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Music Box Theatre To Undergo Major Renovation For Its 95th Anniversary
Music Box Theatre, one of Chicago’s most iconic movie theaters, is getting a makeover later this year for its 95th birthday. The independent two-screen cinema located at 3733 N. Southport in Wrigleyville opened back in August of 1929 just months before The Great Depression. Since that day the historic movie theater has grown to become a cherished landmark and one of Chicago’s go-to venues for independent, foreign, and classic films. The many years of entertaining cinephiles have now “taken their toll on the space”, according to the Movie Box Theatre release, and it will consequently undergo around 3 weeks of facility upgrades later this summer which it has named the Music Box: Revive at 95 project. “As our birthday approaches, we’re embarking on a major revitalization of our main 740-seat auditorium, to keep the Music Box a community institution long into the future, announced Music Box Theatre this week. “Have no fear…we might be getting some work done, but we’ll still be the same Music Box you know and love.”
London’s Acclaimed Steakhouse Is Coming To Chicago This Summer
One of London’s most popular restaurants, Hawksmoor, is set to open in Chicago’s River North neighborhood this summer. Hawksmoor is renowned as one of the best steakhouses globally, consistently ranking in the World’s 101 Best Steak Restaurants for five years in a row. It’s a rare achievement that only a few restaurants in the world hold. Chicago will be the twelfth location for Hawksmoor worldwide and the second in the U.S. The restaurant will be located at the three-story LaSalle Street Cable Car Powerhouse, which was previously the location of Michael Jordan’s Restaurant. The 16,500-square-foot space at 500 N. LaSalle Street dates back...
Chicago’s 20th World Naked Bike Ride To Take Place Later This Month
For all of Chicago’s wonderful summer experiences, living in such a thriving metropolis means that we’re also known to throw a few curveballs when it comes to the city’s busy summer events calendar. Later this month, one such large-scale leftfield event returns for its 20th anniversary in the form of the famous bare-as-you-dare World Naked Bike Ride (WNBR). Taking place on Saturday, June 29th, 2024, the 20th annual World Naked Bike Ride in Chicago once again celebrates “freedom from oil, and the beauty of people” while highlighting “the vulnerability of cyclists everywhere”. “Even when clothed we cyclists are virtually naked exposed to the dangers and pollution imposed by cars” reads the WNBR Chicago event page. “By cycling naked we show our confidence in the beauty and individuality of our bodies and the bicycle’s place as a catalyst for change to a future of ecologically responsible transport and healthy and humane communities.”
A Chicago Street Has Been Voted One Of The World’s Most Beautiful Streets By Condé Nast Traveler
Having named Chicago the best big city in the United States towards the end of 2023, and soon after that placed four different Chicago hotels in the top 50 on the planet, now Condé Nast Traveler is heaping more praise on the City of Chicago. This time it was in Condé Nast Traveler’s annual roundup of the world’s most spectacular streets, avenues, and boulevards. With the astounding architectural diversity in Chicago, there are many that could have made the cut, ranging from tree-lined boulevards to famed State Street or the Magnificent Mile. It was, however, Chicago’s iconic 18-mile Lake Shore Drive, renamed in honor of Jean Baptiste Point DuSable in 2021 which made the list.
The Art Institute Of Chicago Is Offering Free Admission On Thursday Evenings Starting This Week
The Art Institute of Chicago is adding to the list of free museum admission days in Chicago by offering free admission every Thursday evening starting this week. Having opened back in 1879, the Institute is today one of the world’s oldest and largest art museums with over 300,000 works of art including historic masterpieces by Grant Wood, Edward Hopper, Vincent van Gogh, Pablo Picasso, and many others making it an essential Chicago bucket list experience. Entry to the iconic museum is usually $27 for Adult Illinois residents and $20 for Adult Chicago residents but from Thursday evening of this week (June 6th) and every Thursday evening through to the end of August, those fees will be dropped. Illinois residents will be able to admire the historic masterpieces for free between 5 p.m. and 8 p.m. on 14 different dates adding to the array of incredible summer experiences in Chicago.
The Chicago Air & Water Show Has Been Moved Forward This Year
Having first debuted back in the summer of 1959, the Chicago Air and Water Show is today the largest free show of its kind in the United States. One of the most popular summer experiences in Chicago, the two-day event sees millions line up along North Avenue Beach and the Lakefront to watch incredible aeronautic spectacles performed by both civilian and military pilots. The show usually take place across Saturday and Sunday on the third weekend of August every year but this coming summer we’ll be treated to the exhibition of daredevil feats a little earlier. With Chicago hosting the Democratic National Convention at the United Center and McCormick Place from August 19th through August 22nd this year, the Air and Water Show has been forward a week and will instead take place on Saturday, August 10th, and Sunday, August 11th. The U.S. Navy Blue Angels will again coheadline this year’s Chicago Air & Water Show along with the Royal Air Force Red Arrows and the U.S. Army Parachute Team Golden Knights.
The Hamptons of the Midwest: Picturesque Towns Only 1 Hour From Chicago
City life in the summer has its perks—nightclubs open to the crack of dawn, 2 a.m. pizza delivery, and dining at rooftop restaurants as the glimmering skyline winks. Albeit, it has its displeasures too: the crowded streets, the drilling overtones of perennial construction, and steamy, congested apartments—to name a few. It seems impossible to escape sometimes, and maybe it’s just us, but it’s also the time of year when we become rankled at New Yorkers finding sanctuary in the Hamptons. Well, when we used to be rankled. We’re going to let you in on a secret—Chicago actually has its own romantic and bucolic destination: Harbor Country, haphazardly labeled, “The Hamptons of the Midwest.” Harbor Country is a region in Southwestern Michigan. It’s a favored weekend getaway destination for those looking to relish in a tranquil retreat with beaches, bed and breakfasts, and wineries.
For One Night Only: Billy Joel and Stevie Nicks Will Perform Together In Chicago
Summer is just getting started, which means a plethora of musicians will be gracing Chicago’s outdoor music stages, from Grant Park to Soldier Field, as long as the sun is beaming and the air is thick with heat. However, there is one event that is destined to scintillate. Billy Joel and Stevie Nicks will be performing together for the first time in the city on June 21 at Soldier Field, Chicago’s largest venue. This exclusive one-night-only sui generis concert will feature a double bill with both artists headlining. Social media has been buzzing about the event, and it’s a rare opportunity to...
Chicago’s Free 4-Day Celebration Of House Music Kicks Off Tomorrow
With festivals and events coming thick and fast now that we approach summer in Chicago, this weekend an extra special celebration will take place, paying homage to the birth of house music. The free 4-day celebration of the genre’s 40th anniversary, which was announced by Chicago’s Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events last month, commences tomorrow and culminates with the Chicago House Music Festival in Millennium Park this coming Sunday. Marking four decades since the popular genre was born in Chicago back in 1984, the celebrations kick off with a Chicago Cultural Center Open House from 4 p.m. until 8 p.m. tomorrow, Thursday, May 30th followed by a Chicago House Music Conference at the Chicago Cultural Center from 5 p.m. until 10 p.m. on Friday, May 31st. DJs spinning will be spinning house music throughout the historical building tomorrow while free arts programming and new visual art exhibitions will be taking place throughout the evening.
Lollapalooza Announces 2024 Aftershows With TV Girl, Raye, Vince Staples, And More
With just over two months until Lollapalooza, fans have eagerly awaited the Lollapalooza 2024 aftershows lineup. However, as of today, the wait is officially over. While Lollapalooza boasts a star-studded lineup for the 2024 festival, featuring the likes of Tyler The Creator, SZA, Hozier, Future x Metro Boomin, Stray Kids, The Killers, Blink-182, and Skrillex, we can’t help but be drawn to the exclusivity of the Lollapalooza 2024 aftershows. If you’re not inclined to invest in the festival tickets, the aftershows offer a unique and appealing alternative. Lollapalooza 2024 will feature a lineup of exciting aftershows, including Benson Boone, Blondshell, Blu DeTiger, Chappell Roan, Dillon Francis x Valentino Khan, Ethel Cain, Faye Webster, Geese, The Japanese House, Kesha, Friko, Killer Mike, Labrinth, The Last Dinner Party, Raye, Tate McRae, Teezo Touchdown, Two Door Cinema Club, Tyla, and Vince Staples, among others. Over 20 beloved music venues are participating this year, each offering a unique experience. The first show kicks off on Tuesday, July 30, and the last on Sunday. We’re particularly excited about the Two Door Cinema Club at The Metro, Labrinth at the Salt Shed, and the Chicago indie rock duo Friko at Lincoln Hall.
6 Chicago Steakhouses Have Been Voted In The Top 101 In The World
With a thriving culinary scene like Chicago’s, it doesn’t come as a huge surprise when our prized establishments make it into lists of the very best in the country, or in some cases, the world. Only last week one Chicago restaurant was named in the World’s 100 Best Restaurants and going back to last year a Chicago pizzeria ranked among the best pizzerias in the world and a Chicago diner was deemed home of the fourth best burger on the planet. While all those mentions were for singular shoutouts with Chicago appearing just once in each ranking, when it comes to steaks it seems Chicago has outdone itself. In a recent ranking of the best steakhouses in the world, Chicago establishments appeared not once, not twice, but 6 times in the top 101.
Maggie Daley Park’s Climbing Park Has Reopened For Summer
Whether in the ice and snow of winter or the sunshine of summer, Maggie Daley Park offers a year-round Chicago bucket list experience. During winter, the park’s quarter-mile winding skating ribbon becomes an ice rink offering an “alpine in the city” adventure and one of Chicago’s most beloved winter-time activities. In summer, this ribbon instead opens as a scooter and rollerblade path providing the public with the same exhilarating experience, minus the ice. What makes it all extra special, however, is that within the winding ribbon sits the City of Chicago’s first and only outdoor Climbing Park. Made up of custom-designed sculptural rocks and boulders, the park is situated over a total area of 19,000 square feet and reaches up to 40 feet in the air.
The Famous Home Alone House Located Just 16 Miles From Downtown Chicago Is Up For Sale
Chicago’s relationship with television and movies requires no rhapsody. From The Bear to Batman, countless popular TV series and hit movies have been filmed all across the city. There’s one place, however, that is instantly recognizable for its role in one of the most iconic movies of all time. Located just 16 miles north of downtown Chicago, few façades are as iconic as that of 671 N. Lincoln Ave in Winnetka. The expansive home has become a household source of nostalgia for being the residence of the McAllister family in the 1990 movie Home Alone, and now the home a young Macauley Caulkin famously defended from the Wet Bandits is officially up for sale. In recent years the 9,000-square-foot Georgian house was listed on Airbnb as part of the company’s new Icons experience which invites guests to stay in iconic homes from movies, music, art, and more.
Windy City Smokeout, Chicago Summertime Festival, Unveils Smokin’ Pitmaster Line-Up
Windy City Smokeout, the nation’s premier outdoor country music and BBQ festival, is returning to Chicago’s iconic United Center venue this summer, from July 11-14, 2024. The festival, which won the Academy of Country Music Awards “Festival of the Year” in 2022, will feature a tremendous lineup featuring some of country music’s most prominent names and up-and-coming talents. Attendees can also enjoy the best BBQ and craft beer nationwide. Get ready for an unforgettable experience at the eleventh edition of Windy City Smokeout! Our headline performances feature eight-time GRAMMY award winner Carrie Underwood, CMA award winner Cody Johnson, CMA nominee and ACM’s 2022 New Male Artist of the Year Parker McCollum, and five-time GRAMMY award nominee Thomas Rhett. Curated by Chicago’s own Lettuce Entertain You, the festival showcases nearly 30 of the world’s best pitmasters, including six new teams. Throughout the music-filled weekend, the barbecue styles are offered in a mouthwatering array.
The Iconic Randolph Street Market Returns This Weekend, Celebrating 21 Years
With Memorial Day Weekend, the 2024 summer season officially begins, and we’re looking forward to one thing in particular: the Randolph Street Market Festival. America’s largest and liveliest Urban Antiques Market will kick off its iconic 21st annual festival season with a “Garden Party” market from Saturday, May 25, through Sunday, May 26. The festival will unite 175 independent antique and vintage dealers and fashion, furniture, and craft designers. Visitors can look forward to a thoughtfully curated collection of high-quality antiques, vintage, and modern items, such as fashion, art, jewelry, home decor, retro furnishings, and goods from around the world. Throughout the weekend, attendees can enjoy live musical performances, unique food vendors, cocktails, and more. Tickets are available for purchase here and include early bird pricing and various packages and specials. Attendees of all ages can shop vintage Gucci, scout for a stunning painting, hunt for an antique bar cart, and discover handcrafted treasures from around the globe.
A Chicagoland Bar Has Begun Selling Cicada-Infused Malört Shots
There’s very little chance you’re not by now well aware of the Cicada double brood event that has seen two types of cicadas emerge together. It is the first time this rare, synchronized event has happened since 1803 and this week billions of cicadas have started appearing across the Chicago area. While many of us might be reeling in fear as the winged insects invade Chicago, one of Chicagoland’s many brewpubs is making the most of the cicada swarm by offering a new delicacy that fuses one of Chicago’s most iconic drinks with the sound-producing insects. Noon Whistle Brewing in Lombard is now offering “exclusive locally harvested” Cicada-Infused Malört shots.
Explore Chicago’s Best Attractions: Must-See Spots In The Windy City To Visit This Summer
The best time to enjoy Chicago is undoubtedly summer because ‘Summertime Chi’ truly showcases the city’s charm. The warm weather brings vibrant energy that transforms Chicago into a glittering playground for locals and visitors alike. From its stunning lakefront to its bustling neighborhoods, summer in Chicago offers endless activities for everyone and is the perfect opportunity to explore the best attractions in Chicago. Whether you’re traveling solo, exploring the city with a partner, or bringing the entire family along, read on for our complete guide to our favorite spots to check out this summer, featuring fun things to do, favorite...
This Stunning, Must-See Dinosaur Exhibit Is Finally Open In Chicago
Dinos Alive Exhibit: An Immersive Experience is open throughout the spring season in Chicago and you won’t want to miss out! Located on 2367 Logan Blvd, at the Exhibition Hub Art Center, the experience invites you to adventure back in time. Over 80 life-like, animatronic dinosaurs are waiting to guide you through the Age of Reptiles! Take a trip back in time to come face-to-face with the massive T-rex, Stegosaurus, Spinosaurus and more. The experience is a combination of life-like dinosaurs and charging dinosaur holograms. There is also an unprecedented dive into the prehistoric oceans that allows you swim with serious sea giants! Dinos Alive is perfect for children and adults who want to explore the Triassic, Jurassic and Cretaceous periods. There is a “Budding Experts” where they can channel their inner paleontologist. There is even an area where kids can ride their own dinosaur. Explore a Virtual Reality Experience that takes you on a tour through the prehistoric jungle as the infamous T. Rex chases behind you!.
One Chicago Restaurant Has Been Named In The World’s 100 Best Restaurants List
With Chicago’s thriving gastronomy scene offering up everything from revered sushi restaurants to authentic taquerias, it is no surprise that some Chicago establishments often garner attention on a national scale. Occasionally we’ll even feature in global rankings, be it a Chicago pizzeria ranking among the best pizzerias in the world or a Chicago diner recognized as the home of one of the best burgers in the world. Now one of Chicago’s restaurant has been named in a competitive list of the best restaurants on the entire planet. Having recently been awarded a third Michelin-star in November of 2023, Smyth, from Chefs John Shields and Karen Urie Shields, was the restaurant named in this year’s The World’s 50 Best Restaurants 2024 list (in the 51-100 section).
Navy Pier’s Summer Firework Shows Named Best Place To See Fireworks In The USA
If we weren’t already excited enough by Navy Pier’s summer firework shows kicking off this weekend in Chicago, now they have been officially named the country’s “Best Place to See Fireworks” in the 2024 USA TODAY 10Best Readers’ Choice Travel Awards contest. It’s the second year running that Navy Pier’s free displays have been crowned champion having been named first place in the category winner by the public in 2023. “One of Chicago’s secret pleasures is that you can enjoy fireworks at the iconic Navy Pier almost any time of year, including shows twice a week during the summer and when welcoming in the new year with a blast every December 31, read the USA Today commendation. “In addition to viewing from the pier itself, pyrotechnic lovers can watch the show from charter boats on Lake Michigan, hotel rooftops, Maggie Daley Park, or along Chicago’s Lakefront Trail.”
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Secret Chicago tracks down the best things to do in the city, from quirky restaurants and hidden bars to the best exhibitions, shows and nightlife in Chicago.
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