DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center
Washington Park
Chicago culture
Bold. Daring. Defining.
It’s all here.
Chicago is a city that’s never done growing, dreaming, and innovating — and our dynamic cultural scene is no exception.
Come experience it for yourself in the country’s Best Big City.
Signature Cultural Events
Mark your calendar for these can’t-miss cultural events in Chicago.
Chicago cultural calendar
Culture shines all year round in Chicago. Check out these upcoming events across the city, including plays, dance, art exhibits, and beyond.
Theatre & Performing Arts
Jersey Boys
The original Broadway sensation returns to the road! Celebrating 20 years – Jersey style! They were just four guys from Jersey, until they sang their…
Festivals, Fairs & Special Events, Museums, Galleries & Exhibitions, Theatre & Performing Arts
America@250 – Now is the Time: Artists Go to Work
On July 4, 2026, America turned 250 years old. To reckon with the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence is to reckon with freedom…
Museums, Galleries & Exhibitions, Tours & Attractions
“Pulitzer on the Road: Prize-Winning Works That Inform, Empower & Inspire”
The Pulitzer Prizes and American Library Association are bringing Pulitzer on the Road to the Harold Washington Library Center this fall. Opening October 14, the…
Museums, Galleries & Exhibitions
Goodnight Moon Exhibition at Griffin Museum of Science and Industry
Step into the Great Green Room and experience Goodnight Moon like never before. Inspired by Margaret Wise Brown’s timeless story and Clement Hurd’s iconic illustrations,…
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Chicago Cultural Itineraries
Start planning your trip with these in-depth guides to Chicago’s cultural scene.
Chicago Cultural Center
The Chicago Cultural Center is the crown jewel of the city’s cultural scene.
Come explore this architectural marvel and discover a range of free public programming, including exhibits, concerts, performances, and more.
Iconic Cultural Institutions
Immerse yourself in art, history, culture, and beyond at Chicago’s renowned museums and cultural institutions.
Chicago’s Culture Keepers
The City of Chicago’s Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE) supports artists and cultural organizations, invests in the creative economy, and expands access and participation in the arts throughout Chicago’s diverse neighborhoods. DCASE produces some of Chicago’s most iconic festivals, markets, events and exhibitions throughout the city, including at the Chicago Cultural Center and Millennium Park – serving a local and global audience of 25 million people annually.
Local Favorite Museums & Galleries
Discover Chicago’s under-the-radar cultural gems, including art galleries, interactive spaces, cultural heritage museums, and so much more.
Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago
Streeterville
Gallery Guichard
Bronzeville
Stony Island Arts Bank
South Shore
Hyde Park Art Center
Hyde Park
The National Museum of Puerto Rican Arts & Culture
Humboldt Park
National Veterans Art Museum
Portage Park
Ukrainian National Museum
West Town
Ed Paschke Art Center
Jefferson Park
Chinese American Museum of Chicago
Chinatown
Explore Chicago's performing arts scene
Classical Cultural Experiences
Chicago’s music scene
Music is the heartbeat of our city, from historic jazz and blues clubs to legendary house venues and free festivals.
Dive into Chicago’s Culture Scene
The only way to truly understand the diversity of Chicago’s cultural scene is to see it for yourself.
Explore Chicago hotels, flights, deals, and more
Plan your trip
