Things to do
Chicago Air and Water Show 2026: Everything you need to know
The Chicago Air and Water Show, one of summer's most beloved spectacles, will return to the city in roaring form on August 15-16 this year.
Things to Do
Discover the best things to do in Chicago, including popular events, festivals, attractions, tours and free activities
Attractions
The 45 most iconic Chicago attractions
We’ve handpicked the city’s must-see spots so you can experience the very best of Chicago.
Things to do
The best free things to do in Chicago this month
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.
Shopping
The best farmers markets in Chicago
Neighborhoods across the city bring in Midwestern vendors at the best farmers markets in Chicago.
Things to do
The most beautiful gardens in Chicago
Chicago is home to more than 8,800 acres of green space.
Advertising
Things to do in Chicago every day
How to spend summer in Chicago
Things to do
The best free things to do in Chicago
There are plenty of activities around the city that don't cost a penny.
Restaurants
The 22 best Chicago Riverwalk and waterfront restaurants
The best spots for outdoor dining in Chicago show off all the beauty the city has to offer.
Bars
The 20 best rooftop bars in Chicago
Nothing screams summertime Chi like admiring the impressive skyline views with a drink in hand.
Shopping
The best flea markets in Chicago
A truly great flea market trip can take your weekend to the next level.
Health and beauty
The 23 best spas in Chicago
Before the city warms up, squeeze in some much-needed rest and relaxation.
Museums
The 28 best museums in Chicago
Experience art, history and science and these well-respected cultural institutions.
Advertising
The latest things to do in Chicago
Things to do
The best things to do in Chicago this weekend
With our guide to the best festivals, shows and cultural happenings across the city, consider your weekend plans covered.
Things to do
The 14 most amazing secret parks and gardens in Chicago
Escape to these tucked-away green spaces located within our city in a garden.
Things to do
Chicago Fashion Week
Celebrating Chicago culture through couture, Chicago Fashion Week brings runway shows, markets, educational programs and more—many of which are free...
Things to do
Howl-O-Ween Canine Cruise
What's better than dressing up on Halloween? Dressing up your pups, of course! This spooky season, the Howl-O-Ween Canine Cruise aboard First Lady is...
Things to do
Cat Walk
North Side nonprofit Tree House Humane Society is bringing back its annual fundraiser and fashion show, Cat Walk, to a new location at Rockwell on the River....
The latest Chicago news
Things to do
Chicago's most iconic street party was cancelled—here's why
Sundays on State will not return in 2026, but plans for a new cultural lineup are underway.
Restaurants
This beloved West Loop brunch spot is closing after 36 years, but you still have time to dine
Stop by Wishbone for one more plate of Southern comfort food before the end of August
Restaurants
This Logan Square pizzeria is selling the largest pizza in Illinois, a $500 pie that's taller than Sabrina Carpenter
This is one "Sheet Show" worth seeing.
The latest Chicago events
Things to do
Chicago Architecture Center River Cruise aboard First Lady
Ready to explore Chicago's amazing architecture while floating on the river? The Chicago Architecture Center River Cruise takes place aboard a First Lady...
Museums
Declarations: 250 Years of Writing Toward Independence
In honor of America's 250th anniversary, the American Writers Museum presents a pop-up exhibition titled "Declarations: 250 Years of Writing...
Things to do
Summer Skate at Navy Pier
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...
Things to do in Chicago neighborhoods
Things to do
Avondale
The traditionally Polish neighborhood is dotted with arts centers, small parks and interesting shops.
Shopping & Style
Shopping
Chicago’s best thrift stores for secondhand, vintage and resale shopping
Be prepared to score some serious deals on items you simply can't find at most other stores.
Shopping
19 Chicago gift shops for unique presents
It’s been said that the best gifts in life are free, but no one’s really buying that, right?
Most popular things to do features
Things to do
The Chicago Air and Water show will look different this year—here's what's changing
Expect the same thrilling performances at the beloved summer festival, but with a different headliner
Things to do
The best August 2026 events in Chicago
Plan your August in Chicago with our events calendar of the best things to do, including concerts, festivals and movies in parks.
Things to do
Chicago's most iconic street party was cancelled—here's why
Sundays on State will not return in 2026, but plans for a new cultural lineup are underway.
Things to do
The best things to do in Chicago this weekend
With our guide to the best festivals, shows and cultural happenings across the city, consider your weekend plans covered.
Things to do
The best things to do in Chicago this week
Your guide to the best events, festivals, concerts, pop-ups and more this week in Chicago.
Advertising
Things to do
Where to watch the Chicago Air and Water Show 2026
Get the best views of the Chicago Air and Water Show from rooftops, skyscrapers, beaches and boats.
Things to do
The best things to do in Chicago today
Find the best things to do in Chicago today, including parties, concerts, screenings and other can't-miss events.
Things to do
Lollapalooza 2026 lineup, updated set times and streaming schedule: the full list to keep track of
Here’s the complete schedule for live sets and at-home streaming.
Things to do
11 things you can do at the Obama Presidential Center without a ticket
You don't need a ticket to enjoy most of what the campus has to offer.
Things to do
The 54 best things to do in Chicago right now
Discover the best things to do in Chicago, from iconic venues and views to cultural essentials and late-night shenanigans.
Time In - movies we love
Movies
10 must-see movies hitting cinemas in August
The Odyssey won July, with Spider-Man in hot pursuit at the box office. So what does August have to offer for eager cinemagoers and anyone looking for a nice...
Movies
'Spider-Man: Brand New Day' review: Zendaya and Tom Holland elevate this Spidey break-up movie
‘God, that’s cool,’ sighs Tom Holland’s Spider-Man as a bunch of ninjas descend on him in Marvel’s well-established slo-mo,...
The best movies of 2026 (so far)
From ‘The Bone Temple’ to ‘Project Hail Mary’, the best of the year to date.
Movies
The best animes of 2026 (so far)
With the return of popular animes like Jujutsu Kaisen and Frieren in January, this year in anime kicked off pretty early with heroic characters, cutting-edge...
Movies
How authentic is Christopher Nolan’s ‘The Odyssey’?
The debate over The Odyssey was raging long before anyone saw the movie. Culture warriors weighed in on its colour-blind casting, accusing Christopher Nolan of...
Time In - songs we love
Music
The 14 best albums of 2026 so far
Olivia Rodrigo, Madonna, Slayyyter and more feature in the best releases of the year so far, according to Time Out editors and contributors
Music
The 10 songs of the summer for 2026
From Zara Larsson and PinkPantheress to Olivia Rodrigo, these are the hits battling to be this summer’s definitive tune
Music
The 50 best karaoke songs ever made
Whether you’ve got the voice of an angel or you’re totally tone deaf, karaoke unites us all.
Music
The 40 best party songs ever made
Party songs come in all shapes and sizes – here’s what should be on your playlist.
Music
The 37 best inspirational songs of all time
Get some pep in your step with these motivational anthems.