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…
Chicago Like a Local blog
Unique perspectives on the city from the people who live here.
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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…
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…
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…
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…
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…
Blog, Family, Hotels, Special events
Deck the halls! 9 holiday hotels in Chicago
Chicago’s hotels go above and beyond when it comes to decking the halls every holiday season, making for a magical winter getaway. From festive decor…
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…
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,…
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…
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…
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, 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, 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…
Dining, Festivals, Special events
A reimagined Chicago Gourmet dishes up all new events this year
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…
Blog, Special events
Taste of Chicago To Go 2020: Experience the food fest at home
The Taste of Chicago is one of the city’s signature summer events. While the massive food fest is on hold this year, you can still…
Special events
Chicago festivals: virtual and socially distanced events
Festival season in Chicago might look a little different this year, but that doesn’t mean you have to totally miss out on your favorite fests.…
Blog, Special events
What’s open in Chicago
Chicago’s museums, restaurants, parks, and more are currently open with new safety precautions, limited capacities, and contactless entry options. There’s nothing more important to us…
Special events
How to celebrate Pride 2020 in Chicago
June in Chicago is spectacular for many reasons. And one of the major highlights is Pride. While the festivities look a little different this year,…
Special events
Father’s Day in Chicago: specials, grill kits, gifts, and more.
Chicago has everything you need to celebrate all the dads in your life this Father’s Day. Host a DIY whiskey tasting, treat dad to a…
Blog, Special events
What we miss most about Chicago
During the past few weeks at home, we’ve all had a lot of time to reflect — especially about the things we wish we could…
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