Whether it is Spring, Fall, Summer or Winter, we all could stand to get out and do something once in a while. There are so many things in and around Chicago to do that you are sure to never be stuck at home because you ran out of something to do. We’ve gathered our favorite list of Things to do in Chicago This Weekend to help give you a great list to check out for your next weekend in the Windy City!
Things to do in Chicago this Weekend
Museums
Museums are one of our favorite things to do in Chicago this weekend. They are perfect for any weather and are great for the entire family. There are some that are better for adults on this list, but tons of options that are totally family friendly.
Art Institute of Chicago is open all year around. This is an amazing experience. They offer “free Thursdays” where the admission for Illinois residents is free from 5:00 pm to 8:00pm. They also offer “free winter weekdays” where Illinois residents can get into the museum free of charge every weekday from January 8, 2018 to February 15, 2018.
Shop the Magnificent Mile on North Michigan Avenue. Here you will find everything from department stores to cosmetics. Plus, you will find gourmet foods, grocery stores, toy stores and sports centers. You are sure to find something here for everyone. While you are here be sure to make a stop into one (or all) of the three story shopping centers or your trip won’t be complete.
Check out the infamous Field Museum. I’m sure you have thought about checking it out before but, why not this weekend? It truly is an amazing experience to see the most complete fossil around. They are open every 364 days a year with Christmas being the only day they are closed.
The Museum of Science and Industry has so many different exhibits to see and interact with. I love that I am able to keep this kids busy while they are learning new things. You can head to their website and customize your visit based on your families interests. Doing this will make sure that your family sees everything that is of most interest to them (complete with an IMAX film showing).
The Shedd Aquarium is another fantastic place to spend a day this weekend! Whether you have never been before or, you have been hundreds of times, you are sure to have a great time and learn something new.
Other Things to do in Chicago this weekend
You can catch a show at the Cadillac Palace Theater. You can find out what is playing on their website just by putting in the date you want to go.
Shop the Magnificent Mile on North Michigan Avenue. Here you will find everything from department stores to cosmetics. Plus, you will find gourmet foods, grocery stores, toy stores and sports centers. You are sure to find something here for everyone. While you are here be sure to make a stop into one (or all) of the three story shopping centers or your trip won’t be complete.
If you are looking for something a little bit different to do why not take a Horse Drawn Carriage Ride through downtown Chicago. Just be sure to book your tickets in advance.
Take some fun pictures at the Cloud Gate Sculpture (also known as “the bean”). This could be as short or as long as a trip as you have time for. That is why it is the perfect time filler. Even if you have been before, it is worth another visit and more fun pictures.
Carve out time to enjoy a treat at Sprinkles Cupcakes downtown. You are guaranteed to find something for everyone as they carry regular cupcakes along with gluten free and vegan cupcakes.
Throughout the year you can enjoy the Kane County Flea Market. This is the perfect stop if you are looking to add something with some built in character to your decor. You can check their upcoming show dates on the website.
Drop in to Navy Pier. There is a lot to see and do all year long on Navy Pier. The interior shopping and food options make this a perfect place year round. Don’t forget to check out the Imax theater there for special movie options, or the local events happening in the conference hall! You may even want to take a dinner cruise on one of the special featured boats.
Take a self guided tour of all the places films took place in Chicago. This could be a fun way to check these spots out.
Winter Activities in Chicago
Ice Skating in Millennium Park offers an amazing view of the skyline while you skate. Admission is free and there are free skating lessons Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays one hour before the rink opens. You are able to rent skates if needed for $12.
Grab tickets for this weekends Chicago Bulls game! These games only run from October until April they are a great way to spend a day during your weekend and make some pretty fun memories too!
Spend the beautiful winter days during the weekend sledding. There are sledding hills all over Chicago but, one of the most popular ones is Swallow Cliff.
As you can see, there are always a ton of great options for things to do this weekend in Chicago. Grab some walking shoes, and head out to the city for a fun filled weekend you will love!
More Chicago Tips:
Budget Friendly Playdate in Chicago
The Must See and Do Items In Chicago
Day at the Museum of Science and Industry in Chicago
Must See Fall Scenery in the Midwest
Chicago seems worth exploring and it definitely has lots to offer, Lena! These are some excellent suggestions. What shouldn’t we miss when being in Chicago?
Even though I live in the Chicagoland area I rarely get down town. Thanks for the info. It is a cool,fun and beautiful city.
Great ideas.