Things to do in Pilsen, Chicago

By Dom Bewley
Published: July 18, 2024
pilsen chicago

Do you like your neighborhoods to have the perfect mix of cool, community, and culture? Then give Pilsen a go! This district of Chicago has some great and unique entertainment opportunities for travelers and locals alike. So, if you're visiting Chi-Town on vacation, these are the best things to do in Pilsen!

Including

  • Live music
  • BBQ with a glamorous twist
  • Some culture
  • Parks
  • Street art
  • and more!
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Get live

We begin today with music. Live music, to be exact! Nothing quite beats seeing a band jam in the flesh, and lucky for you, Pilsen has a few awesome venues to check out.

One of Pilsen's oldest landmarks is Thalia Hall, which is over 120 years old and still going strong! This powerhouse of live entertainment hosts comedy greats like Dave Chappelle as well as huge bands like The Smashing Pumpkins, among many others. In recent years, the addition of several bars, restaurants, and alternative stages have grown Thalia Hall's entertainment opportunities. So go check out what's on when you're visiting Chicago.

If you prefer your music noisier, your performance wilder, and your gigs more carefree, then check out The Dojo. Chicago's premier underground music venue hosts local noise bands, leftfield artists, and much more. Every weekend they have new and exciting alternative acts gracing the stage, so head down there and see what all the fuss is about!

Carnival BBQ

BBQ is the backbone of America. For decades, we've ventured out of our abodes, fired up the grill, and invited friends and family over for a cookout. Nothing brings the community together better than BBQ. And Pilsen has a quality BBQ joint with a musical twist. We're talking about Honkey Tonk BBQ, where hungry souls can go to fill their bellies and their minds, thanks to the jazz and blues parties they host most nights.

Chow down on some delicious BBQ meat, and then work off the calories through the night. But one Saturday a month, they mix things up a bit, as the place is taken over by an improv burlesque quintet. They'll have you dancing and laughing in no time. Easily one of the best things to do in Pilsen when you visit Chicago!

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Get cultural

Next, let's switch gears to something more cultural. If you're looking for some inspirational, mind-opening experiences, then Pilsen's got you covered.

At the National Museum of Mexican Art, you'll find art from Mexicans both in the US and across the border. Chicago is known as the 'Mexico of the Midwest', and this museum is a testament to the artistry of many Mexicans who now call Chi-Town home. Wander through over 7000 pieces, and learn about the stories that helped create them.

Or, if your tastes lie a little leftfield and you want something exclusive, then House of the Apocalypse might be just what you're looking for. Only open for four hours every month, this weird and wonderful collection of artwork is quite the sight. Featuring sci-fi and post-apocalypse influences, House of Apocalypse's collection is something you won't quite find anywhere else.

Street art named desire

If you prefer your artwork of the outdoor, urban variety, or simply want to peruse in the glow of the sun, then go check out the massive collection of street art on 16th Street. Brought together thanks to a collaboration between multiple local institutions, you'll find a wealth of works from global street artists.

In fact, this collaboration has helped restore a lot of the area, which was once derelict and dirty. So, two birds with one stone then! At the same time, it's ensured that Pilsen remains true to its roots, and doesn't sway too far into the gentrification we've seen happening all over America and other parts of the world. Pilsen is community-first, and always should be.

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More eateries!

And when all that activity brings on the hunger prangs, Pilsen's got some great restaurants to sate your grumbling tummy.

Head to Barrio for some authentic Mexican cuisine and a whole menu dedicated to tequila-based cocktails!

What some fresh, farm-to-table dishes at a reasonable price? Go check out Dusek's Tavern. Their fixed menu of exciting, New-American cuisine means you get delicious food and a great price.

In the market for some delicious East-Asian delights? Give HaiSous Vietnamese Kitchen a look. With a mix of street food, fixed dishes, unique family recipes, and a fine line of cocktails to boot, it's a must-visit for anyone visiting Pilsen.

Drinks

After all of those activities and food, the next stop on your Pilsen journey should be one of its many watering holes. Thankfully, Pilsen is full of them, so you have the pick of the litter.

Want some classic pub food, refreshing craft beer, and cool aesthetic on your night out? Skylark's the one.

Want to try something a little kookier? How does a hidden basement bar with creative punches sound? That's Punch House, which has a whole menu full of fruity punches to try, as well as sandwiches, all rolled into a retro-vintage vibe. Doesn't get more Pilsen than that!

Or, grab a slice of pizza and pick from any number of craft beers at The Green Room Tap.

Whichever way you decide to go, you're bound to have a blast!

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Find a park-ing spot

Let's end this list on a walk through some of Chicago's green and pleasant land. Of course, we're talking about parks. And, of course, Pilsen's got its share of great ones!

Firstly, there's Harrison Park, which has a gym, indoor pool, and even meeting rooms housed within the Fieldhouse. So, if you like to get active, you can do it inside or out. Beyond that, you'll find over 18 acres of sweet green space to go sit, have a jog, or prepare a picnic. Look out of the bust of Emiliano Zapata, one of the biggest names of the Mexican Revolution.

Or, check out Dvorak Park, which boasts a baseball field, its own pool and unique water feature, soccer pitches, playgrounds, and a whole heap of comfortable, welcoming grass. You may even catch the odd performance there on the right day, as there's a big art scene that calls the park home. The playground is perfect for kids, if you're bringing the little ones.

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

Dom Bewley
Go City Travel Expert

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Top things to do in Chicago in April

Whilst still chilly, Chicago in April blooms both literally and metaphorically. Its parks are enlivened by the arrival of the first flowers of the spring and the start of the baseball season ensures there’s plenty to keep sports lovers entertained too. Brace yourself though, even its fans would describe Chicago weather in April as indecisive, shifting from days hot enough to swing by the city beaches to those that would drive even the hardiest of urban explorers to the warmth of exhibition spaces such as the Field Museum. On average, you’ll need to be prepared for temperatures ranging between 39 and 57°F. Bring a windcheater as the ‘windy city’ lives up to this moniker in April, although this does blow showers through quickly to leave 13 hours of sunshine a day. Chicago sunny day activities With the sun on your back Chicago in April is the ideal time to explore the city from the water. Although Lake Michigan – the USA’s largest lake – might be your first thought, cruising along the three branches of the Chicago River will reveal much of the city’s history, from the great fire of 1871 to the Willis (Sears) Tower, the tallest building in the world for 25 years and still the second-tallest in the western hemisphere. As a result, its 103 story Skydeck provides unrivalled views, especially from its protruding glass boxes together known as The Ledge. Rated as one of the most walkable cities in America, the architectural landmarks of the city are also eminently explorable by bike. Take advantage of half-day (four hour) bike rental and you can cover much more ground than would ever be possible on foot, with dedicated cycling tracks linking up many of the attractions lining the shoreline, including the Centennial Wheel and other rides at Navy Pier and 31st Street Beach. Grant Park, and its western extension Millennium Park, are also popular spots on warmer days. Often called ‘Chicago’s front yard’ and renamed in honor of President Ulysses S Grant, this 320 acre urban oasis includes several major attractions. Tulips and other bulbs are a major April draw, alongside year-round works of public art including a memorial to Abraham Lincoln, who served Illinois in the House of Representatives before becoming president. Rainy day activities in Chicago Wondering what to do in Chicago in April if the weather isn’t playing ball? Thankfully, Chicago in April has plenty of covered attractions to look out for without having to resort to second best. Occupying an entire city block within Grant Park is the Art Institute of Chicago. Fronted by majestic bronze lions, it is one of the oldest purpose-built museums in the world, having been established in 1879. Amongst no fewer than 300,000 artworks are some of the US’s most important works, including American Gothic by Grant Wood and Edward Hopper’s Nighthawks. Equally grand in outlook is the lakefront’s Shedd Aquarium. Not just for kids, this gateway to the world’s waterways comprises sections recreating the globe’s most important ecosystems, from coral reefs to the poles. Containing 5 million gallons of water, it’s home to around 32,000 individual animals, of which crowd pleasers include the Beluga whales and bonnethead sharks. Only in town for a couple of months, from March through May, the FRIENDS Experience – or ‘The One in Chicago’ – brings the world of Central Perk to The Shops at Northbridge shopping mall on North Michigan Avenue. Twelve rooms from the sitcom are brought to life, alongside memorabilia such as Monica’s purple door, and even a display of Rachel’s changing haircuts – yes, really! One off events in Chicago in April If you thought the city’s culinary scene began and ended with Chicago-style pizza, think again during Restaurant Week – which now lasts for a gut-busting 17 days straight. Participating restaurants put on special fixed-price menus, with multi-course meals available for as little as $40 for a dinner reservation in some of the city’s top picks. For something a little different, why not time your vacation in Chicago to coincide with International Tom Hanks Day? It may have started as a prank in 2004, but today the Saturday closest to April 1 has movie fans meet up to watch the great man’s back catalogue and buy raffle tickets in the hope of winning signed memorabilia, with all the proceeds going to charity. Alternatively, you could book your place at the Chicago Latin Film Festival (CLFF) to participate in deciding who takes home the Audience Choice Award. Each edition screens around 100 movies, with the festival’s emphasis placed on the artistic and educational rather than box office potential, meaning you’ll see movies here you might see nowhere else. Best of the rest Home to Major League Baseball teams the Chicago Cubs and White Sox, visit Chicago in April and you’ll see the crowds returning to Wrigley Field on the northern side of the city and Guaranteed Rate Field on the southern side of the city, providing two opportunities for visitors to take in the vibrancy of America’s national pastime. Author – and Nobel Prize for Literature winner – Ernest Hemingway was a huge fan. Born in Oak Park, now a central park of the city, in 1899 his attractive birthplace is now a museum dedicated to his life and works, with the house set up as Hemingway would have known it during his childhood. The nearby American Writers Museum celebrates the written word in all its forms and genres, and manages to achieve the near impossible in discussing the important role of writers in the history and culture of the entire country through a range of interactive exhibits. Save on attraction admission in Chicago in April With so many things to do in Chicago in April costs can soon rack up. However, it’s simple to take control of your vacation budget and save whilst you’re doing it by opting to travel with Go City. Our passes give incredible saving rates on admission to many of the top attractions in the city, ensuring you can have the vacation of your dreams without the bank statements of your nightmares! Take a look at how former Go City users have fared by checking out @GoCity on Instagram and Facebook, where you can also join in the conversation by adding your own vacation snaps. Don’t forget to smile!
Ian Packham
The Chicago skyline from the shores of Lake Michigan
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Chicago in January: what to see and do during winter in the Windy City

January in Chicago might come with icy temperatures, but it also brings fewer crowds, better-value accommodation and a packed calendar of indoor attractions. From world-class museums and aquariums to skyline views and wintery park strolls, the Windy City proves it doesn’t hibernate. Here’s how to make the most of Chicago in January, without letting the cold slow you down.
Ian Packham
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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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