There are endless things to see, do, and experience in Chicago — one of the many reasons we’ve been named the Best Big City in the U.S. for the past nine years in a row.
Start exploring some of Chicago’s best things to do.
Chicago Architecture River Cruise
Things to Do in Chicago
What are the top things to do in Chicago?
Food & drink
Chicago’s food scene is never done expanding, innovating, and evolving. Here’s just a taste.
- Take a bite of iconic Chicago dishes, from the jibarito to deep dish.
- The host city of the prestigious James Beard Awards (and home to 50+ past award winners).
- Check off your bucket list with splurge-worthy dining experiences.
- Eat like a local in these top foodie neighborhoods.
Museums & art
Immerse yourself in art, history, science, nature, and more at our world-renowned cultural institutions.
- The Art Institute of Chicago, one of the oldest and largest art museums in the country.
- The lakefront Museum Campus is home to the Field Museum, the Adler Planetarium, and the Shedd Aquarium.
- On the South Side, explore the interactive Griffin Museum of Science and Industry and the landmark Obama Presidential Center.
Tours & attractions
Check off your Chicago bucket list with these top sights and attractions in downtown and beyond.
- See iconic Chicago sights like free Millennium Park and family-friendly Navy Pier.
- Take in the view at soaring observation decks like 360 CHICAGO and Skydeck Chicago.
- Hop on an architecture boat cruise to immerse yourself in Chicago’s legendary skyline.
- Explore the city on a guided tour or get matched with a local through Chicago Greeter.
Music & nightlife
Chicago is home to genre-defining artists, iconic music festivals, historic venues, and our own undefinable big-city sound.
- Hear Chicago-born genres like house music, Chicago-style jazz, and amplified blues.
- Catch a local act or a major tour at one of our legendary music venues.
- Mark your calendar for our signature music festivals, like Lollapalooza, Windy City Smokeout, Chicago Jazz Festival, and more.
More things to do in Chicago
Find Chicago inspiration
Come discover a city that’s never done and never outdone.
Explore Chicago like a local
Blog, Special events
How to celebrate Filipino American History Month in Chicago
Chicago is home to a diverse Filipino American community, and October is a chance to celebrate Filipino heritage, history, and culture across the city. Throughout…
Blog, Neighborhoods, Special events
Day of the Dead in Chicago: a celebration of (after) life
Día de los Muertos, also known as the Day of the Dead, is a tradition that has been practiced in Mexican culture for over 3,000…
Blog, Special events
Where to watch the Bank of America Chicago Marathon 2026: the ultimate spectator’s guide
One of just eight World Marathon Majors, the Bank of America Chicago Marathon is one of the planet’s most epic athletic events. Each year, more…
Blog, Special events
25+ things to do in Chicago this October
October is a jam-packed time in Chicago, with tons of Halloween events and fall-themed celebrations happening all month long. Start filling up your calendar with…
Blog
The Chicago Hotel Collection: more than a stay, unforgettable Chicago experiences
A visit to Chicago should feel as distinctive as the city itself. The Chicago Hotel Collection offers boutique hotel stays in some of the city’s…
Free & cheap
10 free things to do in Chicago this October 2026
This month, enjoy unique Halloween celebrations, tour local artist studios, check out global musicians, and browse the city’s longest-running outdoor market — all without spending…
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
9 films to catch during the Chicago International Film Festival 2026
Save the date, cinephiles: The Chicago International Film Festival is back with exciting screenings, world premieres, and more events for cinephiles from Oct. 14 to…
Blog, Special events
Your guide to Chicago Fashion Week 2026: runways, events, parties, and more
This fall, Chicago’s fashion and design scene takes center stage during the third annual Chicago Fashion Week, showcasing the city’s creativity, culture, and couture. This…
Loading...
Explore Chicago hotels, flights, deals, and more
Plan your trip
