CONTENTS 2 6 WELCOME TO CHICAGO MEET DJ DUANE POWELL One of the city’s most prominent DJs offers his unique insight into Chicago’s house music culture. USE THE DIGITAL CHICAGO VISITORS GUIDE ON THE GO. 8 14 FESTIVALS & EVENTS TRENDING IN CHICAGO FIND TRANSIT INFORMATION TO HELP NAVIGATE CHICAGO. From major openings to landmark celebrations, Chicago’s 2026 calendar is packed. 16 DINE IN CHICAGO’S NEIGHBORHOODS Discover standout restaurants and hidden gems in eight of the city’s diverse neighborhoods. 20 22 24 28 32 CHICAGO LIKE A LOCAL CHICAGO PRIDE See our city through the eyes of a volunteer Chicago Greeter. Check out some of the city’s popular LGBTQ+-owned spots. OUTDOOR ADVENTURES Get outside and kayak the Chicago River, bike along the lakefront, and much more. TAKE A CHICAGO ARTSCATION FAMILY FUN GUIDE Explore the city’s unmatched treasure trove of museums, theatre, music, and dance. Kids of all ages will be thrilled with Chicago’s endless array of indoor and outdoor adventures. 34 CHICAGO SOUNDS Learn about the music and dance styles birthed in Chicago, along with tips on live music venues and fests. 36 SENSORY-FRIENDLY CHICAGO The city offers a variety of sensory-friendly experiences tailored for both children and adults. Get in the spirit with Chicago’s favorite fall and winter events. Pilsen mural Para Los Niños Con Sueños by Sentrock 38 42 HOLIDAY CHEER 2026 VISITORS GUIDE CHOOSECHICAGO.COM CHICAGO MAKERS & ARTISANS Meet six creative locals producing everything from classic baked goods to handcrafted bicycles. Accommodations Tours & attractions Food & beverage Things to do Transportation & accessibility Visiting Chicago starts at O’Hare and Midway International Airports CHOOSECHICAGO.COM GET SOCIAL WITH CHICAGO DISCOVER THE CITY THAT’S ON THE COVER A group snaps a quintessential Chicago selfie on North Avenue Beach with Lake Michigan and the stunning skyline as a backdrop. Photo by Choose Chicago/Kathleen Hinkel Photography. 49 52 58 61 62 The content in this guide is accurate at time of printing but is subject to change. For the most up-to-date information, go to choosechicago.com . @ChooseChicago 4 PHOTO CREDIT: KATHLEEN HINKEL PHOTOGRAPHY 44 RESOURCES
Chicago Visitors Guide 2026: Page 4
