Lauren Brocato

Last updated July 10, 2026: Some of the world's most famous collections and exhibits can be found in Chicago. Want to see premier pieces from famous artists? Book your tickets for The Art Institute or the Museum of Contemporary Art. Obsessed with the deep unknown of the sea or space? Take a trip to the Shedd Aquarium or Adler Planetarium, which just so happen to be two of the city's best children's museums. Whether you enjoy art, science, history or architecture, Chicago's many museums are some of the top Chicago attractions and provide a great way to spend an afternoon.  RECOMMENDED: Discover the best things to do in Chicago

Last updated July 8, 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 the twice-weekly fireworks 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

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 July 6, 2026: Although Fourth of July weekend was a bust, thanks to rainstorms and dense fog, there's a lot to look forward to this week in Chicago. Taste of Chicago is back on Wednesday, making its anticipated return to its signature peak-summer schedule. Windy City Smokeout is bringing country music and barbecue to the United Center for a three-day fest headlined by Blake Shelton, Lainey Wilson and more. Plus, Chicagoan John Mulaney will make history this weekend as the first comedian to perform at Wrigley Field. Keep scrolling for more of the best happenings across Chicago this week. RECOMMENDED: Discover the best things to do in Chicago in July 2026

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 July 8, 2026: Have weekend plans yet? Now you do. As summer reaches a peak here in Chicago, there are plenty of ways to spend the sunny days ahead. From Taste of Chicago and Windy City Smokeout to the inaugural Slice of Chicago Pizza 5K and the Andersonville Vintage Market, there's no excuse to be bored this weekend. On a budget? No problem. We've rounded up some of the best free events in Chicago, like the Grant Park Music Festival and ART on the MART, too. Keep scrolling to discover more of the best weekend events across the city. RECOMMENDED: The best things to do in Chicago today

Summer in Chicago hits its peak during July, when some of the city's biggest festivals and events return to town and bring enough live music, incredible food and general outdoor merrymaking to fill every weekend (and probably a good amount of weekdays, too). Kick off the month with Fourth of July celebrations, highlighted by sparkling fireworks shows across the city and suburbs. From there, take a deep dive into the heart of summer festival season at events like Lollapalooza, Windy City Smokeout and Wicker Park Fest. For even more ways to keep busy on long summer days and nights, check out our curated guide to the best things to do in Chicago this July. RECOMMENDED: Events calendar for Chicago in 2026

Chicago might be known as the Second City, but our attractions are first-class. Need evidence of that fact? Look no further than the many Chicago museums, where you'll find everything from the best-preserved T. rex skeleton ever found to paintings by Van Gogh and Picasso. Or take a stroll through our gorgeous parks and gardens, home to some of the best public art in Chicago (say hello to "The Bean"). You can also laugh it up at a comedy club, see a show at a jazz club once frequented by Al Capone or have a Michelin-starred meal at one of the best Chicago restaurants ... the list goes on. For everyone from first-time visitors to lifelong Chicagoans, we’ve handpicked the city’s must-see spots so you can experience the very best of Chicago. RECOMMENDED: The best things to do in Chicago right nowRECOMMENDED: The best cheap things to do in ChicagoRECOMMENDED: The best hotels in ChicagoRECOMMENDED: The best boutique hotels in Chicago This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, click here.

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

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 breezy beer gardens, 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 sophisticated cocktails: Kumiko – Japanese dining bar (West Loop) 😘 For date night: Kitty's Cosmopolitan Club – Sultry lounge made for romannce (River North) 🍺 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 July 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 experience you’re seeking. In this upda

No matter where your interests lie, you can always find something to get excited about in this no-nonsense Midwestern metropolis. The best things to do in Chicago run the gamut—from seriously fun to awesomely educational. Looking for culture? Spend a day exploring Chicago museums. Hungry? You've come to the right place, because Chicago is famous for its delicious cuisine. There are tons of amazing restaurants in Chicago that highlight the city's rich and diverse culinary landscape. (And plenty of uniquely Chicago bars that do the trick, too.) We've searched all across the city to assemble this list of the best things to do in Chicago. Follow it and never get bored here again. Quick picks: The best things to do in Chicago 🌳 Millennium Park – See “The Bean” (Cloud Gate) and catch a free outdoor movie at the Jay Pritzker Pavilion (Free) 🎨 The Art Institute of Chicago – World-class collection with strong Impressionism and modern art wings ($26–$32) 🏙️ Willis Tower Skydeck and “The Ledge” – Enjoy sky-high views and step onto glass ledges above the city ($24–$49) Last updated June 2, 2026: We've reached peak summertime in Chicago, and there are endless ways to spend a free afternoon this time of year. Whether you're enjoying a dip in the lake on a hot day, dining al fresco or strolling along the glittering Riverwalk, there’s no shortage of things to see and do. Read on to discover the best activities for making the most of the season. You can also find out more about how Time

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 sushi: Kyoten – An omakase experience showcasing the Midwest's finest nigiri (Logan Square) 🌮 For authentic tacos: La Chaparrita – Mexico City-style tacos at a taqueria attached to a corner store (Little Village) 🍽️ For a fine-dining splurge: Cariño – A Michelin-starred Latin concept from chef Norman Fenton (Uptown) 🇫🇷 For French cuisine: Creepies – A neo-bistr

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 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 2027

Sometimes, capping the perfect summer day in Chicago after checking out a street festival involves a movie in one of the city's many beautiful public parks. With nearly 150 free screenings across the city all summer long, there's no better reason to pack up the blankets, lawn chairs and picnic baskets for an evening under the stars. The Chicago Park District's Movies in the Parks series features 133 films across neighborhoods from Rogers Park to South Shore, and runs at some top destinations like Belmont Harbor and Lake Shore Park. You can also catch free showings outside Wrigley Field at Gallagher Way and during the Millennium Park Summer Film Series, and at Movies at the Pier in Polk Bros Park. There's plenty to choose from this summer. Missed seeing Wicked: For Good in theaters? You have plenty of chances to see it this summer (eight chances, to be exact). Want to bring the kids? You'll have 23 opportunities to watch Zootopia 2 with them. And of course, Ferris Bueller's Day Off is showing four times throughout the summer. Keep scrolling for the full lineup of free movies in Chicago this summer. RECOMMENDED: Discover the best drive-in movie theaters near Chicago Millennium Park Summer Film Series (6:30pm) Independence Day (June 30) Ratatouille (July 7) When Harry Met Sally... (July 14) This Is Spinal Tap (July 14) Hamilton (July 28) The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring (August 4) The Devil Wears Prada (August 11) Sinners (August 18) Gallagher Way (6pm) Matilda

The Obama Presidential Center in Jackson Park, imagined by New York’s Tod Williams Billie Tsien Architects | Partners and Chicago-based Interactive Design Architects, comprises the 225-foot-tall granite-clad Museum tower, Forum, Plaza, Chicago Public Library branch, athletic facility and gardens and public green spaces. It’s possible to spend upwards of two hours perusing the museum’s eight floors. Highlights include Nigerian artist Njideka Akunyili Crosby’s intricate portrait, a full-scale replica of the Oval Office, memorabilia from the 2008 and 2012 elections, and a note handwritten by Barack Obama on a legal pad that details his domestic agenda. You'll need tickets to enter the museum, but Illinois residents get in free on Tuesdays, and children two and under are always free. But, you can still visit the campus, library branch, park and acres of outdoor spaces for free anytime the campus is open.  

For the second time in the league's 30-year history, Chicago is hosting the WNBA All-Star Game this summer. In addition to the big game at the United Center on Saturday, the weekend is packed with activations like a 3-point contest at Wintrust Arena and the WBNA Live fan fest, featuring player appearances and live performances.

Hip-hop organization Groundwaves, launched in 2018 by rapper MURS, is bringing the first Goodwaves Music Festival & Conference to the Salt Shed. Three days of programming kick off with live conversations and Q&As featuring speakers like Vic Mensa and Killer Mike, and culminate with an all-ages music fest at the Salt Shed Fairgrounds, headlined by Killer Mike, Snow Tha Product and more. All events are free; just be sure to secure a complimentary ticket in advance.

Pokémon trainers and collectors, this one's for you: The Pokémon Trade Day & Mini Expo is coming to the Chicago Athletic Association for one day this summer. Hosted by game store Dice Dojo, the event brings vendors and fans together for a day of trading, gaming and community. 

Navy Pier’s Ferris wheel got a major upgrade for the pier’s 100th anniversary in 2016. The new Centennial Wheel stands nearly 200 feet tall and features enclosed, climate-controlled gondolas, so it can operate year-round. For about 15 minutes, you'll be treated to some of the finest, 360-degree views of the Chicago skyline and Lake Michigan.

The inaugural Ravenswood Feel Good Fest is taking over Sunnyside Avenue this summer. The free daylong block party brings music, food, art and more to the streets to promote "feeling good, doing good and fostering meaningful community." Guests can join yoga and dance classes, watch live music performances and grab bites and drinks from local favorites like 5411 Empanadas and Begyle Brewing. The event is free to attend, but a $5 donation, which will go toward the nonprofit organization Great Ravenswood Chamber of Commerce, is encouraged.

The newly opened Obama Presidential Center is celebrating the country's 250th anniversary with its inaugural "You Are America" series this summer. The series kicks off on July 4 with The People's Fourth, a free event featuring live music, self-guided tours and other family-friendly activations across the campus. Other series highlights include House Music on the Plaza, Garden Gatherings and an Art in Action talk with Obama Presidential Center-commissioned artist Mark Bradford. Check out the full schedule of You Are America events here.

The third annual ChiTown Exotic Car Show is coming back to Sonny Acres Farm in West Chicago. Visitors can get an up-close look at dozens of vehicles, from supercars to race cars. After checking out the car show, take advantage of the farm's rides, self-feed petting zoo, and grab a bite at the outdoor restaurant.

Free outdoor film series Movies at the Pier is back at Polk Bros Park this summer. Head to the park near Navy Pier on Monday nights through August to catch a flick at 6pm. From family favorites like Lilo & Stitch to cult classics like Mean Girls, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Plus, viewers can cast their votes on Instagram for the series' final film.

The 8,000-square-foot Hello Kitty Cafe spans two floors and is the largest location in the world, beating out other cafes in Las Vegas and California. The pink paradise is decked out with bow-shaped decor, Hello Kitty wallpaper and artwork, and pink and blue furniture that looks like it's been plucked from Hello Kitty's house. On the first floor, guests can grab a strawberry lemonade or bow waffles. Downstairs, the reservation-only Bow Room hosts Afternoon Tea service on Wednesdays through Sundays. On the way out, shop exclusive merch like apparel, totes, mugs and more.

The Brookfield Zoo is celebrating the country's 250th birthday with a lineup of America-themed events and limited-time discounts. On July 4, kids aged 3-11 get in for $2.50, and family combo meals are on sale for $17.76 at the zoo's Fourth of July grill out in the East Mall Beer Garden. Guests can also check out a free bald eagle craft and the expanded schedule of Zoo Chats that explore iconic North American species and conservation stories. 

The American Library Association's annual Conference & Exhibition returns to the McCormick Place with an A-list lineup of authors, journalists, cultural figures and more, plus more than 600 exhibitors. This year's highlights include Former First Lady Jill Biden's discussion about her forthcoming memoir, and talks with Emmy Award-winning journalist Rachel Maddow, and Emmy, Tony and Grammy winner Billy Porter. 

One of the best ways to see the city is by cruising down the Chicago River. There are plenty of options for a proper sightseeing tour, like the Chicago Architecture Center’s First Lady Cruises and Shoreline Sightseeing’s rides, all of which offer rich insights into the architectural history of the city’s most iconic buildings. Those cruises are essential experiences—beloved by both tourists and locals—but they can be pricey. So next time you’re in the mood to get out on the water but don't want to shell out more than $10, consider one of the most overlooked forms of transportation: a water taxi. Water taxis, by design, are intended to provide a traffic-free alternative to other modes of transportation. Are they practical? Not always. Are they more efficient than other forms of public transit? Usually not. Are they a great deal, though? Indeed.  RECOMMENDED: The 14 best boat tours in Chicago  For just $10, you take the same ride you'd take on one of the more expensive river cruises for a fraction of the price. There’s no narration on the water taxi, but it makes for a peaceful journey with the same views through the city’s most iconic waterway.  Chicago Water Taxi’s route runs from March through the end of December, between Michigan Avenue (at Rush Street) and Chinatown (at Ping Tom Park) with a stop at Ogilvie and Union Stations. These bright-yellow, double-deck boats offer indoor and outdoor seating, plus bike racks, luggage storage, restrooms and drinks for purchase. A full

Yes, you read that correctly. The 22nd annual World Naked Bike Ride is rolling through the streets of Chicago again this weekend.  Despite its name, the ride is actually clothing-optional. Bare as you dare, as they say.  World Naked Bike Ride is a national tradition that celebrates “freedom from oil” in transportation. As the organizers say, “Even when clothed, we cyclists are virtually naked, exposed to the dangers and pollution imposed by cars. By cycling naked, we show our confidence in the beauty and individuality of our bodies and the bicycle's place as a catalyst for change to a future of ecologically responsible transport and healthy and humane communities.” Here’s everything you need to know about the 2026 World Naked Bike Ride in Chicago. When is the World Naked Bike Ride 2026 happening in Chicago?  The World Naked Bike Ride is on Saturday, July 11. Check-in starts at 6pm, and the ride kicks off at 8pm. Do I need to sign up, and how much does it cost?  The ride is free, and you don’t need to sign up. Just show up at the check-in point, which will be announced shortly before the ride on the event’s Facebook page. Where does the Chicago Naked Bike Ride start?  The exact route will not be announced until the day of the race. But here’s what we know so far: The ride kicks off from Kinzie Street, between Halsted Street and Desplaines Street in Fulton Market. Bikers will head east before circling back to the starting point.  Organizers have also said that Union and Ogilvie

As I reflect on my first visit to the newly opened Obama Presidential Center on Chicago’s South Side, I keep coming back to the opening line of Charles Dickens’s A Tale of Two Cities: “It was the best of times; it was the worst of times.” That’s how it feels stepping into the OPC. Outside its bounds, in the real world, chaos, division and unease define many aspects of the moment. But at the OPC, peace, unity and hope swirl throughout the 19.3-acre campus. An overwhelming sense of prosperity offers a beacon of hope for what we can be and a look back at what we once were through archives from Barack Obama's presidency, commissioned artwork, innovative programming and more. Here, visitors gleefully snap selfies outside the towering Museum building; kids run blissfully through the sprawling grounds; and restaurant staff stop by your table to make conversation about nothing in particular even though it’s a counter-service spot. Photograph: Lauren Brocato for Time OutObama Presidential Center RECOMMENDED: Inside the Obama Presidential Center: Celebs, presidents & opening weekend photos Juxtaposing current reality with the utopian-like community that’s alive at this place that feels worlds away from the South Side was jarring, but that's what makes it so special. Since its opening on June 19, sky-high demand has wiped out two rounds of tickets through January 2027. You can still visit much of the campus for free, but if you want a ticket to the Museum, set your alarm because avail

It’s official: Chicago is the most beautiful city in the U.S. In fact, it’s the fourth most beautiful city on earth, according to a new ranking of the world’s most beautiful cities. Our team at Time Out asked more than 24,000 city dwellers across the globe if they’d describe their city as “beautiful.” Unsurprisingly, Chicago earned a 77% beauty score, preceded only by Sydney (78%), Edinburgh (84%) and Cape Town (86%). Of the 19 cities on the list of the world’s most beautiful, Chicago beat out some heavy hitters. Lisbon came just after Chicago with a 74% beauty score, followed by Paris (68%), Stockholm (68%), Porto (67%) and Medellin (66%). RECOMMENDED: The world’s best cities in 2026, according to Time Out Factors like an abundance of green spaces, walkability, architectural significance and waterfront views all played into the ranking. Luckily, Chicago has all of them in spades. Earlier this year, the Windy City was also named the second best city in the world for green spaces, earning an 89% green space score for its more than 600 parks spread out over 8,800 acres.  But wait, that’s not all! Chicago was ranked the world’s 41st best city overall in March. Lauded for its diversity, inclusivity, neighborhood pride and deeply rooted loyalty to the arts, it ranked higher than urban hotspots like San Francisco, Dublin and Buenos Aires.  An influx of major cultural openings, including the Obama Presidential Center and the Pokémon Fossil Museum at the Field Museum, certainly helpe

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: Courtesy Chicago Fire FCRecess 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 match o

The sound of firecrackers, the smell of grill outs and the sight of people dressed in red, white and blue can only mean one thing: Fourth of July weekend is here.  Whether you’re in the city or the suburbs, there are plenty of ways to celebrate America’s 250th anniversary this Independence Day weekend.  For family-friendly fun, head to Brookfield Zoo for a patriotic America 250 celebration. Don’t want to spend money? Check out one of the free concerts at Navy Pier or Grant Park. And, of course, cap the night by seeing one of Chicagoland's many fireworks shows. Read on for the best Fourth of July weekend events in Chicago. RECOMMENDED: Where to see Fourth of July fireworks around Chicago 1. See a fireworks show Fri, Sat 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 Chicago to see Navy Pier's iconic display along the lakefront from beaches or boat cruises. 2. Get festive at the 4th on 53rd Parade Sat Celebrate the Fourth of July with a parade in Hyde Park that steps off at 11am. Afterwards, stick around for a free festival featuring performances, games, bouncy houses, face painting, a petting zoo, magicians and more. 3. Learn about iconic American species at Brookfield Zoo Sat The Brookfield Zoo is celebrating the country's 250th birthday with a lineup of America-the

Hello Kitty has a new home in the Loop—and we're obsessed. Stepping into the just-opened Hello Kitty Cafe, at 360 N. Michigan Ave., is like entering a dreamy pink paradise where Hello Kitty and her friends spend their days sipping strawberry lemonades and snacking on bow-shaped sweets. Photograph: Courtesy Morgan Ione Yeager/SanrioDrinks at the Hello Kitty Cafe RECOMMENDED: The 50 best things to do in Chicago right now Spanning 8,000 square feet across two floors, it's the largest Hello Kitty Cafe in the world, beating out other cafes in Las Vegas and California. Photograph: Courtesy Morgan Ione Yeager/SanrioHello Kitty Cafe merch Guests can snack on confections like cupcakes and bow-shaped waffles on the outdoor patio, or indulge in a latte or tea in the main floor's cafe space. Photograph: Courtesy Morgan Ione YeagerAfternoon tea at the Hello Kitty Cafe Downstairs, afternoon tea service is hosted in the 50-seat Bow Room, a bright-pink space hidden behind a secret door that's decked out with photo booths, Hello Kitty wallpaper and decor, and custom artwork depicting Hello Kitty and her friends at iconic Chicago locales. Photograph: Courtesy Morgan Ione Yeager/SanrioSweets at the Hello Kitty Cafe Guests can also shop Chicago-exclusive merch like mugs and water bottles, totes, plush toys and apparel, and use the token-operated Gashapon machines. Photograph: Courtesy Morgan Ione Yeager/SanrioHello Kitty Cafe Hello Kitty Cafe is open daily from 10am to 8pm. Reservation

Dylan Efron, the TV personality who’s known for his appearances on hit shows like The Traitors and Dancing with the Stars, is headed to Chicago this weekend, and you have the chance to meet him. Efron is partnering with Pepsi for the Pepsi Eats Fest at Big Star in Wicker Park (1531 N. Damen Ave.) on Saturday, June 27. The free event is part of the soda brand’s Local Eats Deserve Pepsi platform, which showcases and supports local restaurants across the country.  On Saturday from 4 to 8pm, Efron and Pepsi are taking over Big Star for an evening of free food and drinks, and performances by rising country artist Lauren Watkins and DJ JayFunk. RECOMMENDED: The best restaurants in Chicago right now The first 100 guests will receive a free full-sized Crunch Star Supreme. Additional menu items will be available for purchase, including the limited-edition Dylan Efron Special, an exclusive fish taco created by the TV star and restaurant. Guests can also sip on Pepsi-infused cocktails and participate in the signature taste test, the Pepsi Challenge.  Photograph: Courtesy PepsiPepsi Eats Fest is coming to Chicago. The event kicks off a national tour of Pepsi Eats Fests across the country, which will head to cities like Nashville, Boston and Los Angeles next. Since its launch in 2024, Local Eats Deserve Pepsi has supported more than 75,000 local restaurants across the U.S. "Whether I'm at home or on the road traveling, I am always looking for those local spots that everyone's obsessed w

Hundreds of thousands of Chicagoans will take to the streets of Lakeview this week to celebrate the 2026 Chicago Pride Parade. On Sunday, June 28, the 55th annual Pride Parade marks the end of Pride Month with a vibrant celebration of love and unity. More than 150 entrants from local communities, organizations, businesses and more will march in this year’s parade. This year’s theme, “Free to Be Proud,” is an homage to the community’s trailblazers and to those who continue to ensure that every person can live freely and with dignity. RECOMMENDED: The best LGBTQ+ bars in Chicago The parade steps off promptly at 11am at West Sheridan Road and Broadway. Viewing begins one block south at Broadway and Grace Street, but the most popular place to watch the parade is along the Northalsted corridor, between Belmont Avenue and Addison Street. Attendees are encouraged to arrive early to secure a spot along the parade route, shown below.  Photograph: Courtesy PRIDEChicagoChicago Pride Parade 2026 route map Check out the full list of road closures, which begin at 2am on Sunday and remain in effect until 7am on Monday.

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 on Friday, August 14. With 61 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 ArcadeF1 Arcade Chicago 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, conn

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