Things to do
The absolute most beautiful gardens in Chicago
Chicago is home to more than 8,800 acres of green space.
Things to Do
Discover the best things to do in Chicago, including popular events, festivals, attractions, tours and free activities
Things to do
Where to watch the Air and Water Show 2026
The Chicago Air and Water Show returns to the city's skies on August 15 and 16.
Things to do
All 156 free outdoor movies in Chicago this summer
There's no better reason to pack up the blankets, lawn chairs and picnic baskets for an evening under the stars.
Shopping
The 22 best farmers markets in Chicago
Neighborhoods across the city bring in Midwestern vendors at the best farmers markets in Chicago.
Things to do
Best summer activities in Chicago
Make the most of summer with our guide to the city's best season.
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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.
Bars
The 20 best rooftop bars in Chicago
Nothing screams summertime Chi like admiring the impressive skyline views with a drink in hand.
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.
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.
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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 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.
Things to do
The best free things to do in Chicago this month
No need to break the bank—check out all the fun (and free) stuff happening throughout the city this month.
Things to do
United Center | Chicago, IL
Everything you need to know about visiting the United Center (1901 W Madison St, Chicago, IL 60612).
When the Bulls and the Blackhawks aren’t playing...
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.
The latest Chicago news
Restaurants
Chicago’s best tiki bar is hosting a one-night-only cocktail cruise out of Navy Pier
Three Dots and a Dash is partnering with Shoreline Sightseeing for a sunset excursion.
Restaurants
This Chicago spot serves the best burger in America, according to Time Out
Two smashed patties with dijonnaise and pickles on a toasted bun is a burger lover’s delight
Music
Ariana Grande is playing three nights in Chicago: ticket prices and everything you need to know about the 2026 Eternal Sunshine Tour
That's one extra performance due to popular demand.
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
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
Tate McRae at Lollapalooza 2026: start time and everything to know
The Canadian singer headlines the final day of the fest with chart-topping hits and high-energy dance moves
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
Jennie at Lollapalooza 2026: start time and everything to know
The Blackpink singer is making history as the first female Korean soloist to headline Lollapalooza
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Things to do
The best free things to do in Chicago
Have fun at museums, conservatories, concerts and more without spending a dime.
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
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.
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
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.
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.