20 Amazing Things To Do In Chicago Today

1. Explore The Riverwalk

The Riverwalk runs alongside the beautiful Chicago River. It is a 1.25-mile long path that makes for a great leisure walk with stunning views of the iconic architecture of the city. The entire path is adorned with art installations and historical markers.

These displays can be explored to get a taste of the cultural heritage of Chicago. Lined along the Riverwalk are cozy cafes where you can stop by for a drink. During this time you can enjoy the peaceful surroundings and watch the boats floating by.

Meanwhile, to add adventure, you can rent a kayak and paddle through the peaceful waters. Alternatively, you can choose a boat ride for a relaxed experience. Views from the river give you a unique perspective of the city making its visit one of the important things to do in Chicago city.

2. Become A Part Of Dale Plaza Festival

Dale Plaza is located in the center of downtown Chicago. It is the most lively public space where you can spend an afternoon or a whole day enjoying various things to do in Chicago downtown. Adding more vibrance to its everyday atmosphere, the Dale Plaza is currently hosting a special event.

This event is named Celebrating Chicago At Dale Plaza and will last until August 23rd. It is focused on highlighting the city's diverse dining and cultural scene. Throughout the event, a food truck fest, a vintage market, and a farmers market are going to be organized in Dale Plaza.

3. Attend Into Action 2024 Art Festival

Another ongoing event in Chicago is Into Action 2024. It is an art festival that is going to end on August 22. This art festival was organized to bring artists, community leaders, and activists together from all around the county.

A display of 200 curated pieces of art designed to inspire people to vote is the major highlight of the festival. However, the festival is not affiliated with or influenced by any political party but is rather focused on educating people about the importance of their votes in elections.

Apart from displays of art pieces, this festival also includes visual exhibitions, a collection of performances, DJ sets, and provocative conversations with notable cultural leaders. Into Action 2024 is a one-of-a-kind festival that is free for the public with an RSVP.

4. Taste Local Food During Chicago Latin Restaurant Festival

For food enthusiasts, the Chicago Latin Restaurant Festival is a must-attend. Set to end on 30th August, this festival is a perfect time to get the best dining deals across the city. Restaurants like Azul Mariscos, Irazu, Carnivale, and 5 Rabanitos are offering visitors an opportunity to try Latin American flavors.

From Mexican and Cuban to Peruvian and Brazilian, different culinary styles can be explored during this festival. A perfect time to understand the diverse culinary scene of Chicago, attending the Chicago Latin Restaurant Festival is going to be a memorable experience.

5. Watch Movie On Free Monday At The Empty Bottom

Located 5 miles from downtown Chicago, Empty Bottle is indeed a popular music venue in the city. It is known for hosting alternative, indie, and underground music.

During this event, Empty Bottle is going to host a free concert every Monday. This event is being held to promote the local, uprising artists. Paying a visit to this venue after the event goes live, you will get to experience some of the best performances of your life for free.

For someone on a tight budget, the event at Empty Bottom is a perfect way to explore the musical scene of Chicago without having to pay a single penny.

6. Explore The 007 Science Exhibit At The Museum Of Science And Industry

Starting today, the Museum of Science and Industry is bringing in a new exhibit. This exhibit is dedicated to the science and technology behind the James Bond movie franchise. Fans of this franchise will get to take a closer look at 13 vehicles and over 90 different artifacts showcased in the movies.

Items like the prototype jetpack used in Thunderball, an MI6 Retina Scanner from GoldenEye, and the Parahawk snowmobile hybrid from the World Is Not Enough can be viewed in the exhibit.

Along with that, you can also step inside a lab space inspired by Q and test your skills developing a vehicle for spy activities, designing stunts, and doing many other creative things. If you don't want to visit this place, you can replace its visit with the Field Museum, Chicago.

7. Travel Back In Time Attending The Back To The Future: The Musical

Back to the Future: The Musical is a stage adaptation of the science fiction movie. The play is held in Cadillac Palace Theater and presents a refined version of the original Back To The Future movie.

It is directed by Tony Award winner John Rando and follows the story of Marty McFly who accidentally travels back to 1955. But before returning to the original timeline, he must make sure his young parent falls in love in order to save his own existence.

The storyline followed by the show is really entertaining. Meanwhile, the performances from the talented artists and the cheering crowd make the experience more fun. Attending this musical is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience the thrill of the movie in real life.

8. Spend A Fun Day At Wonderverse

An ultimate all-age entertainment center, Wonderverse gives visitors an exhilarating time. It offers a fusion of powerful virtual reality, immersive games, and creative challenges, all under one roof. Located in Chicago, visiting this place feels like stepping into another world where imagination has no limits.

Everything from the latest VR adventures to mind-bending puzzles, and themed rooms are situated in every corner of the center. The Wonderverse promises a fun time for families, friends as well as solo visitors. This is a perfect place to create some lasting memories while escaping the reality and hustle of daily life.

9. Watch A Movie In The Parks

For a unique way to spend a summer evening in Chicago, outdoor movies at one of the city's many parks are a go to. Places like Millennium Park and others are the most popular ones that host open-air movie theaters. They feature a range of films, from old ones to new releases.

To become a part of these nights you just need a blanket and some snacks and you are all set for a laid-back night out. The experience is relaxed and ideal for getting together with friends and family.

10. Attend The Ravinia Festival

The Ravinia Festival is one of the oldest and most beloved music festivals in Chicago today. This outdoor event comes alive every summer with its eclectic lineup of performances. It features classical orchestras and contemporary artists, attracting music lovers from around the world.

The Ravinia is a really nice festival that takes place in a beautiful Highland Park. The park has ample space for you to lay down some blankets or chairs and enjoy world-class music in a free event.

It is the right spot for an easy evening spent with your family or friends. The atmosphere is festive but casual, with food vendors all around that offer a great variety of snacks and refreshments to complete the experience.

11. Watch The Art On The Mart

The Art on the Mart is a public art display projected onto the 25-story tall, The Mart that turns it into a living canvas. Taking place each night along the Chicago River from 20th August, this event features bright art of both local and international artists.

After the sun dips, the building comes alive with fantastic visuals dancing across the surface area with music to complement the experience. Watching these arts from miles away is a mesmerizing show that draws both locals and visitors to the riverfront for an unforgettable evening.

12. Shop And Dine On The Magnificent Mile

Magnificent Mile on Michigan Avenue is teeming with diverse shops. It is covered with high-end boutiques and popular chain stores. From the latest fashion items to special gifts and souvenirs, this is the place to find everything. You can simply stroll down through different shops while discovering various unique items.

After a tiring shopping run, stopping by one of the restaurants is an ideal way to refuel yourself. Having a meal here lets you taste the local cuisine at its very best. The vibrant energy along The Magnificent Mile combined with dazzling architecture makes it a lively spot to explore.

13. Experience The Skydeck Chicago

This is a place where you should visit to have bird's eye views of Chicago, from the 103rd floor of Willis Tower. The Skydeck Chicago is an impressive place that provides a great panoramic view of the city and beyond. Here you can walk out onto the glassed-in balcony that is 4 feet out from the building and offers a clear view of the area beneath it.

On a clear day, this place even lets you see 50 miles across four states. Moreover, the Skydeck also has interactive exhibits about the history and architecture of Chicago. A perfect place to take memorable pictures, Skydeck Chicago is a place to feel the city from a completely different new side.

14. Catch A Game At Wrigley Field

The Wrigley Field is built inside Chicago's Wrigleyville neighborhood. It is a historic baseball ground that is home to the Chicago Cubs. The outfield walls of the baseball field are draped in ivy and it features a nostalgic scoreboard.

Joining a Chicago Cubs game today at this place is not only about a baseball game. It is also about being part of history and the atmosphere that comes along with it. You can cheer for the Cubs accompanied by traditional ballpark food like hot dogs, popcorn, and much more.

15. Relax At Lincoln Park Zoo

An eye-catching haven right in the middle of Chicago, Lincoln Park Zoo was established in 1868. It is a historic Chicago zoo and one of the oldest in the US that gives visitors of any age a free enjoyable day out.

The zoo is home to a variety of animals kept in a well-designed, naturalistic enclosure. Each of these animals can be viewed from a safe distance while learning about their lifestyle from the helpful staff. Meanwhile, the garden and walk paths at the zoo are also beautiful and can be a relaxing spot to have a stroll on a nice sunny day.

Accessible from downtown after a 10 to 15-minute walk, various special events and educational programs are a regular thing at the Lincoln Park Zoo.

16. Take A Boat Tour On Lake Michigan

To see Chicago from a different perspective a boat tour on Lake Michigan can be a suitable choice. This popular activity will give you great views of the city and popular landmarks from the water.

You can choose from multiple Chicago boat tours like the architectural cruise, lakefront firework cruise, and many more. Every cruise ride provides a distinctive view of the city. Some might take you to famous places while others let you enjoy the skyline and the waterfront views.

These tours usually take about 60 to 90 minutes to complete so you will have enough time for, taking in the views and enjoying photographing. For a memorable experience, take the sunset tour in which you can see the city in its charming looks.

17. Experience The City's Nightlife

While on a tour to Chicago, you don't want to miss out on experiencing the city after dark. The nightlife in the city is far different from that of day one. At night, the streets of the city become even more alive, full of the illumination of the bars and clubs.

Making the most of a single night, you can start off by enjoying meals at one of the rooftop restaurants. While having the meal, do not miss to enjoy the night view of the city's skyline twinkling with different colored lights.

After that, you can just stroll around the vibrant streets and have a fun night dancing, singing, and trying out craft cocktails. Chicago is also known for its comedy clubs and live theater, offering plenty of options for a night of entertainment.

18. Visit The Shedd Aquarium

Shedd Aquarium is a must-visit place for marine life enthusiasts and nature lovers. This premier aquarium is located at the shores of Lake Michigan providing shelter to over 32000 animals.

Exhibits inside this aquarium take you from the Amazon rainforest to the depths of the ocean with displays of animals from different habitats. Further, you can watch fantastic dolphins and beluga whales performing for entertainment.

Easy to reach from downtown Chicago, Shedd Aquarium is a family-friendly place where your kids as well as you can immerse yourself in the marine life.

19. Explore The Neighborhoods

Chicago is connected with different neighborhoods, most of which have their own character and treasures. Exploring these places is another great way to spend time in Chicago. You can begin by strolling through Lincoln Park.

Wicker Park is the second place you want to visit. Here you will find fashionable shops and galleries. After that, you can move on toward the South Side and visit many sites to explore and sample delicious soul food.

Each neighborhood you visit has its own history and is actually worth visiting. Wander around, eat in typical local restaurants, and enjoy the atmosphere of each one of them before returning back home.

20. Visit The Chicago Botanic Garden

The last one on the list is obviously the Chicago Botanic Garden. This is a tranquil retreat in Chicago to escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. Accessible through a short drive from Chicago, the garden is huge and spans over 385 acres of land.

Each and every part of the garden is covered with different plant species and varied landscapes. The Chicago Botanical Garden houses about 27 different gardens, comprising the Japanese Garden, the English Walled Garden, and the colorful Rose Garden.

The park's area also features some of the most unique characteristics such as ponds and well-maintained grasslands. Visiting this place during spring and summer is a perfect time to see blooming flowers and spot birds enjoying the surroundings.