Did you know Chicago was once a small trading post situated at the mouth of the Chicago River? Probably not. Today, Chicago is the third-largest city in the United States and covers 237 square miles. Those square miles are divided into 77 neighborhoods, each with their own unique traits. While we’re proud of this diversity and size, we realize it can be overwhelming, especially when you’re trying to find something to do after work or on the weekend. Whether you’re a lifelong Chicago resident or you’re just visiting Chi-Town for a few days, you want to spend your time having fun, not sifting through hundreds of bars, restaurants and entertainment options.
Sure, Chicago has plenty of amazing restaurants and bars, or you could catch a movie at one of our great theaters. However, we just don’t think those things would do justice to our amazing city. There’s so much more that goes on in Chicago after dark. And, since you’re reading an article about things to do in Chicago at night, we’re guessing you’ve realized that.
In fact, we might be a little bit biased, but as longtime residents ourselves, we think the best time to experience all Chicago has to offer is after the sun goes down. So, before you head out to just another restaurant or bar — although there are plenty of fantastic ones to be found in Chicago — we hope you’ll consider these top 10 things to do in Chicago at night.
- Nighttime Food Tour of Chicago on the Bikes, Bites & Brews – Chicago’s Signature Dishes Bike Tour
- The Skydeck
- Adler After Dark
- The Chicago Theatre
- Chicago Symphony Orchestra
- City Food Tour at Night for Families
- Chicago Sports
- Blue Man Group
- 360 Chicago
- Art Institute of Chicago
**Bonus During October: Fright Hike — Halloween Edition Night Bike Tour
1. Nighttime Food Tour of Chicago
The 5:30 pm Bikes, Bites & Brews – Chicago’s Signature Dishes Bike Tour has everything you’d want in a night out in Chicago. The food tour features classic Chicago foods for dinner, including deep-dish pizza and Chicago hot dogs. This is a night bike tour through Chicago that includes food and drinks.
The bike tour will take you past the Buckingham Fountain (impressive during the day and absolutely exquisite when lit up at night). The night tour is led by a Chicago expert who will entertain you with fascinating stories about Chicago’s history. And if the night bike, classic Chicago foods and local history weren’t enough, the tour also includes craft beer to round our your night out in Chicago! Due to the craft beer pour, this tour is for ages 21+. If you can’t make the 5:30 pm excursion, the Bites Bikes and Brews Tour also runs at 11:30 am and makes for a great mid-day activity in Chicago.
2. The Skydeck
Ever wanted to savor a traditional Chicago deep-dish pizza from 103 stories in the air? Now you can dine after hours at this beloved Chicago landmark. Annually, the Skydeck, located inside the Willis Tower — formerly the Sears Tower — hosts 1.7 million tourists. During the day, they take in spectacular views — in fact, on a clear day, you can see 50 miles in all directions. But, after Skydeck Chicago closes to the public, it becomes a once-in-a-lifetime dining experience. You wouldn’t normally think to make a reservation for a pizza dinner, but with only nine tables available each night, you’ll definitely want to call ahead. Catered by Giordano’s Pizza, this three-course dining experience is widely popular with couples looking for a romantic evening and families who want to experience the gorgeous nighttime views of Chicago’s skyline.
3. Adler After Dark
Although the physical space is closed until 3/14/2021, the stars haven’t disappeared, so Adler Planetarium is still leading virtual programs like a weekly skywatch!
Cocktails, appetizers and … stargazing? Grab an incredible view of the Chicago skyline and the stars beyond at this monthly event. Held every third Thursday, Adler After Dark offers adults 21 and over unlimited access to the Adler Planetarium, along with unique entertainment like guest lecturers and live performers. Included with the price of admission are unlimited sky shows in three state-of-the-art theaters and access to the Doane Observatory. The planetarium’s Café Galileo stays open for this event, serving snacks and entrees. And, guests can purchase beverages from their event bars and sip a cocktail as they take in gorgeous nighttime views. But make no mistake — this isn’t something you’ll want to do just once. With rotating themes every month, you’ll keep coming back again and again and again.
4. The Chicago Theatre
Although all shows at the Chicago Theatre have been postponed until April 2021, if you’re looking for some theatre, the award-winning Steppenwolf Theatre ensemble has a fantastic lineup of virtual shows for an at-home night at the theatre!
Opened in 1921 as the first “lavish” movie palace in America, today The Chicago Theatre has become one of downtown Chicago’s most beloved live entertainment venues. Residents and frequent visitors will recognize the theatre’s iconic six-story vertical C-H-I-C-A-G-O sign at the corner of State Street and Chicago. When the movie house concept began to decline in the mid-1980s, the theatre was designated for demolition. However, Chicago Theatre Restoration Associates teamed up with the City of Chicago to renovate the building, all while maintaining its original opulence.
When the theatre reopened in 1986, a performance from none other than Frank Sinatra kicked off its second life as a live performance venue. Since then, the theatre has played host to the likes of Kelly Clarkson, Harry Connick Jr., Aretha Franklin, Alicia Keys, David Letterman, Lyle Lovett, Dolly Parton, Prince, Diana Ross, Van Morrison and more. But make no mistake. The Chicago Theatre hosts more than just outstanding musical talent. Their wide variety of offerings include lecturers, comedians and a selection of child-friendly performances if you’re looking for things to do in Chicago at night under 21 years old.
5. Chicago Symphony Orchestra
Many of their shows are being streamed online during the COVID restrictions, some shows will even be available for free!
Performing more than 100 shows a year at the Symphony Center in downtown Chicago and the Ravinia Festival on Chicago’s North Shore, the Chicago Symphony Orchestra has a global reputation as one of the premier orchestras in the world. The orchestra frequently collaborates with renowned conductors and guest performers from around the globe, making each performance a truly unique experience. Their first performance took place in October 1891, and the music has continued ever since. Today, the Chicago Symphony Orchestra has expanded to offer a wide variety of community-focused musical events, including family-friendly options and their popular “CSO at the Movies” events. Whether you’re in town for a day or you’re here for a lifetime, the opportunities to experience their beautiful music are plentiful.
6. Chicago’s Ultimate City Food Tour by Bike for Families
Looking to mix up your typical dinner plans in Chicago? This Chicago food tour at night by bike for families will bring you a progressive dinner option on bike, along with city history and stories to entertain! The food samples include Chicago staples like deep-dish pizza, Chicago hot dogs, and Italian beef sandwiches. You’ll learn the history behind the foods and also get a taste for some of Chicago’s most popular attractions as we bike through the Gold Coast, Chicago Riverwalk, Millennium Park, Buckingham Fountain, Navy Pier and Lakefront. VIP Beer add-ons and Veggie options available. The night tour starts at 4:30 p.m. and spans a 9-mile easy bike cruise and food sampling over the course of 4 hours.
This is a great family tour at night that gives Friday dinners a new energy!
*Night Tours Start Running in May
7. Chicago Sports
If professional sports are your thing, Chicago is definitely your city. Since the Windy City is home to a variety of sports teams, pro sports is one of the top things to do in Chicago at night during most months out of the year.
- Chicago Bulls: Take in a basketball game at the United Center, located on the Near West Side. Known as the home team of basketball legend Michael Jordan, the Chicago Bulls offer regular home games during their October-through-April regular season.
- Chicago Blackhawks: One of the “Original Six” NHL teams, the Blackhawks share the United Center with the Bulls, swapping the basketball court for ice during their October-through-April season. Don’t miss these six-time Stanley Cup winners.
- Chicago Wolves: A member of the American Hockey League, this ice hockey team has become a smash hit in Chicago. With a season running October through April, the Wolves can claim more than 1,000 regular-season wins on their record. Check them out at the Allstate Arena located in Rosemont.
- Chicago Bears: If you’re ready for some football, head to Soldier Field to see the Bears square off with rival NFL teams. Their season runs from August through December, but don’t let the chilly temps stop you from joining the locals for tailgating before kickoff!
- Chicago Cubs & Chicago White Sox: Head out to the ballgame with one of our two MLB baseball teams. If you’re a Cubs fan, you won’t want to miss an evening in the “friendly confines” of historic Wrigley Field. While it’s the second-oldest MLB field in the United States, don’t let that fool you. Recent updates to the stadium have added state-of-the-art video screens and the much-loved “Budweiser Bleachers.” The White Sox play at Guaranteed Rate Field during the April-through-September season, and you’ll definitely want to join White Sox fans for some pregame tailgating before the game. And, make sure you don’t miss the fireworks that happen after every home run.
- Chicago Fire: Named in honor of the Great Chicago Fire in the 1800s, Chicago’s MLS soccer team plays 12 miles south of downtown at Toyota Park. But before you decide that’s too far out of the way, think again. During their regular March-through-October season, fans can jump on the “Pub to Pitch” round-trip bus service that picks up fans from several downtown bars and takes them to the stadium for the soccer match.
8. Blue Man Group
Although the Blue Man Group has postponed its shows due to COVID, Chicago Plays has a running list of Chicago theaters that are streaming their shows online!
Performing in The Briar Street Theatre, conveniently located near Wrigley Field and the Lakefront, the Blue Man Group has been entertaining Chicago audiences for a long time, and they’re a must-see when you’re downtown. Known for their exciting material showcasing a captivating combination of art, music, comedy and technology, this unique group of performers has captivated more than 35 million people around the world. Blue Man Productions has performers in residence in several cities around the country, but the best thing about their shows is that the group is always updating and refreshing their act with new and exciting material. So, whether you’ve seen them before or you’re looking for something new, you’ll definitely want to catch one of their evening performances.
9. 360 Chicago
Daily until 11 p.m., head to 360 Chicago for breathtaking views of the Chicago skyline and Lake Michigan. Towering 1,000 feet above the Magnificent Mile, 360 Chicago is also home to TILT — an enclosed moving platform that extends over Michigan Avenue from the 94th floor of the John Hancock building. While you’re there, you’ll find plenty of interactive displays with a wealth of information about the city. And, the tower even houses a bar and cafe where you can sit and enjoy food and beverages. That way, you don’t have to rush to take in all the beautiful views.
10. Art Institute of Chicago
You can now view many of their most iconic collection items online, with detailed explanations about the artworks’ history and composition.
You wouldn’t normally think about heading to a museum for a night out, but that’s exactly what you can do at the Art Institute of Chicago. On Thursdays, they’re open until 8 p.m., making them one of the most popular places to go in Chicago at night. Their wide variety of exhibits is always changing, so this is one night out you’ll want to repeat again and again. Illinois residents receive free admission between 5 and 8 p.m., and the museum offers a variety of dining options as well.
Now, Head out and Have Some Fun
Chicago is full of energy, and that energy seems to surge when the sun goes down. Whether you’re looking to enjoy the sights of the city’s skyline, take in a basketball game or have a few laughs at a show, there’s something in this town for everyone, including plenty of 24-hour things to do in Chicago.
This list of options only begins to scratch the surface of all the Windy City has to offer. And that’s what makes it so outstanding. In addition to these one-of-a-kind experiences, Chicago is home to more than 200 theaters, 200 art galleries and 7,300 restaurants. Our city also houses 26 miles of lakefront, 15 miles of bathing beaches, 36 annual parades, 19 miles of lakefront bicycle paths and 552 parks.
At Bobby’s Bike Hike, we pride ourselves on helping our customers enjoy the best our city has to offer. And we do that from the seat of a bicycle.
Because Chicago is so flat, it’s the perfect city to explore by bike. In fact, Chicago is ranked as the top city for biking in the United States. Chicago’s neighborhoods, parks and attractions are all connected by a network of trails and sidewalks that are ideal for exploring by foot or by bike. The best thing about exploring by bike is that you’ll not only see all the sights, but you’ll also hear the sounds, smell the pizza and experience firsthand the essence of what makes Chicago so great. For these reasons, we always recommend our out-of-town guests join one of our tours at the beginning of their trip. By experiencing Chicago in this manner, they can quickly become acclimated to the layout of the city and find plenty of other spots to return to later in their trip.
Halloween Edition Night Bike Tour
Only in Chicago can you be scared witless while enjoying a rip-roaring entertaining bicycle tour of Chicago’s hauntings! This haunted Chicago tour is a 3 hour guided adventure through the city’s spookiest spots.
The haunted tour takes guests to the haunted John Hancock Center, past the lingering spirits of the SS Eastland and the trapped souls of the Iroquois Theater, and to the ghastly elegance of the Congress Plaza Hotel. This night time activity in downtown Chicago during October is perfect for thrill-seekers, ghost-hunters, Halloween parties, or anyone looking to have a chilling good time!
We can’t wait to share our favorite city with you. Contact us today to book the City Food Tour at Night by bike for the family or book an evening Bikes, Bites & Brews Tour. Discover for yourself what makes Chicago so special at night!
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