See the intricately made textile robes created and worn by Japanese Buddhist monks and priests. Some of the samples in this collection at the Art Institute are incredibly old, dating back to as early as 1615. The exhibition includes a selection of 23 traditional garments. (Art Institute of Chicago, 111 S Michigan Ave, 10:30am–5pm. General admission)
2. Get it write
Discover the stories behind Chicago's greatest authors and what inspired them to create their most lauded works in this unique, crowd-sourced exhibit. In a new interactive café-style space, highlighted works include canonized giants like Nelson Algren as well as contemporary up-and-comers like Malcolm London. (Chicago History Museum, 1601 N Clark St, 9:30am–4:30pm. $12-$14)
One room, one hour and only one chance. D.O.A. Room Escape pits participants against their surroundings, forcing them to solve clues and puzzles to reveal how to escape. The game takes inspiration from actual Chicago events such as the murders of H.H. Holmes and the St. Valentine's Day Massacre. Arrive with a group and your wits and try to find the key. (The Basement, 1450 W Fullerton Ave, Unit A, 7pm. $29.50)