Chicago Visitors Guide - 2026
TAKE A CHICAGO ARTSCATION
Amy Bizzarri 2026-01-21 11:17:26
Discover Chicago’s unmatched treasure trove of museums, theatre, music, and dance that don’t just take center stage — they set the bar.
INSIDER TIPS
THEATRE
chicagoplays.com features upcoming shows for more than 200 theatres, all in one handy calendar.
DANCE
seechicagodance.com is a comprehensive source for dance performances and events.
FILM FESTIVALS
chicagoscreens.org provides detailed information on Chicago’s diverse, year-round film fests.
TICKETS
hottix.org offers discounted, last-minute tickets for hundreds of theatres throughout the city.
MUSEUMS
The world-renowned Art Institute of Chicago houses collections that span 5,000 years of artistic innovation across the globe. Standout works include incredible pieces by Claude Monet, Pablo Picasso, Georgia O’Keeffe, and Edward Hopper.
The Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago showcases cutting-edge exhibitions that span a wide spectrum of contemporary media — from immersive installations to experimental sculpture. It’s one of the largest institutions in the world dedicated to art created after 1945, with a collection that includes works by icons like Andy Warhol, Cindy Sherman, and Kerry James Marshall.
The DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center offers an array of exhibitions and events that illuminate the breadth of the Black experience.
At the National Museum of Mexican Art, visitors encounter colorful art, photography, and film celebrating Mexican heritage. Experience creativity from Mexico and beyond with curated exhibits, live performances, and engaging cultural programming.
The Smart Museum of Art, situated on The University of Chicago campus, invites guests to engage with social issues through visual dialogue. Exhibitions, community collaborations, and public events foster imaginative ways of thinking.
Take a deep dive into the origins of Chicago at the Chicago History Museum. Immersive exhibits, workshops, and guided tours explore events like the Great Chicago Fire and the legacy of Abraham Lincoln.
The American Writers Museum amplifies U.S. literary voices with interactive exhibits, author events, storytelling showcases, and educational workshops.
The landmark Chicago Cultural Center offers free performances, rotating art exhibitions, architecture tours of the building, and community-driven cultural programming. It’s also home to the largest Tiffany glass dome in the world.
THEATRE
Experience a thrilling pre-Broadway debut or a national touring show at one of Chicago’s historic downtown theatres, presented by Broadway In Chicago. Throughout the year, expect a full lineup of hit musicals, gripping dramas, and laugh-out-loud comedies.
The Steppenwolf Theatre Company, a trailblazing ensemble founded in a church basement in 1974 by actors Gary Sinise, Terry Kinney, and Jeff Perry, has evolved into a nationally acclaimed institution. The Steppenwolf is known for its powerhouse ensemble and leadership role in shaping contemporary American theatre.
The Goodman Theatre is a Loop landmark offering consistently excellent original and classic plays. Its annual A Christmas Carol production is a holiday season must-see.
A Red Orchid Theatre delivers powerful, ensemble-driven performances that stay with you long after the final curtain.
Teatro Vista is Chicago’s leading Latino theatre company, known for bilingual productions highlighting the richness of Latino storytelling.
The Second City is a legendary comedy institution that has launched the careers of countless stars (think Bill Murray and Tina Fey) through its sharp-witted sketch and improv shows.
Lookingglass Theatre Company is a Tony Award-winning ensemble celebrated for its visually imaginative productions that blend striking design, movement, and storytelling in unexpected ways.
MUSIC
Take in Millennium Park’s lush scenery and striking architecture while enjoying open-air concerts at the Jay Pritzker Pavilion — all for free. Shows range from rock and folk to soulful R&B.
Visit the historic Symphony Center to hear classical music by the Grammy-winning Chicago Symphony Orchestra, plus special guests performing jazz, pop, and world music.
The Lyric Opera of Chicago is celebrated for its exceptional productions and storied legacy that includes hosting legends like Maria Callas, who made her American debut here in 1954.
Chicago’s music scene shines at Buddy Guy’s Legends, a top venue for blues. Owned by blues legend Buddy Guy himself, it’s the go-to club for catching famous performers and up-and-coming talent.
Housed in a former movie palace, the historic Ramova Theatre in Bridgeport presents live bands and serves house-brewed craft beer in its Other Half Ramova taproom.
Located in the Austin neighborhood, the Kehrein Center for the Arts features music and dance performances in its 900-seat auditorium, with a spotlight on the Black experience.
DANCE
Nestled beside Millennium Park, the Harris Theater is a state-of-the-art venue showcasing a dynamic mix of music and dance performances. Its resident companies include the acclaimed Hubbard Street Dance Chicago and ensembles specializing in ballet, tap, jazz, African dance, and contemporary styles.
A global leader in dance, the Joffrey Ballet stages classics alongside bold contemporary pieces at the Lyric Opera House. Its annual holiday show, The Nutcracker, is a crowd favorite thanks to stunning visuals and live music from the Lyric Opera Orchestra.
Muntu Dance Theatre celebrates the vibrant energy of Africa with performances that blend traditional and modern African and African American dance and folklore.
Red Clay Dance Company electrifies with Afrocontemporary choreography that uplifts the voices of the African diaspora.
As one of the country’s most esteemed jazz dance groups, Giordano Dance Chicago has wowed audiences with passionate performances for more than six decades.
Ensemble Español Spanish Dance Theater is a world-renowned company that performs flamenco, folklore, bolero, classical, and contemporary Spanish dance.
What makes Chicago a must-visit destination for arts and culture?
“Art Institute of Chicago, MCA, Millennium Park” @claireprichard
“The wealth of museums from many cultures at your fingertips (Puerto Rican, Mexican)” @victoriascall
“Architecture, Gospel & House Music” @greatbeardedman
“Open House Chicago!” @cory.sechrest
“House music” @asuciii
“SO MUCH! Concerts, theatre district, Art Institute, and more!” @chicitygina
“Art Institute of Chicago, Chicago Symphony Orchestra & Symphony Center” @barney__park_
“The one and only Art Institute and architectural boat tours” @colleencestmoi
“I love how Chicago is a city where culture, community and joy collide! Unmatched!” @kelly_martina
CHICAGO THEATRE PICKS
Buffalo Theatre Ensemble | Through March 1
This comedy about a bungled sting operation to catch an embezzling mayor is presented at the McAninch Arts Center in suburban Glen Ellyn.
ON YOUR FEET! THE STORY OF EMILIO & GLORIA ESTEFAN
Drury Lane Theatre | Through March 22
The celebration of Miami Sound Machine’s greatest hits will have you up and dancing in the aisles in west suburban Oakbrook Terrace.
Court Theatre | Feb. 6 – March 8
This story of the confrontation between class, gender, and desire at the turn of the 20th century is as relevant today as when it was first written.
Citadel Theatre Company | Feb. 11 – March 15
This sharp, compelling drama explores the lengths we’ll go to protect our children, presented in north suburban Lake Forest.
Loyola Department of Fine and Performing Arts | Feb. 12 – 22
Shakespeare’s beloved farce exposes twisted love triangles during a strange night in a magical forest, presented at the Newhart Family Theatre.
Broadway In Chicago | March 4 – April 26
The blockbuster musical based on the epic saga of Founding Father Alexander Hamilton returns to Chicago’s CIBC Theatre.
Steppenwolf Theatre Company April 9 – May 31
This world premiere explores how grief, justice, sexuality, gender, history, and even pride become secondary in the wake of currency.
Broadway In Chicago | April 21 – May 3
This unforgettable tale of love, wealth, and tragedy brings the Roaring Twenties to life on the Cadillac Palace Theatre stage.
Goodman Theatre | June 9 – July 19
Emmy Award winner Megan Mullally stars in this musical comedy about a thawed Neanderthal who becomes a Broadway sensation.
Broadway In Chicago | Aug. 4 – 16
This play chronicles the romance of a couple from different worlds who share a lifetime of love, despite forces that threaten to pull them apart.
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.
Scan here to check out our list of free museum days in Chicago.
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