In Chicago, magic isn’t just in the deep-dish pizza. It’s in the glimmer of The Bean, the city’s soaring skyline, even the river that turns green every St Paddy’s Day. But if you think the magic only lies in the city’s landmarks and food, ‘The Magic Gateway Chicago’ is here to prove otherwise. It’s a family-friendly magic show that brings the unbelievable to life right before your eyes. The little ones get to jump into the magic while the grown-ups get to soak it all in. And honestly, it’s hard to tell who’s left feeling more amazed — the adults or the kids.
What is The Magic Gateway?
It’s a 60-minute interactive magic show that’s designed to spark imaginations of all ages. To kick it all off, the magician opens a mystical neon portal to a world where magic knows no limits — and then the fun begins. Who knows what to expect when it comes to magic: levitating illusions, unbelievable vanishing acts, Houdini-inspired escape stunts? There might also blink-and-you-miss-it card and coin tricks alongside a performance where the magic maestro appears to read audience members’ minds.
There are family-friendly magic shows in Chicago, but few bring the kids into the fun quite like this one. Throughout the performance, the magician invites the young ones to hop on stage so that they can dabble in the world of magic themselves. It’s an interactive performance that keeps adults entertained while the little ones join the action. And with a few surprises up their sleeve, the witty magic maestro keeps the audience on the edge of their seats from start to finish.
Attendees must be aged 4 or over and be accompanied by an adult — because magic is way more fun when shared. Kids tickets start at $22 and adults at $28, with prices varying based on your seating choice.
FAQs
Is parking available nearby?
The Den Theatre has no on-site parking, but nearby paid lots and metered street spaces are available on Milwaukee Avenue and nearby streets. Parking can be reserved via apps like SpotHero or ParkWhiz for $6–$17. Limited free parking is on North Wood Street.
Can I take photos?
No, for the children’s safety, no photographs can be taken. It’s always best to be safe!

On selected dates over the coming months, ‘The Magic Gateway Chicago’ invites you and the little ones to step into a world where anything is possible. Get ready for some mind-boggling illusions, interactive surprises and plenty of laughs along the way.
There will be two shows on each day, with the first starting at 11am and the later one at 1pm. Each show takes place over the course of 60 minutes and doors usually open 30 minutes before the performance begins.
