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Shedd Aquarium

Chicago Comes to Life at Night

Whatever you’re looking to experience, you’ll find it here.

Chicago has some of the nation’s best restaurants, a deep-rooted history of jazz and blues music, and a diverse theatre and comedy scene that’s full of talent.

Enthusiasts will love the city's famed Chicago comedy clubs like Second City and Zanies for laughter-filled evenings. For the best bars in Chicago, there’s a wide range of historic taverns, speakeasies, dives, chic rooftop lounges, and cocktail focused spots all around the city.

Add to that a thriving LGBTQ community that invites everyone to enjoy some fierce drag performances and epic dance parties, and you have a city that really comes to life after hours.

View of the lake and Chicago skyline at night

Chicago Neighborhoods

Trip Idea

Explore the best of Chicago by neighborhood. Museums, dining, shopping, nightlife and everything in between.

Chicago Music Scene

Artists performing at night at Ravinia festival

A Music Scene That Rocks

Whether you love hip-hop, blues, country, jazz or a mash-up of it all, Illinois plays your tune at music festivals, restored theaters and intimate lounges.

A Music Scene That Rocks A Music Scene That Rocks
Patrons dancing on a lit up dance floor

Best Dance Clubs in Chicago

Our picks for some of the best places to let loose and get down at some of the best dance clubs in Chicago.

Best Dance Clubs in Chicago Best Dance Clubs in Chicago

Things To Do

Martini glasses on the counter at a swanky speakeasy

Bars & Night Clubs

Rooftop Bars & Patios Rooftop Bars & Patios
Family sitting on bridge stairs

LGBTQ

LGBTQ+ Family Weekend LGBTQ+ Family Weekend
The exterior of a restaurant

Places to Eat

Chicago-Style Pizza Chicago-Style Pizza
A band plays in a dimly lit room in the green mill speakeasy

Music

Celebrating Chicago Music Celebrating Chicago Music

Chicago Nightlife Inspiration

A photo showing the interior of the Oriental Theatre.

Chicago Theatre Week

Arts & Culture

Every year, Chicago Theatre Week offers deals on Chicago theatre. Read our guide to a budget-friendly getaway to see live performances on a budget.

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