Things to Do
Discover the best things to do in Chicago, including popular events, festivals, attractions, tours and free activities
The best things to do in Chicago
Free museum days at the best Chicago museums
Contrary to popular belief, you don't have to spend a fortune in order to visit some of Chicago's best museums and cultural institutions. If you're willing to plan ahead, you can take in masterpieces at the Art Institute or gaze at tropical fish while strolling through Shedd Aquarium without spending a dime. You'll need to be an Illinois resident to take advantage of many of these offers, but that's one of the perks of living in Chicago. RECOMMENDED: Complete guide to Chicago museums
Events and festivals
Lollapalooza
This year, the Weeknd, Bruno Mars, Jack White and Arctic Monkeys headline the fest
Time Out shop
Beyoncé + Jay-Z
The past few years have been tumultuous (to say the least) for musical power-couple Jay-Z and Beyoncé, but the pair has weathered the rough times and is getting ready to celebrate with—what else?—a co-headlining tour. Dubbed OTR II (a nod to their 2014 On the Run tour), the stadium show will mash up Jay's increasingly conscientious hip-hop with Bey's immaculately choreographed anthems. Plus, we wouldn't be surprised if Blue Ivy makes a cameo.
Chicago Architecture River Cruise
Spy some of Chicago's most beautiful buildings on an architecture river cruise
Country LakeShake Festival
Country music fans in Chicago must get tickets to the Country LakeShake Festival
Rhine Hall Distillery Tour
Get a behind-the-scenes look at the distillery and taste Rhine Hall's signature apple brandy
Things to do in Chicago every day
Things to do with kids
Rockin' Jump
Check out Rockin' Jump at the Buffalo Grove. It's perfect for birthday's and more.
Amazing Mirror Maze
Explore a maze with 1,800-square-foot stretch of wall-to-wall reflective surfaces
