Things to do

There’s always something fun to do in Chicago!

Whether you’re here just for the day or making a family vacation out of it, we’ve rounded up some of our favorite things to do in Chicago during the summer. Plan your trip and enjoy the city!

  • A woman and a girl in an art gallery, sitting on the floor near a large framed painting of a park scene with people, animals, and boats.

    Explore World-Class Museums

    Chicago boasts some of the world’s finest museums. Plan a day to explore the Art Institute, Field Museum, Museum of Science & Industry, or Shedd Aquarium for an unforgettable cultural experience.

    Chicago Museums
  • A river cruise boat with many passengers aboard traveling on a city river, surrounded by tall skyscrapers and buildings, with a bridge overhead.

    Take a Chicago Architecture Tour

    Consistently ranked as one of the city’s best experiences, the Chicago Architecture Center’s expert guides will lead you by boat, bus, train, or on foot, sharing the stories behind Chicago’s most iconic buildings.

    We highly recommend the boat tour.

    Tour Info
  • An assortment of drinks, desserts, and sandwiches on a wooden table, surrounded by colorful roses.

    Eat Everything

    From iconic hot dogs, pizza, and Italian beefs to Michelin-starred chefs and foodie fame from The Bear, Chicago serves up one of the most diverse (and delicious) food scenes in the country. Come hungry!

    Some of our favorite places are Publican Quality Meats, Sun Wah, Monteverde, and Pizzeria Portofino.

    Where to Eat
  • A boutique store decorated with framed artwork on green walls, displaying tote bags, posters, and books, with shelves holding candles, globes, and assorted items.

    Retail Therapy

    Looking to shop while you’re here? Wrigleyville sits in the heart of Chicago’s Lakeview East neighborhood, known for its incredible shopping, dining, and local charm. Some of our favorites include Reckless Records for vinyl lovers, The Colette Collection for boutique finds, Foursided for unique gifts (pictured above), and Windy City Sweets for a candy fix.

    Shop Local
  • Buddy Guy playing a yellow electric guitar on stage, wearing a black and white polka dot shirt, beige pants, a white cap, a gold watch, and a gold necklace with a cross pendant.

    Check out some Blues

    If you love blues music, Chicago’s the place to be. Catch a live show at iconic spots like Kingston Mines, Rosa’s Lounge, or Buddy Guy’s Legends. And don’t miss Willie Dixon’s Blues Heaven at 2120 S. Michigan Ave. (made famous by The Rolling Stones)—the historic home of Chess Records.

    Kingston Mines
  • Colorful digital illustration of a crowded waterfront with sailboats, paddle boats, and a historic building with flags, against a modern city skyline with skyscrapers, a ferris wheel, a pink dinosaur sculpture, and a blue sky with clouds and flying seagulls.

    Family Fun at Navy Pier

    Looking for a day by the lake? Navy Pier has it all—ride the iconic Centennial Wheel, explore the Chicago Children’s Museum, catch a boat tour, grab some treats, and stick around for the summer fireworks shows. Perfect for kids (and kids at heart).

    Visit Navy Pier
  • Musicians perform on stage with a singer, brass instruments, and percussion, while an audience watches and takes photos in a theater setting.

    See a Concert

    Chicago’s music scene is legendary, and there’s no shortage of places to catch a show. From summer festivals like Lollapalooza to incredible venues like Salt Shed, The Green Mill, and Metro Chicago, you can find everything from intimate neighborhood clubs to historic halls that have hosted music’s biggest names.

    Music Venues
  • A crowded beach with colorful towels and umbrellas, palm trees, and numerous people swimming, sunbathing, and walking along the shoreline with a clear ocean in the background.

    Go to the Beach

    Yes, we have beaches! Chicago’s 26 miles of scenic lakefront have it all—lush parks and gardens, an 18-mile Lakefront Trail, more than two dozen free beaches, and plenty to do once you’re there. Spend your day biking or boating, playing beach volleyball, or grabbing food and drinks along the shoreline while soaking in those summer vibes.

    Beach Options