Free & cheap
Free things to do in Chicago all summer long
Want to get the most out of summer in Chicago — without breaking the bank? We’ve got your back. The city is full of free…
Chicago Like a Local blog
Unique perspectives on the city from the people who live here.
Latest blog posts
Hotels
FieldHouse Jones: Explore one of Chicago’s hippest hostels
Many travelers, young and old, opt to stay in hostels to save money. But these budget accommodations offer so much more than a cheap place…
Sports & recreation
Chicago sporting events this summer: 5 not to miss
Chicago is America’s best sports city, and this summer is the perfect time to experience it for yourself. The season is packed with world-class sports…
Festivals, Special events
Where to celebrate the 4th of July in Chicago
Fourth of July is an iconic summer event. And no one celebrates like Chicago. Whether it’s a bustling neighborhood street festival, a scenic boat cruise,…
Festivals & special events, Music, Special events
Chicago Jazz Festival
Aug. 23 – Sept. 2, 2019 The oldest of Chicago’s free lakefront music festivals boasts an incredibly diverse lineup during its carefully curated 10 days, which includes free…
Blog
Summer guide to Chicago
There’s nothing quite like summer in Chicago. All season long, you can play beach volleyball on the sandy shores of Lake Michigan, kayak through a…
Theater & dance
Experience immersive theatre at Southern Gothic in Chicago
Imagine being invited to a dinner party where everything goes wrong. That’s the general premise of the Chicago play Southern Gothic, an innovative theatrical experience at the…
Blog
Get a taste of Chicago’s craft beer scene at Friday Night Flights
Summer is street festival season in the city, and with Chicago now the brewing capital of the country, it only makes sense that several of…
Arts, culture & entertainment
How to spend a night out in Old Town, Chicago
There’s a lot to love about the Old Town neighborhood in Chicago. This charming pocket of Chicago feels like a different city in itself with…
Parks & outdoors, Special events
Chicago beach guide
Chicago’s stunning skyline soars over 26 miles of uninterrupted lakefront, including 24 free public beaches. Whether you’re looking to swim, kayak, paddleboard, sip cocktails, or…
Blog, Festivals, LGBTQ+
Your guide to Chicago Pride 2019
June is Pride Month in Chicago and the city pulls out all the stops to celebrate. You’ll find parades, outdoor fests, concerts, museum exhibits, and…
Free & cheap
Enjoy free theatre events in Chicago all summer long
It’s the Year of Chicago Theatre, and this summer is packed with plenty of ways to join the celebration. There’s outdoor movie screenings, theatre performances…
Arts, culture & entertainment
Your location guide to Chicago TV shows
Chicago is becoming a hotspot for television and movie filming. Last year alone, 13 shows were actively filming all around the city, including both new…
Tours & attractions
Your Chicago summer bucket list for 2019
Chicago in the summer is unlike anything else. The whole city is buzzing as visitors and locals head outdoors to soak in every last ray…
Festivals
Chicago summer festivals: the ultimate guide
In Chicago, fest season is the best season. The city’s social calendar is packed with street fairs, music festivals, pop-up markets, outdoor concerts, food fests,…
Blog
7 can’t-miss Chicago museum exhibits this summer
Chicago is home to some of the best museums in the country, so it’s a must to set aside time to explore a few while…
Special events
Celebrate summer with these free events at the Chicago Riverwalk
What: Chicago Riverwalk Season Celebration When: Monday, May 13 – Sunday, May 18, 2019 Where: Chicago Riverwalk between Lake Street and Lake Shore Drive What…
Dining
13 vegan and vegetarian restaurants in Chicago for a meat-free meal
When it comes to dining out, vegetarians are often left with limited options. Not in Chicago. The city has always been known for its diverse…
Blog
10 hot Chicago shows to see this summer
This summer, the Chicago theatre scene has a full roster of scorching-hot shows. You’ll find a little bit of everything in our 200+ theatres, from…
Nightlife
9 new Chicago breweries & tap rooms you need to try
These are high times for beer lovers in the Chicago area. Last year, our city surpassed all of its peers as the number one city…
Tours & attractions
How to spend 24 hours in Chicago’s Hyde Park
Strolling down Hyde Park’s tree-lined streets, you might spot chess players in the park, artists painting murals or students running to class in massive, gothic…
Dining
9 new patios & rooftops for outdoor dining in Chicago
Summer in Chicago can only mean one thing — patio season. This, and every, patio season is all about finding the latest spot to soak…
Festivals
Chicago street festivals: 11 neighborhood fests to check out
Chicago is home to 77 unique neighborhoods across the city, and it seems like each has its own summer festival. When the warmer months roll…
Dining, Special events
Chicago bachelorette party: 6 ways to celebrate in the city
Planning one last fling before the ring? Chicago is the perfect spot for a getaway with your girls. That’s because there’s a little something for…
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