Things to Do in Chicago.
Live events today, tonight, and this weekend in Chicago — plus free picks, date nights, and indoor backups. Real dated listings when we have them.
What are you looking for?
Happening Today
Live music, markets & day pop-ups
Tonight's Guide
Evening shows, comedy & dinner vibes
This Weekend
Festivals, popups & outdoor escapes
This Week
Today through Sunday — dated plans
Sunday Chill
Patios, markets & relaxed strolls
Date Night Ideas
Cozy spots, intimate drinks & views
For Couples
Romantic activities & day-date plans
Rainy Day & Indoor
Museums, arcades & cozy cafes
Free & $0 Sights
Parks, overlooks & free days
Outdoor Activities
Parks, trails & fresh-air plans
Under $20 & Budget
Budget eats & cheap local fun
Family & Kids
Parks, interactive science & fun
Solo Explorer
Cafes, walks & alone-friendly spots
Live Music & Gigs
Concerts, jazz halls & indie shows
Comedy & Improv
Standup cellars & laughter clubs
After 10 PM
Speakeasies & late-night diners
Upcoming Events & Shows in Chicago
Exhibition: Embroidered Traditions from Morocco to Afghanistan
Art Institute of Chicago exhibition.
Exhibition: Self, Made: Fourteen Modern Artists from the Richard and Ellen Sandor Family Collection
Art Institute of Chicago exhibition.
Iconic Local Gems in Chicago
Willis Tower
Soar to the highest US observation deck
The Willis Tower, originally known as the Sears Tower, is a 110-story, 1,451-foot skyscraper in Chicago's Loop. Designed by Bruce Graham and Fazlur Rahman Khan,
Art Institute of Chicago
World-class art museum
The Art Institute of Chicago is a private nonprofit art museum in Grant Park, founded in 1879. It ranks among the oldest and largest art museums in the United S
Trump International Hotel and Tower
Iconic riverfront tower with luxury hotel
The Trump International Hotel and Tower is a 100-story skyscraper in downtown Chicago. Designed by architect Adrian Smith of Skidmore, Owings and Merrill, it wa
John Hancock Center
Sky-high views and thrill-seeking TILT platform
The John Hancock Center, officially 875 North Michigan Avenue, is a 100-story skyscraper in Chicago's Magnificent Mile district. Designed by Bruce Graham and Fa
Millennium Park
Iconic park with Cloud Gate and free events
Millennium Park is a 24.5-acre public park in Chicago's Loop, opened in July 2004 and operated by the Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events.
Millennium Park — Cloud Gate
Bean + skyline plaza
Cloud Gate is a public sculpture by Anish Kapoor, serving as the centerpiece of Grainger Plaza at Millennium Park in Chicago. Built between 2004 and 2006, its 1
Field Museum of Natural History
One of the largest natural history museums in the world
The Field Museum of Natural History is a private–public institution in Chicago and one of the largest natural history museums globally. It operates in close par
Museum of Science and Industry
Historic palace with a captured German submarine
The Griffin Museum of Science and Industry is a private non-profit science museum housed in the Palace of Fine Arts, built for the 1893 World's Columbian Exposi
Recently Concluded in Chicago
CircuitMOM & Uncle Present Haunted Hollywood ft Erik Vilar and Ed Wood
House of Blues Chicago
The Brokes, St. Marlboro
Reggies Rock Club
Oh He Dead
Garcia's Chicago
Shawn James
Bottom Lounge
Frequently Asked Questions About Chicago
What are the top things to do in Chicago?
Chicago offers a vibrant mix of live concerts, stand-up comedy shows, historic sights, culinary food halls, and scenic parks. Check our live guides for real-time recommendations.
How do I find free things to do in Chicago?
Browse our free guide to discover $0 admission public parks, free museum days, outdoor markets, and community events across Chicago.
Can I generate a custom itinerary for Chicago?
Yes! Use whattodowheretogo's AI Trip Planner to create a personalized, time-optimized schedule matching your budget, group size, and interests in seconds.