You don’t need to bring any voucher (digital or printed)!

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
Fireworks Signature Dinner Cruise on Lake Michigan
Elevate your evening with a delicious dinner and jaw-dropping panoramic views of the Navy Pier fireworks display illuminating the Chicago city skyline! On our Fireworks Signature Dinner Cruise on Lake Michigan, a dazzling show of light and color will be the backdrop to a chef-prepared buffet meal, specialty cocktails, live DJ entertainment, and dancing. From the breezy open-air decks and c omfortable indoor spaces, you’ll soak in spectacular views of Chicago’s most famous landmarks , such as the Willis Tower and the Alder Planetarium. A spectacular fireworks dinner on the water awaits! Spectacular views of the Chicago skyline including the Willis Tower and Adler Planetarium. MEETING POINT INSTRUCTIONS: Navy Pier 600 East Grand Avenue. Chicago, IL Board: 45 minutes before cruise time

Guided Tours
Signature Lunch Cruise on Lake Michigan
Upscale dining and unparalleled views make for an elegant afternoon on Lake Michigan with our Premier Chicago Lunch Cruise. You’ll be treated to a chef-prepared plated meal, creative cocktails, and exceptional service while a live DJ sets the mood. Capture photos against the backdrop of Chicago’s famous landmarks, such as Navy Pier and Willis Tower, and soak in the sweeping 360° panoramas from the comfort of our comfortable indoor lounges and open-air decks. Set sail for a most picturesque and unforgettable afternoon dining along the city skyline. Spectacular views of the Chicago skyline including the Willis Tower and Adler Planetarium. MEETING POINT INSTRUCTIONS: Navy Pier 600 East Grand Avenue. Chicago, IL Board: 1 hour before cruise time
Upcoming Festivals in Chicago
Frequently Asked Questions about Chicago
Explore Nearby Cities
Discover things to do in cities near Chicago
Explore by Interest
Find activities and events tailored to your interests in Chicago