Not sure about what to do in Chicago at night?
You’re not alone. A lot of us have the same problem. And luckily, after some research, we’ve found some fantastic activities you can do and attractions that are worth visiting.
Chicago, America’s midwest metropolis and a truly world-class city, is well-known for house music, dining, shopping, comedies, electronic dance with music like jazz and blues, cultural attractions, beautiful architecture, and beer.
Beer thirst is being quenched in Chicago. With some of the country’s Chicago, it has undoubtedly established itself as one of the top beer cities.
As impressive as Chicago is in the light of day, the city is more exquisite at night.
You’ll be surprised to know that the real meaning of Chicago can only be found at night. Besides the astounding sights and the profoundly beautiful neighborhoods to explore, there are tons of other enjoyable activities that will catch your eye in Chicago at night.
#1: Night Helicopter Tours
Catch a glimpse of the city at night like a soaring bird.
During the 20 minutes ride on the night helicopter tour, you’ll get a chance to listen to some great commentary from your pilots as you fly oversights like Lincoln Park, Willis Tower, Shedd Aquarium, and Millennium Park.
You’ll also love the panoramic view of Lake Michigan shoreline from the top as the city flops out below you. Also, the magnificent architecture of Millennium Park, designed by Frank Gehry, will keep you captivated throughout the whole flight.
It’s no doubt that you’ll be astonished by the beauty of it all. These landmarks can only be enjoyed and appreciated on air, especially during nights when there’s a relaxation of mind after having a rough day.
Even better, you can take your loved one to accompany you through your night adventure. Rest assured, and they’ll live to thank you for bringing them along.
#2: Cheering A Sports Team
Whether beginning, end-year, or somewhere in between, there’s always a top game going down in the city after sunset.
You can be part of the cheering squad as you watch the Blackhawks bring it down at the United Centre—Chicagoans call it bringing down the dusk in style—or enjoy Chicago Bears play at Soldier Field.
#3: Electric Bikes At Night
Start cycling your bike along the city’s majestic lakefront as the sun goes down.
You can cycle through the engaging River North and Rush Street district, and make a stop along the beautiful Chicago River to view the city’s impressive skyscrapers.
On top of that, as you cycle through, you’ll get a fantastic view of the horizon from the North Avenue Beach to the Gold Coast and the Original Playboy Mansion on your south.
Using your electric bike, you can also jaunt under the El-tracks into the loop and experience the Bean and Crown Fountain, not to mention the razzle-dazzle light show.
There’s more!
You can enjoy the fireworks exhibition from Navy Pier on Wednesday and Saturday nights. Make your night a special one by visiting Chicago at any time of the year, and enjoy viewing the city without breaking a sweat.
#4: The Violet Hour
Violet Hour is a must-visit.
It’s primarily known as one of the coolest cocktail bars in Chicago. It’s a unique place where you can enjoy having a drink or two while chatting with your loved one. One should book a reservation beforehand at the Violet Hour because it delivers services on a first-come, first-serve basis.
#5: Nightclubs
If you’re a fan of nightclubs and looking to have a good time, you can’t get it wrong in Chicago.
There are several high-end nightclubs where you’ll enjoy doing all sorts of wild things that you’ve always yearned doing in the beautiful city of Chicago.
From the impressive dance floors in the Primary Nightclub, the electro styles of the Smartbar, to other high-end clubs like The Mid or The Underground, Chicago is home to many respected nightclubs that you’ll not regret visiting.
#6: For the Drinkers
If you love drinking, Chicago Prohibition Tours are what you need!
Chicagoans call it “A Sip of History.”
They take you on a bus to different Prohibition Era speakeasies where you get to know about the story of one of the most turbulent times in American history. And the best part is that you get to drink several samples.
The tours start at 4 pm, but they wrap up by 7.30 pm; this way, it counts as a night activity since you are still at a local bar after the sun goes down.
If you’re trying to find a place where you can mix and mingle with both out-of-towners and locals, then look no further than the Redhead Piano Bar.
This famous nightspot has top-shelf booze, cigars, live music, and a cool Golden Age of Hollywood décor. This is a great place to spend your evening time since they’re open till 4 am.
#7: Willis Tower Skydeck
Get a fantastic view of Chicago from the top of the tallest tower in the Western Hemisphere.
The world-famous Sears Tower’s (now called the Willis Tower) Skydeck offers you the chance to survey the entire city during the day. At night, it is easily one of the most incredible vistas of Chicago’s lights.
#8: 360 Chicago View
The 360 Chicago observation deck is placed a thousand feet above the Magnificent Mile in the spectacular John Hancock Building. It provides a superb 360 degrees view of Chicago’s skyline and Lake Michigan Avenue from the 94th floor.
You’ll get to learn about the city’s history, get a comprehensive view of the fantastic neighborhoods, and the beautiful architecture. Furthermore, it includes traditional restaurants and bars where you can have a glass of wine while savoring the breathtaking city features.
360 Chicago is hands down one of the most unforgettable experiences you’ll have in Chicago at night. Subject yourself to little vertigo on the ledge, a glass terrace jutting out from the side of the building. Here, you can look straight down to the sidewalk 1,353 feet below your feet.
#9: Best Diner Options
After getting a glimpse of the skyline from 360 Chicago, it’s time to grab some dinner and beverages at the Signature Lounge on the 96th floor. It offers the same breathtaking views, but with food and drinks.
If you’re a rock n’ roll fan and looking for a place where you can listen to your favorite music while having dinner and drinks with your friends and family, look no further than the Hard Rock Café.
It is decorated with guitars and other memorabilia of some of the greatest artists of the last 50 years. They also feature live music each week, including karaoke nights with a live band.
Come in, grab some food, drink, and play out your rock star fantasy.
However, if you want more than just food, several dining experiences incorporate entertainment like medieval times show or interactive detective play. If you’re lucky, you could see some major productions like Aladdin as well.
Alternatively, you can check out venues like the Chicago Symphony Orchestra and Auditorium Theatre for various shows.
#10: Walking Along the River
The Chicago Riverwalk is easily one of the best gems of Chicago downtown. If you’re looking for a romantic spot to have some fun with your loved one and keep the night engaged in the shining Chicago city, you can find it Riverwalk.
From State to Lake Street, you can stroll through 6 different blocks separated by overhead bridges along the river any time of the night. It will be an unforgettable night time experience of your life.
#11: Visiting Adler After Dark
Well, first thing first, you have to be at least 21 years old to enjoy the Tuesday night shows and exhibits at Adler Planetarium.
There are various guests and lectures go down here each month that you’d surely love to be part of. It’s the ideal date night that your girlfriend has always been wishing for. With a bunch of cocktails, mouthwatering snacks, and beverages to add flavor your date night, you would not find better nighttime anywhere else.
#12: Laugh at a Comedy
Chicago has been known for producing some of the world’s biggest names in comedy, like Stephen Colbert, Steve Carell, Amy Poehler, Seth Meyers, and Melissa McCarthy, among many others.
It wouldn’t be wise to leave Chicago without visiting a night comedy show either at the UP Comedy Club or Second City.
Don’t worry; they all offer pocket-friendly tickets to ensure that you get nothing less than an engaging, fun night.
You may sometimes even be lucky enough to enjoy one of your favorite celebrities on a live performance.
#13: The Blue Man Group
You can also be part of an entertainment haven at the Blue Man Group, where music, humor, and technology are all put together to produce an electrifying experience that will leave you speechless and captured for the better part of the night.
The entertainment haven is situated conveniently at 3313 N on the Briar Street Theatre and has been hosting hundreds of amazing nights for family and friends for more than 25 years.
Wrapping Up
Chicago is a buzzing city with a variety of amazing things to experience after the sunset. No matter where you visit, you will find many cool things to do in Chicago at any time of the year, whether you’re alone or with a group of friends.
However, if you’re going solo, theater shows and concerts can be significant solo events, and so the walking tours.
Going to bars alone can be a bit awkward since it’s not always easy to meet and befriend strangers. But, there are places like the Green Mill that could be your best bet for a solo late-night adventure.
Furthermore, be on the lookout for summer street festivals.
Many of the neighborhoods across the city have weekend street fairs with live music and food going well into the night. Some of the best street fests include Wicker Park Fest, Taste of Randolph, Do Division Street Fest, Roscoe Village Burger Fest, Midsommarfest, Wells Street Art Festival, and Market Days. Also, let’s not forget about the big Lollapalooza festival each August.
So, these are some of the best things you can do in Chicago at night.
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