Chicago Visitors Guide - 2025

MUSEUMS

As one of the oldest and most beloved museums in the country, the Art Institute of Chicago boasts collections spanning 5,000 years of global art and creativity. Highlights include masterpieces by Claude Monet, Pablo Picasso, Georgia O’Keeffe, and Edward Hopper.

A champion of innovative perspectives, the Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago displays groundbreaking exhibits that showcase the diversity of contemporary art and culture. The museum also offers live performances and workshops.

Explore the history and culture of African Americans in Chicago and across the diaspora at The DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center. The museum hosts a range of exhibits and events that reflect on the Black experience.

The vibrant cultural expressions of Mexico — including art, photography, and film — are showcased at the National Museum of Mexican Art. Dive into art from both sides of the border with exhibits, performing arts programs, and cultural events.

The Smart Museum of Art at The University of Chicago encourages visitors to examine societal issues through art. The museum offers exhibits, community collaborations, and public programs that encourage inventive outlooks.

Learn the inspirational stories behind the rise of our great city at the Chicago History Museum. Tours, workshops, and interactive exhibits with themes like the Great Chicago Fire and Abraham Lincoln help visitors take a deep dive into Chicago history.

THEATRE

See an exciting pre-Broadway premiere or a national touring production at a historic downtown theatre presented by Broadway In Chicago. Expect to see blockbuster musicals, dramas, and comedies all year long.

Dip into Chicago’s legendary local theatre scene at the Steppenwolf Theatre Company. As one of the most influential ensemble theatres in the nation, Steppenwolf presents dynamic productions that are always on must-see theatre lists.

Established in 1925, the Goodman Theatre has a long-standing reputation for staging excellent productions in the Loop. Its diverse offerings of original and classic plays guarantee an amazing night of theatre.

The Court Theatre at The University of Chicago is a Tony Award-winning company that reimagines classic productions for contemporary audiences, noted for its fresh takes on familiar stories.

Edgy plays in an intimate setting are the hallmark of A Red Orchid Theatre. See thought-provoking works that will linger long after the show from this ensemble-based theatre. Telling the transformative stories of Latino artists is the mission of Teatro Vista. Stage performances that incorporate theatre and innovative storytelling are a signature of the company’s productions.

MUSIC

Soak in the natural beauty and architectural splendor of Millennium Park while listening to a variety of free alfresco concerts at the Jay Pritzker Pavilion. Enjoy everything from rock to R&B to folk music.

Head to the landmark Symphony Center to hear classical music by the Grammy Award-winning Chicago Symphony Orchestra, along with guest performances of jazz, pop, and global music.

The Lyric Opera of Chicago is renowned as an international powerhouse of great opera. Each season presents an eclectic range of classic and contemporary productions.

Experience the essence of Chicago music at Buddy Guy’s Legends, the premier showcase for Chicago blues. Owned by legendary blues guitarist Buddy Guy, this is the spot to see both stars and up-and-coming talent.

One of Chicago’s most iconic music venues (and a favorite hangout of notorious gangster Al Capone), the Green Mill has served up live jazz and cocktails for over 100 years. The lounge also hosts the first and longest-running slam poetry series in the country.

A Chicago nightlife institution, Spybar Chicago hosts local and international DJs spinning house, techno, and electronic beats in a cozy River North basement space.

DANCE

Located on the edge of Millennium Park, the Harris Theater is a state-of-the-art venue that hosts a variety of dance and music performances. Resident companies showcase ballet, African, jazz, tap, and contemporary styles.

One of the premier dance companies in the world, the Joffrey Ballet offers a thrilling lineup of classic masterpieces and cutting-edge works. The company is beloved for its spectacularly staged holiday production of The Nutcracker.

Red Clay Dance Company performs exhilarating Afro-contemporary choreography with a mission of amplifying the voices of the African diaspora.

Hubbard Street Dance Chicago brings the excitement of original contemporary dance to Chicago stages with singular choreography and an evolving repertory.

The energetic spirit of Africa flows through the performances of Muntu Dance Theatre, which interprets traditional and modern African and African American dance and folklore.

One of the top jazz dance companies in the U.S., Giordano Dance Chicago has dazzled audiences with inspiring performances for over 60 years.

CHICAGO THEATRE WEEK

Experience the extraordinary range of Chicago’s theatre scene during this 10-day celebration each February. Snag discounted tickets to more than 100 shows, from rousing musicals to experimental dramas. Learn more at chicagotheatreweek.com.

CHICAGO THEATRE PICKS

FAT HAM

Goodman Theatre Through Feb. 23

Co-produced with Chicago’s Definition Theatre, a boisterous Southern cookout is the setting for a Black, queer discovery of identity.

GLASSHEART

City Lit Theater Through Feb. 23

This Chicago premiere is a modern-day reimagining of the classic Beauty and the Beast fairy tale.

FUN HOME

Porchlight Music Theatre Through March 2

Based on a graphic novel, Fun Home is the story of seeing your parents through grown-up eyes.

CIRCUS QUIXOTE

Lookingglass Theatre Through March 30

Follow the folly-filled quest of Don Quixote to bring good deeds back into the world.

CYGNUS

The Gift Theatre Feb. 6 – March 16

Cydney believes an angel rescued her from an unspeakable trauma, but the truth is even stranger.

HAMLET

Chicago Shakespeare Theater March 13 – 23

In collaboration with the Chicago Latino Theater Alliance, Shakespeare’s text is blended with personal stories of young performers with Down syndrome.

TITANIQUE

Broadway In Chicago March 25 – May 18

Off-Broadway’s award-winning hit turns the Titanic love story into a hysterical musical fantasy.

THE LISTENERS

Lyric Opera of Chicago March 30 – April 11

Claire joins a cult-like group to destroy the source of a humming noise that is driving her mad.

ART

Remy Bumppo Theatre Company May 1 – June 1

This thought-provoking comedy explores the true value of both art and friendship.

DIANA

Theo May 23 – July 6

The timeless Princess Diana is the focus of this electrifying musical.

WAR OF THE WORLDS

Lifeline Theatre May 23 – July 13

This sci-fi thriller is a study in human nature when the social order is disrupted.