Free & cheap
10 free and cheap things to do in Chicago this December
You don’t need to reach for your wallet to get your fill of culture and fun in Chicago. Here are free and cheap things to…
Chicago Like a Local blog
Unique perspectives on the city from the people who live here.
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Blog, Special events
Chicago holiday markets: Shop local online and in person
The holiday season in Chicago is always a special time, from the lights twinkling on the Christmas tree in Millennium Park to festive wreaths on…
Nightlife
8 holiday pop-up bars & experiences in Chicago
‘Tis the season for holiday pop-up bars. Some of Chicago’s favorite bars have temporarily transformed their outdoor space into full-blown winter wonderlands. Expect over-the-top decorations,…
Blog, Shopping and fashion
A guide to holiday shopping in Chicago’s neighborhoods
Supporting the small businesses that make Chicago a one-of-a-kind city is more important than ever this year. And holiday season is the opportunities to make…
Theater & dance
10 online holiday shows from Chicago theatres
While many theatres in Chicago may still be dark, there’s still plenty to see online and outdoors! Check out the hundreds of online performances, classes,…
Blog, Nightlife
6 rooftop bars that are heating up Chicago this winter
Rooftop bar season is year-round in Chicago. These seasonal spaces are the perfect place to cure your cabin fever with a healthy dose of the…
Dining
Hot chocolate spots to warm up a Chicago winter
The best way to stay warm during a Chicago winter? Lots of hot chocolate. It’s the perfect pit stop during a day of exploring the…
Dining, Festivals, Special events
What to eat, drink, and buy at (virtual) Christkindlmarket Chicago
Chicago’s Christkindlmarket is a hub for traditional food, warm beverages, charming musical performances and quaint Christmas-y goods that the entire family can enjoy. This year,…
Dining
Outdoor dining in Chicago: Heated and covered patios open right now
When the seasons change and the temperature begins to dip, it typically signals the end of outdoor dining in Chicago. But this year, restaurants all…
Blog, Special events
Thanksgiving weekend in Chicago: Top things to do
There’s more to Thanksgiving weekend than eating turkey. Besides Thanksgiving dinner, there’s tons of things to do in Chicago during the holiday weekend. It’s the…
Architecture & history, Blog, Sponsored
Explore Balkrishna Doshi: Architecture for the People at Wrightwood 659
A retrospective of the work of renowned Indian architect and urban planner Balkrishna Doshi makes its North American debut in the exhibit Balkrishna Doshi: Architecture…
Blog, Dining
Where to get cheap eats from Chicago’s top chefs
Where can you enjoy food from a nationally renowned chef for less than $10? Or dig into a slice of pizza designed by a Michelin…
Nightlife, Special events
Chicago Halloween parties: Outdoor events and experiences
Looking for Halloween plans this year? We’ve got you covered. Chicago’s bars have moved the party outside with creative (and heated) Halloween extravaganzas, featuring everything…
Blog, Sponsored, Sports & recreation
Chicago Fire Football Club comes home
On Oct. 8, 2019, Chicago Fire Football Club Owner and Chairman Joe Mansueto stood on the pristine Soldier Field grass, ready to address a collection…
Architecture & history, Special events
Explore neighborhood architecture outdoors and online during Open House Chicago
Open House Chicago – the city’s annual festival of eye-popping architecture tours hosted by the Chicago Architecture Center – kicks off on Friday, Oct. 16,…
Blog, Special events
Preview: 5 films to catch during Chicago International Film Festival 2020
For cinephiles, the pandemic has been both a blessing and a curse. The endless hours at home have offered up plenty of time to catch…
Blog, Special events
Chicago voted Best Big City in the U.S. for the fourth year in a row
It’s official — Chicago is the Best Big City in the country for the fourth consecutive year. The prestigious recognition comes from Condé Nast Traveler’s…
Special events, Tours & attractions
20+ things to do in Chicago this October
October is upon us, which means it’s time to break out the cozy scarf and boots to enjoy some of the city’s finest fall festivities.…
Blog, Dining, Tours & attractions
What to eat, drink, and do in Chicago’s Little Village neighborhood
Chicago’s Little Village (or “La Villita” as the locals call it) is a wonderful neighborhood to spend the day enjoying incredible culture, art, and authentic…
Blog, Dining
Oktoberfest in Chicago: Where to enjoy food and drink specials
Oktoberfest in Munich might be postponed until next year, but the beer-centric event is living on in Chicago’s bars and restaurants. Check out a few…
Blog, Special events
ZooLights will be back this winter — and tickets go on sale soon
If you’re already looking forward to the holidays, we have some good news for you. ZooLights will return to Lincoln Park Zoo this year for…
Blog, Parks & outdoors
Where to see fall colors in and around Chicago
Chicago’s many parks, gardens, and natural areas are gorgeous year round — but they’re particularly stunning in the fall. That’s when you can see stunning…
Dining, Hotels
Chicago’s dog-friendly hotels, restaurants, and more
Want to bring your furry friend everywhere you go? In Chicago, you can! From luxe hotel rooms to outdoor patios to river boat cruises, you…
Blog, Special events
Your guide to fall activities in Chicago
Chicago has something to offer every season of the year, but fall is particularly magical. The leaves turn golden in Millennium Park, a crisp breeze…
How locals do Chicago
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