Chicago is proof that the fun doesn’t have to stop when the sun goes down. The largest city of Illinois is known for its diverse nightlife, boasting some amazing plans and locations, from live music venues and nightclubs to comedy clubs, and even the opportunity to spend the night at a museum. For all you night owls out there, here is a list of things to do at night in Chicago.
1. Stroll Navy Pier and Ride the Centennial Wheel
One of the best things to do at night in the city is take in the spectacular views of the skyline and the waterfront. Particularly in the summer, when a fireworks display is held on Wednesday and Saturday nights through Labor Day weekend. For an added touch of romance, there’s always the Centennial Wheel that offers 360-degree views of the city and Lake Michigan.
2. Visit Doane Observatory
Science enthusiasts or anyone that likes to look at cool things should head to the Adler Planetarium’s Doane Observatory. It allows you to see celestial objects that are trillions of miles away. The fascinating spot is located to the east of the main building, right next to the shores of Lake Michigan and generally closes at 10pm.
3. Take a night boat tour
Another great activity is getting to know the city and its storied past at a thrilling night boat tour. And there’s plenty to choose from, from the Chicago River Architecture Tour to Shoreline Sightseeing or Creepy Cruises at First Lady. These guided tours typically depart rain or shine so you don’t have to leave it up to the weather gods to enjoy your evening.
4. Grab a drink at a bar
Even though it’s not the most original plan, for most adults, grabbing a drink with friends at one of the city’s coolest bars is always a beloved night time activity. And we get it. After all, Chicago is home to amazing spots that open until late, like Delilah’s, Rainbo Club, Nine Bar or Osito’s Tap. These locations offer refreshing cocktails, fresh brews and small bites to satisfy your cravings.
5. Attend a mesmerizing Candlelight concert
Say you’re on the hunt for something intimate to share with your closest friends, or a romantic date idea in a dimly lit setting to woo your prospective or long-time partner. Well, these upcoming Candlelight concerts make for sensational evening plans. Paying tribute to some of music’s biggest stars like Queen, Taylor Swift and Vivaldi, they light up Chicago’s premier venues with thousands of twinkling candles.
See more: Explore electrifying plans and activities for music lovers in Chicago
6. Dance the night away at an electric club
Why not show off your moves at a vibrant nightclub? There is Beauty Bar in West Town for house, post-punk, ’60s music and more. Another popular place is Sound Bar, a River North upscale nightclub that features incredible local DJs and beyond. Additionally, Prysm in Lincoln Park offers two dance floors and three cocktail bars so you can choose what music to listen to depending on your mood. But the list is endless…
7. Enjoy a late-night meal at a 24-hour restaurant
Whether it’s after a night of hitting the bars or you get late off of work, some highlights open 24/ include Maxwell Street Depot that serves Chicago-style hot dogs & burgers all day (and night) long, Chavas Tacos El Original that dishes out warm food for the soul, and Diner Grill which offers pancakes, friend chicken and all your diner favorites.
What’s more, if you are looking for a dinner and a show, Blue Chicago, Bordel and Andy’s Jazz Club & Restaurant are amazing places for late dinners and wonderful performances.
8. Spend the night at a Chicago museum
One of the coolest things to do at night in Chicago is have an entire museum to yourself—well, almost entirely. Especially if you have kids who are curious in nature, they can explore the city’s fascinating exhibitions with their pajamas on thanks to these next programs. For instance, at Bunking with the Butterflies at the Nature Museum, participants can sleep within certain exhibits and explore the many facets of life.
Another great event for your little ones is Science Snoozeum at the Griffin Museum of Science and Industry, where guests scavenger hunt and take a Coal Mine or U-505 tour, among other activities. In addition, families and groups with kids ages six to twelve can live their full Indiana Jones fantasy at Dozin’ with the Dinos at the Field Museum.
9. Catch a late-night show
Windy City is renowned for its theater community boasting industry-leading institutions and a wide array of productions. A good evening plan is hitting up one of its famed comedy clubs, such as Second City, The Revival, The Comedy Clubhouse and The Den Theatre. Theater kids, don’t sleep on Chicago’s Broadway and go see SAVOR After Hours at the Broadway Playhouse At Water Tower Place, Kimberly Akimbo and The Book of Mormon at CIBC Theatre, just to name a few.
10. Embrace the spooky at a ghost tour
The Original Chicago Hauntings Ghost Tour and The Chicago Gangsters and Ghosts Tours are just a couple of examples that offer guided walks. Now, these tours might both interest you and make your skin crawl as they take you to the city’s most haunted places, including the location of the tragic Eastland disaster.
11. Enjoy a concert at a live music venue
Last on our list of night activities is catching a live gig at one of Chicago’s many live music venues. From The Vic and The Riviera Theatre to the legendary House of Blues, these stages have quite a few stories to tell. And they offer weekly shows, hosting some of the greatest local and international talent so you’ll be in good hands.
