Things to do in Lakeview, Chicago

By Dom Bewley

Heading to Chicago for your vacation, or are you a Chi-Town dweller who wants to know what's good? Check our Lakeview. There's so much going on, you're bound to find something fun! These are our recommendations for the best things to do in Lakeview, Chicago!

Including:

  • Live music
  • Lake life
  • Bowling
  • See a film
  • Get golfing
  • and more!
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Rock out

If you're the kind of person who loves the twang of live guitars, the thunderous bass of a drum kit, and raising your swaying lighter in the air, you'll be looking for some live music. Thankfully, Lakeview, Chicago has a whole host of performance venues where you can go get your groove on.

The Vic has been a mainstay in the live music scene for over a century. Some of the biggest music acts on the planet have played there over the years. The Red Hot Chilli Peppers and Beastie boys did a joint gig in '87, Soundgarden took the stage in 2010, and Ariana Grande performed there back in 2018. They even host comedy gigs, such as Bill Hicks' famous One Night Stand special. On top of all that, The Vic has their own cinema events called 'Brew and View', where you can grab a drink and relax while watching some great movies.

Or, if you want to see up-and-coming bands, try Metro or Underground Lounge. Who knows, you might be the first to see the next big thing. You can tell your grandkids all about it, and they won't care one bit.

Wherever you go, seeing some live music is easily one of the best things to do in Lakeview, Chicago!

Go view a lake

It would be a travesty to visit a place called lake view and not see any water. Thankfully, visit the beautiful Belmont Harbor to do just that. Over 800 boats of all shapes and sizes call it home, and there aren't many better places in the city to go and ponder the meaning of life, just like one of those terrible made for TV movies. Stare off into the distance as ship captains sound their foghorns. Wonder what it's really all about. The most daring of you may even ask if you can come aboard and escape all your problems. Out on the open ocean, running from your inner demons. Months at sea, wondering if you can trust the crew. Why do your socks keep going missing, and who's eating all the apples? No. It's not worth it. Just stand at Belmont Harbor and admire the beautiful views of the Chicago skyline.

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Keep bowling, bowling, bowling

Like the feel of a heavy ball in your hand, the plonk of pins, and the cries of 'strike!'? Well, I suspect you'll be one of them bowling people. Lakeview's got you covered with Southport Lanes. In a digital world of automation, microchips, and evil robots, why not go analog? Southport Lanes is one of the last alleys where the pins are manually reset - by people. Yep, they do old-school here. So go check it out, throw a few terrible misses, maybe a strike or two if you're lucky, and then wash down all the sadness with some beers at the on-site brewery.

See a flick

Want to laugh, cry, cheer, and cower in terror in front of some celluloid? Lakeview has some great cinemas you have to check out!

Landmark Century Centre Cinema is more of your typical theater affair, with big screens, big sounds, and the biggest films playing all year round.

If you're looking for lesser-known, unusual movies, then hit up the Music Box Theatre. Luck out, and you might visit Lakeview when one of the theater's many festivals is taking place.

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Get theatrical

Or, if you prefer treading the boards to treating yourself to popcorn, head to Lakeview's Theater District. There are tons of venues like the Anthenaeum and Mercury Theatres, which have a number of shows on throughout the year. So, if you want to unleash the inner thespian inside of you, head down there and check out what's on!

Grab a bite

You were waiting for this one, weren't you? You'll be delighted to discover that, yes, Lakeview has a whole host of eateries of all shapes and sizes. For your midday snacks, look no further than Uncommon Ground or The Chicago Diner. Both offer a host of American diner treats, and since they open at 11am, you can get it while the getting's good. The early bird catches the syrup-covered bird!

Or, if you're looking for some fine evening dining, check out Lowcountry for all your seafood needs, and Ella Elli for your Mediterranean cravings. With plenty of wine, cocktails, or beer to wash down all this delicious food, you'll have a grand old time!

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Grab a drink

Speaking of wine, cocktails, and beer, what if you're only in the market for a beer? Tuck those fears away, in the safe space no one can reach, because Lakeview's full of bright bars, cozy pubs, and everything in between.

If you're looking to supplement your session with some free popcorn and a boogie around the jukebox, try Jake's Pub, a no-frills, classic pub experience that's been open since the '30s.

Want a sports bar with some delicious cajun chicken, cocktails, and craft beer? Hit up nola.

Want to get fancy? Try the craft cocktails and upmarket vibes at Elixir Lounge. With so many options, grabbing a drink or two is one of the best things to do in Lakeview, Chicago!

Birdy or bogey?

And finally, we're putting distance from the end of our list. Why don't we end on the green with a round of golf or three? Whether you're looking for proper, seasoned swings or a bit of fun, Lakeview's got you covered and then some.

Hop onto the Sydney R Marovitz Golf Course to knock some balls about on a professional course by the shore of Lake Michigan. They even offer classes if you want to improve your swing, or have no idea how to play golf at all.

Or, if you just want a little fun with your putting, check out Diversey Range. They offer a cozy mini golf course for you and your friends or family to enjoy.

And that's our list of the best things to do in Lakeview, Chicago!

Dom Bewley
Go City Travel Expert

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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
A traditional Chinese lion dance
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Visiting Chicago in February

Sun worshippers look away now. February in Chicago lies in the depths of the Illinois winter. But beyond the building snow and icy temperatures you’ll find Chicago in February remains a top pick for a vacation. How can this be? To begin with, the windy city has plenty of indoor attractions to keep you entertained. However, there’s lots to lure you outside too, from public ice skating rinks to Chinese New Year and Valentine’s Day celebrations. We start though with the all-important weather, so you know exactly what to expect. Chicago weather in February Those movie and TV scenes of people wrapped up like the Michelin man in the Chicago winter are no exaggeration. You’ll want to pack your winterproof clothing, and shouldn’t leave home without a pair of gloves, scarf and wooly hat either. Daytime temperatures average a frosty 34°F and can drop as low as 17°F overnight. At the same time, there’s only around 1.5 inches of rain, spread across seven non-consecutive days. Roughly half the month sees clear skies and sun, making it feel much warmer than the temperature would otherwise suggest. Get all loved up If there’s one day in the calendar sure to raise the temperature it’s Valentine’s Day. Home of the 1929 Saint Valentine’s Day Massacre ordered by Al Capone – the site on North Clark Street is now the parking lot for a nursing home – takes nothing from the annual indulgence of heart-shaped chocolate boxes or the dozens upon dozens of red roses which must be purchased. Reservations at the city’s best restaurants get booked up quickly, so if it’s a candle-lit dinner you’re after make sure to stay ahead of the curve and call in your own booking ahead of time. The same rule applies for anyone who fancies treating their better half to a night at the Chicago Theater. A behind-the-scenes Marquee Tour at the same venue will come a close second, especially during February’s Theater Week. Elsewhere, there’s the chance to snuggle up in one of the glass-bottomed gondolas of the Centennial Wheel, one of several rides at Navy Pier now running throughout February. It’s even possible to make it extra special by reserving one of the VIP gondolas for you and up to three others. Embrace the cold for these epic attractions Long after the outdoor rinks in most other cities have melted away for the year, Chicagoans are still able to enjoy the sensation of gliding across the ice (and the glee of watching others fall over) right through February. Millennium Park’s McCormick Tribune Ice Rink has the finer location, right in front of Cloud Gate, the gleaming ‘bean’ sculpture which rapidly became a symbol of the city after its installation in 2006. But Maggie Daley Park’s Skating Ribbon offers the more unusual experience as it winds through the green space. Whilst many of the parks in Chicago in February are looking a little sorry for themselves, this isn’t the case with Garfield Park Conservatory west of downtown. Having one of the USA’s greatest areas under glass, there’s no shortage of color or tropical warmth amongst the plants of the so-called new conservatory – completed in 1907 – including those of the Palm Room and Fern Room. For sumptuous food without a booking head to Chinatown, which comes alive with the sound of drumming and sight of traditional lion dances during the annual Chinese New Year parade. Indoor attractions you won’t want to miss Visiting Chicago in February doesn’t have to be about wooly hats and insulated jackets though, and you could easily pass several days wandering through the vast collections of the city’s world-class museums. For insight into how the city developed, including after the horror of the Great Fire of 1871, there’s nowhere better to head than Chicago History Museum. Its vast collections include objects from the first street car of Chicago’s L system, to Abraham Lincoln’s deathbed and the table at which the American Civil War was ended. It occupies a fine example of the Federal style of architecture which flourished in the early United States and is one of several styles that can be found in the city. No wonder then that Chicago was chosen as the home of Frank Lloyd Wright, one of the twentieth century’s most important building designers. His home and studio of ten years has been restored to echo how it would have looked in 1909, complete with Egyptian motif children’s playroom and open-plan studio where the great man brought to life 125 much-celebrated structures. These include Chicago’s Robie House, one of just a handful open to the public anywhere in the world. Cheer on a local team Rich in sporting heritage, Chicago is also a great destination for sports fans. Mid-February sees the city host basketball’s NBA All-Stars event, bringing some of the best players of the moment to venues across Chicago including Navy Pier. Meanwhile the United Center Arena – shared with the Chicago Bulls – is home to the Blackhawks, one of the six original National Hockey League teams. The atmosphere that develops inside during a match is something no behold, with games taking place throughout February. You might also like to pay a visit to Chicago’s 23,000 foot Sports Museum. Located inside the Magnificent Mile’s Water Tower Place mall, it not only includes artifacts relating to the city’s sporting history but several interactive skill challenges too. Getting the best out of Chicago in February Whether it’s participating in the city’s sporting life, admiring its art or simply spending some time with a loved one, there are so many things to do in Chicago in February you won’t know where to begin! We’d suggest your first port of call is Go City. Travel with us to Chicago in February and you can explore the very best the city has to offer without breaking the bank. Our passes provide incredible savings on admission to many of Chicago’s top attractions so that the only thing you have to worry about is cramming it all in!
Ian Packham
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Best Chicago School Field Trip Attractions

It's hard to go wrong with a Chicago school field trip! The number of world-class educational attractions in Chicago is unbelievable—and all of them are every bit as entertaining as they are enlightening. From an excellent aquarium and a popular zoo to the broad selection of prestigious museums that can be found throughout the city, Chicago boasts plenty of top field trip destinations. If you're looking for ideas for your class trip, check out our favorites, including... The Field Museum Shedd Aquarium Adler Planetarium The Art Institute of Chicago Museum of Science & Industry Save on Chicago Field Trip Attraction If you're a parent or teacher planning a field trip for your students, then you'll want to consider ways to stay within budget. That's where the Go Chicago Card comes in! It can help you save up to 55% on combined admission prices vs. paying at the gate. See all available attractions, passes, and prices -- learn more. Remember to Save on Chicago Field Trip Ideas So while these are just a few of our top ideas for field trips in Chicago, we hope that they provide a good starting point for your planning. For school groups on a budget, don't forget to check out the Go Chicago Card, which can help save you up to 55% on your favorite field trip ideas. We also offer large group discounts, so be sure to call and inquire how you can save even more for your school!
Katie Sagal

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