Looking for things to do in Chicago this week? Or maybe you’re just looking for something to do today? Well, you’ve come to the right place. There’s so much to do, from concerts to new restaurants! Here are Secret Chicago’s picks for the very best things to do this week:
1. Watch the first shows of the Art on TheMART spring schedule
The largest permanent digital art projection in the world has begun illuminating Chicago’s riverwalk once again.
On Friday, April 12th ART on The MART fired up all 34 digital projectors for its Spring 2024 Program and is breathing life into the 25-story-tall face of the Merchandise Mart every night through June 5.
This spring, the program features a commission by internationally acclaimed artist Nora Turato alongside the Chicago Public Schools projections “made in conjunction with the All-City Visual Arts program and featuring artwork by CPS seniors.”
Read more about the Art on TheMART projections.
2. Take in the tulips of Michigan Avenue
In late April tens of thousands of tulips in the Michigan Avenue medians from Oak Street to Roosevelt Road spring forth filling the heart of Chicago with a kaleidoscopic sea of tulips.
The bulbs, which have become synonymous with spring in Chicago, have now begun blooming filling the air with spring cheer and offering a marvelous mid-week sight.
3. Walk through fields of tulips at Richardson Farm
If you can’t quite get another of that floral flamboyance and are craving an even larger tide of tulips, you’ll find just that at Richardson Farm’s annual Tulip Festival.
This year is the farm’s fourth annual tulip festival and millions of tulips have now pushed their way skyward prompting Richardson Farm to show their breathtaking ethereal elegance by opening earlier than usual.
Read more about Richardson Farm’s annual Tulip Festival.
4. Explore the Shedd Aquarium for free on Tuesday evening
Chicago’s beloved Shedd Aquarium is now offering free entry every Tuesday evening through July.
Illinois Residents can enjoy free admission to the aquarium on Tuesdays only from 5 p.m. through to 9 p.m.
All adults must provide proof of residency in person when redeeming tickets at the discounted rate. This can be a valid state ID or driver’s license with proof of Illinois residence.
Read more about free admission at the Shedd Aquarium.
5. Go boating again
With bridges opening and Chicago’s waterways defrosted, it’s time to once again enjoy the river and lake. Chicago Electric Boat Company, best known for its fleet of self-captained, eco-friendly vessels has reopened for spring and summer once again offering rentals and boat tours
From classic or luxury Duffy Boats to Party Barges, Cycleboats, Donut Boats, and now even rentable hot tub boats there are a variety of captained or self-captained options for any group sizes up to 26 people.
Read more about the Chicago Electric Boat Company.
6. Visit “Titanic: The Exhibition”
Talking of boats, an exhibition dedicated to the most famous ship to sail the seas has docked in Chicago. Titanic: The Exhibition dives 2 ½ miles below the Atlantic’s surface to uncover the liner’s captivating story like never before and offering guests the chance to walk across the promenade deck of the world-renowned ship.
The exhibit follows the ship’s journey from its design in 1908 to its recovery in 1985. You’ll see hundreds of real artifacts from the Titanic, her sister ships, and films capturing the emotional tale. As you touch a take in stunning photography of the Titanic and step across the ocean floor strewn with relics, you’ll feel like you’re walking through history.
Read more about Titanic: The Exhibition.