Chicago Like a Local blog

Unique perspectives on the city from the people who live here.

Latest blog posts

Dining, Special events

13 new restaurants to try during Chicago Restaurant Week

In Chicago, there’s no better time to experience the city’s acclaimed dining scene than Chicago Restaurant Week. This year’s edition of the annual foodie fest,…

Published on February 24, 2021 by Margaret Poe

Tours & attractions

Your guide to spring break 2021 in Chicago

Need some ideas for spring break 2021? In the springtime, Chicago is bursting with bustling green spaces, sparkling waterfronts, world-class museums, stunning architecture, scenic outdoor…

Published on February 21, 2021 by Amy Bizzarri

Dining, Nightlife

24 hours in Chicago’s Logan Square neighborhood

Logan Square is a one-of-a-kind neighborhood that you can really only find in Chicago. This long-time Latino community has seen an influx of new residents…

Published on February 18, 2021 by Kelsey O'Connor

Blog, Museums

What’s open: Chicago museums open now

Chicago’s diverse array of museums are a treasured part of the city’s cultural scene, and they’ve been sorely missed the past few months. As the…

Published on February 16, 2021 by Choose Chicago

Blog, Museums

7 can’t-miss exhibits at Chicago museums in 2021

Chicago is a city full of history, art, culture — and you’ll find a lot of all those things in our acclaimed cultural institutions. As…

Published on February 11, 2021 by Alma Bahman

A scene from An Iliad by the Court Theatre

Theater & dance

10 hot shows to stream during Chicago Theatre Week

While many theatres in Chicago are temporarily dark, there’s still plenty to see online! Check out the hundreds of online performances, classes, podcasts, and workshops…

Published on February 11, 2021 by Choose Chicago

Blog, Dining, Special events

Where to celebrate Paczki Day and Mardi Gras in Chicago

The upcoming Mardi Gras festivities may be smaller in scale than year’s past, but there are still plenty of opportunities to celebrate. The holiday kicks…

Published on February 9, 2021 by Allana Mortell

A trainer with the penguins at the Shedd Aquarium

Blog, Special events

35+ things to do in Chicago this February

February might be a short month, but it’s packed with fun things to do in Chicago — Super Bowl watch parties, Mardi Gras specials, and…

Published on February 2, 2021 by Kelsey O'Connor

Dining, Sports & recreation

Where to order Super Bowl specials & watch the game in Chicago

Get ready – the big game day is almost here! Although we won’t be cheering our Chicago Bears, there is no mistaking the energy of…

Published on February 1, 2021 by Megy Karydes

Field Museum with guests socially distanced

Free & cheap

10 free and cheap things to do in Chicago this February

You don’t need to reach for your wallet to get your fill of fun things to do in Chicago. Here are 10 of our favorite…

Published on February 1, 2021 by Choose Chicago

Architecture & history

How to celebrate Black History Month in Chicago

Black History Month brings an annual spotlight to Black achievements, creativity, and history that too often get overlooked. With all the turmoil of 2020 and…

Published on January 31, 2021 by Rosalind Cummings-Yeates

Blog, Dining

Chicago restaurants open for indoor dining

As Chicago continues to responsibly reopen, restaurants across the city have expanded their patio season to offer outdoor dining all winter long. And now, restaurants…

Published on January 26, 2021 by Kelsey O'Connor

Arts, culture & entertainment

Get your tickets now for this immersive Van Gogh exhibit

Step inside the works of one of the world’s most famous painters at the U.S. premiere of this one-of-a-kind art experience. The Immersive Van Gogh…

Published on January 19, 2021 by Kelsey O'Connor

Arts, culture & entertainment, Special events

Top things to do for Valentine’s Day in Chicago

This Valentine’s Day, treat yourself and someone you love to a great date night out or in. Finding that something might be a little trickier…

Published on January 15, 2021 by Hayley Grgurich

Dining, Holidays

35+ romantic spots for Valentine’s Day dinner in Chicago

The biggest date night of the year is coming up and while things aren’t totally back to normal, the city’s restaurants are pulling out all…

Published on January 13, 2021 by Kelsey O'Connor

Blog, Free & cheap, Special events

Outdoor and drive-in movies in Chicago

Remember drive-in movies? The old-school open-air theatres are having a renaissance, since staying in your car is a great way to get out while social…

Published on December 15, 2020 by Kelsey O'Connor

Dining, Special events

New Year’s Eve dinner in Chicago: outdoor dining, takeout, and delivery options

Say goodbye to 2020 and ring in the new year in true Chicago style — with an unforgettable meal. Enjoy champagne toasts and special menus…

Published on December 14, 2020 by Choose Chicago

Blog, Special events

Gift guide: The best Chicago experience gifts

We might be missing out on some of our favorite holiday activities this year, but gifting isn’t one of them. And what better way to…

Published on December 8, 2020 by Choose Chicago

Dining

Where to order holiday dinner in Chicago: carry-out and delivery options

Many of us will be staying home for the holidays this year, but that doesn’t mean you can’t still experience Chicago’s award-winning dining scene. Our…

Published on December 7, 2020 by Kelsey O'Connor