Heading to Lollapalooza or another summer music festival in Chicago? Whether it’s your first time or you’re a seasoned festie, this guide covers exactly what to pack, where to stay, and how to make the most of your time in the Windy City — all with l...
Sections
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🎒 Festival Packing List Essentials
🏨 Where to Stay Near Grant Park
✈️ Travel Like a Pro
🎟️ Local Experiences for Off-Days
🎒 Festival Packing List Essentials
Don’t be the person stuck with soggy socks or a dead phone halfway through the set. Here’s what you actually need:
Lollapalooza requires clear bags — no exceptions. This one is stylish and compliant.
Clear Festival-Approved Bag
Stay hydrated in the Chicago summer sun — there are free refill stations in Grant Park.
Collapsible Water Bottle
Long days + lots of videos = dead phone by 4 p.m. Don’t risk it.
Portable Charger with Built in Cables
Sunburns suck. Festival-sized, non-greasy options are best.
Drunk Elephant Sunscreen
Trust me, you will want these after a few trips to the porta-potties.
Hand Sanitizing Wipes
Yes, it’s dorky. But you’ll be glad when you’re standing on the blacktop at 2 p.m.
Cooling Towel
🏨 Where to Stay Near Grant Park
Lollapalooza is in Grant Park, which is walkable from a variety of hotels - or just a quick CTA ride away.
Budget-friendly and steps from the park - great for solo travelers or groups.
HI Chicago Hostel
Historic hotel with beautiful rooms and easy access to public transit.
The Palmer House Hilton
Amazing hotel in a landmark building - features a rooftop bar overlooking Millennium Park, a social games room, and so much more.
Chicago Athletic Association, part of Hyatt
✈️ Travel Like a Pro
Whether you’re flying in from the coasts or road-tripping from the Midwest:
Use flexible dates to get the best festival weekend deal.
$52 Flight Deals to Chicago
Bundle to save and avoid last-minute headaches.
Chicago Vacation Packages 2025 from $192
Not necessary for downtown, but good for pre- or post-festival road trips.
Chicago O Hare Airport Car Rentals from $34/day
🎟️ Local Experiences for Off-Days
You might want to unwind (or rally) between sets - or before or after the festival. Come early or stay a few days later!
A must-do to admire the city's iconic skyline and rich history.
Architecture River Tour
Save on admission to the Shedd Aquarium, Field Museum, Skydeck, and more.
Chicago CityPASS
Less crowded than the Willis Tower and with a bar!
360 CHICAGO Observation Deck
Sample deep-dish pizza, Chicago-style hot dogs, and more on a guided tour.
Chicago Favorites Ultimate Food and Walking Tour
A fun way to learn about Chicago’s Prohibition-era past
Chicago's Original Gangster Tour by Bus
Hands down one of the best museums in the world, you can't miss it
