Chicago Like a Local blog

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

Latest blog posts

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. And they’re popping up all over Chicago, along with plenty of outdoor movie screenings…

Published on September 9, 2021 by Kelsey O'Connor

Blog, Special events

Things to do in Chicago this weekend

Want to know what’s happening this weekend in Chicago? Look no further. Chicago is fully reopened and there’s a whole calendar of exciting events, exhibits,…

Published on September 8, 2021 by Choose Chicago

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…

Published on September 7, 2021 by Choose Chicago

Blog, Special events

50+ things to do in Chicago this September

With summer winding down, September is one of the last months to take full advantage of all Chicago’s favorite outdoor activities. From world-class food and…

Published on September 1, 2021 by Allana Mortell

Dining, Festivals, Special events

What’s new at Chicago Gourmet 2021

For the last dozen years, Chicago Gourmet has brought luxurious dinners and wine pairings, intimate conversations with local chefs, and the camaraderie of standing shoulder-to-shoulder…

Published on August 24, 2021 by Margaret Poe

Architecture & history, Blog, Special events

Be a part of history at the grand opening of the Pullman National Monument

Step into Chicago’s storied history of the country’s first planned industrial community. The city’s first and only national park site will be honoring the Grand…

Published on August 20, 2021 by Rosalind Cummings-Yeates

Blog, Special events

What’s open in Chicago: full reopening plans

Chicago is fully open, and we’re excited to welcome visitors and residents to experience all the city has to offer. In accordance with the latest…

Published on August 1, 2021 by Choose Chicago

Festivals, Music, Music, Nightlife, Special events, Sponsored

Experience Chicago In Tune

Make plans to experience Chicago In Tune, a new citywide festival held Aug. 19 – Sept. 19 that celebrates music in the key of Chicago…

Blog, Special events

Taste of Chicago To Go 2021: neighborhood pop-up events and more

Taste of Chicago is one of the city’s signature summer events. While the massive food fest in Grant Park is on hold this year, you…

Published on June 22, 2021 by Choose Chicago

Architecture & history, Blog, Special events

Celebrate Juneteenth in Chicago

Chicago wouldn’t be the world-class city it is today without a long line of influential African Americans, from Jean Baptiste Point du Sable and Ida…

Published on June 14, 2021 by Choose Chicago

Special events

How to celebrate Pride 2021 in Chicago

June in Chicago is spectacular for many reasons. And one of the major highlights is Pride. While the annual Pride Fest and Parade have been…

Published on June 9, 2021 by Choose Chicago

A retro boat from Chicago Electric Boat Compant

Special events

Father’s Day in Chicago: dining specials, events, and more.

Chicago has everything you need to celebrate all the dads in your life this Father’s Day. Enjoy a memorable meal out, cruise the Chicago River,…

Published on June 1, 2021 by Andy Holsteen

Blog, Special events

Outdoor wedding venues in Chicago

Planning to get married in Chicago? The city is filled with unique wedding venues, no matter what vibe you’re looking for on your big day.…

Published on May 18, 2021 by Zoe Krey

Arts, culture & entertainment, Blog, Special events

How to celebrate Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month in Chicago

This May is Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, giving everyone a chance to discover and celebrate the contributions and cultures of this diverse…

Published on May 3, 2021 by Zoe Krey

Blog, Special events

Mother’s Day in Chicago: Your guide to gifts, dining, and events

This Mother’s Day, show the moms in your life how much they mean to you. Give the gift of quality time with tickets to a…

Published on April 16, 2021 by Choose Chicago

Dining, Special events

Chicago bachelorette party: 8 ways to celebrate in the city

Planning one last fling before the ring? Chicago is the perfect spot for a getaway with your Bachelorette crew. That’s because there’s a little something…

Published on March 31, 2021 by Allana Mortell

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 March 31, 2021 by Choose Chicago

Architecture & history, Blog, Special events

How to celebrate Women’s History Month in Chicago

The city of Chicago has been shaped by a long line of bold, pioneering women, and Women’s History Month is the perfect time to reflect…

Published on March 2, 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