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Experience 10,000-Sq-Ft Of Fun At The Bouncy Games, From Obstacle Courses To The Largest Inflatable You’ve Ever Seen
At the Bouncy Games now open in Chicago, unleash your inner child and dive into inflatable fun. Located at the Exhibition Art Center, 2367 W Logan Blvd in Chicago’s Logan Square neighborhood, prepare for a 10,000-square-foot adventure. Not only will you encounter massive inflatables, but the whole family—yes, even the adults—can enjoy navigating tunnels and climbing walls. And don’t miss the exhilaration and thrill once you slide down the highest inflatable slide in the world! 🤸♂️🏰🎢🎈It’s the most fun inflatable adventure! Tickets have just been released, so grab them here now! Don’t miss out on this epic inflatable experience now open in Chicago. Get ready for an exhilarating journey into an inflatable wonderland bursting with boundless joy that will no doubt bring out your inner child! It’s an absolute blast for adults, and if you have kids, you definitely don’t want to miss this experience.
Balenciaga Just Opened Its First Chicago Store
The City of Chicago has everything from thrift stores filled with vintage treasures to sprawling malls and ritzy retail boutiques offering the planet’s most sought-after upscale brands. When it comes to the latter, one towards the very zenith of this category is the Spanish luxury fashion brand, Balenciaga, founded over 100 years ago by couturier Cristóbal Balenciaga. Frequently in the spotlight for its hair-raisingly high prices, the brand boasts an illustrious history in the fashion world and has now, for the very first time, branched out to Chicago. This week Balenciaga opened a 6,700-square-foot store at 15 East Oak Street in the prestigious Gold Coast shopping district.
Chicago Beaches Are Opening For Summer This Coming Friday
We are just under a month away from the official first day of summer, but the best summer events and experiences in Chicago are already announcing themselves. Today’s thunderstorms and potential tornadoes might be a bit of a put-off but with the National Weather Service predicting unseasonably warm weather towards the end of the week it looks the perfect time to enjoy the array of activities taking place in Chicago this coming weekend. In addition to the first of Navy Pier’s weekly summer firework shows and the return of summer markets like Maxwell Street Market, this weekend will see Chicago beaches reopen once again offering residents free access to swimming and outdoor activities all along the shores of Lake Michigan. The Chicago Park District, which manages the city’s 26 miles of open and free lakefront, announced that beaches would open at 11 a.m. on Friday, May 24th for the start of the 2024 season.
These Are The Best Arcades In Chicago
No matter your age, nobody is too old for a few rounds of skee ball, Star Wars pinball, or Cruis’n World! Arcade games evoke nostalgia and the excitement of winning tickets, tokens, and prizes. It’s no wonder that incredible arcades are scattered throughout the city and Chicago is even home to the biggest arcade in the world. Here are the best arcades in Chicago for hours of merriment! Chicago’s original arcade bar and event venues are not just about games. They feature vintage arcade games, table games, and pinball machines but also provide curated beer and cocktails and a diverse, vibrant live music scene.
National Weather Service Warns Tornadoes Are Possible In Chicago Tonight
Following yesterday’s predictions of severe storms bringing damaging winds and potential hail to the Chicago area, today the weather seems to have turned up a notch. The National Weather Service is warning that “an outbreak of dangerous severe thunderstorms” arriving tonight will be “capable of producing tornadoes and widespread damaging winds” in and around Chicago. The day will start off unseasonably warm with humid and breezy conditions for much of the day giving way to severe thunderstorms tonight. It is essential to have multiple ways of receiving severe weather warnings and making sure that you’re prepared for nighttime tornadoes by preparing effectively.
Chicago Could Lose Its Position As The Third-Largest City In The United States
The Census Bureau recently released data on last year showing another year of population decrease. Chicago’s population dropped 0.3% between July 2022 and July 2023 falling from 2,672,660 to 2,664,452. It is the 10th consecutive year that Chicago has recorded a population decrease and though the drop was distinctly better than the previous two years, it means that Chicago looks set to lose its position as the third-largest city in the United States if the trend keeps up. The 8,208 population decrease is the third-largest decline of any city in the country behind just New York City and Philadelphia. Chicago is currently the third most populous city in the United States with a 2.66 million population behind Los Angeles, California, in second with nearly 4 million people, and New York, New York is the nation’s largest city with almost 8.3 million people.
Severe Thunderstorms Are Expected Across Chicago Today Bringing Damaging Winds & Hail
Despite experiencing some sunny days lately, Chicago is set for another few days of turbulent weather reminding us that summer isn’t quite on our doorstep just yet. According to the National Weather Service, the Chicago area will experience “rounds of scattered thunderstorms” throughout this afternoon and evening which will likely be “strong to severe.” Damaging winds are the main threat says the weather service though damaging hail cannot be ruled out over the next couple of days. Special weather statements have been issued across many parts of Illinois. NWS is warning of lightning strikes and torrential rain, with the potential for landspouts and half-inch-sized hail as scattered storms pass through the area.
Chicago’s Famed Maxwell Street Market Is Returning To Its Original Home
The Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE) this week announced that one of Chicago’s most beloved summer markets, and the longest-running open-air market, Maxwell Street Market is returning to its original home on Maxwell Street this season. This 2024 season will kick off next Sunday, May 26th on Maxwell Street between S. Halsted Street and S. Union Avenue, as well as on S. Union Avenue between W. Rochford Street and W. Liberty Street. Guests can again peruse handmade crafts and undetected treasures while enjoying live music and sensational street food from 9 a.m. until 2 p.m. on 6 different summer market dates thereafter. “The Maxwell Street Market has been a Chicago tradition for more than a century. It not only promotes entrepreneurship, but also provides critically important opportunities for small businesses including craftspeople, artists, farmers, restaurateurs, and re-sellers,” said Mayor Brandon Johnson.”
Chicago’s “First Festival Of The Summer” Kicks Off Tomorrow
While we may be in the heart of spring, it feels like summer is just around the corner with the number of summer events and Chicago festivals that have been announcing their imminent arrivals. For many in the city, especially Lincoln Park residents, this weekend can be considered the start of summer with “the first festival of the summer” kicking off Chicago’s summer festival season when it returns tomorrow. Taking place Friday, May 17th through Sunday, May 19th, Mayfest brings live entertainment, food vendors, cover bands, and carnival games to Armitage Ave from Sheffield to Racine in the Historic District of Lincoln Park featuring over 50 artist vendors and numerous live performers. “Join us as we turn every inch of Armitage into an endless celebration showcasing all the amazing talent and businesses based in Chicago! Featuring two stages of the city’s most acclaimed bands and up-and-coming house talent,” reads the Mayfest press release.
Tickets Are Now Available For UNICEF’s Heartfelt ‘Heart Strings’ Experience In Chicago
UNICEF leads the global advocacy for children’s rights in 190+ countries around the globe, addressing important issues such as humanitarian crises, healthcare, and education. Don’t miss the chance to celebrate their impactful efforts with this groundbreaking, first-of-its-kind event! At the ‘Heart Strings’ experience, explore multisensory displays that take you deeper into music’s universal language of love, offering glimpses into children’s lives worldwide. Get a closer look at UNICEF’s important work through captivating exhibits and activities, gaining a deeper understanding into their life-changing initiatives. This groundbreaking journey forges connections and illuminates the lives of children globally! Through interactive multimedia, lighting effects, and inspiring music, attendees take part in UNICEF’s profound impact, transcending borders, cultures, and languages for a deeply moving experience that inspires everyone who sees it—and since this adventure is perfect for all ages, it’s one to uplift the entire family. Mark your calendars for June 14th when UNICEF’s ‘Heart Strings’ opens at Water Tower Place, 835 Michigan Avenue in Chicago. Ticket pricing begins at just $23, and the experience is fun for all ages.
The Museum Of Science & Industry Will Be Officially Renamed This Coming Weekend
We’re not unfamiliar with a big name change in Chicago. From Sears Tower to Lake Shore Drive, some of the city’s most iconic features will often suddenly change named either in honor of someone or due to a change it ownership. Only a couple of months ago towards the end of March, it was reported that Colombus Drive could be renamed Barack Obama Drive after former President of the United States. Now another change to a Chicago hotspot has been officially enacted, only luckily this time it’s only a slight adaption. The South Side’s Museum of Science and Industry will be renamed the Kenneth C. Griffin Museum of Science and Industry this coming Sunday, in honor of billionaire Ken Griffin, who donated $125 million to the museum back in 2019. In celebration, the Griffin Museum of Science and Industry, as it will be known for short, is offering free admission on Sunday, May 19th when it will launch several new experiences made possible by Griffin’s donation.
Beloved Water Parks In Illinois, 1 Hour From Chicago, Reopens This Month
Yes, we love sprawling on a towel along the caramel fragments of minerals and the waves of Lake Michigan. Or even gaining higher ground for a leisurely splash in a rooftop pool. However, when we need a getaway—particularly a thrilling one—a formidable water park is where we head. Raging Waves Waterpark, the largest water park in Illinois, first opened in 2008 with 17 waterslides, a ¼ 14-mile-long lazy river, a 350,000-gallon wave pool, a sand area, a leisure pool, and two restaurants. Sixteen summers later, the park has expanded to cover 58 acres, adding 15 more waterslides, 43 private cabanas, 11...
Celebrate The Arrival Of Summer With Wicker Park’s Patio Palooza
When the heat rises, the air hovers muggy, and our skin borders on dewy. It’s the time of year when it’s gratifying to wander to the nearest patio and have an ice-cold beer, watching droplets perspirate down the glass. Wicker Park’s Division Street is an indisputable paradise for patio lovers, with flower—wrapped pergolas and sprawling spaces with plentiful seating for gathering as summer approaches. On Tuesday, May 21st, The Wicker Park Bucktown Chamber of Commerce is launching the al fresco dining season with a memorable event—Patio Palooza! This ticketed experience allows you to meander down one of the liveliest stretches of the city, enjoying hosted tasting bites from their esteemed participating restaurants. You can start your experience at either the East end at elevated neighborhood pub Bangers & Lace or the West end at Mirella’s Tavern, a newly opened American Bistro. Date: Tuesday, May 21st Time: 6:00 pm – 9:00 pm
5 Reasons To Turn Back Time And Step Into The Downton Abbey Exhibit Just Outside Chicago
Surround yourself in the Edwardian world of Downton Abbey and get a closer look at the iconic sets that made the show a global television phenomenon. The glamorous Downton Abbey: The Exhibition, ranked among the top 10 pop culture exhibitions worldwide by the Matador Network, is now in Chicago for a limited time! From exploring Mrs. Patmore’s bustling kitchen to marveling at the exquisite costumes and jewelry up close, this experience features cutting-edge technology throughout and is not to be missed. Read on to discover our top 5 reasons to visit the exciting Downton Abbey exhibit near Chicago. Step into the...
This Idyllic Island Near Chicago Is Car-Free, It’s The Perfect City Escape
Some would describe Mackinac Island as the model town for a rom-com backdrop: the car-free island is adorned with cream buildings sprinkled with pastel signages; steel lampposts garnished with bouquets of bougainvilleas; smoothly-paved streets flooded with bike riders as horse-drawn carriages gallop alongside them. It’s the type of place a city dweller goes to when they need a change of scenery. Luckily for Chicagoans, it’s only a drive away. Besides all the aforementioned rom-com setting details, visitors have been enchanted by the town trapped in amber. Mackinac Island is home to the historic Fort Mackinac, world-renowned Mackinac Island fudge, and, most notably, streets without cars. The utopia island is a road trip destination with breathtaking natural landmarks, Claude Monte-painted sunrises, and indelible sunsets. A five-hour drive from Chicago, Mackinac Island sits in Lake Huron, between Michigan’s Upper and Lower peninsulas. Ferry: The Mackinac Island Ferry Company and Schepler’s Ferry offer ferry service from Mackinaw City and St. Ignace, Michigan, with roundtrip tickets starting at $22.95.
The Largest Arcade In The World Is Just 30 Minutes From Downtown Chicago
While we’ll have to wait until after summer to enjoy the world’s largest maze just outside Chicago, right now you can find an enormous labyrinth made up of numerous arcade games comprising what claims to be the largest video arcade in the world. Located just 30 minutes out of the center of Chicago, the Galloping Ghost Arcade in Brookfield opened back in 2010 with around 130 arcade games and the goal of growing into an establishment that could provide arcade gaming at a level not seen in Chicago before. Owner Doc Mack’s mission began when he came across a barn filled with arcade games destined for destruction back in 2010. Only 8 functioned at the time but after buying them all for $5,000 he fixed as many as he could and opened up Galloping Ghost Arcade. By 2014, that number had grown to over 885 arcade games. A number, that Galloping Ghost Arcade says, represents the largest permanent collection of arcade video games on the planet.
Chicago Will Now Experience Post-8pm Sunsets For Almost 3 Months
With the sun rising this morning at 5:31 a.m. and sunset tonight taking place at 8:02 p.m., today we will experience a whopping 14 hours, 30 minutes, and 40 seconds of daylight but the best part is that we’re now experiencing post-8 p.m. sunsets and that will continue through to Friday, August 8th. We’re also in for more than 4 months of post-7 p.m. sunsets with the next sunset before 7 p.m. taking place on Sunday, September 15th! The longest day of the year, aka the summer solstice, is just over a month away on Thursday, June 20th when the sun will rise at 5:15 a.m. and set at 8:29 p.m. meaning the day will measure 15 hours, 13 minutes, and 41 seconds. More information on Chicago sunrises, sunsets, and daylengths can be found at www.timeanddate.com.
Secret Chicago Is Teaming Up With The Iconic B96 Radio On New Weekly “In The Loop” Show
Heads up, Chicago! We’ve teamed up with the city’s longest-running Top 40 radio station, B96, to collaborate on a weekly Friday show “In The Loop” to ensure you’re well-prepared for your weekends in the Windy City from here on out. We’ll be channeling our expertise on weekly news, plans, and events through the radiowaves of the prestigious radio station and help guide you through those gridlocked Friday mornings alongside the well-known and well-loved voices of Moug & Karla! Whether driving down LSD in the summer sun or battling the frosty city streets of the Windy City in winter, “In The Loop” will help kickstart your Fridays each week and make sure you’re blown in the right direction. Our local Secret Chicago correspondent Masen Colucci will be joining the two experienced radio maestros to dive into the best plans and events going down in Chi-Town.
Step Into UNICEF’s Heartfelt Multisensory Experience Celebrating The World’s Children In Chicago This June
UNICEF leads the global advocacy for children’s rights in 190+ countries around the globe, addressing important issues such as humanitarian crises, healthcare, and education. Don’t miss the chance to celebrate their impactful efforts with this groundbreaking, first-of-its-kind event! At the Heart Strings’ experience, explore multisensory displays that take you deeper into music’s universal language of love, offering glimpses into children’s lives worldwide. Get a closer look at UNICEF’s important work through captivating exhibits and activities, gaining a deeper understanding into their life-changing initiatives. This groundbreaking journey forges connections and illuminates the lives of children globally! Through interactive multimedia, lighting effects, and inspiring music, attendees take part in UNICEF’s profound impact, transcending borders, cultures, and languages for a deeply moving experience that inspires everyone who sees it—and since this experience is perfect for all ages, it’s one to uplift the entire family.
Lil Wayne Will Perform At The Illinois State Fair This Summer
An incredible array of summer events and activities are beginning to announce themselves in Chicago as the hottest months of the year draw ever closer. While there’s loads to do in Chicago, you’re prepared to travel a little out of our urban jungle, the historic Illinois State Fair in Springfield offers an already enticing 10-day summer schedule, and now none other than five-time GRAMMY award-winning Lil Wayne has been added to the 2024 State Fair Grandstand Line-up. The Illinois State Fair announced the news yesterday revealing that the “multiplatinum rap icon Lil Wayne” will headline the Grandstand on Wednesday, August 14th. He joins the list of performers that includes the Jonas Brothers, Smashing Pumpkins, Keith Urban, and Mötley Crüe.
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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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