From NASCAR to Navy Pier: Chicago is Ready for Summer 2024

Welcome to Chicago, where once the calendar flips and the river warms, the city becomes the perfect backdrop for food, festivals and fun. You will never lack for something in which to indulge, whether it’s sunbathing on the beach, taking photos in front of the magnificent murals on 16 ^th Street, hanging out on Navy Pier or catching a show at the Chicago Theater. The Windy City has it all, and this July, a new tradition continues to gain traction by literally racing through the streets. And we’ve got the inside scoop.

Fourth of July: NASCAR’s Chicago Street Race Returns

Rev your engines and get ready for a heart-pounding experience as NASCAR returns to the streets of Chicago July 6-7, 2024 for an adrenaline-fueled spectacle unlike anything you’ve ever seen! Definitely not the traditional racetrack; this street race transforms the city into a high-speed battleground, weaving through iconic Chicago landmarks and its skyscraper-lined avenues.

Imagine the thrill of witnessing roaring engines driving through the Loop, navigating hairpin turns around the same downtown blocks you were just shopping on days before. It’s a one-of-a-kind event that combines the raw power of NASCAR with the electric energy of Chicago’s world-class culture, food and entertainment. From the iconic Magnificent Mile to the historic Grant Park, every corner promises a new rush of excitement.

Just named Sports Business Journal’s ‘Event of the Year’ for 2023, NASCAR’s Chicago Street Race offers a range of ticket options that include reserved seating, amazing hospitality clubs and even open fields with trackside views and access to the Main Concert Stage. Whether you’re a die-hard NASCAR fan or simply seeking an unforgettable new experience, this street race is not to be missed! Visit www.nascarchicago.com/ for details.

Navy Pier: Time to ‘Ship One of the City’s Greatest Treasures

As one of Chicago’s greatest tourist attractions, Navy Pier brings a lot to the table. Annually, the Pier hosts close to 10 million visitors, with attractions that range from Centennial Wheel to Chicago’s FunHouse Maze. In fact, NASCAR and the Navy Pier collaborate frequently, with the racing giant hosting free esports events to give fans and visitors a chance to virtually experience races from a driver’s point of view. And food? Yes, please! The dining options are plentiful, with restaurants located inside Offshore, the largest rooftop venue in the country, highlighting the rich culinary tradition of Chicago.

Virtual Rush: Chicago breaks all dimensional barriers with its 4D VR capabilities. The adventure takes riders on a rollicking voyage through a futuristic Chitown landscape. And while you’re by the water, make sure to absorb the culture of the pier by taking one of the many cruises on the ships Mystic Blue or Spirit of Chicago. It’s a good time.

Have Murals, Do Travel

If you’re here during the summer, one of the must-see attractions are the magnificent murals that brighten the city landscape. The city is a canvas, with thousands of square feet of street art taking up space on buildings, trains and bridges. Each piece tells its own story, with acclaimed artists and painters adding strokes of genius to the Windy City’s neighborhoods, from Logan Square to Humboldt Park. There are miles of murals in Rogers Park alone, with over 14,000 square feet of art all over the neighborhood.

Bubba's Block Party, Fueled by Blavity: A Celebration of Culture, Community and Cuisine

Picture yourself arriving to the sight of food trucks dishing out a tantalizing array of culinary delights. From savory BBQ ribs to spicy jerk chicken, each bite is a journey through Chicago’s diverse food scene.

But it’s not just about the food – Bubba’s Block Party, Fueled by Blavity , a nationwide community initiative hosted by NASCAR & 23XI Racing driver Bubba Wallace, is also a feast for the senses with racing simulators and live pit stop demonstrations by Wallace’s No. 23 pit crew. You can also enjoy a live music performance by Chicago legend Twista as he fills the air with all the rapid-fire rhymes in his repertoire. Dance to the rhythm of jazz, blues and hip-hop on Friday, July 5 from 5-9 p.m. as DJ’s take the stage at Douglass Park, showcasing the soulful sounds of the city. Bubba’s Block Party is set to be an experience you won’t soon forget. So register for the FREE event now, since there will be limited capacity.

So, mark your calendars and pack your bags for an unforgettable summer in Chicago! The Windy City is ready to welcome you with open arms and endless adventures as you dive deep into the city’s rich history.