Schneider Deli opens a 1,750-square-foot Lincoln Park location on April 1st. If you’re looking for a new April bite in Chicago, Schneider Deli—run by Jake and Ariel Schneider—is opening a new 1,750-square-foot all-day deli in Lincoln Park on Wednesday, April 1, 2026. The space seats 41 (doubling the original capacity), features nostalgic pink interiors, and will serve classics like pastrami, latkes, bagel sandwiches, and a new “Hot Reuben.”
Enjoy a full game-day spread for just $19.95 beginning March 19. If April in Chicago has you looking for a lively spot to watch the tournament, Woodie’s Flat is running a game-day spread starting March 19, 2026, offering a $19.95 combo of wings, loaded pork fries, pretzels, chips, and salsa, and fries with dips, plus weekday happy hour specials during the tournament.
Experience some unforgettable performances in Chicago’s most exquisite venues. The beloved Candlelight series has curated an array of talented musicians who will perform in the city’s finest locations, all beautifully illuminated by hundreds of candles.
Crispy chicken served with churros and ancho syrup. If you’re catching a game (or just in the mood for ballpark bites), don’t miss this sweeter-savory addition to the Wrigley Field menu for 2026: crispy fried chicken thighs paired with golden brown churros, served with ancho syrup and fresh strawberries.
Italian-inspired Easter brunch with $25 bottomless mimosas. If you’re looking to add a festive meal to your April lineup, Olio e Piú is hosting an Italian-inspired Easter Sunday brunch on April 5 with one-day specials like Crispy Artichokes al Limone, Paccheri ai Frutti di Mare, and Chocolate Rice Pudding, plus Mascarpone French Toast and $25 bottomless mimosas.
Tucked-away lily pool and an art-deco café. For a low-key April outing in Chicago, stroll the restored Alfred Caldwell Lily Pool in Lincoln Park (reopening in spring), then pair your visit with coffee and pastries at nearby Café Deko’s 1920s-inspired space.
Hunt vintage treasures, then sip Twin Peaks–inspired coffee. For a laid-back April outing in Chicago, wander the vast Beyond Grandma’s House Vintage warehouse in Logan Square to hunt for clothing, furniture, and curios, then grab a Twin Peaks–inspired drink at nearby Damn Fine Coffee Bar.
Experience millions of tulips and Dutch heritage at Holland’s Tulip Time this May. If you’re ready to venture just outside the city after soaking up Chicago’s spring blooms, Holland, Michigan hosts the annual Tulip Time Festival each spring, featuring millions of tulips, parades, marching bands, Dutch dancers, fireworks, and a lineup of national and local entertainment.
The 2026 festival runs from April 30 to May 10, and the town is an easy drive (about 160 miles) from Chicago along the shore of Lake Macatawa.
Take in the spring flowers of Michigan Avenue
Every fall, Chicago plants tens of thousands of tulip bulbs in the medians of Michigan Avenue, stretching from Oak Street to Roosevelt Road.
In April, these bulbs bloom, creating a vibrant display of colorful tulips along the avenue. The sight of these flowers has become a hallmark of spring in Chicago, bringing joy and a sense of renewal to the city. Walking among this stunning spectacle is undoubtedly one of the best activities to enjoy in Chicago during April.
Catch the cherry blossoms bloom
If you love floral displays, one of the best things to do in Chicago in April is to see the cherry blossoms. The cherry blossom trees offer a stunning sight when they are in full bloom.
Typically, the sakura blossoms begin to bloom in the first two weeks of April. However, it can be unpredictable, as they may reach their peak bloom towards the end of the month. The delicate blossoms last only about a week or two, making this event a rare and beautiful sight, especially given that there are limited locations in the city to view them.
Welcome back the ART on THE MART projections
After several months without stunning art spectacles, Chicago is once again ready to enjoy these displays.
Following last year’s captivating presentations, ART on The MART is set to return. One of the best activities to experience in Chicago at the end of April is the Spring 2026 Program of ART on The MART. This event will bring life back to the 25-story-tall face of the Merchandise Mart.
If you’re looking for a family-friendly outing beyond the usual Chicago spring plans, this unique experience plunges you into the power and beauty of nature, from enchanted meadows to serene seascapes and kaleidoscopic crystal caves.
Step into Wondra, a breathtaking multisensory journey where curious minds uncover hidden details and dazzling colors. This unique experience plunges you into the power and beauty of nature, from enchanted meadows to serene seascapes and kaleidoscopic crystal caves.
