Lauren Brocato

Deep-dish pizza is one of Chicago's most iconic foods, alongside hot dogs and Italian beef, and if you eat like a local, you'll inevitably get pulled into the debate over who makes the city's best pie. Chicago’s best pizza spots include institutions that have been serving the same recipes for decades, as well as newcomers putting their own spins on the indulgent dish. There are tiny mom-and-pop spots, big chains that ship pies across the country and even gluten-free options that everyone can enjoy. Whether you’re ordering delivery or meeting up with friends for a cheesy slice, these are the best places in Chicago for deep-dish pizza. RECOMMENDED: The best restaurants in Chicago right now June 2026: While many Chicagoans favor the thin, crispy crust of tavern-style pizza, deep dish isn't just for tourists. Sometimes, nothing satisfies quite like a thick slice layered with cheese, sauce and toppings. This revised list of the best deep-dish pizzas in Chicago is your ultimate guide to finding the best pies around town, from famed institutions like Lou Malnati's and Pequod's to suburban hot spots like Uncle Jerry's. Among the newest additions to the list are Pilsen favorite Novel Pizza Cafe and Beatrix Market, the grab-and-go spot near DePaul University. We also say goodbye to Kitchen 17, the vegan deep-dish specialist that has closed. Time Out has also instituted a sitewide change in review policies. Our food and drink venues included in guides now have star ratings, with five s

Each week, our team at Time Out Chicago curates the ultimate weekly event guide, featuring the big events, IYKYK pop-ups and everything in between. Here, you'll find the happenings that are worth your time and money, from family-friendly activities and daytime events to late-night shenanigans and the low-key functions that you won't hear about on TikTok. Updated June 22, 2026: It's a big week, Chicago! This is the first full week that the Obama Presidential Center is open to the public; Ed Sheeran headlines Soldier Field on Saturday; and the Pride Parade is happening on Sunday. Plus, there are a slew of free events at Gallagher Way, from music bingo to a screening of the family flick Cool Runnings. Keep scrolling for more of the nearly 60 (!) best happenings across Chicago this week. RECOMMENDED: Discover the best things to do in Chicago in June 2026

Is there anything better than June in Chicago? The days are long, summer festival season has arrived and cold weather finally feels like a distant memory, giving us ample opportunity to enjoy afternoons at Chicago beaches and evenings spent sipping frozen cocktails at the city's best rooftop bars. As always, you'll find plenty of seasonal events to keep busy, from big summer music festivals like the Chicago Blues Festival and the Lyrical Lemonade Summer Smash to charming neighborhood art fairs. Plus, don't miss the numerous Pride events happening. Say hello to summer with our list of the best things to do in Chicago this June. RECOMMENDED: Events calendar for Chicago in 2026

Last updated June 11, 2026: As it turns out, some of the best things in life—or at least, some of the best things to do in Chicago—are free. There are plenty of free ways to spend your time over the next few weeks, including a dazzling flower show at Navy Pier, ART on THE MART and concerts and street fairs galore. Plus, don't miss out on film screenings and other recurring events at Millennium Park that won't cost you a dime. Ready to save some money without sacrificing any fun? Check out more of the best free things to do in Chicago this month. RECOMMENDED: The best free museum days in Chicago RECOMMENDED: The best cheap eats in Chicago

The best spots for outdoor dining in Chicago show off all the beauty the city has to offer, from stunning skyline views to vibrant people-watching opportunities. To further enhance your alfresco experience, try dining by the water. Between the different branches of the Chicago River and Lake Michigan, there are plenty of options for waterfront dining in Chicago—whether you’re looking for high-end seafood establishments, casual pizza spots or even a brewery adjacent to a music venue along the river. Not sure where to start? Choose from splashy Chicago Riverwalk restaurants or post up with a drink near one of the city’s best beaches for a meal under the sun. If you prefer to stay inside, you can even find covered and heated options for enjoying waterfront dining all year long. See some gorgeous sights and get a top-notch meal at the same time at the best restaurants for waterfront and Riverwalk dining in Chicago. RECOMMENDED: The best restaurants in Chicago right now June 2026: Summer is here, and that means revisiting our ranking of the best Chicago Riverwalk and waterfront restaurants. Most of these places are open year-round, while a few seasonal spots like Waterfront Cafe shut down after Labor Day. They range from stunning rooftop terraces to bustlling beer gardens, so whether you're looking for somewhere nice to celebrate a special occasion or in search of a place for drinks after work, there are plenty of restaurants to choose from. Time Out has also instituted a sitewid

We’re probably not alone in saying that the weekend is always on our minds here at Time Out Chicago HQ. Like you (probably), we spend the workweek daydreaming about the next restaurant to obsess over and obsessively updating our concert calendars. Whether you’re museum-hopping, plotting a day trip to escape the city, or ready to ghost your original plans for something spontaneous, you’ll find plenty of ways to make the most of your weekend in Chicago. Updated June 17, 2026: We've got a jam-packed weekend here in Chicago. This Sunday is Father's Day, and if you're looking for things to do with dad (or the whole family), we've got you covered. There are free Movies in the Parks showings, a magic show at The Hand & The Eye, Taste of Randolph, the Chicago Pride Fest, and so much more. Plus, the Obama Presidential Center opens this weekend, with a celeb-studded (and invite-only) grand opening ceremony on Thursday, which you can livestream at 11am. On a budget? No problem. We've rounded up some of the best free events in Chicago, like the Grant Park Music Festival and Navy Pier fireworks, too. Keep scrolling to discover more of the best weekend events across the city. RECOMMENDED: The best things to do in Chicago today

Welcome to summer, Chicago! We've only got a few precious months of warm weather and long days to enjoy, so let us help you make the most of it with our guide to the city's best season. A few ideas: Maximize your time outside at rooftop bars and restaurants, catch outdoor movies in city parks, sample bites at a street festival and spend your weekends dancing to live tunes at the best summer music festivals in Chicago. And if you're looking for free things to do in Chicago, it's tough to beat a long day at the beach! Summer won't stick around forever—scroll through and get ready to explore the best of the city's warm weather offerings. RECOMMENDED: Discover the best things to do in ChicagoHere are the best boat tours in Chicago

While fireworks are the most popular spectacle on the Fourth of July (and there are plenty of places to watch them), you've got many other things to do over the holiday weekend as well. After spending an afternoon in a Chicago park or on a sandy beach, you can sit back and listen to patriotic tunes performed by the Grant Park Orchestra at Millennium Park or watch the Cubs take on the St. Louis Cardinals at Wrigley Field. There's also the annual 4th on 53rd Parade in Hyde Park and a free community event at the brand-new Obama Presidential Center. So make the most of your time off and find the best things to do in Chicago on the Fourth of July with our guide. RECOMMENDED: Our complete guide to Fourth of July in Chicago

One of the best parts of summer in Chicago is watching fireworks light up the sky on the Fourth of July. You've got plenty of options for catching a show this year, whether you'd rather head out to the suburbs for weekend-long festivals and parades or stick to the city to see Navy Pier's iconic display along the lakefront from beaches or boat cruises. So after you've had your fill of outdoor barbecues and other patriotic festivities, grab a blanket and settle down for an incredible show of sparkling fireworks—you can plan your holiday with the help of our guide to the best fireworks shows on the Fourth of July in the Chicago area. Where is the Fourth of July fireworks show in Chicago? This year, you can see the main fireworks show over Lake Michigan at Navy Pier on Saturday, July 4 at 10pm.  Where are the best places to watch the Fourth of July fireworks in Chicago?  The Navy Pier fireworks are relatively high-altitude, which means you can see them from a variety of vantage points throughout the city. Stake out a spot along Navy Pier's outdoor areas (Polk Bros Park or the rooftop patio at Offshore are always good bets) or head to downtown rooftops and Chicago beaches like Oak Street, North Avenue and Ohio Street. Navy Pier also offers a number of lake and river cruises that can be booked online.  RECOMMENDED: Our complete guide to Fourth of July in Chicago

The best restaurants in Chicago come in all shapes and sizes, from pizza joints and Michelin-starred heavyweights to some of the best cheap eats Chicago has to offer. The cuisines are just as varied, with every corner of the globe represented through Korean, Mexican, Italian, sushi and much more. Whether you're a lifelong resident or simply visiting for the weekend, stuffing your face at one of these restaurants is easily among the best things to do in Chicago. This belt-busting food scene shows no signs of slowing down, so we've cut to the chase and ranked our essentials—the absolute best restaurants in town. Our editors scour the city for great dishes, excellent value and insider info. We hope to provide an authentic snapshot of Chicago's ever-evolving dining experiences by updating this list constantly with the best new restaurants in the city as well as decades-old stalwarts that keep us coming back for more. It could be a mega-hyped destination restaurant or a remarkable hole in the wall: If it’s on the list, we think it’s terrific, and we bet you will, too. Best Chicago restaurants at a glance: 🥩 For a steakhouse: Trino – A Latin-influenced restaurant where beef isn't the only standout (West Loop) 🌮 For authentic tacos: La Chaparrita – Mexico City-style tacos at a taqueria attached to a corner store (Little Village) 🍽️ For a fine-dining splurge: Smyth – Chicago's lone three-Michelin-starred tasting experience led by chefs John Shields and Karen Urie Shields (We

In a city where faded Old Style signs swing outside of beloved dive bars and lines snake around the block at trendy cocktail lounges, the best bars in Chicago act as meeting places, date locales and venues for celebrations. With so many great places to grab a beverage, the list of our all-time favorite bars around town is expansive—and inclusive of taprooms at Chicago breweries, sultry wine bars uncorking bottles of reds and whites, and the finest cocktail bars Chicago has to offer. In a metropolis packed with places to sip and swirl, these watering holes shine even brighter and boozier. Take a look at the best bars in Chicago and find the perfect destination for your next night out. Best Chicago bars at a glance: 🎶 For live music: Green Mill – Historic jazz lounge with nightly performances (Uptown) 🍹 For extravagant cocktails: The Aviary – Theatrical cocktail experience (West Loop) 😘 For date night: Bisous – Parisian-inspired bar with a focus on martinis and intimate vibes (West Loop) 🍺 For beer drinkers: Maria's Packaged Goods & Community Bar – A beer emporium tucked away behind a liquor store (Bridgeport) 🥃 For whiskey lovers: Delilah's – A no-frills dive offering more than 1,000 brown spirits (Lincoln Park) Updated June 2026: Sometimes you want to let loose in a loud bar after a long week, and sometimes you just want to cozy up at a dive bar with only a beer and your thoughts. No matter the occasion, the best bars in Chicago promise the best of whatever exp

Do you feel the warmth in the air? It can only mean one thing—festival season is here. The city's streets and parks will be full every coming weekend thanks to a stacked lineup of fests, fairs and more. You'll find everything from heavy-hitting summer music festivals like Lollapalooza and Sueños to beloved neighborhood block parties on the calendar from May through October. We'll continue to update this list throughout the season as more fests announce lineups and additional details—in the meantime, take a look through some of the best festivals in Chicago this year. RECOMMENDED: The best things to do this summer in Chicago

Pepsi is taking over Big Star in Wicker Park through its Local Eats Deserve Pepsi platform. TV star Dylan Efron will make an appearance to celebrate the taco dish he created in collaboration with the restaurant. The event is free to attend, and guests can expect free food and performances by country artist Lauren Watkins and DJ JayFunk.

Head to Gallagher Way in Wrigleyville on select Monday evenings throughout the summer to join a free Movement Monday class. This year's lineup includes dance classes, self-defense, yoga and more. Classes are free to attend, but you'll need to reserve a spot in advance.

Test your music knowledge on select Tuesday nights with free music bingo at Gallagher Way this summer. Each game covers a different genre, from country and 90s pop to EDM and Broadway. Team sign-up starts at 5:30pm, before the game kicks off at 6pm.

Gallagher Way is showing free outdoor movies on select Wednesday nights through September. From family flicks like Zootopia 2 and High School Musical to classics like How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days and Matilda, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Guests are encouraged to bring a blanket or purchase a VIP or Premier ticket, which includes a reserved seat, snacks and other goodies.

The Budweiser Concert Series is back at Gallagher Way this summer, with three outdoor shows from Guster, Hippo Campus and Ashley McBryde. GA and VIP tickets are available, and $1 from each ticket sold will go to mental health and wellness organization Backline or sustainability organization Reverb.

Celebrate Pride with the whole family at OUT at Gallagher Way. The free all-day event features face painting, balloon artists, bracelet-making, giveaways and Voguing classes, plus performances by the Chicago Gay Men's Chorus and Rock and Roll Playhouse.

Watch Grateful Dead tribute band BERTHA: Grateful Drag take the stage at Gallagher Way in Wrigleyville during Pride weekend. The show kicks off with performances by Rozbot and Yoko and the Oh No's before the main event.

The Obama Presidential Center is celebrating its opening weekend with a free, three-day bash from Friday, June 19, through Sunday, June 21. The open-house event marks the 19-acre center's historic debut on the South Side with live music, dancing, family-friendly art projects and more. Can't attend but still want to get in on the action? Catch the official grand opening ceremony livestream on Thursday, June 18, from the comfort of your home.

Navy Pier's former Crystal Gardens space transforms into a retro roller skating rink this summer. Grab your skates (or borrow a pair; they're included with your ticket) and hit the rink for old-school fun, plus an arcade, photo booth, drinks and groovy disco tunes. At night, the Skate After Dark party turns up the energy for the 21+ crowd with DJ sets on select nights throughout the summer.

A two-day, 18-plus electronic music festival is coming to Lincoln Park. More than 50 electronic artists and 10 DJs will perform across three stages over the weekend, in addition to local food and drink vendors. The lineup includes Brazilian EDM producer Welker and indie-dance duo AR/CO.

The Newberry Library explores the origins of the nation's inception in "Free and Independent: The Declaration of Independence and the Words That Made the United States." The free exhibition features a rare early copy of the Declaration of Independence and invites visitors to ponder its meaning 250 years after America's founding.

In honor of America's 250th anniversary, the American Writers Museum presents a pop-up exhibition titled "Declarations: 250 Years of Writing Toward Independence." An 1832 William Stone print of the Declaration of Independence, a 1776 British edition of Thomas Paine's Common Sense, which advocated for the independence of U.S. colonies, and more artifacts will be on view. Visitors can also explore works related to the Declaration by Abraham Lincoln, Frederick Douglass and other historical figures, as well as edit the document into their own words through interactive activations.

When I suggest going to Navy Pier, I’m usually met with moans and groans, followed by a resigned, “Fine, let’s go.” But without fail, every person I’ve taken has left admitting that Navy Pier isn’t so bad after all. It's common for Chicagoans to brush Navy Pier off as a tourist trap. Although it is one of the city's most visited tourist attractions, it's a vibrant cultural hub that deserves a second look from locals. Opened in 1916, the pier was originally a barren sliver of land used as a shipping and recreation facility. Its original name, Municipal Pier, was changed in 1927 to honor the Navy personnel who lived there during the First World War. Fast forward to the summer of 1995, and it looked a lot like what we know it as today. An extensive $150 million renovation brought it into the modern era with a Ferris wheel, the Chicago Children’s Museum and the now-defunct Crystal Gardens. More than four million people visited Navy Pier that year. Photograph: Jordan AveryNavy Pier RECOMMENDED: Navy Pier’s contested Crystal Gardens revived with a temporary pop-up—again These days, Navy Pier attracts more than nine million visitors each year. According to recent insights by Envisionit, many locals view Navy Pier strictly as a tourist destination. This isn’t a groundbreaking discovery, but it’s proof that many Chicagoans are due for a reintroduction to Navy Pier.  Sure, there are plenty of other places to spend your time, most of which don’t include navigating thousands of pedestr

The Obama Presidential Center hosted a four-day celebration in honor of the campus' highly anticipated public debut on Chicago's South Side. The festivities kicked off on Thursday, June 18, with an invite-only Grand Opening Ceremony. All three other living former presidents, Joe Biden, George W. Bush and Bill Clinton, and the former First Ladies joined Barack, Michelle, Malia and Sasha Obama on stage. Photograph: Courtesy The Obama FoundationPresident and Mrs. Obama greet former Presidents and First Ladies in the Presidential Suite of The Obama Presidential Center Museum.     Other high-profile guests included Oprah Winfrey, Stephen Colbert, David Letterman, Dwayne Wade, George Lucas, Steven Spielberg, Tyler Perry, Tom Hanks and many more. Photograph: Courtesy The Obama FoundationThe Obama family The ceremony was filled with stirring remarks, including Michelle Obama's viral speech, which brought her husband to tears.  Photograph: Courtesy Chuck Kennedy/The Obama FoundationMrs. Michelle Obama gives remarks during the Grand Opening Dedication Ceremony.   In his remarks, President Obama said, "We wanted the center to be a vibrant, living celebration of community, where we can learn together and share the joys of art and music and sport and play, because it’s in those moments that we’re reminded of our common humanity and strengthen the bonds of trust that not only make our lives richer, but make our democracy stronger." Photograph: Courtesy Taylor Glascock/The Obama Fo

The FIFA World Cup 2026 is here. Even though Chicago isn't a host city, there are still plenty of ways to get in on the action right here at home. From huge watch parties with a jumbotron to a digital soccer tournament with a $10,000 grand prize, you won't want to miss these World Cup celebrations.  Party at Chicago Fire’s World Cup HQ Photograph: Lauren Brocato for Time OutRecess Recess and Chicago Fire are going all out for the World Cup. The West Loop bar/event space has installed a massive 360-degree jumbotron and is hosting a lineup of themed watch parties, giveaways, and exclusive merch drops throughout the tournament. Guests should reserve a free mobile pass before coming in, and reservations for tables and cabanas are encouraged.  Claim free food and beer Just because most of the World Cup weekday matches take place during the workday here in Chicago doesn’t mean you need to skip out on the watch party action. From 9am to 5pm during any weekday match, Stella Artois is covering fans’ tabs. If you order a Stella, you can submit your receipt as an “expense report” for reimbursement. You can also earn free menu items and loyalty points from Jason’s Deli every time the U.S. Men’s National Soccer Team scores a goal. RECOMMENDED: The 15 best Chicago sports bars, from Wrigleyville to River North Compete in a Whirl'd Cup tournament at Whirlyball Grab your crew, or enter as a free agent, and compete in WhirlyBall’s Whirl’d Cup tournament during the World Cup championship matc

The former Crystal Gardens space at Navy Pier has been the subject of controversy for the past five years, but a new roller skating pop-up opens the space to guests once again.  In 2021, Navy Pier announced it would replace its free indoor botanical garden, which housed more than 80 full-sized palm trees, with a ticketed immersive experience from entertainment company Illuminarium to help offset the financial losses it endured during the pandemic. As soon as they found out, Chicagoans weren’t happy: More than 15,000 people signed a petition to block the move. But despite the community's efforts, Illuminarium’s 10-year lease agreement was inked in late 2021. Photograph: Lauren Brocato for Time OutNavy Pier Summer Skate at night RECOMMENDED: The 50 best things to do in Chicago right now Some might call it karma for trying to replace a free green space with a paid digital experience, but Illuminarium proved to be an instant flop. Navy Pier’s owners filed a lawsuit against the entertainment company, claiming they’d pulled a “bait and switch.” They promised a $30 million, state-of-the-art experience that engaged all five senses, but instead produced a lackluster “run-of-the-mill virtual reality exhibit” due to their own financial decline.   Photograph: Lauren Brocato for Time OutNavy Pier Summer Skate rental Since then, the space has been vacant and remained closed—until now. A temporary roller skating rink has taken over the stunning Crystal Gardens.  The six-story tall atriu

Museums are always enriching, but rarely are they equally as entertaining as The Flip. The Flip is Chicago’s only pinball museum, which traces nearly 150 years of the game’s history. Founded by William Pietri, a Midwest native and former pinball museum volunteer, the not-for-profit museum/arcade is settling into its new digs at Block 37 after nearly two years in a 550-square-foot space in Pilsen. Instead of just telling the history of pinball, guests can experience it first-hand as every game at The Flip is playable. The best part? Every machine—even the rarest and most delicate one—is available for unlimited play with the purchase of an admission ticket. RECOMMENDED: The best cheap things to do in Chicago for fun on a budget The journey starts with the classic wooden pin bagatelle, a primitive version of the game from the 1880s (seen below), to Bally’s, yes, that Bally, controversial 1932 follow-up, to an ultra-rare game from the 1930s, which, to the best of Pietri’s knowledge, is so rare that it’s not even recorded on the internet.  Photograph: Lauren Brocato for Time OutClassic pin bagatelle From there, more than 30 machines showcase the evolution of the game through prohibition and legalization in Chicago (pinball was considered a form of gambling for about 40 years in the early 1900s), technology advancements and failed developments, and pop culture’s colossal influence. Most of the machines are on loan from collectors. Each time a new one comes in, Pietri and his team

Although Chicago isn’t a host city for this year’s FIFA World Cup, that doesn’t mean we won’t be getting in on the fun. The city’s Major League Soccer team, Chicago Fire, is hosting a massive, 39-day World Cup celebration at Recess in the West Loop—and they’re going all out. From Thursday, June 11, through Sunday, July 19, a 360-degree jumbotron in the center of Recess’ sprawling outdoor patio will show every match with full volume, in addition to 21 TVs inside.  Photograph: Lauren Brocato for Time OutRecess' outdoor patio The space has transformed into an expansive fan zone. A lineup of activations throughout the tournament includes live music performances, giveaways and sweepstakes (someone is going home with a free car!), and exclusive merch drops in collaboration with local artists like Runsy, Sentrock and Louis de Guzman. RECOMMENDED: Where to celebrate the World Cup in Chicago: Watch parties, specials and freebies Programming highlights include a Juneteenth Makers Market on June 17, a daytime rave on June 27 and a foosball tournament on July 5. Check out the full schedule of events here. "Soccer fans in Chicago know how to bring the energy on a matchday, and we want to channel that same excitement at Recess," says Dan Moriarty, chief marketing officer at Chicago Fire FC. "While Chicago isn’t an official host city, we’re ensuring the city doesn’t miss out on an unforgettable summer. We’ve filled the calendar with exciting activations all tournament long and look forwar

Grab a partner. Build a bike. Don’t fall in. That’s the premise for the Red Bull Spin Off competition in Chicago this weekend.  If you’ve seen ads around the city for the upcoming event and aren’t sure what the heck it is, here’s the scoop: On Saturday, June 13 at 10am, 39 teams of two will race down floating tracks on homemade tandem bicycles at 12th Street Beach by the Adler Planetarium. To win, teams must, of course, not fall in the water. Those who do cross the finish line (check out the full course below) will also be judged on the design of their bike, race time and showmanship. Teams are given minimal guidance on concept, which, in past years, has made way for creative bikes like a Roman chariot, Santa’s sleigh and a fish tank on wheels. Photograph: Courtesy Red BullRed Bull Spin Off Chicago course map This year’s lineup includes teams like “Chance the Snapper Returns,” “Magic School Bike,” “Subway Surfers Chicago Edition,” and “Windy City Dive Bomb.” Check out the full list of teams here. As is already clear by the names on the roster, absurdity, creativity and ridiculousness will be on full display on Saturday. Red Bull has tapped a trio of top talents to judge this year’s competition: Brooklinn Koury, a pro skateboarder and content creator; Matas Buzelis, a pro basketball player and rising Chicago Bulls forward; and Laila Edwards, a Team USA women’s hockey gold medalist. RECOMMENDED: F1 Arcade is coming to River North this summer In addition to the actual race wi

Portillo’s is expanding its Chicago footprint once again—this time, to Michigan Avenue.  The iconic hot dog chain officially announced it will be opening a major new flagship location at 304 N. Michigan Ave., though the opening date has not yet been announced. Just steps from the Riverwalk, the Mag Mile and the Loop, it’s one of the first inline, walk-up locations and only the third in the downtown area. "Chicago is where the Portillo’s story began, and opening in the heart of the city is not only an incredibly proud moment for our brand, but also a recognition of how important Chicagoans are, not only to our history, but to our future," says Brett Patterson, president and CEO. "Michigan Avenue is one of the most iconic destinations in Chicago. This restaurant celebrates our hometown and reinforces a simple truth: no matter how much we grow, Chicago will always be at the heart of who we are." RECOMMENDED: The best cheap eats in Chicago—your guide to affordable dining In recent years, Portillo’s has expanded beyond Chicagoland with new locations in states like Texas, Arizona, California and Georgia. What started as Dick Portillo’s humble stand in Villa Park has become a national favorite for Italian beef, hot dogs and chocolate cake. Luckily for us, the new Michigan Avenue restaurant will make it even easier to get our fix.

If you’ve always wanted to get behind the wheel of an F1 car, now is your chance because an F1 Arcade is opening in River North this summer. With 70 full-motion racing simulators, designed in conjunction with Formula 1, race fans of all skill levels have the chance to get in the driver’s seat and experience the thrill of zipping down the iconic tracks of Monaco, Silverstone and more.  The forthcoming arcade, inside the former Rock Bottom Brewery space at 1 W. Grand Ave., will also be home to the first F1 Arcade rooftop terrace, as well as the full-service Octane Bar, where guests can try one of the popular “Designated Driver” mocktails. As for food, Netflix Drink Masters champion LP O’Brien offers a full menu of mains and shareables like Wagyu beef sliders and a seafood tower.  Photograph: Courtesy F1 ArcadeThe F1 Arcade in Atlanta The arcade will also host Grand Prix watch events on race days throughout the season. With few spots in Chicago to watch a race with sound, the F1 Arcade is a welcome addition to the city’s sports bar scene. RECOMMENDED: The best Chicago sports bars, from Wrigleyville to River North Jon Gardner, President of Global Development, F1 Arcade, says, "With our U.S. headquarters based here, bringing F1 Arcade to River North feels especially meaningful. From our first-ever rooftop to Chicago-inspired cocktails and world-class simulators, this venue is designed specifically for the city and its culture. We cannot wait to welcome Chicagoans to race, connec

Just because most of the World Cup weekday matches take place during the workday here in Chicago doesn’t mean you need to skip out on the watch party action.  Grab your laptop and head to your favorite local watering hole during the game to WFB (work from bar, that is), and Stella Artois will cover the tab.  From 9am to 5pm during any weekday World Cup match, Stella Artois is covering fans’ tabs. If you order a Stella, you can submit your receipt as an “expense report” for reimbursement. RECOMMENDED: This Chicago bar was just named one of the best in all of the U.S. The beer brand, a tournament sponsor, is reallocating $100,000 of its marketing budget to cover the cost of fans' drinks during the World Cup. As Chris Jones, Anheuser-Busch VP of Marketing for Premium Brands, puts it, “This is a rare cultural moment that deserves to be experienced together in a bar—not from behind a desk.” So whether you head to your favorite neighborhood dive on your own or move your whole team from the conference room to one of the city’s best bars to watch the game and WFB, enjoy a beer on Stella. Just don’t forget to keep your Teams status active.

Lollapalooza just dropped its official aftershow schedule—and it’s stacked. From Tuesday, July 28, through Sunday, August 2, more than 80 acts are taking over 27 venues across the city. The solo shows offer a chance for fans to see a full set from some of the festival’s most anticipated performers like Zara Larsson, Yungblud and Suki Waterhouse. The best part about the aftershows? $1 from every aftershow ticket sold will support arts education programs for youth across Chicago. RECOMMENDED: The Lollapalooza daily schedule with set times is out When do Lollapalooza 2026 aftershow tickets go on sale? Official aftershow tickets go on sale Friday, May 29, at 10am CT. Visit the Lollapalooza site to score yours. Do I need a festival pass to go to the aftershows? No. You do not need a Lollapalooza festival pass to go to the aftershows. What’s the lineup and schedule?  Check out the poster for the full Lollapalooza 2026 aftershow lineup below, followed by the list of performances by day.  View this post on Instagram A post shared by Lollapalooza (@lollapalooza) Tue, July 28 Paris PalomaMetro Wed, July 29 Evening Elephants w/ The BraymoresBeat Kitchen CMATBottom Lounge Ayybo w/ Inphinity & Rika BCastaways Bad Nerves w/ Flesh PanthersCobra Lounge Bella Kay w/ Claire RosinkranzGarcia’s Blood OrangeHouse of Blues Bixby w/ J.VN.Lincoln Hall Viagra Boys w/ Beau WanzerMetro Between Friends w/ FingyOutset Boris BrejchaRadius Empire of the SunSalt Shed M

Have you ever wondered what the world record is for the most amount of people taking a shot of Malört at the same time? Me either, but we’re about to find out. Jeppson’s Malört is attempting to set the world record at its “Bad Decisions for Good Cause” event at Recess (838 W. Kinzie St.) on Sunday, August 30. The event kicks off at 5pm before the official attempt at 7:30pm. Malört will match $10 from every ticket sold to support Ravenswood Community Services, a nonprofit dedicated to providing food, housing and other supportive services to Chicagoans facing hunger and homelessness. RECOMMENDED: The 24 best bars in Chicago—the official ranking Tickets are on sale now for $10. Each ticket gets you one shot for the world record attempt, but even if you aren’t drinking, you can still get a ticket to witness what will probably be the world record for the most amount of people making a stank face at the same time.  You can also purchase commemorative swag like a shot glass ($10), T-shirt ($30) or sticker ($5), which can be picked up at check-in. Sure, there are about a million other things most people would do before drinking Malört, but this time, your actions will bring a positive outcome. The CEO of CH Distillery, Malört’s owner and producer, Tremaine Atkinson, puts it best: “We’re going to attempt something patently ridiculous and do some serious good for Chicago in the process.”