Chicago Like a Local blog

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

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Blog, Special events

25+ things to do in Chicago in 2026: concerts, exhibits, festivals, and more

For Chicago, 2025 was a milestone year — the city hosted major events and gatherings, welcomed millions of visitors from around the globe, and was…

Dining, Special events

Travel the world with these 17 international restaurants during Chicago Restaurant Week 2026

Taste the world — all within one city — during Chicago Restaurant Week. This winter, hundreds of Chicago restaurants will be offering special prix fixe…

Food and wine served at the Bronzeville Winery

Dining, Special events

19 women- and minority-owned favorites to try during Chicago Restaurant Week 2026

You haven’t gotten a real taste of Chicago’s dynamic restaurant scene until you’ve explored the city’s many diverse-owned eateries, from cozy neighborhood favorites to high-end…

Dining, Special events

15 new restaurants to try during Chicago Restaurant Week 2026

There’s no better time to experience the city’s acclaimed restaurant scene than Chicago Restaurant Week. The 19th annual edition of the annual foodie fest, which…

Dining, Special events

17 award-winning restaurants offering Chicago Restaurant Week 2026 deals

Want to get a taste of Chicago’s top dining experiences without breaking the bank? Chicago Restaurant Week is the perfect excuse to start checking off…

Blog, Special events

Things to do in Chicago this weekend

Want to know what’s happening this weekend in Chicago? Look no further. There’s a whole calendar of exciting events, exhibits, and activities taking place all…

Blog, Special events

50+ things to do in Chicago this December

With the holidays in full swing, December is a magical month packed with things to do throughout Chicago. There’s plenty to keep you busy as…

Dining, Special events

20+ restaurants for an unforgettable New Year’s Eve 2026 dinner in Chicago

As the year winds down, the city’s dining scene lights up as brightly as the fireworks over Navy Pier. Ring in 2026 with exciting New…

Dining, Festivals, Special events

What to eat, drink, and buy at Christkindlmarket Chicago 2025

Christkindlmarket has been a holiday tradition in Chicago since 1996. Modeled after the 16th-century holiday markets in Germany, the free-admission outdoor bazaar in downtown Daley…