Things to do in Chicago besides restaurants and bars, to stimulate your creativity and get inspired. Explore stunning natural spots, amazing art and architecture, and exciting community spaces.
Map
Sections
4
Outdoor Activities
Arts & Entertainment
Boba Tea
Community Spaces
Outdoor Activities
Favorite spots to be in nature.
Best beach along the Lake Shore trail and I've been to all of them. It's spacious and clean and you can go far in the water without going deep.
Osterman Beach
This garden is a surreal escape into nature.
Chicago Botanic Garden
You can camp here for free and the beach is stunning and secluded. Not too far outside Chicago and worth visiting in the summer.
Adeline Jay Geo-Karis Illinois Beach State Park
Arts & Entertainment
Comedy clubs, theaters, art, and music.
Super chill improv comedy club and school. A hidden gem where weirdos and outcasts fit in.
Annoyance Theatre & Bar
iO is one of the coolest comedy theater and class spaces in Chicago. Come for hilarious shows, stay for the chill vibes.
The iO Theater
A classic comedy institution. If you're a comedy fan, seeing a show here is mandatory. Also, one of the coolest training center spaces to take classes in.
The Second City
A lovely space to see comedy, including stand up, sketch and more.
The Den Theatre
This museum is really well-curated with modern, thoughtful pieces. Free for Chicago residents on Tuesdays, or $3 anytime with an EBT card.
Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago
This museum has so many incredible pieces by historic artists like Picasso, Van Gogh and Warhol. A must see location.
The Art Institute of Chicago
Come to this fringe theater for something out of the ordinary. Featuring, comedy, burlesque, clowning and more.
The Newport Theater
Boba Tea
Gotta stay hydrated on our adventures. Boba tea is the most creative drink in the world-- perfect for artists!
My favorite boba spot! The service and space is always immaculate. Try the wintermelon tea with boba.
Kung Fu Tea Wicker Park
This TE'Amo is my favorite because the mall location is a vibe with lots of seating and charging ports. The green tea mochi donut and passion fruit boba always hits the spot.
TE'AMO Boba Bar
Community Spaces
Express yourself and connect with others with classes, community spaces and more!
Small dance studio that embraces community. They have lots of different classes like salsa, heels, and ballet plus social events. First class is free! Check it out!
Urbanity Dance Chicago
Lovely space for dance classes and more!
The Space Community Studio
One of the best dance studios in Chicago, it's so popular for a reason. Classes are affordable and there are many styles and levels offered! I love taking kpop and shuffle.
The Puzzle Box
Perfect for dancers of all levels who want to take class from reknown instructors in ballet, jazz, tap and more. Plus, they have great performances here!
The Ruth Page Center for the Arts
They have all kinds of classes and multiple campuses around Chicago. Try singing, guitar, dance and more.
Old Town School of Folk Music
Wanna make a TV show, podcast, or just play around with professional studio equipment? Check out CAN TV!
CAN TV
This library is magical. The top floor has a beautiful garden. You can also rent out study spaces and music practice rooms with pianos FREE.
