Shannon Shreibak

Fall in Chicago is officially underway, which means it's time to turn your attention to all things spooky, ghoulish and pumpkin-filled. Hoping for a fright? Visit one of Chicago's most haunted places, attend one of the city's many Halloween parades and parties or wander through a ghostly haunted house. No matter your age, embrace the thrills and chills of spooky season with our guide to the best Halloween events in Chicago this year.  RECOMMENDED: Our complete guide to Halloween in Chicago

The official start of fall in Chicago might be in September, but the season doesn't really hit its stride until October—a month replete with crisp air, colorful fall foliage and a heaping helping of spooky fun. Take advantage of everything autumn has to offer by exploring the best pumpkin patches near Chicago, attending an apple-themed neighborhood fest, getting lost in corn mazes or staring up at the changing leaves at your local park or garden. And of course, celebrate Halloween in Chicago with spooky pop-ups, haunted houses, horror movie marathons and even more ghoulish events. Ready to embrace autumn? Check out the rest of the best things do to in Chicago this October.  RECOMMENDED: Check out our 2025 Chicago events calendar

There really is something for everyone on this week's event calendar, whether you’re a punk rocker, a wine enthusiast or a Labubu collector. With rain in this week's forecast, it doesn't hurt to have some indoor plans—like Reeling Film Festival, Chicago Architecture Biennial or Hyde Park Handmade Artisan Bazaar—on the docket. If inclement weather doesn't faze you, cheer on the brave athletes at the Chicago River Swim, break out your boots for Wrigleyville Country Fest or drink your way across the riverfront at the Riverwalk Oktoberfest Pub Crawl. RECOMMENDED: Discover the best things to do in Chicago in September 2025

The annual Oktoberfest celebrations mark the arrival of fall, but even if you can't make it to Munich, plenty of Chicago institutions are throwing bustling, German-themed parties to ring in a new season. From special tappings at Chicago breweries to carnival rides outside neighborhood churches, we've gathered some of the best parties and events during Oktoberfest in Chicago, taking place at amazing restaurants, food halls and even zoos. Break out those dirndls and lederhosen and prepare to say "Prost"! What is Oktoberfest?  Oktoberfest is a multi-week beer festival and fair held in Munich, Germany. Originally conceived to celebrate the marriage of Bavarian King Ludwig I and Princess Therese of Saxony-Hildburghausen in 1810, the festival has since evolved into a public event and one of the most important cultural symbols in Bavaria, drawing millions of attendees from across the world each year.  When is Oktoberfest in Chicago? Although Munich's Oktoberfest takes place this year from September 20–October 5, Chicago's celebrations generally take place anywhere from mid-September to mid-October.

Fall in Chicago has arrived, and with it comes a colorful burst of fall foliage throughout the city. According to this interactive guide, which uses an algorithm to predict when the leaves will change, local trees will start showing patchy colors the week of September 30 and hit their peak in late October. Hoping to go leaf peeping this year? Head to some of the more well-known Chicago parks and gardens to see towering oaks and fiery red Japanese maples, or take a contemplative stroll through a cemetery to watch yellow weeping willows drape over a leaf-filled pond. Plus, if you're itching to take a quick day trip from Chicago, you'll find several suburban conservatories and arboretums worthy of an afternoon leaf-peeping expedition. So take a look through our roundup of the best places to see fall foliage in Chicago and get ready for some stunning sights. RECOMMENDED: Find the best places to see fall foliage outside of Chicago

September 2025: Is that a chill in the air we feel? The warm embrace of pumpkin spice we smell? The sound of leaves crunching beneath our feet? Ah, yes, fall is descending upon Chicago. September brings with it some of Chicago’s finest seasonal events, from Taste of Chicago and Riot Fest to the Ravenswood ArtWalk and the World Music Festival. If you’re eager to raise a stein and chow down on some schnitzel, we’ve rounded up some of the city’s best Oktoberfest events, too. Whatever your mood, you'll find plenty of ways to keep busy with our roundup of the best things to do in Chicago this September.  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. You can also find out more about how Time Out selects the very best things to do all over the world, or take a look at our list of the best things to do in the world right now. RECOMMENDED: Check out Time Ou

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. Every week, we curate a Chicago weekend itinerary packed with the city’s best concerts, culture and cuisine. Start the weekend on a sweet note by visiting the just-opened Van Leeuwen Ice Cream shop in Wicker Park—the cult favorite’s first Midwest outpost. Admire some local art at Ravenwood ArtWalk or Lakeview East Festival of the Arts, or head down to Little Village to celebrate Mexican Independence Day. For those itching to squeeze in one last rooftop hang before chillier climes arrive, swing by Time Out Market Chicago for La Vita Spritz. RECOMMENDED: Discover the 50 best things to do in Chicago right now

Even some of the best ice cream shops in Chicago can't compare to the rush of unwrapping a classic chocolate bar or tearing open a bag of sour gummies. On top of such a sweet sentiment, these desserts are fit for all seasons: silky caramels for autumnal indulgence, cloud-like marshmallows for out-of-this-world s'mores over a midsummer campfire or a bouquet of confections to complement the perfect floral arrangement from a local flower shop. No matter the time of the year, satisfy that sweet tooth at the best candy and chocolate shops in Chicago. RECOMMENDED: The best hot chocolates in Chicago

There’s no surer sign that fall is coming than seeing pumpkins everywhere—whether used in fancy coffee drinks, recipes or just as decorations, pumpkins are the ubiquitous symbol of autumn. Maybe you don’t love pumpkin spice lattes or pumpkin pies, but it’s hard to deny the appeal of choosing your own perfect-to-you gourd at a pumpkin patch. All of the farms and pumpkin patches on this list are within a two hour drive from the city (one is even in Chicago), and bursting with fall fun. After you’ve picked out a jack-o’-lantern, spend the day exploring creative corn mazes, eating apple cider donuts and checking out fall foliage. RECOMMENDED: Your complete guide to fall in Chicago

September might be here, but don't despair—there are still plenty of things to do in Chicago—whether you're still embracing a summertime state of mind or welcoming fall with open arms! From Oktoberfest celebrations to outdoor music festivals (including Riot Fest), we've still got plenty of warm weather fun to take advantage of before the leaves start to turn and the temperature drops. Soak up the sun at the best Chicago beaches and rooftop bars, or spend your weekends checking out the end of festival season at events like the Hyde Park Jazz Festival, Printers Row Lit Fest and Taste of Chicago. And if you really can't wait for fall to arrive, might we suggest some early leaf peeping and apple picking? Whatever your mood, you'll find plenty of ways to keep busy with our roundup of the best things to do in Chicago this September.  RECOMMENDED: Check out our 2025 Chicago events calendar

Visitors flock to the northwest side of the city to visit the best restaurants in Logan Square and sip cocktails at the best bars, but there's much more to do than just eat and drink. Take a stroll on Milwaukee Avenue and you'll encounter some of the best attractions in Logan Square, including music venues, arcades, movie theaters and the Illinois Centennial Monument that towers over the neighborhood. Keep exploring to find some of the best parks in Chicago, where you can take a break and soak in the scenery. Plan a perfect day in the area with our guide to the the best things to do in Logan Square. RECOMMENDED: Our complete guide to Logan Square, Chicago

As Chicago's blazing summer yields to cool climes and autumnal coziness, it's time to head back to your favorite Chicago museums. Illinois Free Days are back, offering free admission to the city's world-class exhibitions—from the Art Institute of Chicago to the Shedd Aquarium—for state residents on select days. (Word to the wise: Don’t forget your proof of residence.) Plus, Chicago Public Library cardholders can score various museum passes and other benefits. While perks abound for Illinoisans, there are still options for out-of-towners to enjoy free admission year-round. Take a look at our roundup below, and pencil in your next Chicago adventure. RECOMMENDED: Discover more of the best things to do in Chicago

If Wes Anderson designed a cafe-meets-gift shop, it would probably look a lot like The Center of Order and Experimentation. Step inside and you're greeted by a velvet-upholstered counter, sticker-covered clipboards and sleek, futuristic-font signs declaring that the space is "not a cult." Cake-shaped candles, fluorescent tea boxes and handmade ceramics are artfully arranged on shelves and tables, every detail carefully curated. The space is often buzzing, especially during weekend micro-bakery pop-ups, watercolor workshops and other whimsical events.  

Inspired by the cultural resurgence of Mort Garson’s synth-powered album Mother Earth’s Plantasia, Empty Bottle Presents and Sacred Bones Records have been hosting an annual music festival celebrating plants and people who love them for nearly half a decade. Spread across two days, attendees can enjoy experimental music and on-site activations in the Garfield Park Conservatory's lush confines. This year's Plantasia lineup includes electronic music legend Suzanne Ciani, ambient juggernaut Tim Hecker, Pakistani composer Arooj Aftab and more.

The latest addition to the Salt Shed's sprawling grounds is a pinball palace owned by none other than Jim Zespy of Logan Arcade. Housing over 100 games, 8-bit purists, pinball wizards and casual gamers alike will all find fun ways to collect virtual prize tickets, which can be redeemed at a fully-stocked prize shop. Billed as an all-ages space by day and adult-centric playground—complete with jello shots—by night, there's something for everyone at Elston Electric.

What happens when a grift lands you smack dab in the center-court spotlight during the Chicago Bulls’ legendary 1996 reign? BULL, a two-act comedy following unathletic schemers Scott and Bryce, sets out to answer exactly that. As the duo navigates a grand con and the chaos of unexpected fame, they struggle to hold their friendship together—all against the backdrop of one of the most iconic eras in Chicago sports history.

Stationed on the first floor of the Chicago Cultural Center, Buddy is a one-stop shop for any locavore on the hunt for the perfect gift—whether for a friend or just yourself. The boutique features work from over 400 Chicagoland artists, with options ranging from ceramics and clothing to zines and more. Don't miss their rotating lineup of events, including the “Art 4 Sale” exhibition series, seasonal window installations on Randolph Street and monthly in-store happenings.    

When Pitchfork Music Festival announced its sudden sunset at the start of 2025, Chicago’s music scene collectively wondered how festival co-founder Mike Reed would fill the sonic void. Turns out, Reed had an ace up his sleeve: Sound & Gravity, a five-day music marathon featuring 48 performances across six venues in Bricktown and Avondale. Lineup highlights include Bill Callahan, Mdou Moctar and Mary Lattimore, with some special sets curated by Electrical Audio—the recording studio founded by the late Steve Albini. Read more about Sound & Gravity's inception here.

There's a new kid joining Chicago's street festival scene, and this one promises to be unlike anything else. Edgewater will be hosting over 35 musical acts—including indie rock mainstays Cloud Nothings, Chicago hip-hop standout Ric Wilson and local drag punk outfit Bev Rage & The Drinks—and 100 vendors for the inaugural Edgewater Music Fest. The fest is open to all ages, with a Kids' Zone activity area for the little ones.

During the summer, spending more time indoors than absolutely necessary feels almost sacrilegious. The Music Box Theatre gets it—and fully embraces the season by inviting movie lovers into its charming outdoor garden. Grab a specialty cocktail (each one cleverly named after an iconic film) and settle in for a night of cinema under the stars. Highlights of this year’s lineup include The Texas Chainsaw Massacre (the 2003 remake, for the horror purists out there), Dirty Dancing and The Goonies.

The Midwest’s largest free outdoor literary festival returns this September for its 40th year. Book lovers can browse offerings from more than 150 booksellers and exhibitors, while six stages and over 200 presenters deliver programming for all ages. While the full lineup is still under wraps, this year's festival will be headlined by Sandra Cisneros—author of The House on Mango Street and recipient of the 2025 Harold Washington Literary Award.

This one’s for the birders out there! Stop by the Newberry Library this August and September for a free guided tour of "Winging It: A Brief History of Humanity's Relationship with Birds,” an exhibit exploring the cultural and environmental resilience of birds across eras and civilizations. The tour ends in one of the library’s cozy reading rooms, where you can chat about what you’ve learned or dive into everything else the Newberry has to offer. (Spoiler alert: it’s a lot.)

Wander into Carol's Pub on the second or fourth Tuesday of the month, and you might not recognize the iconic country dive. No cowboys downing High Life, no two-stepping in sight. Instead, you’ll find a rowdy crowd waving jello shots (proceeds benefit a rotating charity) and gleefully dabbing bingo cards with multicolored markers. Welcome to Cougar Bingo, hosted by comedian Brittny Congleton, who performs as the fabulous Aunt Nance. Throughout the night, Nance calls out bingo numbers with the flair of a tipsy Midwest aunt, mixing in musical interludes, sharp one-liners and the occasional George Michael reference.

With its latest exhibition, the Chicago Botanic Garden showcases the patterns and prints that adorn the natural world. Through meticulously planted gardens and nature-inspired art installations, Patterned by Nature highlights the intersection between graphic design and horticulture. Exhibition highlights include colossal embroidered flowers by Raquel Rodrigo, a collection of upcycled fashion sourced from garden materials by Columbia College Chicago’s School of Fashion and a paisley patterned succulent garden. 

Ask anyone without a 606 zip code what the slowest-moving creature in the world is, and they’ll pepper you with answers culled from every corner of the animal kingdom. Ask a Chicagoan, and they’ll tell you it’s an emotionally unhinged driver attempting to exit Soldier Field. Now, there’s a morsel of data to vindicate us traffic-weary Chicagoans. According to a recent study conducted by sports predictions specialists at Pickswise, Soldier Field is officially host to the worst game day traffic in the NFL. Analyzing the congestion levels around NFL stadiums every Sunday at 4pm—along with rush hour travel time and pollution—the study assigned every venue’s traffic patterns a score between zero and 100. Soldier Field received an abysmal 20.3, with congestion around the stadium jumping up 42 percent on game day—nearly double the NFL average. According to Pickwise’s rankings, the second-worst NFL stadium to travel to this season is MetLife Stadium near New York City, followed by the Pittsburgh Steelers’ Acrisure Stadium, Seattle’s Lumen Field and Los Angeles’ SoFi Stadium. Now, how much stock can we put in a study that scrutinized a mere snapshot of Chicago’s infamous traffic follies? As someone whose knowledge of football begins and ends with “Bill Swerski’s Superfans,” I am far from an authority on such matters. I will, however, say this much: Wading through the post-Oasis foot traffic pouring from Soldier Field a few weeks ago was its own special—and slothful—kind of torture. In

Good grief: Charlie Brown and the Peanuts gang are coming to town this fall! Starting Saturday, September 13, Chicagoans can visit “Take Care with Peanuts: The Exhibit,” an immersive fan experience at the Chicago Children’s Museum inspired by a global initiative of the same name. Based on the captivating world depicted in Charles M. Schulz’s iconic comic strip, the exhibit will bring the beloved Peanuts gang to life through interactive displays and hands-on activities promoting self-care, empathy and environmental stewardship.  In a time when fires—both actual and ideological—are blazing across the globe, holding on to hope can feel as fruitless as Charlie Brown trying to kick that damn football into the sky. After a sensational run at the Miami Children's Museum, “Take Care with Peanuts” is calling Chicago home for six months and aspires to instill a sense of much-needed optimism in children and adults alike. Visitors can pour their hearts out in Lucy's psychiatry booth, shred on a piano with Schroeder, learn about composting with Pigpen and, of course, say hello to the world’s favorite beagle: Snoopy. “Who doesn’t love Charlie Brown and his friends?” says Chicago Children’s Museum President and CEO Jennifer Farrington. “The important lessons in the classic Peanuts comic strip and the wonderful ‘Take Care with Peanuts’ initiative are perfect fits for the playful, joyous learning we cultivate here at Chicago Children’s Museum. We cannot wait to welcome families into our speci

Whether it’s a grand gesture complete with a musical number and marching band (any 10 Things I Hate About You fans out there?) or a low-key affair paired with boxed wine and Chinese takeout boxes, proposing to a partner is one of the most momentous occasions of our lives. While confirming that you’ve met “the one” may come easily, choosing a proposal venue is often riddled with worry and doubt.  If the mere thought of picking the perfect place to pop the question leaves you in a cold sweat, the Destination: Proposal Index has done some of the heavy lifting for you by ranking the world’s best engagement spots. Taking factors like cost of admission, noise level and “Instagram-ability” into account, the ranking culled through thousands of breathtaking locales to rank the top 30 best proposal sites in the world. Lucky for us Chicagoans, Jackson Park’s Garden of the Phoenix seized the number-one spot. It doesn’t take much to be convinced that Jackson Park’s Garden of the Phoenix—sometimes referred to as “Osaka Garden” in homage to the city’s sister status with Chicago—is a treasured South Side oasis, with its tranquil koi pond, lush grove of cherry blossom trees and 12-foot Yoko Ono sculpture inspired by cascading flower petals. Plus, an added bonus: Entry to the park is free.  Steven Kevil" data-width-class="" data-image-id="102596410" /> Photograph: Courtesy CC/Wiki Commons/Steven KevilOsaka Garden at Jackson Park Built for the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition, the Garden of t

As Chicago’s blazing hot days yield to breezy afternoons and leaves begin their slow melt into fall’s fiery colors, Mother Nature is practically pleading that you free yourself from the shackles of fluorescent light and spine crushing office chairs—it’s time to frolic in the great outdoors. Suffice it to say, now is the perfect time to start scheming your next leaf peeping expedition or all-day hiking excursion at one of Chicagoland’s many parks and arboretums. Before you take our mandate and run with it, we’ve got one recommendation for you—and it’s backed by some major data.  According to a recent report released by Google Maps, Starved Rock State Park has been declared the fourth most visited state park in the country. The ranking of this summer’s most popular state parks—honing in on the top 10 in the U.S.—was based on direction requests made via Google Maps between Memorial Day 2025 and August 2025, along with user reviews. As if you needed any more convincing: According to the State of Illinois, Starved Rock was the most visited state park in the Prairie State last year, drawing 2.4 million visitors in 2024.   Photograph: Shannon Shreibak   It’s high time that Starved Rock gets its flowers—the sprawling Oglesby, Illinois, park is a longtime local favorite, thanks to its sandstone canyons, jaw-dropping waterfalls, jutting cliffs and extensive trail system. Starved Rock is home to 13 miles of footpaths meandering around the Illinois River, with routes running the gamut

The Chicago Architecture Biennial—the largest exhibition of contemporary architecture in North America—is back in action next week, bringing architecture-related programming to venues and museums across the city. For the unfamiliar: Every two years, the Biennial transforms Chicago into a global hub of architecture and design. This edition’s theme is the apropos “SHIFT: Architecture in Times of Radical Change,” convening over 100 projects by architects, artists and designers across 30 countries—each piece engaging with the cultural, social and environmental fluxes shaping our world. The theme serves as a launchpad for free exhibitions, events, panel discussions and activations that will ripple across 60-plus venues citywide between now and February 2026. While paying tribute to the city’s existing buildings, the biennial envisions what Chicago might look like in the future by considering lessons from the city’s past and contemporary designers’ wildest dreams of what's yet to come. If you’re not sure where to start, take a look at some of the key things to see and do during the Chicago Architecture Biennial, which runs from September 19 through February 28, 2026. The best Chicago Architecture Biennial programming SHIFT Chicago Cultural Center Public Tour Chicago Cultural Center, 78 E Washington StSept 20 at 11am, Sept 21 at 1pm Join Chicago Architecture Biennial's 2025 Artistic Director Florencia Rodriguez and members of the Biennial team for a guided walkthrough of this year’s

While Chicago may be famous for its euphoric summertimes, fall still has plenty to offer before the gauntlet of pain better known as “winter” arrives. As a Chicagoan of 14 years and born-and-raised Midwesterner, I don’t think fall gets nearly as much love as it deserves: The seasonal foods are richer, the calendar of things to do is superior, and who doesn’t love cozying up to watch a scary movie while eating candy by the handful? I’ll kindly step off my soapbox and offer you 15 more reasons why fall in Chicago is an unimpeachable delight. 1. Leaf peeping season is in full swing. According to Explore Fall, fall colors will paint Chicago’s foliage throughout October, so now is prime time to start planning your leaf peeping expeditions. Head to some of the more well-known Chicago parks and gardens to see towering oaks and fiery red Japanese maples, or take a contemplative stroll through a cemetery to watch yellow weeping willows drape over a leaf-filled pond. If you’re itching to take a quick day trip from Chicago, you’ll find several suburban conservatories and arboretums on our list of the best spots to admire fall foliage. 2. Drinks taste better in a beer garden (that’s just science). Sometimes the best beer pairing isn’t burgers and fries—it’s a cool breeze and sunshine dappling your face. Luckily for us Chicagoans, there are plenty of beer gardens—most of which are dog-friendly—for alfresco boozing and schmoozing. We even compiled a full list of Chicago’s best beer garden

To many, vending machines conjure visions of junk food, tepid soda and the ultimate heartbreak: a snack stranded between coil and glass. When Good Things Vending founder Steph Krim looks at at a vending machine, she sees the future: automated storefronts for artists. A self-proclaimed “joyous community-driven and collaborative automation experience,” Chicago art collective Good Things Vending transforms rusty old vending machines into pint-sized oddities shops stationed throughout the city. Each machine is painted by a local artist with a mural that reflects its surroundings: the Garfield Park Conservatory’s machine is bedecked with daisies and periwinkle petunias, Revolution Brewing’s is adorned with abstract faces and hands raising pints of beer. To maintain novelty and support as many Chicagoland artists as possible, the machines’ inventory is regularly rotated, stocked with everything from miniature art prints and paper puppets to enamel pins and frog-shaped Crocs charms—anything smaller than a mini bag of chips can be stocked in a Good Things Vending machine. In a time when the word “automation” can signify the gates of an over-optimized hell opening, Krim wholeheartedly believes in this type of automation’s potential for facilitating unexpected connection. Through Good Things Vending machines, local artists can reach new audiences without selling their work at a steep discount to stockists, paying exorbitant fees at makers’ markets or bankrupting themselves with storefr

These days, there are two kinds of Chicagoans: the sun-chasers still clinging on to summer for dear life, and the fall fans already cozying up with a celebratory pumpkin spice latte. If you identify with the latter, it’s time to turn your attention to the Illinois Fall Foliage Map, an interactive chart that illustrates when trees will reach peak autumn splendor across the state. RECOMMENDED: Discover the best fall activities in Chicago To predict when leaves across Illinois will erupt with fiery colors, the foliage fanatics at Explore Fall use an innovative in-house predictive weather model that considers a slew of factors—everything from temperature and precipitation to in-person observations. Granted, it’s not a completely fail-safe tool, but the end result offers an exciting sneak peek at what’s to come across the state this fall. To increase the utility of the model, Explore Fall provides daily updates to complement their season-long map, so be sure to check the map often if you take your leaf peeping seriously.  If you’re a firm believer that you can never have too many foliage maps (is there such a thing?), SmokyMountains.com has also released its trusty annual fall foliage prediction map. Informed by millions of data points from sources like the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, the Smoky Mountains Fall Foliage Prediction Map creates 50,000 predictive data pieces that are mapped out for users to browse as the season progresses.  Wondering when fall folia

What would you do for a shot at $4,000? Crash a volleyball game at Oak Street Beach? Convince a stranger to let you tour their apartment? Would you even get a Chicago flag tattoo? Now’s your chance to prove your mettle. On October 4, Boppn, a social event brand specializing in immersive scavenger hunts, is bringing their whimsical flagship competition to Chicago after successful runs in New York City and San Francisco, California. Over the course of five hours, each team will choose their own adventure by picking from hundreds of Chicago-specific tasks on the Boppn app, with destinations ranging from iconic landmarks to underground gems. Each completed task—assigned a point value—is submitted via the app with a picture or video and reviewed in real time. The team that’s tallied the most points by the five-hour mark is crowned the winner. While the overall intent of Boppn’s events is to foster connection and community, there’s a particularly strong incentive for participants: a $4,000 grand prize. Along with the abundant bounty, participants will compete for prizes from Alice & Wonder, Third Coast Hospitality, Lettuce Entertain You, Four Corners Hospitality, FleetFeet Chicago and more favorite local spots. All participants are welcome to celebrate their gamesmanship during a private afterparty at Joe’s on Weed St.  Photograph: Courtesy of BoppnA group of competitors from a previous Boppn scavenger hunt. Inspired by the scavenger hunts of his ‘90s childhood, Boppn CEO and cof

As summer winds down and fall weather draws us indoors, Chicago museums are welcoming visitors with a new round of free admission days. Many institutions are offering no-cost entry for Illinois residents (don’t forget to bring that proof of residency!), and a few are even opening their doors for free to everyone. Don’t wait too long, though: Some of the best deals—including free entry to the Art Institute of Chicago and Griffin Museum of Science and Industry—wrap up in just a few weeks. Here’s your guide to upcoming free Chicago museum days through the end of 2025. RECOMMENDED: The best free museum days in Chicago Museums with limited free admission days: Photograph: Jaclyn Rivas for Time Out The Art Institute of Chicago Upcoming free days for Illinois residents: Thursdays from 5 to 8pm until September 25, 2025. Free entry year-round for the following groups: Anyone 18 and under, Illinois educators (pre-K-12), active-duty military personnel and LINK and WIC cardholders. Chicago History Museum Upcoming free days for Illinois residents: September 10 and 24; October 8, 13 and 25; and November 6, 12 and 19. Free entry year-round for the following groups: Illinois teachers, active-duty and veteran military personnel, active-duty Chicago Police Department and Chicago Fire Department personnel and Illinois residents 18 and under.   Photograph: Lucy Hewett, Courtesy of The Field Museum,   The Field Museum Upcoming free days for Illinois residents: Every Wednesday until Septemb

Get ready to unleash your inner Nancy Drew: Escape the Museum is returning to the Griffin Museum of Science and Industry. Following a sold-out weekend during 2024’s “007 Science: Inventing the World of James Bond” exhibition, the nation’s only museum escape returns—bigger and more exciting than ever. This family-friendly adventure invites guests to explore the museum after hours, uncover hidden clues and solve puzzles set within some of its most beloved exhibits. With the new year comes a new escape room theme: “The Wandering Alchemist.” Participants will journey through a world of mystery, where each exhibit holds clues that lead closer to victory—and the honor of being crowned a member of the Guild of Alchemists. Created by Chicago design firm Escape Artistry, this immersive escape room spans four of the MSI’s permanent exhibit halls: Science Storms, Extreme Ice, Transportation Gallery and the Henry Crown Space Center.  Photograph: Courtesy of Griffin Museum of Science and Industry The game is entirely screen-free, offering an analog experience that fosters genuine connection between participants. Designed for ages eight and up, the puzzles are engaging for the whole family, while also making this a perfect outing for couples and large groups. The escape room’s runtime averages 50 to 90 minutes, though puzzle-solving prowess may shorten or extend your stay in the museum. Escape the Museum is open for 12 select dates through October 4. Tickets start at $40 per player ($35

We made it, y’all—Labor Day weekend, summer’s bittersweet swan song, has arrived. And it comes with no shortage of ways to soak up the season’s final long, sunny days. Feeling overwhelmed by the endless possibilities? Fear not—we’ve scoured the city’s packed calendar to bring you the very best festivals, events and activities to make the most of your three-day weekend. Chicago Jazz Festival As is Labor Day weekend tradition in Chicago, some of the biggest names in jazz will gather for a series of shows at Pritzker Pavilion in Millennium Park and the Chicago Cultural Center Thursday, August 28, through Sunday, August 31. This year's headliners include composer Esperanza Spalding, saxophonist Ari Brown and drummer Greg Fundis. Visit the Chicago Jazz Festival webpage for the full lineup and schedule. Be awed by the final Navy Pier Fireworks show of the year During the summer, one of the best aerial displays you’ll find in Chicago originates from Navy Pier. The Chicago attraction hosts twice-weekly fireworks shows (on Wednesdays and Saturdays) from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend, with stunning views available from across the pier’s public spaces. Don't miss the final fireworks show of the year on Saturday, August 30.    Photograph: Courtesy Music Box Theatre   Catch a movie at the last-ever Music Box Garden series During the summer, spending more time indoors than absolutely necessary feels almost sacrilegious. The Music Box Theatre gets it—and fully embraces th