Chicago Riverwalk Tour

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

By Katie Sagal

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

4th-july-celebration-fireworks-display

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

chicagoillinoisusadecember-29-2021-cityscape-aerial-view

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

sightseeing-cruise-chicago-river-illinois-usa

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

lincoln-park-chicago-zoo-flamingo

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

travel-summer-couple-on-bike-beach

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

chicago-skyline-view-north-avenue-beach

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)

paper-bags-chicago-text-shopping

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!

Continue reading

Things to do in Old Town Chicago
Blog

Things to do in Old Town Chicago

Ahoy there, sailor! Are you taking the old steamboat over to the growing Metropolis they call Chicago? I do declare, you may be delighted by the city's Old Town district. There's plenty to do and see there, partner. Want to know what? Well, we'll tell you right now. Here are some of the best things to do in Old Town, Chicago! Including: Stand up A little history The beach Immersive art The theater and more! Second City Let's kick things off with the best medicine. We're talking about laughter, of course! What if we told you that Old Town is where some of the best and brightest comics strutted their stuff before becoming famous? You might think that's nonsense. But believe us, it is not. Many of the comic greats you see on your screens today cut their teeth at Second City, America's premier improv club. Through the years, comedy legends such as Bill Murray, Alan Alda, John Belushi, and Mike Myers have called it home, and you'll always find hilarious hijinks going on there. So go check it out! Who knows, maybe you'll stumble upon the next big thing in comedy when you visit? If you like to laugh and you're visiting Chicago, Second City is easily one of the best things to do in Old Town! Chicago History Museum If you're visiting Chicago, you might not know much about the city or its history. Would you like to know more? Well, never fear, because the Chicago History Museum is here! Step inside, and discover the city's rich history from a number of exhibits. At the Crossroads of America exhibit, you'll get to relive the most significant events in the city's history, meet Chicago's most renowned leaders, and learn how culture shaped Chi-Town throughout the centuries. Step into Sensing Chicago, and appreciate the city with all five senses! Hop on a high-wheel bike, hear the roar of the Great Fire of Chicago, smell the unique scents of the Union Stock Yard, and catch a fly ball at Cominsky Park! Perfect for big and little kids alike. Enter the Abraham Lincoln exhibit and learn all about the life and struggles of one of the country's best presidents! See how his leadership shaped the Civil War, and the events that led up to his assassination. And finally, check out Facing Freedom in America, which charts the struggle of many people's efforts to achieve freedom in the country. These interactive displays will open your mind to the plights of many peoples, from suffrage to the civil rights movement. North Ave Beach Need to relax? Unwind? Lacking a little Vitamin D and want to get tanning? Then you'll want to hit the beach. Thankfully, Old Town has North Avenue Beach, which not only offers many opportunities for you to lounge or wade into the water, but also activities too! Head there in summer, and you'll find a slew of volleyball tournaments, bikes to rent, and opportunities to try out watersports like paddleboarding and kayaking. So, if you need a little sun, sea, and sand when you're in Chicago, go check it out! The Moody Church Whether you're religious or not, you may be partial to a grand spectacle. If the thought of grandiose architecture and awe-inspiring craftsmanship gets you giddy, go check out the Moody Church in Old Town. This grand place of worship was completed back in the 1920s, and stands as a testament to design. Go get your pray on, or simply attend to look around. You're sure to find someone on hand to talk you through the construction of the building, and the goings-on within over the years. Either way, it's a great stop on your travels through Chicago's Old Town! A Red Orchid Theatre Do you want to supplant your visit with dramatics? Go check out A Red Orchid Theatre. Widely considered to be one of the best theaters in the country, Red Orchid is comprised of multiple writers, actors, and directors, including Hollywood's Michael Shannon. Every year, their shows break new ground in the theater world, telling edgy, gut-wrenching stories that are performed with finesse. So, why not go check out one of their critically-acclaimed performances when you're in Old Town? Eat, of course! All that reading and planning your trip to Old Town has probably left you hungry. Let's fix that. Thankfully, Old Town has a whole host of delightful restaurants and cafes for you to visit! Want to start your morning just right? Try Kanela Breakfast Club, a Chicago eatery with spots all over the city. Omelets, eggs, grilled cheese, and much more await you on their diverse menu. If you want some delicious cocktails to wash down a hearty meal, head to Happy Camper. During the day, you'll pair authentic pizzas with a host of drinks. During the night, you'll get to enjoy one of the best bars in the city! Want to sample barbecue that delighted the late, great Frank Sinatra? Then stop by Twin Anchors, which has quality ribs on offer all year round. Are you feeling continental? Try La Fournette, a traditional French bakery right in the heart of Old Town. Alongside the usual suspects of baguettes, croissants, and sweet pastries, they also have salads, soups, and much more behind the counter. So, whatever you feel like eating, Old Town's got you covered! Get immersive with Van Gogh And finally, let's end this rowdy route through Old Town's best bits with something different. If you've dipped your toe into the world of art, you know about Vincent Van Gogh. The Dutch Post-Impressionist painter is one of the most critically-lauded artists in the world. His paintings sell for millions, and his best works hang in the most fabulous galleries on Earth. You might know of Van Gogh, but you've never seen his work like this. At the Immersive Van Gogh experience, you'll see his works come to life with animation. Walk through his most famous works, like Starry Night, Sunflowers, and The Potato Eaters. It's an illuminating experience, and with over 2 million visits to its original Paris installation, it's a easily one of the best things to do in Old Town when you visit Chicago! And that's our list of the best things to do in Old Town, Chicago! Enjoy your visit!
Dom Bewley
things
Blog

Things to do in Hyde Park, Chicago

In the market for some fun in Chicago? Then look no further than Hyde Park! This fantastic area of the city is full of things to do, so pick your poison and enjoy your visit! These are the best things to do in Hyde Park, Chicago! Including: Museum of Science and Industry Go to a park Smart Museum of Art The beach The theater and more! Museum of Science and Industry Kick your trip to Hyde Park, Chicago off with some sweet knowledge. Head over to the Museum of Science and Industry and learn all about science and industry! This 14-acre behemoth of learning is the largest science museum in the US, and lets visitors get to grips with a boat-load of exhibits. See the cutting-edge laser projection in the Giant Dome Theater. Enter the Numbers in Nature Mirror Maze and use the power of math to escape. Explore a German submarine from the Second World War. And even control a 40-foot indoor tornado. All through the power of science and learning. Perfect for big and little kids alike, the Museum of Science and Industry is sure to scratch that curiosity itch, and is easily one of the best things to do in Hyde Park when you visit Chicago! Frederick C. Robie House Created by world-renowned architect Frank Lloyd Wright as the future of horizontal design, Robie House is an artifact of its time. Built for the wealthy Robie family, they sadly had to leave the abode after just over a year due to familial gambling debts. However, their loss is your gain, as you can now explore this beautifully-designed building yourself! Take a tour of the landmark, and learn all about the building's history, and the inspiration for its design. Parks, parks, and more parks Since we're talking about Hyde Park, we'd be remiss not to mention some parks. There are plenty of places to stroll through nature or lay on some sweet green grass in the area. Midway Plaisance Park offers a mile of green goodness, and great views of the city too. Head there in the colder months, and you might even find a makeshift ice rink set up so you can carve some sick powder, or whatever you do at an ice rink. Since the park is supported by the neighboring University of Chicago, you can be sure that it's well taken care of. And, lucky you, you may even see the occasional hacky sack tournament or other studenty goings-on. Or, if you're looking for more activities, check our Jackson Park. There, you'll find a gym to pump some sweet iron, as well as tennis and basketball courts for all your ball-related needs. On top of all the action, you'll also discover hundreds of species of birds, trees, and perhaps even bees. Make sure to check out the Osaka Garden before you leave. It's the epitome of peaceful. And, finally, head to Burnham Park and go to Promontory Point. This lookout point is a great place to relax in the shadow of the city's beautiful skyline. Plus, they put on a number of events there, such as movies and performances. So go there, admire this beautiful place, and have some fun while you're at it! Smart Museum of Art Do you want to get smart? Of course you do! We have just the ticket - the Smart Museum of Art! Part of the University of Chicago's campus, you'll find a world of art from throughout time. A must-visit exhibit is the Asian Collection, which features paintings and sculptures from thousands of years of Asian history. Learn all about the techniques and materials artists used to create their masterpieces throughout millennia. Then, refuel at the Smart Cafe with some delicious bites and refreshing drinks on offer! Eat! All this walking around and looking at things can sure make you hungry. So, where better to squash that hunger than at one of the area's many amazing restaurants! There are plenty of cuisines to choose from, so no matter your taste, you'll find something to snack on! Feeling bougie? Head to Chez Moi and check out the French takes on delicious seafood dishes. Itching for some Italian? Check out Piccolo Mondo or Francesca's for some authentic dining. In the market for some fantastic pizza pie? Look no further than Giordano's. Some say it's the best deep dish in the city. Go to the theater Are you feeling fancy? Do you want a little culture in your life? Go visit Court Theater. Another part of the University of Chicago's campus, Court Theater features amateur and professional performances from a variety of groups. With around 20 performances going on every year, you're sure to find something mind-opening on show. Even the critics agree, with the WSJ voting it the most consistently excellent theater company in the country! Hit the beach Next up on the list, let's check out the golden sands of the beach. 57 Street Beach is just a stone's throw from the Museum of Science and Industry, and offers visitors sand, sun, and sea in equal measure. Take a towel and relax, dare to dip in the ocean, or simply stroll along the shore for the perfect relaxing end to your Hyde Park visit. Easily one of the best things to do in Chicago! The Oriental Institute of the University of Chicago And finally, we end our adventure back at the uni, baby, where you'll find The Oriental Institute. This museum slash learning center is focused on the history of the great ancient civilizations of the past, including Mesopotamia, Persia, and Egypt. Inside, you'll find over 300,000 artifacts, including scrolls, tablets, and other wonders excavated from the earth. While commonly used as a great place of study for students, there's nothing stopping curiously-minded people from wandering in and around the amazing artifacts on show. You can even pick up a keepsake from the institute's shop, if you want to show your support, and show off your trip to your colleagues. And that's our list of the best things to do in Hyde Park when you visit Chicago! In the market for more city fun? Check out Chinatown, or see what's going on at Lincoln Park!
Dom Bewley
lincoln park chicago
Blog

Things to do in Lincoln Park Chicago

Dear reader! Do you like presidents? Do you like parks? Do you like doing fun things in a specific location? Well, you're in luck! Because Lincoln Park might just be the perfect place for you! There's so much to do in the area, you may never want to leave. So, whether you're a Chi-Town resident, or visiting from further afield, you might be wondering why you should visit Lincoln Park? We hear you, we see you, and we've got you covered. Read on, and discover our guide for all the things you can do in Lincoln Park, Chicago! Featuring: A trip to the zoo Tasty bites Get horticultural Go for a ride Feel historical and more! Lincoln Park Zoo Let's kick off this Lincoln Park funfest with a bit of animal action. Head to Lincoln Park Zoo if you want to hang out with sea lions, primates, and big cats too. They have a bunch of specific areas for you to explore, each with their own theme and group of animals to see. And, if that wasn't enough, there's also a host of rides and activities you can enjoy after you're all animal'd out. Join the Lionel Train Adventure to see more of the surrounding woodland, and join a cruise of the South Lake Lagoon and enjoy the ride! Perfect for big and little kids alike. Get some delicious food No matter what you're in the mood for, Lincoln Park's got your hunger under control. Grab some authentic Greek at AVLI Taverna, get classy with Alinea's tasting menu, or get some good old-fashioned deep dish pizza at Pequod's. In the market for some tasty beer to wash it all down? Head to Goose Island's Brew House. This world-renowned craft beer is Chicago born and bred, beginning back in 1988 at this very place. Lincoln Park Conservatory Want a little nature in your life? Take a walk to the Lincoln Park Conservatory. Not only will you find exotic species of flora from across the globe, but every plant and tree grown in the park starts here. Be sure to visit the four display houses, each showcasing different breeds of beautiful flowers and greenery. So, if you're visiting Chicago, it's definitely one of the best things to do in Lincoln Park! Bike ride Need to get the blood pumping? Why not ride your bike around Lincoln Park? If you don't have yours with you, rent one! It's a great way to get about and explore every nook and cranny of this massive green space. Better yet, bring some picnic supplies with you, find the perfect spot and set up your own snack bar. Nothing quite beats lounging on the grass and enjoying a delicious snack! Second City Hilarity Need a bit of a pick-me-up? Well, they say laughter is the best medicine. Put that theory to the test at Second City. The home of sketch and improv comedy, every night, you'll discover a hilarious act or two performing on stage. But don't take our word for it. Comedy greats like Bill Murray, Tina Fey, and Steve Carrell cut their teeth on Second City's stage. Why not discover comedy's next big thing today? Chicago History Museum Want to learn a little more about Chicago's history? You'll want to stop by the Chicago History Museum! Learn how the city grew from a humble town to the metropolis it is today. Discover the events that shaped it, like the Great Fire of 1871. And find out more about our favorite president, and the namesake of the very park, Abraham Lincoln. Nourish that withered pea you call a brain with some succulent knowledge and information. Hit the beach If the weather is fine and the clouds are away, why not go to the beach, even just for a day? Just a stone's throw from Lincoln Park is North Avenue Beach, one of the city's most popular spots come summertime. Find a stretch of sand, lay down a towel, and get your tan on. Or, go take a dip in the ocean. Just remember to pack some sunblock. Chicago already has enough lobster. Go see Lincoln And why you're there, why not go and see the man himself? Head to the Lincoln Monument and go tip your hat to one of the greats. There, you'll find the Standing Lincoln sculpture, a beautiful crafting of Abraham Lincoln, standing before his presidential chair. Standing at a whopping 12ft tall, and designed by Irish sculptor Saint-Gaudens, it's a must-visit in Lincoln Park. Connected to the statue are delightful gardens, so feel free to walk around and take it all in. Stroll through Oz Park No, you're not in Kansas anymore. Or, maybe you never were. Anyway, if you're a fan of the weird and wonderful Wizard of Oz, you owe it to yourself to take a stroll through Oz Park. As you may have guessed, it's themed around the book and film of the same name. You'll see statues of all the main cast, including Dorothy, Tin Man, Scarecrow, and the Cowardly Lion. There's plenty for kids to do too, including day camps, tennis and basketball courts, and a big garden called Dorothy's Playground. Green City Market And finally, let's end this list of things to do in Lincoln Park, Chicago with some food. Glorious food. Do you like your food fresh and your produce local? Then go check out Green City Market! It's a market dedicated to sustainable farming, and ensures all food is sourced from environmentally-conscious farmers. Visitors will be welcomed by a host of stalls selling everything from fruit and vegetables, to premade meals you can tuck into in the park. There's also a big focus on education, so you can learn about sustainable farming and where to buy groceries. And that's our list of the best things to do in Lincoln Park, Chicago! Are you visiting Chicago from out of state, or across the pond? You might want to read our guide to getting around the city. Coming by yourself? We've got you covered. And if you're thinking about heading to Chinatown, you absolutely should! Here's everything you need to know for your visit.
Dom Bewley

Have a 5% discount, on us!

Sign up to our newsletter and receive exclusive discounts, trip inspiration and attraction updates straight to your inbox.

  • Thick check Icon