A walker takes in Chicago's fall color

Chicago in November

By Ian Packham

Visit Chicago in November and you’ll discover a city preparing itself for the depths of winter but not quite done with fall. Temperatures are generally healthy enough to allow you to still spend plenty of time outdoors, where it’s usually possible to see the last of the fall color or the first flurries of snow.

As the days get shorter towards the end of November, there’s also the start of the Christmas festivities to look forward to as well as the celebrations around Thanksgiving on the fourth Thursday of the month.

Wondering how cold Chicago is in November and what there is to do? We’ve brought together all the top tips so you need to look nowhere else.

Enjoy the end of the fall color

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Chicago weather in November sees average daily temperatures rise to 50°F, equivalent to a cool spring day. Whilst you’ll want to wrap up warm, do so properly and just eight days of rain will mean you can get out amidst the city’s green spaces to take in the final days of reds, oranges and gold with the turning of its leaves.

Should you choose, you could traverse Chicago’s shores on Lake Michigan without ever leaving parkland. A popular pick with those looking to get into the saddle of the city’s rental bicycles – but welcoming to walkers, joggers and skateboarders too – the Lakeshore Trail covers 18.5 miles.

Starting at Edgewater Beach in the northern suburbs, it then runs south past many of the city’s top attractions. The first is the free-to-visit Lincoln Park Zoo, whose residents include great apes, big cats, a burr oak older than the city and the Lionel Train Adventure and Endangered Species Carousel rides.

Further south lie other major things to do in Chicago in November including the magnificent Field Museum. As one of the largest natural history museums around, it is simply stuffed full of stuffed animals, cultural artifacts from across the globe and the famous skeleton of Sue the T-Rex – one of the most complete and best-preserved examples yet discovered.

A short way across the state border, alternative vistas can be sought out at Indiana Dunes National Park. Situated close to the southernmost point of Lake Michigan, the park’s impressive dunes offer a wealth of walking trails, albeit without the fall color.

Kick off the festive season

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Thanksgiving focusses very strongly on Chicago’s downtown areas. Taking place on the grid of streets which form immediately south of the fork in the Chicago River, the annual Thanksgiving Parade is a family-friendly affair which sees State Street taken over by giant helium balloons, dance troops and marching bands.

Thanksgiving is also closely associated with the Black Friday sales. Still on State Street, there are a great number of smaller stores, whilst the Magnificent Mile boasts higher end boutiques, department stores including Marshalls and Nordstrom and several shopping malls.

If you prefer the artisan touch, look no further than the Chirstkindlmarket that appears in front of Daley Plaza’s 50-foot tall steel Picasso sculpture towards the middle of the month. Its German-style wooden chalet-like stalls are awash with beautiful ornaments, jewelry and tasty treats.

Alternatively, you might want to try your hand at another winter staple – ice skating. The city’s largest outdoor rink is the McCormick Tribune Ice Rink that sits beneath the gaze of Anish Kapoor’s Bean, although the Maggie Daley Park Skating Ribbon provides an attraction that’s a little more unusual, with a track winding through the tree cover twice the length of a lap around the Bean’s rink.

Savor the views

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With such a long list of things to do in Chicago in November you shouldn’t forget to stop for a moment or two and take in the windy city in all its glory. One way to do this would be to give your feet a rest by opting for the Hop-On Hop-Off sightseeing bus instead. Taking in sights you might otherwise miss, it also connects up many of Chicago’s top attractions, including the Willis (Sears) Tower.

Entering the history books as the world’s tallest building from its topping out ceremony in 1974 until 1998, it continues to host the highest observation tower in the United States – the Skydeck. From its 103rd floor vantage, visitors are able to take in no less than four states whilst feeling the building move in the wind at almost 1400 feet up.

Giving the Willis Tower a good run for its money is 360 CHICAGO at 875 North Michigan Avenue. Although its views come from nine stories below the Skydeck, its wrap-around glass windows still have extraordinary panoramas over the city.

Get better acquainted with the city’s art

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Art lovers don’t need to look far in Chicago in November to get a fill of their passion. For one, the city has a huge array of public artworks. As well as the giant sculpture by Picasso in Daley Plaza and Anish Kapoor’s Bean, Chicago also has outdoor works by Joan Miro, Marc Chagall and Magdalena Abakanowicz.

The immense Merchandise Mart building comes to life with the world’s largest video installation, projected annually onto the side of the structure from September through November. There’s also an impressive array of murals covering the ends of buildings throughout the city. West Town Street has developed into a mile-long open-air gallery, with other works including the mural of local photographer Vivian Maier in Wicker Park and an unforgettably bright 100 foot image of American singer-songwriter Muddy Waters on North State Street.

The pick of the galleries includes the Art Institute of Chicago. One of the largest museums of its kind, the 300,000 objects in its permanent collection spans the genres, ranging from native American textiles to contemporary photography.

Making the most of Chicago in November

With so much to see and do in Chicago in November you won’t want to waste a second. Skip the lines and save big on admission to many of the city’s top attractions with Go City. Then the only thing left to do is have an incredible time in one of America’s greatest destinations!

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things to do in gold coast chicago
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Things to do in Gold Coast, Chicago

So, you've chosen your vacation destination. The Windy City. Chi-Town. The real-life Metropolis, minus the superheroes. Chicago is a fantastic getaway destination, full of great food, fun nights out, and plenty of top-level entertainment. But it's a big old town, with multiple districts and areas that crisscross throughout its gargantuan layout. With so many to choose from, which one is right for you? Well, don't let choice paralysis get the better of you! We've done all the research necessary, so you don't have to. Give Gold Coast a go. It's as simple as that. With a wealth of entertainment on offer, it's the perfect vacation spot. Here are our picks for the best things to do in Gold Coast, Chicago! Including: Oak Street Beach Playboy Mansion Broadway Playhouse Washington Square Park Drake Hotel Bar and more! Hit the Beach Why not ease into your trip with a spot of lounging? After all, you've got the rest of your vacation to go see the sights. Lucky for you, the Gold Coast lives up to its namesake. Head there, and you'll find Oak Street Beach. Of course, you'll find heaps of golden sand, clean sea, and (hopefully) glistening sun - that's what the beach is all about, after all. However, Oak Street Beach is also perfectly placed to visit at any time during the day, as it's just a stone's throw from the city itself. Take a dip in the ocean, go grab an ice cream for the kids - or yourself, who are you kidding - and then check out the nearby patio bar for a cool, refreshing drink. Easily one of the best things to do in the Gold Coast when you visit Chicago. Feel like a Playboy Yes, really. Though you probably know the Playboy Mansion as the once celebrity-laded party mansion near Beverly Hills, it wasn't always there. In fact, the original Playboy Mansion was bought right here on the Gold Coast back in the '50s. The rather less impressive original is well over 100 years old at this point, and has changed hands multiple times. First, Hefner donated it to the School of the Art Institute of Chicago when he moved into his legendary LA pad. Then, the institute sold it to a redevelopment firm, and it's now been converted into condos in a rather typical fashion. However, if you want to see a piece of 20th-century American history in the flesh, you owe it to yourself to go and bask in the extravagant opulence of the original Playboy Mansion. Just don't plan on buying one of the condos, unless you've got a few mill to spare. Broadway, baby! If the weather takes a turn, or you just want a couple of hours out of the sun, why not retreat to the bright lights and comfort of broadway? Yes, even in Chicago, you can get a taste of the New York performance mile thanks to Broadway Playhouse! A stone's throw from the coast, you'll find a host of great plays and musicals being shown throughout the year, from all-time classics to the new shows on the block. You might even stumble upon a one-man show, or local play before it gathers steam. Walk in the Park Are you a fan of the color green? Do you like walking? Is the prospect of breathing in fresh air, mingling with trees, shrubs, and grass appealing to you? Answer us these questions three, and we'll give you a place you want to be. At. A park, of course! Gold Coast has you covered in flowers and grass, thanks to Washington Square Park. Go there for the giant 19th-century fountain, stay for the delightful green spaces, picnic opportunities, or simply for a stroll. So, what are you waiting for? Get Risky When you're in Gold Coast, why not grab a drink at a Hollywood monument? Sort of, at least. Featured in the '80s Tom Cruise classic Risky Business, the Drake Hotel is one of Chicago's most recognizable landmarks! But we're not talking about the room service here. We're talking about the Hotel's bar, called the Coq d'Or. This lavish hotel lounge has been warming customers' cockles since the dark Prohibition days. Head inside and find a wealth of drinks, a menu to die for, and enough comfort you'll feel like a marshmallow. A pampered marshmallow. Best Pizza in town Wow, all that doing things, seeing things, and experiences must have made you hungry. Well, Chicago is famous for one thing in the food department, and that's deep dish. The Chicagoan take on the Italian classic is known worldwide for its deliciousness, thanks to its unusual sauce-over-cheese twist. So why not go get some and see if it lives up to its reputation? Lou Malnati's, right in Gold Coast, is arguably the best in town. The name is a staple of the Chicago style, having helped pioneer it in the early 20th century. So go grab a slice of delight and take your tastebuds to pizzatown. Or something. Go Shopping Let's end this list on a shopping, surely many of our readers' favorite pastimes. Thankfully, Gold Coast is full of shops of all shapes and sizes, so no matter what item you seek, you're sure to find it there. However, for those of you with expensive tastes, you'll be looking for The Magnificent Mile. Head there, and you'll find a shopper's paradise. Over 400 stores line the 'Mile', including the likes of Chanel, Louis Vitton, and Tiffany. So, if you're looking for some dear deals and have the cash to splash, you'll be right at home. On top of all that shopping, you'll also find a slew of gourmet restaurants, snug cafes, and much more. So, if that all sounds like heaven to you, go on down and see what's cracking! And that's our list of the best things to do in Gold Coast, Chicago! If you want to know about the other areas of Chicago, check out our thoughts here. Heading to Chicago at the tail end of winter? The beaches might be a no-go, but there's plenty more to do and see!
Dom Bewley
things to do in uptown chicago
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Things to do in Uptown, Chicago

Heading to Chicago for your vacation? Why not check out Uptown? There's heaps of entertainment on offer, so make sure you see as much as possible! Here's our guide to all the best bits. Including Eastern delights Sun, sea, and sand Street Art A boozy visit Starlit shows and more! Argyle Street Let's start things off with a shopping extravaganza. Uptown's got some fantastic spots, but we want to focus on one that's rather unique. Head to Argyle Street, and you'll feel like you've been transported to a completely different place. But why is that? Well, it's because countless Vietnamese, Thai, and Cambodian businesses call it home. Colloquially referred to as 'little Vietnam', this pedestrian-friendly area has tons to see and do. Take a stroll and find plenty of unique produce to whip up your own Asian masterpieces, or simply buy it from the experts at many of the food stalls and restaurants. Looking for some interesting pieces for your home, or accessories to adorn your body? There are a wide variety of clothing, plant, and knickknack joints that'll tickle your fancy and then some. The beach Sometimes, we all need a little sun, sand, and sea in our lives. Nothing quite lifts the spirits than a trip to the beach, especially when the sun is sizzling in all its glory. Well, Uptown's got you covered, thanks to Montrose Beach. It's Chicago's biggest beach at over 56,000ft squared, and you'll find plenty of food, drink, and fun within a stone's throw of your bathing spot. Hire some equipment and enjoy some watersports, relax under the sun (and plenty of sunblock), or go take your dog for a walk in the pup-friendly area. Easily one of the best things to do in Uptown if the weather's good. Street Art If you're the kind of person who has their head turned by street art, you're in luck. Chicago is brimming with murals and pieces all over the city. And yes, while some are admittedly better than others, you don't even need to go looking. Instead, head to the Clifton Avenue Street Art Gallery, where you'll find a curated mix of pieces from all over the world, including some from Chicago natives. Ideal for those of you looking to increase your follower account. We know that's important to some of you. Distill Chicago-style Do you like spirits? Not ghosts, the other kind. The kind you sip with class, or slam down with reckless abandon. Yes? Yes, of course you do. Well, have you ever wondered where those spirits come from? Sure you have. If you want to see the process in action, especially for local craft brewers, head to Koval Distillery in Uptown. See how this local husband-and-wide duo, who've been crafting their own take on spiritual classics for nearly 15 years. You'll see how they've upped their production to serve a long list of customers both in Chicago and further afield, and how they've grown to accommodate gin, whiskey, and other liqueurs. Go tour the premises, pick up some for yourself, or stick around for a cocktail class. Nights out with style If you're looking for a fun night out, Uptown has a lot on offer. There's tons of places to wet your whistle, but why not combine your night out with some great live music? Carol's Pub is half a century old, and still going strong. It's a no-nonsense place where you grab a beer and a bite, or sample the revamped cocktail menu. However, every weekend they have three days of live music, with bands playing on Friday and Saturday, and a karaoke night on Sunday to help you end the week on a high before the Monday blues creep in. Or, for a bit more of an upmarket vibe, check our Green Mill Cocktail Lounge. For over a century, it's been the city's go-to place for the Chicago jazz scene. Even infamous Chi-Town gangster Al Capone frequented it back in the dark Prohibition days. You can even grab his booth, if you're lucky. Inside, you'll sip fine cocktails and nod your head to a wide variety of live performers in the jazz community. They even host slam poetry nights, if that's your scene. Looking for more modern music? Check out Riviera Theatre, an old cinema that now showcases an eclectic mix of indie rock, rap, and DIY punk acts throughout the year. Plenty of up-and-coming Chicago acts take the stage every week, so if you're looking for your next favorite song, head down and see what's cracking. Whichever place you choose, your night out will be one of the best things to do in Uptown when you visit Chicago! Catch a show or two Looking for a spicier night out? Don't you worry, dear reader. We've got some spicy samples that are guaranteed to hit the spot. Having recently moved across town from River North, the Baton Show Lounge now calls Uptown home. This hyped spot has hosted some of the biggest drag acts around, including Ru Paul and Madonna, among a long list of luminaries. Every night, you'll find a different act taking to the stage, giving it their all, and getting the crowd involved. Or, for a more varied cast of acts, check out Kiss Kiss Cabaret. Every week, you'll find a great burlesque, vaudeville, or magic show unfurling before your very eyes. Grab a drink, take a seat, end drink it all in. Pay your respects And finally, let's end this list with one of Uptown's most beautiful places. Graceland Cemetery might sound slightly morbid, but it's anything but. For approaching 200 years, it's been the final resting place of many of Chicago's most notable residents through time. Take a stroll and see if you can find the tomb of William Hulbert, who helped create the baseball National League, or famed film critic Roger Ebert. Alongside this monument to Chicagoans, you'll find plenty of trees and green space where you can go and relax after a long day, or bring a picnic during your vacation. A must-visit, and easily one of the best things to do in Uptown when you visit Chicago. And that's our list of the best things to do in Uptown, Chicago!
Dom Bewley

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