Updates and Tidbits About Chicago

Free Things to Do in Chicago During the Winter

Spending time engaging in fun things to do in Chicago doesn’t have to break the bank. In fact, there are plenty of free things to do in Chicago during the winter months. From outdoor adventures to indoor visits to Chicago hotspots and Chicago attractions, you can find plenty of excitement and entertainment in the Windy City. Load up the family or grab that special someone to begin exploring the free things to do in Chicago this winter.

The Chicago Cultural Center

Take a break from the cold winds of Lake Michigan and soak up Chicago culture at the same time with a stop in at the Chicago Cultural Center. This Chicago attraction features architecture you can admire that includes the world’s largest stained glass Tiffany dome and a breathtaking theater. This Chicago hotspot also hosts art, dance and music events perfect for families. The Chicago Cultural Center is located at 78 East Randolph and is free for all ages.

The Lincoln Park Zoo

Bundle up and enjoy the nostalgia of the Lincoln Park Zoo. This free Chicago winter attraction offers Chicago fall festivals and holiday lights when the weather turns cold so you can get the most out of your visit to this Chicago attraction. There’s plenty of fun and free things to do in Chicago at the Lincoln Park Zoo when you’re surrounded by birds, lions, apes and sloths. Head to this Chicago hotspot during the winter months and you can even ice skate or participate in the zoo workshops available. The Lincoln Park Zoo is located at 2001 North Clark Street.

Smart Museum of Art

Energize your brain muscles and explore the University of Chicago’s Smart Museum of Art. Free and open to the public, this Chicago museum offers art exhibitions showcasing contemporary, modern, European and Asian artwork, as well as short-term exhibitions during the winter months. Sign up for one of the featured programs for families, kids and adults at this popular Chicago museum, located on the University of Chicago campus at 5550 South Greenwood Avenue.

Millennium Park

Although it’s a bit chilly during Chicago winters, there’s no better time to get outdoors and ice skate. Chicago’s Millennium Park is home to the McCormick Tribune Ice Rink that is free to the public. You do, though, have to bring your own ice skates or rent them at the park. This free Chicago winter activity is perfect for all ages and gives you a great view of the Chicago Bean and the Chicago skyline while whirling around the rink.

Finding free things to do in Chicago in the winter is not hard at all. In fact, the Windy City is home to both indoor and outdoor Chicago attractions you can explore all year long. From free ice skating rinks in Chicago to free museums in Chicago, take the opportunity to see the best of the city’s culture and entertainment options. Check back often for even more fun things to do in Chicago.

Fun Facts About Chicago

Often dubbed as The Windy City, the Second City or even the City of Big Shoulders, Chicago is a mecca for entertainment, culture and outdoor attractions. Chicago is also full of historical significance and has homegrown celebrities who call the Second City their first love. Are you interested in learning more about Chicago’s history or even random facts that make this city special? Keep reading. Even if you think you know just about everything there is to know about the Windy City, you may be surprised to learn of these Chicago fun facts.

Lakefronts and Beaches to Brag About

Chicago Fun Fact: Chicago, the third-largest city in the U.S. is home to 25 beaches and 26 miles of lakefront.

It’s no doubt that Chicago outdoor attractions deliver fun in the sun and even more fun in the snow with Chicago winter activities, but did you know that the plentiful parks and beaches are expansive in the Windy City? Head over to Millennium Park to see the bean or relax in the sun at one of the Chicago beaches or Chicago parks.

More Views Than You Can Imagine

Chicago Fun Fact: From the top of Willis Tower, you can see four states from the Skydeck, including Indiana, Wisconsin, Michigan, and of course, Illinois.

Formerly known as the Sears Tower, Willis Tower is home to the Skydeck where you can see aerial views of the Chicago skyline and more. As one of the most fun things to do in Chicago, this adventure is something you won’t want to miss when visiting Chicago.

A Crafty, Artsy City in the Making

Chicago Fun Fact: The Art Institute of Chicago features one of the largest collections of Post-Impressionist and Impressionist paintings, only to be outdone by Paris.

It’s no secret that the Windy City is home to Chicago museums that are stunning on the inside and out. But, did you know that the Art Institute of Chicago is one of the elite institutes in the world? Located on South Michigan Avenue, in the heart of downtown, the Art Institute of Chicago is one of the most renowned Chicago attractions.

We’ve Got Dinosaurs

Chicago Fun Fact: As the owner of the most complete Tyrannosaurus Rex skeleton in the world, lovingly named Sue, the Field Museum has history in the making.

The Field Museum, located on South Lake Shore, is a popular Chicago indoor attraction, but it is also a historic Chicago hotspot you must visit. Beyond eyeing the beauty of Sue, the most complete Tyrannosaurus Rex skeleton, you can also find entertainment for all ages at this Chicago museum featuring traveling exhibitions and indoor and outdoor Chicago activities.

While it may be common knowledge that Chicago attractions are hard to beat, these Chicago fun facts may be just what you need to know to impress your fellow Chicagoans or tourists. Check back often for even more Chicago fun facts.

Top St. Patrick’s Day Activities in Chicago

If you and the family aren’t sure what to do on St. Patrick’s Day in Chicago, you are in luck. The windy city offers a variety of festivals, parades, sights to see and local Chicago attractions. Whether you feel lucky for the day or just want to know how to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day in style, check out these exciting Chicago events planned specifically for this special March holiday.

Watch the St. Patrick’s Day Parade

See love for all things green up close and personal when attending Chicago’s annual St. Patrick’s Day Parade. Commonly held on the Saturday closest to March 17^th, this interactive parade heads down Columbus Drive from Balbo Drive and then all the way to Monroe Street. If you don’t know how to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day in Chicago, this is the way to do it. The parade features more than 100 floats, bands, dancing troupes and more and is one of the most anticipated Chicago events in the city.

See the Green River

One of the most unique traditions in Chicago is the dyeing of the Chicago river. You won’t want to miss this Chicago St. Patrick’s Day event. While you can look up close and personal along the canal streets, you can also head over to the Ferris wheel at Navy Pier or head up the Skydeck for an aerial view of this green masterpiece.

Take Part in the St. Patrick’s Day Festival

Offering fun for all ages, the St. Patrick’s Day Festival at the Irish American Heritage Center is a popular Chicago event each year. The festival includes entertainment for kids and adults alike and features performances from Irish dancers, opportunities to make St. Patrick’s Day crafts and plenty of green brews and authentic food to divulge in with friends and family.

Do the Shamrock Shuffle

Put on your running shoes and enjoy the brisk Chicago weather when spending your St. Patrick’s Day at the Shamrock Shuffle. This 8k run, a popular Chicago event, kicks off the running season for many. Sponsored by Bank of America, this Chicago St. Patrick’s Day event features not just a run, but also an after-party complete with prizes, medals and green beer.

Sample Brews on the St. Paddy’s Pub Crawl

Find Chicago’s treasured pubs and find a sea of green beer when signing up for the St. Paddy’s Pub Crawl. Beginning at Lucky Strike Social at Wrigleyville on the Saturday before the big holiday, this special event takes you to the best bars in town with top-rated drink specials. As one of the most anticipated Chicago St. Patrick’s Day events, this pub crawl comes complete with a map to help with navigation throughout the day.

You don’t have to be Irish to know how to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day. You just have to be ready for lucky adventures when navigating Chicago St. Patrick’s Day events. See green and wear green when venturing to these hotspots known for some of the most fun things to do in Chicago. Check back often for even more holiday activities.

The Best Night Out Hotspots in Chicago

Are you wanting to ramp up your Chicago date night ideas? Are you in the mood to dance the night away? Then, get ready to find the most popular things to do in Chicago after the sun goes down. From comedy clubs and theatrical performances to Chicago clubs that offer refreshing brews and drinks, consider these Chicago hot spots for your next night out.

The Underground

If you want to literally dance the night away, spend a weekend night at The Underground, where the party lasts until 5 a.m. This popular Chicago club offers big-name DJs, specialty drinks and a great place to spend a night with friends or utilize as one of your Chicago date night ideas. You may also get a sneak peek at well-known artists and celebrities who frequently stop by to join in the fun at this Chicago attraction. Its next door to the Fairfield Inn River North.

Untitled

With an evening out at Untitled, you have your choice of whiskeys and five bars all in one Chicago hotspot. Dubbed as a laid-back lounge bar, Untitled is also well-known for its scrumptious menu. Dine on fresh seafood, such as Gulf Shrimp Cocktail and oysters or opt for some mushroom linguini or Scottish salmon when looking for delicious things to do in Chicago.

Beauty Bar

Combine a little pampering with a night out when making Beauty Bar your destination. This Chicago hot spot allows you to step back in time with a 1960s retro theme complete with late-night dancing, martinis, manicures and more. Whether you are seeking out things to do in Chicago with your gal pals or want to sip on fruity drinks with that someone special, this popular Chicago club is the place to be when you want to enjoy pampering and adventure all in one night.

Y Bar

As one of the most premier Chicago clubs on the scene, the Y Bar is a longtime favorite among locals and tourists. Described by patrons as “luxury meets house,” this trendy Chicago bar offers a variety of musical acts and DJ entertainment that ranges from hip-hop styles to even merengue-themed nights. Feel like a VIP when lounging on the sofas, dancing on the dance floor or ordering bottle service at this popular Chicago dance club. Its an easy walk from Hotel Felix or the Godfrey.

Cuvee Ultra Lounge

Step into glamour when visiting this Chicago attraction. The Cuvee Ultra Lounge on Erie Street houses Chicago’s elite as well as stunning décor with radiant chandeliers and an impressive list of champagnes. Reserve a spot at the elevated table service area or join friends and loved ones on the dance floor at this hip Chicago lounge known to attract celebrities and Chicago’s locals.

You deserve to treat yourself to a night out in Chicago that is memorable, exciting and fun. These Chicago clubs offer just that. Sample some gourmet Chicago-style food, dance the night away or even get a manicure while sipping on martinis with these Chicago date night ideas. Check back often for even more spotlights on Chicago attractions.

Chicago February Attractions for All Ages

Right before spring hits the windy city, the month of February provides you with Chicago winter events and weather that is still a bit chilly. You don’t have to avoid the outdoors, though, with February Chicago festivals and events looming. Find fun things to do in February in Chicago for all ages right before spring hits with these Chicago entertainment options.

Celebrate Presidents’ Day at the Chicago History Museum

Make your February itinerary in Chicago revolve around learning when spending Presidents’ Day at the Chicago History Museum. This Chicago February event features a brass band, photo ops with Mary and Abe Lincoln impersonators, arts and crafts and special exhibits. The Chicago History Museum is a free Chicago venue and is located at 1601 N. Clark Street.

Smell the Orchids

One of the most anticipated Chicago February events is the Orchid Show, hosted by the Chicago Botanic Garden. You don’t have to head to the Caribbean to see the beauty of colorful orchids. Instead, this Chicago attraction brings the beauty to the windy city. Tour the Chicago Botanic Garden housed in a special room with colorful specimens. You can even bring a few flowers home at this Chicago February event.

Celebrate the Lunar New Year

Head to Chinatown for one of the most exciting Chicago February festivals. Celebrate ancient traditions at this Chicago February event in Chinatown that includes elaborate floats, lion dances and marching bands. Learn more about Chinese culture and ring in the new year in Chicago at this event hosted by the Chicago Chinatown Community Foundation.

Attend the Opera

What better way to celebrate the impending spring than with a lively opera performance by nationally-known performers? The Chicago Opera Theater hosts a variety of new shows during the winter months. Take in a Chicago Opera performance and see the stories unfold on stage at the Studebaker Theater. And, this fun February Chicago activity gives you the chance to expand your horizons and soak up the Chicago culture.

Enroll in the Engineering Fest

Designed just for kids, this Chicago February event is described as a crash course in engineering. While the theme of this Chicago February attraction varies, the STEM education workshop offers hands-on activities and a great option as a fun thing to do in February in Chicago. The Engineering Fest is hosted by the Chicago Architecture Center, located at 111 E. Wacker Drive.

You don’t have to wait around for fun things to do in Chicago during the winter months. The reality is that Chicago February events and Chicago festivals are just as prominent at the beginning of the year as they are during the Chicago summer months. From educational Chicago attractions to street festivals with live music and parades, find fun things to do in Chicago in February for all ages. Keep checking back for even more Chicago February activities.