Chicago Visitors Guide - 2026
TRENDING IN CHICAGO
2026-01-16 12:31:35
From major museum unveilings to landmark celebrations and groundbreaking attractions,
Chicago’s 2026 calendar is packed.
ATTRACTIONS
Set to open this year, the Obama Presidential Center will feature former President Barack Obama’s community-driven library and museum, set on a sprawling campus in Jackson Park.
The Shedd Aquarium‘s ongoing expansive renovation includes the unveiling of the walk-through Caribbean Tunnel that reimagines a tropical reef habitat with sharks and rays, a kelp forest, and revamped galleries.
The curtain rises this spring on The Hand & The Eye. Set in the historic McCormick Mansion, this astonishing attraction will feature performances by magicians from around the world, along with a restaurant and bar.
The renovated Illinois Holocaust Museum & Education Center in suburban Skokie plans to reopen in late summer. Experience360, a downtown satellite location of the museum in River North, will showcase exhibits through June.
Bally’s Casino Chicago is scheduled to open later this year in River West. Plans for the 500-room resort include gaming floors, a spa, restaurants that include a rooftop with sweeping city and Chicago River views, bars, and a 3,000-seat entertainment venue.
The National Public Housing Museum — the first museum in the country dedicated to preserving public housing history — has opened in the last remaining building of the Jane Addams Homes (named for the legendary social worker and activist).
Lake Michigan boaters have a new place to moor at the Navy Pier Marina. Chicago’s only all-transient marina offers hourly and overnight docking for boats of all kinds at one of Chicago’s most popular visitor attractions.
EVENTS
The Route 66 Centennial Celebration brings attention to the historic byway’s starting point at Michigan Avenue and Adams Street in downtown Chicago, designated by an eye-catching marker. You’ll also find Route 66 markers along the road in various Chicago neighborhoods. Look for the vibrant new mural by artist Ben Marasco that pays tribute to the Mother Road and adorns the side of Lulu’s Hot Dogs at Taylor Street and Ogden Avenue. Learn more at choosechicago.com/route66.
Chicago is the host city for International Jazz Day on April 30, organized by UNESCO and the Herbie Hancock Institute of Jazz. The celebration — which spotlights Chicago’s contributions to jazz, blues, and global music culture — culminates with the All- Star Global Concert, led by Chicago native and jazz icon Herbie Hancock, broadcast to 190 countries.
Celebrate America’s 250th anniversary in Chicago. Throughout the year, Chicago will be honoring this milestone and the history of our great city with exhibits, concerts, performances, and more. Find the latest information at choosechicago.com/america-250.
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