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You’ve done a million happy hours — now it’s time to try something new!
Published August 16, 2022
When planning a hangout with friends, the first things that come to mind are grabbing drinks or meeting up at a restaurant. But Chicago has so many amazing attractions that don’t center around eating or drinking. It’s time to try something new! Check out our list of fun activities in Chicago that will keep you out of the bar!
Chicago was incorporated in 1837, and the rich history of the city is apparent through its many decades of interesting and significant architecture. The Chicago Architecture Center offers tours on foot, by boat, by bus, and by elevated train. You might see the city in a new way after learning what makes its buildings so special.
Chicago was incorporated in 1837, and the rich history of the city is apparent through its many decades of interesting and significant architecture. The Chicago Architecture Center offers tours on foot, by boat, by bus, and by elevated train. You might see the city in a new way after learning what makes its buildings so special.
No matter your interests, Chicago has a museum for you. Spend a rainy day exploring the expansive Field Museum of Natural History, see some unique memorabilia at the Chicago Sports Museum, or get a fresh perspective at the Museum of Contemporary Art. Regardless of which incredible museum you choose, you’re sure to have a fun day — and maybe even learn something!
No matter your interests, Chicago has a museum for you. Spend a rainy day exploring the expansive Field Museum of Natural History, see some unique memorabilia at the Chicago Sports Museum, or get a fresh perspective at the Museum of Contemporary Art. Regardless of which incredible museum you choose, you’re sure to have a fun day — and maybe even learn something!
Did you know Chicago is home to the largest permanent digital art projection in the world? From April through December, riverwalk visitors can see massive displays from local and international artists projected on theMART each night. The projections change every few months, so stop by often to see them all!
Did you know Chicago is home to the largest permanent digital art projection in the world? From April through December, riverwalk visitors can see massive displays from local and international artists projected on theMART each night. The projections change every few months, so stop by often to see them all!
There’s no need to put on a wetsuit to get up close and personal with some incredible deep sea creatures. Stop by the Shedd Aquarium to see some underwater wonders and learn all about their secret world.
There’s no need to put on a wetsuit to get up close and personal with some incredible deep sea creatures. Stop by the Shedd Aquarium to see some underwater wonders and learn all about their secret world.
There’s nothing quite like the 606 trail! This unique public work is an abandoned rail line turned multi-use recreation trail and park. The trail is 2.7 miles long and perfect for taking a walk, bike ride, or jog.
There’s nothing quite like the 606 trail! This unique public work is an abandoned rail line turned multi-use recreation trail and park. The trail is 2.7 miles long and perfect for taking a walk, bike ride, or jog.
If you’re a movie buff, there’s no better place to spend an evening than the Music Box Theatre. They show a variety of independent, foreign, cult, and classic films, some of which can be seen outside in their garden during the summers.
If you’re a movie buff, there’s no better place to spend an evening than the Music Box Theatre. They show a variety of independent, foreign, cult, and classic films, some of which can be seen outside in their garden during the summers.
Game nights are a blast…for everyone but the host, who usually ends up having to explain instructions and ensure everyone is comfortable. Game Night Out takes the work out of game night by hosting the event for you! Whether in-person or remote, everyone’s sure to have a good time.
Game nights are a blast…for everyone but the host, who usually ends up having to explain instructions and ensure everyone is comfortable. Game Night Out takes the work out of game night by hosting the event for you! Whether in-person or remote, everyone’s sure to have a good time.
An activity that also comes with new decor for your home? What more could you want? The Earth + Art workshop helps you decorate a pretty pot and add a plant of your choosing. You’ll remember how much fun you had every time you look at your new keepsake.
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An activity that also comes with new decor for your home? What more could you want? The Earth + Art workshop helps you decorate a pretty pot and add a plant of your choosing. You’ll remember how much fun you had every time you look at your new keepsake.
Rough week at work? Get out some frustration by chucking axes at a wall! If you’ve never done it, they have instructors ready to help you perfect your technique. You might be surprised by how therapeutic it can be.
Rough week at work? Get out some frustration by chucking axes at a wall! If you’ve never done it, they have instructors ready to help you perfect your technique. You might be surprised by how therapeutic it can be.
Get to know the dark side of Chicago with a crime tour. See where iconic crimes took place and hear stories about the most notorious villains the city has ever seen, including gangster Al Capone, The Untouchables, The Chicago Mob, John Dillinger, Frank “The Enforcer” Nitti, Cap George Streeter, and more.
Get to know the dark side of Chicago with a crime tour. See where iconic crimes took place and hear stories about the most notorious villains the city has ever seen, including gangster Al Capone, The Untouchables, The Chicago Mob, John Dillinger, Frank “The Enforcer” Nitti, Cap George Streeter, and more.
Andersonville is home to some of the funkiest, fun, and best antique shops and thrift stores in the city. Spend an afternoon browsing — you never know what you’ll come home with!
Andersonville is home to some of the funkiest, fun, and best antique shops and thrift stores in the city. Spend an afternoon browsing — you never know what you’ll come home with!
Climbing, ziplining, rappelling, kayaking — there’s so much to do at The Forge adventure park! Pick your favorite activity (or soon-to-be favorite activity) and get your blood pumping.
best price
Climbing, ziplining, rappelling, kayaking — there’s so much to do at The Forge adventure park! Pick your favorite activity (or soon-to-be favorite activity) and get your blood pumping.
Meet mammals, reptiles, and birds from all over the world at the Brookfield Zoo! Whether you want to feed a giraffe, ride a carousel, watch dolphins splash around, or step into a whirlwind of butterflies, you’re sure to make incredible memories at the zoo.
Meet mammals, reptiles, and birds from all over the world at the Brookfield Zoo! Whether you want to feed a giraffe, ride a carousel, watch dolphins splash around, or step into a whirlwind of butterflies, you’re sure to make incredible memories at the zoo.
The AIRE Ancient Baths are a walk through history in more ways than one. This upscale spa is located in a restored factory built in1902, and you can still see the original exposed brick, wooden beams, and industrial columns. You’ll also be taking part in the traditional experience of baths, which were part of ancient Roman, Greek, and Ottoman cultures.
The AIRE Ancient Baths are a walk through history in more ways than one. This upscale spa is located in a restored factory built in1902, and you can still see the original exposed brick, wooden beams, and industrial columns. You’ll also be taking part in the traditional experience of baths, which were part of ancient Roman, Greek, and Ottoman cultures.
The Lakefront Trail offers 18 miles of gorgeous lakeside path to leisurely ride along on a sunny day. If you have your own bike, you can simply pick a section and get to peddling. If you don’t have a bicycle, not to worry! You can rent one in Waveland Park in Lakeville for just $10-$20 per hour.
The Lakefront Trail offers 18 miles of gorgeous lakeside path to leisurely ride along on a sunny day. If you have your own bike, you can simply pick a section and get to peddling. If you don’t have a bicycle, not to worry! You can rent one in Waveland Park in Lakeville for just $10-$20 per hour.
Who doesn’t love to learn a new skill? In this class, you’ll learn two! Bring your own glass bottle to upcycle into a chic candle by first practicing glass cutting and then learning to pour wax. Fun and sustainable — it’s a win-win!
Who doesn’t love to learn a new skill? In this class, you’ll learn two! Bring your own glass bottle to upcycle into a chic candle by first practicing glass cutting and then learning to pour wax. Fun and sustainable — it’s a win-win!
From the Botanic Gardens to the Garfield Park Conservatory to the Garden of the Phoenix, Chicago has plenty of lush green spaces to explore. Get some fresh air and see some beautiful, rare, and unique flowers and greenery. The Chicago Botanic Garden even offers horticulture classes and craft fairs!
From the Botanic Gardens to the Garfield Park Conservatory to the Garden of the Phoenix, Chicago has plenty of lush green spaces to explore. Get some fresh air and see some beautiful, rare, and unique flowers and greenery. The Chicago Botanic Garden even offers horticulture classes and craft fairs!
Chicago is an American entertainment hub. From touring Broadway shows to stops from major comedians to magic and music, there’s a show to be seen any given night in Chicago.
Chicago is an American entertainment hub. From touring Broadway shows to stops from major comedians to magic and music, there’s a show to be seen any given night in Chicago.
If you’re a fan of the Chicago Cubs — or even just Chicago history — you can’t beat a tour of the iconic Wrigley Field. The tour is just 90 minutes, and going on a non-game day will give you an exclusive glimpse at special areas like the press box, outfield ivy, and the Cubs’ dugout.
If you’re a fan of the Chicago Cubs — or even just Chicago history — you can’t beat a tour of the iconic Wrigley Field. The tour is just 90 minutes, and going on a non-game day will give you an exclusive glimpse at special areas like the press box, outfield ivy, and the Cubs’ dugout.
If you’ve never played WhirlyBall, it’s high time you tried it. This unique game combines lacrosse, basketball, and hockey. Oh, and did we mention you play it in bumper cars? The unusual activity pretty much guarantees a memorable night out.
If you’ve never played WhirlyBall, it’s high time you tried it. This unique game combines lacrosse, basketball, and hockey. Oh, and did we mention you play it in bumper cars? The unusual activity pretty much guarantees a memorable night out.
Get a unique view of the city while also getting a workout in. Chicago SUP even offers an excursion that lets you watch the Navy Pier fireworks right from your paddle board!
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Get a unique view of the city while also getting a workout in. Chicago SUP even offers an excursion that lets you watch the Navy Pier fireworks right from your paddle board!
There’s no shortage of family fun at Maggie Daley Park. In the summer, you can go mini golfing, rock climbing, rollerblading, play tennis, or try the bungee jump. You can also check out the interactive public art installation “Out of Sight,” stroll the gardens, or have a picnic in the grove. In the winter enjoy the ice skating ribbon or grab lunch at the Rink Cafe.
There’s no shortage of family fun at Maggie Daley Park. In the summer, you can go mini golfing, rock climbing, rollerblading, play tennis, or try the bungee jump. You can also check out the interactive public art installation “Out of Sight,” stroll the gardens, or have a picnic in the grove. In the winter enjoy the ice skating ribbon or grab lunch at the Rink Cafe.
Whether you’re a golf pro or a putt-putt newbie, Diversey Driving Range has something for everyone. Soak up some sunshine while practicing your long game at the driving range or have some family fun putting around the mini golf course. Either way, it’s sure to be a good time.
Whether you’re a golf pro or a putt-putt newbie, Diversey Driving Range has something for everyone. Soak up some sunshine while practicing your long game at the driving range or have some family fun putting around the mini golf course. Either way, it’s sure to be a good time.
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