Things to do in Chicago

Listeners heading to Chicago this week can choose from exciting festivals, legendary music, art, outdoorsy escapes, and authentic food experiences—plus plenty of local secrets and new twists on classic attractions. On Saturday and Sunday, Bulls Fest brings festival energy and basketball action to the United Center campus with 3v3 tournaments, Bulls legends, live art installations, youth clinics, and local food pop-ups—making it one of Chicago’s only sports festivals where you’ll find both NBA history and street culture in one spot.

Chicago White Sox fans can catch a game at Guaranteed Rate Field as the Sox host the Minnesota Twins on Saturday night and Sunday afternoon. Sports action continues just across town with the Chicago Sky playing at Wintrust Arena Saturday night—a WNBA showdown that’s a genuine Chicago summer highlight, paired with family tailgate festivities and the mascot Skye’s birthday bash.

Art lovers should head to the Art Institute of Chicago for masterpieces spanning centuries, or snap a one-of-a-kind selfie with the reflective “Cloud Gate” sculpture (locals call it The Bean) in Millennium Park. This week, Daley Plaza blooms with Under The Picasso Noontimes concerts and performances Monday through Friday, showcasing diverse Chicago talent under the city’s iconic Picasso sculpture.

Chicago is the birthplace of house music, and this weekend celebrates its roots with the Chicago House Music Festival and Conference, electrifying Grant Park with DJs, dancing, and free community lessons. For those wanting to dance, Chicago Summerdance continues in the Spirit of Music Garden and nearby parks with open-air music and social dance lessons nearly every day, welcoming all skill levels.

Foodies should not miss Sicily Nights at Eataly Chicago, running all week with a special prix fixe menu drawing on Sicilian flavors, seafood, and local ingredients—one of the city’s unique dining experiences this August. The Green City Market on Wednesday and Saturday delivers a bounty of local produce in Lincoln Park, perfect for picnic shopping or people-watching.

For outdoor adventure, stroll the Riverwalk or kayak under the towering skyline, or join a 90-Minute Architecture River Boat Tour led by local experts—these tours run continuously through the season and are a must for anyone excited to learn about Chicago’s bold history and striking buildings. Navy Pier offers boat rides, gardens, outdoor performances, and vibrant fireworks (catch the surprise midweek show if you’re lucky).

Families and animal lovers flock to Lincoln Park Zoo, where big cats, polar bears, and garden boardwalks await—plus lively summer programming. For a quirky, hidden gem, the Medieval Torture Museum marries odd history with hands-on exhibits and dark curios. West and South Side festivals, like Irish Fest at Gaelic Park or the Festival of Arts Through Nature at Plum Creek Nature Center, bring out regional music, craft beer, and community culture for those who want to explore

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Listeners wanting a mix of fun, entertainment, and unique sites in Chicago will find plenty to do this week and beyond. Today through Sunday, Grant Park and Lake Shore Drive host the massive Chicago Triathlon, welcoming more than 7,500 athletes and enthusiasts: catch the high-energy spectacle or even register for the Kids, SuperSprint, or International events. The Supertri League brings world-class short-course racing and a festival atmosphere to the city’s lakefront on August 23. For basketball fans and families, Bulls Fest at the United Center campus runs August 23-24, featuring a free family-friendly celebration with a 3v3 tournament, youth clinics, Bulls legends, local food stalls, art installations, and exclusive merch.

Chicago’s renowned music heritage takes center stage this week at the Chicago House Music Festival and Conference. With events at Millennium Park and the Chicago Cultural Center, listeners can dive into incredible house sets, panels, and dance parties now through Sunday, honoring the city’s status as the birthplace of house music. Dance lovers should also check out Chicago Summerdance, running Wednesday to Saturday at Grant Park’s Spirit of Music Garden, offering free open-air dancing, live music, and professional lessons.

If taste is your travel compass, the Taste of Greektown festival runs Friday through Sunday along Halsted Street. Sample Greek delicacies, from gyros to honeyed pastries, amidst live music, dancing, and lively crowds. Meanwhile, Edison Park Fest also runs all weekend, boasting local food, bands, and neighborhood camaraderie in northwest Chicago.

Outdoor adventurers and architecture buffs won’t want to miss the 90-Minute Architecture River Tour departing daily from the Summer of George at 900 S. Wells Street. Expert guides lead listeners through Chicago’s skyline, sharing stories behind iconic buildings like the Willis Tower, Wrigley Building, and Old Post Office while cruising the picturesque river. For another unique perspective, evening cruises reveal city lights shimmering off Lake Michigan.

Baseball remains a classic Chicago experience, and while the Cubs just wrapped a series against Milwaukee at Wrigley Field, fans can enjoy Wrigleyville’s vibrant restaurants and iconic neighborhood charm year-round. On August 25, basketball returns with the Chicago Sky taking on Las Vegas Aces at Wintrust Arena, offering fast-paced WNBA action for sports lovers.

Foodies and market explorers will find Green City Market bustling in Lincoln Park, Chicago’s largest sustainable farmers market, open Wednesday and Saturday mornings with artisan treats and fresh produce. For a global twist, Sicily Nights at Eataly Chicago runs now through August 31—a prix fixe menu lets listeners experience Sicilian flavors, seafood, and sun-kissed ingredients without leaving the city.

Hidden gems await those who wander: Under the Picasso Noontimes at Daley Plaza offers intimate lunchtime performances by emerging musicians and artists

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Listeners dreaming of the perfect Chicago visit this week, get ready for an unforgettable blend of iconic attractions, live events, mouthwatering eats, and surprising hidden gems. Today through August 24, NBA fans can catch Bulls Fest 2025 outside United Center, where basketball energy pulses with a 3v3 tournament, player appearances, local food, art displays, and play zones for families—the event is free to attend for fans of all ages. For live sports, head to historic Wrigley Field in Wrigleyville for a classic Chicago Cubs vs. Milwaukee Brewers matchup today at 1:20 p.m.; discover a spirited atmosphere and bustling neighborhood bars long after the last pitch. Over at Chicago State, today marks the opening match for men’s soccer, a chance to watch future stars in collegiate action at Gwendolyn Brooks College Prep at noon.

Chicago’s music and performance scene promises thrills and laughs. The iconic Second City offers sharp improv comedy performances with a rich tradition of launching legends. For something offbeat, Teatro ZinZanni, located in the Cambria Hotel, performs nightly with acrobats, cabaret, and circus arts set to live music. If you love musical theater, don’t miss the Tony-winning MJ the Musical or the tongue-in-cheek Twihard: A Twilight Musical Parody, both running this week. Magic aficionados can catch Dennis Watkins’ newest magic and mind-reading show downtown at Goodman Theatre and Petterino’s, a one-of-a-kind intimate experience.

Chicago’s famed architecture takes center stage with the 90-Minute Architecture River Tour departing daily from the Summer of George boat at 900 South Wells Street. Guides reveal the fascinating stories behind the city’s skyline as you cruise past the Willis Tower, Wrigley Building, and more. For a nighttime spectacle tonight at 9 p.m., set sail on Tall Ship Windy’s Chicago Fireworks Cruise from Navy Pier—enjoy the dazzling fireworks illuminating the water, with views best seen from the lake.

Outdoor adventure seekers can hit North Avenue Beach for coed volleyball leagues or jump in on friendly soccer, football, or kickball games at parks across the city—visiting players are always welcome. Explore Millennium Park for al fresco concerts, yoga, and movies; check for pop-up events and join locals catching free fitness classes this week. The Navy Pier fireworks light up the sky again Friday and Saturday, a visual feast for all ages and totally free if viewed from the lakefront.

Food fans, hit up Chicago’s celebrated restaurants and hidden neighborhood gems. Venture to the Argyle Night Market in Uptown next Thursday, a lively night bazaar packed with street food from Vietnamese bahn mi to bubble tea and live international music. For classic eats, bite into deep-dish pizza at Lou Malnati’s, grab a rooftop drink at Cindy’s overlooking Millennium Park, or taste the ultimate Chicago-style hot dog at the legendary Portillo’s.

Art and culture buffs, dive into the immersive Messi Experience at Humboldt Park’s

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Listeners, Chicago this week is buzzing with unique and timeless activities for every kind of explorer. On Friday, August 15, the Taylor Street Little Italy Festival kicks off in one of the city’s most historic neighborhoods. This free event runs all weekend, filling the streets with Italian colors, continuous live performances, and family-friendly entertainment. Sample authentic cuisine from renowned area restaurants, browse Italian artisan stands, and experience the soul of Little Italy until Sunday.

Sports fans—don’t miss Bulls Fest, happening August 23 and 24 outside the United Center. It’s Chicago’s ode to basketball, showcasing a 3v3 tournament for all ages and skill levels, appearances by Bulls legends, youth clinics, food trucks, local artists, and exclusive merchandise. The festive energy is infectious and admission is free.

Boat lovers and architecture fans can enjoy a daily 90-minute river tour, an experience hailed by Tripadvisor travelers as the best way to get up close to Chicago’s iconic skyline, learn its history, and cruise under its celebrated bridges. Tours depart regularly from the Summer of George dock and offer fascinating stories and spectacular photo opportunities.

For those intrigued by interactive art, The Messi Experience runs daily at 2367 W Logan Blvd through September. This immersive multimedia exhibit celebrates the dazzling achievements of Lionel Messi, including a Chicago-exclusive mural by Kane One. It’s an ideal adventure for families and sports enthusiasts alike, with themed merchandise, food, and a high-energy atmosphere.

If you crave museum excitement, the Field Museum brings learning to life on August 15 with its free "Meet a Scientist: Arachnids Around You" lab experience from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. On Friday evening, follow the SUE the T.rex party at Easy Does It, where paleontological history meets nightlife. Science and socializing, dino-style.

Fans of music and the great outdoors can head to Chicago’s North Shore for live blues with Billy Branch & The Sons of the Blues or relax amidst the 27 stunning gardens at the Chicago Botanic Garden. Or check out the Ravinia Festival’s world-class concerts under the stars all summer long.

For sports beyond basketball, catch the Chicago Sky versus the Las Vegas Aces at Wintrust Arena on August 25 at 7 p.m. It’s a thrilling way to see WNBA action and support local sports.

Hidden gems spark local magic too. Join a laid-back kickball game at Montrose Beach, try volleyball at North Avenue Beach, or hit a pop-up poetry event at the Field Museum later in August. On Sunday, August 17, collectors can dig into nostalgia at the Sports Cards and More Show, open from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., for rare finds and trading fun.

Art fans strolling Logan Square will find murals, indie galleries, and creative cafes. Foodies can eat their way through Pilsen’s taquerias and street art, or devour deep-dish at classics like Lou Malnati’s and sample modern spins at rooftop bars overlooking Lake

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Chicago is bursting with activities for curious listeners this week, blending world-famous events, classic attractions, and true local gems for unforgettable adventures. This weekend, the sky over Lake Michigan will roar and dazzle during the Chicago Air and Water Show—North Avenue Beach is the prime viewing spot to watch jets soar and stunt pilots twist on Sunday, August 17th, from 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. According to Choose Chicago, this signature free event draws crowds from across the Midwest for adrenaline and lakeside energy.

For listeners who love music and open-air energy, stop by Gallagher Way by Wrigley Field, where the Old Town School of Folk Music Happy Hour brings live folk tunes and spontaneous dancing to a friendly neighborhood gathering. Cultural concerts pop up throughout the city’s parks all summer, creating surprise musical moments from Millennium Park to neighborhood squares.

Art lovers can wander the impressive galleries of the Art Institute of Chicago, famed for Monet’s shimmering water lilies, Grant Wood’s “American Gothic,” and the modern wing’s showstoppers. For visitors willing to dig deeper into Chicago’s art scene, the hidden Wabash Arts Corridor in the South Loop bursts with bold murals, dynamic street art, and evolving installations—Instagram gold and a window into local creativity.

Sports enthusiasts, catch baseball fever with the Chicago White Sox, who return home soon to take on the New York Yankees at Guaranteed Rate Field on Saturday, August 30. For a thrilling sports twist this week, the city’s Valor Games Midwest—August 12-14 across Soldier Field and city parks—bring together adaptive athletes and veterans competing in everything from cycling to archery, creating inspiring stories and opportunities for visitors to cheer alongside locals.

If being outside beckons, walking Chicago’s lakefront trail or exploring Lincoln Park reveals a fresh city perspective. Lincoln Park Zoo—one of the oldest free zoos in the country—delights all ages with tree-shaded paths, playful polar bears, and immersive gardens just steps from Lake Shore Drive. For skyline lovers, embark on an evening architecture boat cruise on the Chicago River. TripAdvisor reviewers rave about the humor and expertise of guides on the celebrated Chicago Architecture Foundation River Cruise, revealing historic skyscrapers and architectural drama only visible from the water.

Food remains a centerpiece of Chicago’s cultural scene. Listeners can line up at Pequod’s Pizza for deep-dish pizza featuring caramelized crust, or taste hand-pulled noodles at Chinatown’s MingHin Cuisine. Go early to Kasama, the world’s first Michelin-starred Filipino restaurant, blending bakery magic and savory brunch in Humboldt Park for a meal that’s truly unique to Chicago.

Another memorable outing is the Chicago Fireworks Cruise, with recurring 90-minute sails on Wednesdays and Saturdays throughout August from Navy Pier, offering spectacular lakefront skyline views and the crac

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Listeners, if you’re spending time in Chicago this week, you’re here at just the right moment for some of the city’s most fun, entertaining, and distinctly Chicago experiences. In August, especially today, everyone can dive right into the Northalsted Market Days festival, a signature Chicago street event running through Sunday. Stretching along Halsted Street, this festival draws crowds for live music on multiple stages, 250 vendors, food and drink, dance groups, drag performances, and an easygoing party vibe celebrating Chicago’s vibrant LGBTQ+ community.

Music lovers have their pick, with the Ginza Holiday Festival at the Midwest Buddhist Temple concluding today. This celebration of Japanese culture offers traditional music, artisans, and authentic Japanese street food in an intimate setting. For something big and energetic, Millennium Park remains a hot spot—not just for its iconic reflective Cloud Gate (affectionately called “the Bean”) and family picnics by the fountains, but also for its al fresco summer concerts and public art. This weekend, art fans will also appreciate the Franz West installations set amidst Millennium Park’s gardens, and just outside the city, the Hokusai & Ukiyo-e exhibition at the McAninch Arts Center presents over 70 intricate Japanese woodblock prints from the famed Edo period.

Looking for sports action? Head to Guaranteed Rate Field this afternoon to catch the Chicago White Sox take on the Cleveland Guardians. For those who want to make a full day of it, combine a baseball game with a walk along the nearby 18th Street Bridge for a unique skyline view most visitors skip. Golf fans and families should check out the final day of LIV Golf Chicago at Bolingbrook Golf Club—fairways, food trucks, interactive games, and live music, all surrounded by the excitement of top international players competing.

If you’re up for some adventure, take to the water this weekend. Chicago’s breezy skyline sails depart daily from Navy Pier and let you experience Lake Michigan up close, offering one-of-a-kind views and an exhilarating, peaceful break from city life. Prefer to stay on land? Join a guided architecture cruise on the Chicago River; you’ll float past spectacular skyscrapers while learning about the city’s legendary 20th-century architects and the stories that shaped them. If urban walking is your speed, the Riverwalk offers public art, casual bars, unique eateries, and kayaking beneath the bridges for the more adventurous listener.

Art-seekers shouldn’t skip the National Public Housing Museum’s exhibit, “Living in the Shade,” which highlights the city’s history of public spaces and community gardens, or opt for quirky and impactful at the Medieval Torture Museum. For something truly unique, gather your crew for Big Bus Tours’ hop-on, hop-off ride. This lets you craft your own city adventure: snap a selfie at Buckingham Fountain, hop off in Chinatown for soup dumplings, or head to Pilsen to check out vibrant murals and some

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If you’re in Chicago this week, you’ll find an exciting mix of activities from high-energy concerts and iconic sports events to hidden local gems and outdoor adventures. Today, start your Saturday morning with a free Millennium Park Summer Workout. Held on the Great Lawn in Millennium Park every Saturday from 8:00 a.m. until 11:45 a.m., these sessions include yoga, Pilates, Zumba, and cardio kickboxing. It’s a picturesque way to get moving surrounded by Chicago’s stunning architecture.

Just north along the river, experience something truly unique with Wild Mile Yoga, where listeners can join a class on floating docks nestled among native gardens and city views. For the curious, jump on a Wild Mile Walking Tour starting at 11 a.m. or noon, guided by docents eager to share the hidden ecology and vision behind this ever-evolving urban oasis. Or, if you’re musically inclined, the CatJam Chicago Jam Session welcomes drop-in musicians and listeners alike for a spontaneous acoustic jam right on the river.

Later on, give your taste buds a thrill at the Taylor Street Little Italy Festival, running August 14–17 in Little Italy, just west of downtown. This annual tradition celebrates Italian heritage with fantastic food from top-rated local restaurants, live entertainment on several stages, and a vibrant atmosphere filled with authentic vendors and family fun.

Sports fans can catch the Chicago White Sox facing the Cleveland Guardians at Guaranteed Rate Field on August 9 at 6:40 p.m., or, for the classic experience, mark your calendar for the Chicago Cubs versus Pittsburgh Pirates at legendary Wrigley Field on August 16 and 17. Wrigleyville itself is worth exploring—arrive early to soak in the pre-game energy with its lively bars and music spots.

Those who love live music won’t want to miss Linkin Park’s From Zero World Tour at United Center on August 11. The pre-show FanDuel Lounge offers early access, live music, and exclusive perks—ideal for fans wanting to make a night of it. Meanwhile, music lovers can also find jazz performances and pop-up gigs playing throughout city venues, so check local event calendars for additional discoveries.

Evenings in Chicago are magical, so head to Navy Pier on Wednesday or Saturday for the free award-winning fireworks show at 10 p.m. For a next-level experience, book a lakeside sunset cruise or a classic river architectural tour. According to Tripadvisor travelers, seeing Chicago’s skyline from the water—especially during fireworks—is spectacular and unforgettable.

Art and culture enthusiasts are spoiled for choice. The 70th Annual Ginza Holiday Festival runs August 8–10 at the Midwest Buddhist Temple, where you can savor Japanese food, watch traditional performances, and browse artisan crafts. Millennium Park often features temporary public art installations, like Franz West’s monumental outdoor sculptures surrounded by the buzz of the city. Don’t skip the Chicago Cultural Center—right now it’s exhibiting “Waters of

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Chicago in August is bursting with color, rhythm, and energy—a city where every block feels alive with possibility. If you’re here today, start with an electrifying guided walking tour through Chicago’s historic Union Station, digging into its starring film roles at 10:30 a.m. This unique 75-minute experience pulls listeners behind the scenes of Hollywood history inside the grand marble halls. Architecture fans have choices galore: explore the city’s dazzling interiors with The World Within: Chicago’s Original & Best Architecture Interiors Tour from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., or opt for a classic perspective aboard the 90 Minute Architecture River Tour departing at 5:00 p.m. from Summer Of George, 900 South Wells Street. Both offer insight into the city’s iconic design.

For a salty breeze and superb city views, step onto the Tall Ship Windy at Navy Pier for the Chicago Skyline Sail from 1:00 to 2:15 p.m. and again from 3:00 to 4:15 p.m., where the city unfolds from Lake Michigan and the wind fills historic sails. Sports lovers shouldn’t miss LIV Golf Chicago launching this Friday at Bolingbrook Golf Club. With tournament play from 11:15 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., attendees can cheer on stars like Bryson DeChambeau and Jon Rahm and enjoy food trucks, games, and a music-filled atmosphere all weekend. Good Charlotte headlines a free concert for fans on Saturday afternoon, part of a packed entertainment slate.

Dance is in the air, literally, as Chicago SummerDance lights up Grant Park’s Spirit of Music Garden Thursday through Saturday from now through September 7. Free, outdoor, open-air dancing with live music and professional lessons make for an invigorating chance to spin around with locals and visitors. This Saturday, the festival pops up at Taste of Chicago Albany Park, infusing the night with Cumbia, Bollywood, and Mexican folk dance.

For a different rhythm, stroll Daley Plaza during the Under The Picasso Noontimes performances between noon and one p.m., featuring eclectic artists under the iconic Picasso sculpture. Foodie listeners can travel to the Italian coast at Eataly Chicago’s Sicily Nights, offering a special prix fixe menu of fresh Sicilian fare through August 31.

Don’t pass up Chicago’s iconic year-round gems. Millennium Park always dazzles with its Cloud Gate “Bean” sculpture, the Crown Fountain, and open green spaces for picnics or skyline photos. The Millennium Park Summer Music Series wraps up August 7, but come early for a spot on the Great Lawn with dinner and discover artists across jazz, R&B, world music, and more against a stunning urban backdrop. The Art Institute of Chicago, minutes away in Grant Park, houses global masterpieces and breathtaking impressionist collections, making it a perennial favorite.

Hidden treasures beckon away from the crowds. Join the early risers at the Green City Market in Lincoln Park each Wednesday and Saturday morning for the city’s largest sustainable farmers market—perfect for spontaneous sampling a

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Listeners can make the most of summer in Chicago by diving into a world of iconic sights, epic music, sports mania, urban adventures, and even a few secrets only locals whisper about. One of the city’s standout experiences this month is the Messi Experience in Logan Square, open now through September 30. This interactive multimedia journey plunges visitors into soccer legend Lionel Messi’s life and career, featuring a vibrant mural by Chicago street art icon Miguel Aguilar. Perfect for sports fans of every age.

Music lovers, save the date for the Chicago Jazz Festival, a free tradition rocking Millennium Park August 28 to 31. The 2025 lineup spans jazz legends and boundary-breaking newcomers, promising everything from Esperanza Spalding to Eliades Ochoa. It’s an open invitation to picnic under the skyline and catch world-class jazz in action.

Sports fans have plenty to cheer about. The Chicago Cubs play in the iconic confines of Wrigley Field, a bucket-list stop for baseball nostalgia and modern fun. Even when the Cubs aren’t at home, Wrigleyville pulses with lively bars and classic Chicago eats. For soccer action, Chicago Fire FC plays the New England Revolution on August 9 at SeatGeek Stadium in Bridgeview—mixing high-stakes Major League Soccer and local fan spirit. Basketball’s on the agenda, too: see the Chicago Sky take on the Atlanta Dream at Wintrust Arena this evening, with another game next week for anyone who missed out.

Want a different angle on the city? Chicago’s 90-minute architecture boat tours glide along the river every day, turning the skyline into a living art gallery. Listeners will spot icons like Willis Tower, the Wrigley Building, and Frank Lloyd Wright’s roosts, all narrated by engaging guides who share stories you won’t hear elsewhere. For a special treat this week, smaller boat and river cruises often offer sunset departures, gifting picture-perfect views as Navy Pier’s fireworks explode over Lake Michigan.

Chicago’s outdoor scene is built for adventure. Millennium Park, always free, invites visitors to sprawl on the Jay Pritzker Pavilion’s lawn, snap a selfie at the Cloud Gate “Bean,” or cool down at Crown Fountain. Rent a Divvy bike and zip along the Lakefront Trail, or head north to Lincoln Park for free admission at the Lincoln Park Zoo—a local favorite, especially in the summer.

For food lovers, the Taylor Street Little Italy Festival returns August 14 to 17. It fills historic Taylor Street with award-winning Italian restaurants, authentic street eats, and live entertainment, celebrating generations of heritage in a street festival that’s as loved by locals as by tourists.

Seeking secret treasures? Try the Garfield Park Conservatory, a hidden haven of lush greenery and sculptures, or grab a skyline view with craft cocktails at Cindy’s Rooftop above Millennium Park. Local art buffs will enjoy the immersive teamLab: Transcending Boundaries exhibit at the Art Institute, where digital installations blur the line b

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Listeners looking for the best things to do in Chicago this week, and any week, will find the city bursting with activities for every taste. If you crave spectacular city views, catch the 90-Minute Architecture River Tour today, August 3rd, at 5 p.m.—these tours, run daily through October, put you right on the water for tales from Chicago’s architectural legacy, all while floating past Wacker Drive’s famous skyline. Tripadvisor reviewers insist this boat ride is “a must do,” equal parts beautiful and fascinating. If you prefer your river adventure with a spin, consider joining the Chicago: Bikes, Bites, and Brews Tour, which pairs city cycling with tastings of local favorites—think deep-dish pizza and Chicago craft beers, ideal for food-loving explorers, according to My Guide Chicago.

Music lovers and night owls can experience Chicago’s signature summer fireworks at Navy Pier at 10 p.m. every Wednesday and Saturday through August 30th, with live music and food stalls, creating the city’s iconic summer carnival atmosphere. For something more intimate but equally entertaining, the immersive Teatro Zinzanni continues inside the Spiegeltent at the Cambria Hotel with chaos, cabaret, and a gourmet dinner served alongside acrobatics and comedy—tickets are available for their show tonight from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Sports are the heartbeat of Chicago. This Sunday, August 10th, catch the Chicago White Sox battling the Cleveland Guardians at Guaranteed Rate Field with first pitch at 1:10 p.m. The following weekend, Bulls Fest 2025 takes over the United Center on August 23rd and 24th, mixing a massive outdoor three-on-three basketball tournament, clinics for all ages, local food, art, and appearances from Bulls players and legends—all designed for fans and families and free to attend.

Art aficionados can stroll Millennium Park to see Franz West’s monumental installations on display now. Meanwhile, the celebrated Color Factory hosts Colorpalooza until August 3rd, immersing guests in technicolor exhibits designed for sharing and play. For Japanophiles, McAninch Arts Center’s “Hokusai & Ukiyo-e: The Floating World” showcases more than 70 Japanese woodblock prints and Edo-period artifacts today from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Families or those seeking free fun should wander Lincoln Park Zoo, one of the only free zoos in America, home to gorillas, meerkats, and more—just minutes from downtown. The Chicago Riverwalk offers additional free entertainment, with pop-up concerts, art, and fantastic people-watching, while Big Bus Tours’ Hop-On, Hop-Off service lets you discover classic landmarks and offbeat gems at your own pace.

If unique experiences are your thing, anticipate the Chicago Air and Water Show, August 16th and 17th, the largest free event of its kind in the country, with roaring jet planes, lakeside seating, and millions in attendance along North Avenue Beach.

Chicago’s food scene is legendary: whether it’s iconic hot dogs at Portillo’s, sizzling Italian beef at

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