Chicago Memorial Day Weekend - 10+ Fun Things to Do in May

UPDATED AUGUST 2024
By Katie Sagal
Chicago Riverwalk Tour

Memorial Day weekend marks the unofficial start of summer for many - so why not take advantage of the celebratory weekend and head to Chicago? Make the most of your long weekend in Chicago and explore the marvels of one of America's greatest cities where there's plenty to see and do in May. If you’re looking for Chicago Memorial Day Weekend ideas, check out some of these local activities, events and fun things do in Chicago including...

  • Navy Pier Fireworks
  • Hop aboard a Lake Cruise
  • Bike a car-free Lakeshore Drive
  • Enjoy one of the many street festivals
  • and more...

Save on Attraction Admission

Regular admission to a number of these attractions are included on the Go Chicago pass. Choose as you go from dozens of Chicago attractions and activities and save up to 55% off combined admission vs paying at the gate. See all available passes and Chicago attractions – learn more. Please note, some of these special May and Memorial Day weekend events may be separately ticketed and not included on the Go Chicago pass.

Navy Pier Fireworks and Fun

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Head over to the kid-favorite Navy Pier and spend the day riding the world famous Ferris wheel, walking the promenades, marveling at gardens and attractions, and popping into the many shops and eateries.

Memorial Day Weekend marks the start of the pier's summer fireworks schedule, so be sure to stick around in the evening for the show!

Plus, there are plenty of other things you can enjoy in the area, from world-class theater at the Chicago Shakespeare Theater, to the delightful fun at the Chicago Children's Museum.

Getting In: Navy Pier Centennial Wheel tickets and Chicago Children's Museum tickets are included with the Go Chicago pass.

See the City From Above

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If you want to explore the city without the time commitment of an actual tour, try an aerial view. Head to to observation deck at the top of the John Hancock Building, 360 CHICAGO.

There, you'll get amazing, unbeatable views of the city below, stretching from the shores of Lake Michigan out into the urban expanses of the city itself.

As the name implies, you'll get panoramic views that stretch for miles on a clear day, so don't forget that camera!

It's also conveniently located on the Mag Mile, so it's super easy to build in a quick visit here as part of a larger itinerary.

Getting In: 360 CHICAGO tickets are included with the Go Chicago pass.

Hop Aboard a Cruise

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For more fun things to do on Memorial Day weekend, consider taking the popular Classic Lake Tour. You and your family will embark on a 45 minute maritime excursion out onto Lake Michigan as you marvel at the breathtaking Chicago skyline and landmarks.

Other popular cruises include the historic Tall Ship Windy vessel, and the unbeatable Architecture River Cruise. The latter is especially important in a place like Chicago, where architectural styles and influences play such an important role in the history and character of the city.

Getting In: Classic Lake Tour tickets, Tall Ship Windy tickets, and Architecture River Cruise tickets are included with the Go Chicago pass.

Connect with Nature

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For some extra excitement, head over to the Lincoln Park Zoo to marvel at some exotic creatures and ride the animal-inspired thrill rides!

Our favorite ride is the lovely animal carousel. Lincoln Park is also just a beautiful space in which to appreciate the bounties of nature, nestled in an urban setting.

If you like parks but don't want to make the trek up to Lincoln Park from a hotel in the Loop, visit the expansive Millennium Park and the beautiful Lurie Gardens.

Or, if the animal encounters are what you love the best (and you feel up for a bit of a drive), head down to the Brookfield Zoo!

Getting In: Brookfield Zoo tickets and Lincoln Park Zoo Rides tickets are included with the Go Chicago pass.

Bike the Drive

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This Memorial Day Weekend, take advantage of a rare chance to bike on a completely car-free Lakeshore Drive.

Or, pedal where you please throughout the extensive system of Lakefront trails, including into the marvelous open park spaces.

There are of course also other bike paths throughout the city, and Millennium Park in particular is a popular expanse around which to bike.

Didn't bring a bike with you? It's super easy to rent one! As a bonus, your rental comes with a bike map to help your plan your route if you're unfamiliar with the city.

Getting In: Chicago Bike rental by Bike and Roll are included with the Go Chicago pass.

Chicago Memorial Day Parade

By Photo by U.S. Army Public Affairs - Midwest / soldiersmediacenter (Memorial Day Observance in Chicago) [CC BY 2.0], via Wikimedia Commons

Visited annually by about 10,000 Chicagoans, the parade begins promptly at noon and commemorates veterans and active duty personnel.

It starts at the intersection of State and Lake Street and continues down State Street to Van Buren. It begins with a wreath-laying ceremony, if you want to make sure you get a spot at the beginning.

Getting In: The Chicago Memorial Day Parade is free and open to the public.

Hit Up the Beach

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Although "beach town" isn't the first label one puts to Chicago, there certainly are some wonderful beaches that dot the shores of Lake Michigan.

Memorial Day Weekend marks the official opening of the beaches in Chicago, so grab a towel and head out there!

Keep in mind that the water will still be chilly, though, so maybe just concentrate on hoping for a nice day with good bright sun (you might want to bring a frisbee).

Getting In: It's free to stroll and swim at Chicago beaches.

Visit a Conservatory

Enjoy some nature in an urban setting. Two of Chicago's most popular conservatories are the Garfield Park Conservatory and The Lincoln Park Conservatory. You can even "visit" tropical climates within different areas of the conservatories. This is the perfect way to step away from the crowds and take in some natural beauty. Getting In: the Garfield Park Conservatory and the Lincoln Park Conservatory are both free and open to the public.

Belmont-Sheffield Music Festival

Kicking off Chicago’s outdoor street fest, this music festival is located just steps from the Belmont Red Line ‘El’ stop.

The lineup gets better every year, featuring delightful cover bands and unique local music.

No tickets are required, but donations are strongly encouraged to benefit the Central Lakeview Merchants Association.

There are actually a bevy of festivals to choose from on Memorial Day Weekend in Chicago, from Irish-themed events to EDM concerts. Check out the events calendars for more ideas and ticketing info.

Getting In: The Belmont-Sheffield Music Festival is separately ticketed and is not included with the Go Chicago pass.

Shopping (& Window Shopping)

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Of course, Memorial Day Weekend wouldn't be the same without a bit of shopping.

It's often a time of year with the best sales and deals, and its a good chance to scope out stores you wouldn't normally spend time in.

Be sure to stroll down the Magnificent Mile for some exciting shopping opportunities that range from fast fashion to haute couture, or pop into Water Tower Place Mall for some more fun choices, including a LEGO® store!

Remember to Save on Attraction Admission

There you go - plenty of fun ideas for things to do in Chicago in May to help you plan your Memorial Day weekend itinerary. Remember, many of these great ideas are included on the Go Chicago pass, where you can save up to 55% on combined admission vs paying at the gate. We really hope you consider adding a few of these popular options to your upcoming plans. Enjoy!

Katie Sagal
Go City Travel Expert

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things to do in the loop chicago
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Things to do in The Loop, Chicago

You there! Are you visiting Chicago at some point in the future? Are you wondering which districts to check out during your visit? Do you like loops? Well, The Loop might just be the perfect place for you to visit during your vacation. Here are some of the best things to do while you're there! Including: Grant Park Shedd Aquarium Eat Drink Shopping and more! Grant Park Let's begin, then, with one of the city's most significant green zones; the one and only Grant Park! Named after the late, great Ulysses S. Grant, this behemoth of a park measures over 300 acres. Step inside, and you'll find a world of entertainment. Perhaps the park's biggest draw is Millennium Park, where you'll find Cloud Gate. Referred to locally as The Bean, this massive, chrome, reflective sculpture by artist Anish Kapoor is one of the most recognizable landmarks in Chicago, and has featured in many films and TV shows. But alongside The Bean, you'll find Buckingham Fountain, Maggie Daley Park, Art Institute of Chicago, The Court of the Presidents, and much more at Grant Park! The Field Museum Want to discover over 4 billion years of history in one place? Then you should check out the Field Museum! There, you'll meet Maximo, the largest recorded dinosaur ever found on Earth. Weighing in at over 70 tons, they were quite the beast! You can also experience what it's like to be a tiny bug at the Underground Adventure exhibit, observe scientists extract DNA in real-time at the DNA Discovery Center, and also watch fossils being prepared at the Griffin Halls of Evolving Planet. All that and much more await you at the Field Museum. So, what are you waiting for? The Art Institute of Chicago Let's get cultural for a second, and talk about some art. In The Loop, you'll find the Art Institute of Chicago, one of the best-known art museums on Earth! Inside, you'll find hundreds of pieces from all across the globe, from older, more traditional masterpieces to modern marvels. With fixed collections as well as a rotation of amazing seasonal experiences, there's sure to be something inspiring at the Art Institute of Chicago! Skyline Lake Tour Want to see the city from a different perspective? Check out a Skyline Lake Tour. Take to the seven seas, or just the one in this case, and enjoy amazing views of Chicago's heavenly skyline as you spot some of the city's biggest and best landmarks. Beginning at Navy Pier, your trip will take you past the likes of the Adler Planetarium, Field Museum, and beautiful Grant Park. And, with a learned robot, or prerecording, narrating the significance of each spot, you'll learn all about modern Chicago. American Writers Museum Words. Powerful, plentiful, and often misused, words are the backbone of our civilization. Want to discover how Americans have used words over the centuries? Then head to the American Writers Museum in The Loop. Novels, speeches, poetry, and more are all housed within. See how historical events changed the approach of American authors, whether through war, financial collapse, or in response to cultural shifts. Learn how speechwriters changed the course of history. And discover how American poets touched the hearts and minds of millions. With a huge variety of words in all their forms on display, you're sure to find something mind-opening at the American Writers Museum. Shedd Aquarium Next, let's take a trip under the very oceans themselves. At Shedd Aquarium, you'll find a whole new world of wonder in the heart of The Loop. See exotic species of marine life from all corners of the world, from sharks to stingrays, and plenty more too! There are a wealth of exhibits to explore within, including a 360-degree tour at the Caribbean Reef, a look at South American fish species that occupy the Amazon at Amazon Rising, and a look at how a local community saved their coral reef from being wiped out at Wild Reef. All that and more ocean fun awaits you. So go get your snorkel and suit up! Eat! After all the activity, you might be feeling peckish. Never fear; we've got your hunger covered. The Loop has plenty of places to eat a wide variety of cuisine. Can't decide which to pick? Head to Revival Food Hall, which houses a large number of food vendors under one roof. Whether you're in the market for pizza, seafood, or Italian, you're sure to find something to turn your head there! Want a little fusion in your life? Head to Saucy Porka, which mixes Asian delights with Latin deliciousness. Wonder what a bao bun would be like if it was filled with some fried meat and beans? Look no further. Or, if you just want a snack to refuel you during the day, stop by Gayle's Best Ever Grilled Cheese. Sure, it's simply a collection of grilled cheese sandwiches. But grilled cheese is good. And these are some of the best you'll ever taste. Drink! Need a little refreshment in The Loop, or looking for a quality night out? You're in luck, because there are some great spots in the area you should check out. Monk's Pub combines a medieval exterior and modernized interior, replete with a load of beers on tap and bites to sample. Want a little blues with your booze? Head to Buddy Guy's Legends, which combines foot-tapping tunes with a delightful selection of drinks. Or, if you're feeling super fancy and the weather is fine, check out a rooftop bar like Raised or Boleo. Whichever you pick, you'll find top cocktails, good vibes, and great views of the beautiful Chicago skyline. Shop! And finally, let's end our list on a little shopping spree. The Loop has a load of great boutiques where you can pick up some slick accessories, threads, and everything in between. Of course, there's Macy's, where you'll find a world of shopping bliss and pretty much whatever you need. But there are also specialized shops like Optimo Hats for all your headwear needs, Madison Hall for your continental clothing supplies, and Graham Crackers Comics if you're looking for some special editions. And that's our list of the best things to in The Loop when visiting Chicago. Enjoy!
Dom Bewley
chicago in march
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Chicago in March

The long winter may be coming to an end, but there's still a chill in the windy city. March in Chicago can be cold, but boy, can it be fun. Don't believe us? How dare you. We will not stand by this insolence. Let us show you why you are wrong. Read on, and discover just why Chicago in March can be a magical time to visit the city! Featuring: St Patrick's Day Museums The aquarium Ice skating Art galleries and more! Chicago in March: What to Expect May is when temperatures will start to climb. Generally, you'll find tops of around 45°F, or 7°C, and dips of around 28°F, or -2°C. So, it's going to be cold. Pack some big warm coats, hats, and boots. This is compounded by rainfall and some snow too. So, maybe make sure that warm jacket is waterproof too! Chicago in March: What to Do St Patrick's Day Let's kick things off with the luck of the Irish. Of course, we're talking about St Patrick's Day! One of the many times when people get together, eat, drink, and be merry. While it falls on the 17th of the month, Chicago dedicates around a fortnight to the St Paddy's celebrations. It starts with the Chicago River turning green, because of course it does. And, between the bars and restaurants flying the green flag, the festivities culminate with the Downtown St Patrick's Day Parade and the South Side Parade, where everyone shares the love and the laughs. St Paddy's is a busy time of year in Chicago, so expect crowds all over the shop. However, if you can get past all that, you're in for a grand old time! Museums As the weather can be unkind this time of year, why not step inside and warm yourself with the fire of history and learning? Chicago has plenty of fantastic museums you should visit. The Field Museum has the world's most famous Tyrannosaurus Rex housed within. Dare you face the beast? It also contains plenty of historical artifacts from Ancient Egypt and China, so go see what all the fuss is about! Or, swap history for science at the Museum of Science and Industry. It's the US' largest science museum, and you'll find a huge amount of fun and intrigue inside. Control a tornado, see your heartbeat on a giant 3D-modeled heart, and explore the history of scientific breakthroughs and discoveries. If, however, you want to learn more about the city itself, head on over to the Chicago History Museum! Learn about Chicago's history on the national and international stage, read about the Great Fire that tore through the city in the 19th century, and all about one of the country's best presidents, Abraham Lincoln. All that and much more awaits you, so go there and enjoy the learning. Shedd Aquarium Another indoor adventure worth experiencing is at the Shedd Aquarium. Through its doors, you'll find another world of underwater wonder. Come face to face with exciting creatures like sharks, stingrays, and fish you've never seen before. At the Waters of the World exhibition, you'll discover the diverse ecosystems that call the ocean home throughout the world. Plunge into the Caribbean Reef, and meet the sea turtles, sharks, and eels that call it home. In Amazon Rising, you'll learn about the species that live in the river, and how seasonal climate shifts affect their lives. And, for the little ones, the Polar Play Zone lets kids live out their polar fantasies by zipping up a penguin suit and living a day in the life of their favorite birds! Ice skating As winter makes way for spring, the city's waters inevitably begin to thaw. However, if temperatures don't pick up too much, it's the perfect time to check out Chicago's excellent ice skating! Makeshift rinks pop up all over the city, so take your pick. There's the Maggie Daley Park skating ribbon, a huge ribbon-shaped course that gives you plenty of space to stretch your skates, pirouette, or frantically try and stay upright as your weak legs struggle to find balance. Alternatively, the McCormick Tribune Ice Rink is a more popular choice, as it's closer to the city's action. It's right by Cloud Gate, locally known as The Bean. If you don't know it by name, you've probably seen it. It's a giant, metallic, bean-shaped sculpture that's been featured in many films and TV shows. Why not capture the perfect snap of The Bean, as you fall down right in front of it? It is worth noting that you should check ahead before you visit any outdoor icerink in Chicago, as warmer temperatures may shut them down early. See some art If skating sounds too cold, or bold, for you, retreat to the warmth and safety inside, and get some culture in you. Chicago is a city full of art, so go see it. At the Art Institute of Chicago, you'll find one of the world's most renowned museums. Featuring inspiring works from the past and present, you're sure to find something amazing inside. While they have a number of mainstay exhibitions, they also have a seasonal rotation of awe-inspiring exhibits, so be sure to check what's on before venturing forth. Alternatively, check out the Museum of Contemporary Art. Out with the old and in with the new is the mantra here. See works from the 20th century all the way to today, with over 2,500 pieces on display. Much like many modern art institutions, you'll find a mix of media here, from film to canvas and sculpture too. And, this museum also doubles as a performing arts venue, with a massive amphitheater featuring acts from across the globe! When you've had enough art for one day, or you want to give your legs a rest, go grab a bite to eat at the museum's onsite restaurant, Marisol. Check out the Planetarium And finally, for the scientifically-minded and cosmos-curious, we end today's list with the perfect answer to Chicago's cold March. The Adler Planetarium helps visitors travel time and space itself, as they learn about the big black we see in the night sky. Through interactive exhibits, you'll explore the greatest hits of our galaxy, all 91 billion light-years of it, and get hands-on with replica space technology used today. Chicago's Night Sky is a massive exhibit that showcases how we as humans have related to the night sky throughout history. The Universe: A Walk Through Space and Time gives you insight into the beginning of everything, and how galaxies have changed throughout the history of the universe. And for the little ones, there's Planet Explorers, which gives them the chance to understand space in fun and unique ways. And that's what you need to know about Chicago in March!
Dom Bewley
Skyline Chicago
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A week in Chicago for first timers

It’s an expansive urban setting, with many diverse neighborhoods that all have unique offerings in the way of sightseeing and attractions. While it’s simply not possible to visit each and every neighborhood, we’ve put together a list of the major areas of Chicago that you shouldn’t miss on your trip.
Katie Sagal

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