Chicago has many unique experiences, but there’s nothing quite like enjoying it with one of your friends. So we just had to put together a list of a few of our favorite happenings this fall that’s perfect to pair up with your BFF, whether you’re in the mood to book a spa day, want to check out one of the most fabulous restaurants in the city or plan on making an appearance at one of the many stylish events during Chicago’s fashion week this October. Keep scrolling for our list of the top things to do with your best friend in Chicago! Who’s ready for a night out with your nearest and dearest?
1. Visit this retro-futuristic painting pop-up
Grab your closest friends and your paintbrushes for a unique night out. Neon Brush is a fun painting workshop with a twist—you’ll be in the dark. Thanks to fluorescent lighting, your artistic masterpieces will light up as you sip on delicious cocktails throughout the night. We can’t think of a more fun night out!
📅 9/21, 9/22, 10/19, 10/20, 10/26, 10/27, 11/23, 11/24
📍 Virgin Hotels Chicago
🎟️ Tickets: $37 per person—grab them here!
2. Have a luxurious spa day
Booking a spa day with friends is hands-down one of our favorite ways to unwind and relax! It makes us feel like we’re on vacation, even if it’s only for the day since many of the city’s top spas can be found in some of our favorite hotels with incredible views. You and your friends can enjoy the most relaxing treatments from facials and massages to manis, and pedis. One of our favorite parts is visiting the steam rooms or saunas before or after our treatments.
If you want to splurge, check out AIRE Ancient Baths for an incredible treatment. Plan to soak in their several thermal baths inspired by ancient civilizations in various temperatures in a historic candlelit former factory.
If we don’t want to break the bank, we head to The NOW Massage for an affordable yet uniquely designed spa experience that rivals high-end, exclusive day spas. The soothing decor and relaxing sound of waves crashing always transports us straight to Tulum, making it the perfect escape without leaving the city.
Check out our favorite spas all over the city here!
3. See Sage Barnes’ Reflections exhibit
Check out artist Sage Barnes’ Reflections exhibit at Arlo’s Living Room Gallery in Arlo Chicago. Known for blending abstract and street art, Sage has recently unveiled his Blooms series in collaboration with Square One Gallery and art curator Jasmine Arakel. His works feature beautifully intricate resin layering, creating a unique sense of depth and weightlessness. Don’t miss the opportunity to experience these latest works of art.
📅 Until December 2024
📍 Arlo Chicago
🎟️ Open to the public – guests can scan the QR code for more info and to purchase art!
4. Get nostalgic for Bridgerton at this themed Candlelight experience
Dearest gentle reader,
The top-rated Candlelight Concert series is preparing a concert dedicated to the iconic soundtrack of Netflix’s highly successful show, Bridgerton! The Stan Mansion will be transformed, surrounding you with hundreds of candles, setting the stage for an incredible string quartet to perform modern songs in Regency-era style like ‘Thank U, Next’ by Ariana Grande, ‘Cheap Thrills’ by Sia, and ‘Give Me Everything’ by Pitbull.
📅 11/01 and 11/20
📍 Stan Mansion
🎟️ Tickets: $50.50 to $70.50
5. Catch a concert featuring your favorite artist
Chicago’s music scene? It’s seriously one of the best. Whether you’re into rock, hip-hop, or anything in between—there’s always something for everyone to enjoy.
Here’s some of the popular artists coming to Chicago this fall!
Keith Sweat
📅September 13
📍Arie Crown Theater
Hans Zimmer
📅September 22, 2024
📍United Center
Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons
📅Saturday, October 12
📍Rosemont Theatre
Sabrina Carpenter | Short n’ Sweet Tour
📅October 13, 2024
📍United Center
Sting
📅Monday, October 28, Tuesday, October 29, Friday, November 1
📍Auditorium Theatre
See more concerts to check out in Chicago for the month of September here!
6. Indulge in a delicious meal at one of Chicago’s top restaurants
Something we often hear from friends who’ve moved away is how much they miss the incredible food scene here. And honestly, as Chicagoans, we get it! We can’t think of anything better than snagging a reservation at one of the city’s most coveted restaurants, trying new menu items, or exploring that ‘secret’ spot everyone’s been raving about with your best friend.
For the ultimate ‘girl dinner,’ head to the West Loop’s Bar La Rue for martinis, fondue, fries with aioli sauce, lobster rolls, and Caesar salads.
Looking to try the new 8-course menu Roop at the progressive Indian Restaurant ROOH, then don’t miss out! This $95 per person meal is as beautiful as it is delicious with standouts with rich, delicious flavors like the Rogan Josh with smoked yogurt, papaya, and rice.
Visit one of the most beautiful restaurants in Chicago!
7. Get excited for Chicago Fashion Week
Chicago is getting its very own fashion week, running from Oct. 9-20, with 50+ events like fashion shows, presentations, gala celebrations, retail marketplaces, and more—with many of the events being free with advance registration and open to the public! So grab your group of friends and start planning for a fashionable fall.
“For Chicago Fashion Week, we want the programming and events to reflect the diversity of Chicago. By inviting Chicago-specific brands, organizations, and designers to submit their events to be included in the Chicago Fashion Week calendar, we will promote the thriving local fashion industry,” said John Leydon, producer of Chicago Fashion Week.
Learn more, see the schedule, and stay in the loop at www.chicagofashionweek.com!