Things to do
Everything we know about Hello Kitty Night for the Chicago Bulls
The legendary team will welcome a beloved icon to the United Center this spring.
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Art
10 art exhibitions in Chicago to look forward to in 2026
Including the international debut of the Pokémon Fossil Museum and a never-before-seen collection of works by Matisse.
Things to do
11 things to look forward to in Chicago in 2026
A Gilded Age magic palace, a major WNBA weekend and Obama’s expansive civic campus await in the new year.
Music
The Chicago Hip Hop Heritage Museum will officially close
The South Side institution will shutter its Indiana Avenue home on December 27.
Travel
This national park is just a one-hour train ride from Chicago—and it’s perfect for a winter day trip
With snow-capped dunes, miles of trails and postcard-worthy views of the Chicago skyline, Indiana Dunes National Park is a standout escape for Midwesterners.
Shopping
The best books of 2025, according to Chicago’s independent bookstores
From the year’s best sellers to staff picks, these are the tomes that Chicago bookstores are championing.
Restaurants
Giordano’s limited-edition pizza celebrates a big football anniversary
The loaded pizza is a tribute to the football team that defined Chicago in the '80s.
Restaurants
Beloved hot dog chain Portillo's is reportedly opening on Michigan Avenue
2026 is already looking up!
Sports and fitness
A Savannah Bananas–style baseball team is coming to Chicago—and they’re holding tryouts next month
Now’s your chance to join the Chicago Snowballs, the city’s new coed sportstainment baseball team.
Things to do
Illinoisans: It’s your final year to visit the viral Taylor Swift–themed Christmas house.
2025 will be the last time to celebrate Christmas (Taylor’s Version) at Naperville's “Swiftmas” house.
Discover Time Out original video