Brought to you by Choose Chicago, Chicago Unpacked is designed for travel professionals to plan inspired programs filled with unique, authentic experiences. Read through this edition to find information on new attractions and events, fall and winter seasonal activities, and some of the latest news about Chicago.
Welcome to the city that is NEVER DONE. NEVER OUTDONE.
A historic opening for Chicago
The South Side of Chicago will welcome a transformative new cultural destination with the opening of the Obama Presidential Center on June 19, just a short drive or train ride from downtown hotels.
The Center represents a major new attraction for Hyde Park and surrounding neighborhoods, where visitors can also see the Griffin Museum of Science and Industry, Japanese gardens in Jackson Park with sculptures by Yoko Ono, the University of Chicago campus, and Frank Lloyd Wright’s Robie House.
Learn more about the Obama Presidential Center.
New in Chicago
Get your kicks on Route 66
Route 66 is the ultimate American road trip, and the Mother Road turns 100 this year. Update your itineraries with these ideas.
Kick Back in Chicago
Chicago is the perfect stop on a multi-center itinerary for clients looking for a unique city break before their next match.
International Jazz Day
Chicago is hosting the global celebration of one of America’s most iconic musical genre’s. Find inspiration for a music itinerary here.
The Hand and the Eye coming soon
The world’s largest magic venue is opening in Chicago this Spring at the iconic McCormick Mansion.
Sports Illustrated Resorts Hotel now open in the Loop
The Sports Illustrated Resorts Hotel offers the perfect accommodation for global sports fans in town to catch a game. More about Chicago’s year-round live sports here.
Planning ahead
Fall in love with Chicago autumn
There’s so much for your clients to explore in Chicago during the fall, from pumpkin patches to vibrant parks, sports, and cultural events.
Run the Chicago Marathon
The fastest marathon in the world is in Chicago this October. Your clients can join in the action as runners or spectators.
Spooky & fun Halloween events
Chicago’s Halloween traditions include parades, ghost tours, pumpkin patches, and pop-up bars all over town.
Winter activities for everyone
Visitors can enjoy outdoor activities like ice skating, dive into basketball and hockey season, or explore world-class museums.
View the full Choose Chicago events calendar.
Chicago in the news
Chicago named top United States food destination
Travelbag has named Chicago the top US destination for food, and #9 overall worldwide
Explore Chicago’s culinary scene.
Chicago among TripAdvisor UK Best of the Best
Chicago is #3 on TripAdvisor UK Best of the Best Destinations, the top US city on the list!
Did you know…
…that Chicago is the birthplace of the skyscraper?
From iconic skyscrapers and historic landmarks to national parks and neighborhood gems, Chicago’s architectural history is ready for exploration.
Explore an architecture itinerary.
Connect with Choose Chicago
Connect with our team in-person at these events:
- U.S. Commercial Services Roadshow
- Shenzhen, China | April 8
- Brand USA SE Asia Sales Mission
- Taipei, Ho Chi Minh, Manilla | April 20 – 24
- Brand USA Spain Immersion
- Madrid | April 13 – 17
- IPW 2026
- Ft. Lauderdale, Florida | May 17 – 21
- Brand USA Sales Mission
- South Korea & Japan | July 19 – 27
- SYTA Annual Conference
- Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania | August 21 – 24
- JATA Tourism Expo
- Tokyo, Japan | September 24 – 27
- Feria Internacional de Turismo
- Argentina | September 26 – 29
- Brand USA Travel Week Europe
- Amsterdam, Holland | September 28 – October 1
