WHAT TO DO. WHEN TO DO IT.
Seasonal things to do in and around Chicago, including day trips within 250 km (155 miles): explore activities, festivals and outings by season, distance and type, with sources and dates on Chronopin.
Ideas for a full day out, across all seasons. Trip lengths are suggestions; check seasonal dates, opening hours and transport before setting off.
5 activities within 155 mi (250 km) of the city center · straight-line distances
STARTS NOV 20Chicago· The Loop· Holidays· 0.4 mi / 0.7 km from Chicago
A German-style holiday market with food, drink and handcrafted gifts in the heart of downtown.
Suggested trip: 1 day
Build a day around the published exhibits or activities, with time for the surrounding area. Check opening days and book any required entry separately.
Daley Plaza · Nov 20 – Dec 24
STARTS DEC 31Chicago· Streeterville· Holidays· 1.6 mi / 2.6 km from Chicago
A free midnight fireworks show over the lakefront skyline.
Suggested trip: 1 day
Build a day around the published exhibits or activities, with time for the surrounding area. Check opening days and book any required entry separately.
Navy Pier · Dec 31 – Dec 31
STARTS MAY 1Chicago· Gold Coast· Outdoors· 1.7 mi / 2.8 km from Chicago
A lakefront city beach with lifeguarded swimming, a skyline backdrop and distance swimming along the shore.
Suggested trip: 1 day
Build a day around the published exhibits or activities, with time for the surrounding area. Check opening days and book any required entry separately.
Oak Street Beach · May – Sep
STARTS JUL 1Chicago· The Loop· Food & drink· 0.5 mi / 0.9 km from Chicago
A free-entry food festival with local restaurant vendors and live music stages in Grant Park.
Suggested trip: 1 day
Build a day around the published exhibits or activities, with time for the surrounding area. Check opening days and book any required entry separately.
Grant Park · Jul 8 – Jul 12
STARTS OCT 1Chicago· Glencoe· Family· 20 mi / 33 km from Chicago
An after-dark pumpkin-carving display along the garden paths on selected October evenings.
Suggested trip: 1 day
Build a day around the published exhibits or activities, with time for the surrounding area. Check opening days and book any required entry separately.
Chicago Botanic Garden · Oct 7 – Oct 25