Not sure where to begin? Here are our top picks for leaf-peeping the vibrant fall colors in Chicago.

Downtown Chicago’s Fall Foliage Must-Sees

• Millennium Park – Time your visit to see the fall colors in Chicago bloom around Cloud Gate (“the Bean“).
• The Art Institute of Chicago – Need a break from the bustle of downtown? Slip into the North Garden and the South Garden, two courtyards on either side of the Art Institute.
• Graceland Cemetery – If you’re wondering where to see fall foliage on Chicago’s north side, take a short ride in the red line to Graceland Cemetary. This large historic garden cemetery and arboretum harbors a wide variety of native tree species.

See Gorgeous Fall Colors in These Chicago Parks

• Jackson Park – Curious about where to see fall foliage in Chicago’s south side? Head to the Hyde Park neighborhood, where you’ll find one of the city’s largest and most historically significant parks. For especially vibrant Chicago fall foliage, don’t miss the Japanese strolling garden.
• Humbolt Park – Relax on the grass with a perfect view of fall colors in Chicago’s Humbolt Park, where tranquil lagoons reflect the red and gold foliage of towering trees.

Don’t Miss the Season’s Best Fall Colors in Chicago Gardens & Conservatories

• Chicago Botanic Garden – You’ll be impressed any time of year, but the Chicago Botanic Garden is in top form during the fall. Take a whole day to explore its 27 gardens, six miles of lake shoreline, four natural areas, and nine islands.
• Garfield Park Conservatory – Here, you’ll find 10 acres of outdoor gardens bursting with some of the most beautiful fall colors in Chicago.
• Morton Arboretum – Wondering where to see fall foliage in Chicago without a single car horn to break the mood? Drive out to the Morton Arboretum, where you can learn about Illinois conversation efforts and arboriculture—and enjoy the purest expression of Chicago fall foliage.
• Alfred Caldwell Lily Pool – Located on the shoreline in the Lincoln Park neighborhood, locals know that the lily pool is one of the most romantic hideaways in the whole city—and that’s especially true when the Chicago fall foliage is on full display.

See Chicago Fall Foliage Like Never Before at Skydeck Chicago

It’s hard to beat the fall colors in Chicago from 103 stories up! Book your visit to Chicago’s most famous skyscraper, Willis Tower. We’re happy to help you plan your trip and make the most of your time in the city.

When is the Taste of Chicago?

Although this Chicago event has been pushed back from its midsummer date to accommodate NASCAR Street Racing in Grant Park, this event is still the main draw. So, when is the Taste of Chicago? The Taste of Chicago at Grant Park will take place on Sept. 6th, 7th, and 8th. 

Starting last year, “mini-tastes” were added throughout the city—in Rogers Park on June 15th, Marquette Park on July 27th, and Pullman Park on August 17th– to showcase local diversity and culinary excellence. All Taste of Chicago 2024 events are free to attend, with food and drinks available to purchase on-site with cash or credit card.

Taste of Chicago 2024 Vendors

Many local vendors are in attendance during the Taste of Chicago dates, and it should be no surprise that Chicago’s most famous foods are well-represented. Taste of Chicago 2024 attendees can try Polish sausage, Chicago-style pizza, and much more—made fresh by chefs from high-end restaurants and legendary food truck vendors alike:

• Cumin Club Indian Kitchen
• Sapori Trattoria
• Arun’s Thai Restaurant
• The Original Rainbow Cone
• Healthy Substance Kitchen
• LC Pho Restaurant
• Yum Dum
• Churro Factory (Xurro)
• African Food Palace
• Porkchop
• The Eli’s Cheesecake Company
• Esperanza
• Robinson No. 1 Ribs
• Classic Cobbler Baked Goods Company
• Tacotlan
• J Thai Street Food
• Doom Street Eats
• Badou Senegalese Cuisine
• Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria
• Billy Goat Tavern
• Chicago Eats
• Gaby’s Funnel Cakes
• Frannie’s Café
• Prime Tacos
• The Sole Ingredient Catering
• BJ’s Market & Bakery
• Connie’s Pizza
• Seoul Taco Chicago
• Chicago’s Doghouse
• Tandoor Char House
• Pies of London
• Banato
• Mr. E Chef Catering
• Josephine’s Cooking
• Yvolina’s Tamales

In addition to tastes from these restaurants, the Taste of Chicago 2024 will also highlight a designated beer hall, wine garden, and cocktail lounge.

Taste of Chicago Concerts and Events

Similar to the previous year, each Taste of Chicago date features a lineup of national and international artists to bring energy and a feeling of community to the event. Other community activities include:

• Chicago SummerDance
• Chicago Sings Karaoke Stage
• Made in Chicago: Food Trivia
• Lifeway Foods Family Village
• Eli’s Cheesecake Birthday Celebration

Taste of Chicago Grant Park: Directions & Parking

Grant Park is located at 337 E. Randolph Street. It’s easily accessible via the CTA red line—just get off at Harrison and head east toward the lake. Visit www.transitchicago.com for more bus and train directions.

Driving in? Here’s how to get to Taste of Chicago in Grant Park:

• Via Columbus, from Monroe to Balbo, and from Balbo to Roosevelt
• Via Jackson, from Michigan to Jean Baptiste Point du Sable Lake Shore Drive
• Via Congress, from Columbus to Congress Parkway semi-circle

Parking is available at Millennium Lakeside Garage, 5 S. Columbus Dr. Chicago, IL 60601. The vehicle entrance is on South Columbus Drive between Monroe and Randolph Streets and has a height clearance of 6’8″.

Taking your bike? Bike racks are available on the perimeter of Grant Park and Millennium Park.

Plan Your Chicago Trip Today!

While you’re in the Chicago area, why not take the opportunity to see as much of “the Windy City” as you can? It’s hard to think of a better way to do just that than a view from 103 stories up! Take a Virtual Tour to see what the Skydeck experience is all about and check out some of the other exciting activities happening this summer.

It’s one of the country’s largest music festivals that are still independently owned, which means you can always expect some fun surprises in the Riot Fest lineup—like Mr. Bungle, the solo project of experimental vocalist and songwriter Mike Patton, and exciting up-and-comers like 100 Gecs. Of course, you can also count on some big names! Look for Foo Fighters, The Breeders, Kim Gordon, Queens of the Stone Age, The Cure, Parliament Funkadelic ft. George Clinton, and Insane Clown Posse on this year’s eclectic Riot Fest schedule.

2023 Riot Fest Lineup by Day

Friday

• Foo Fighters
• Turnstile
• Tegan and Sara
• Say Anything
• The Breeders
• Kim Gordon
• The Interrupters
• Bayside
• Ani DiFranco
• Silverstein
• Parliament Funkadelic ft. George Clinton
• Code Orange
• Fake Names
• Quicksand
• The Wrecks
• Hawthorne Heights
• Braid
• Yard Act
• Screaming Females
• Sludgeworth
• Quasi
• Origami Angel
• Oso Oso
• Just Friends
• Bearings
• Pinkshift
• Olivia Jean
• Calva Louise
• The Aquadolls
• FEA
• The Bobby Lees
• Young Culture  

Saturday

• The Postal Service
• Death Cab for Cutie
• Queens of the Stone Age
• Mr. Bungle
• 100 Gecs
• Death Grips
• 070 Shake
• Viagra Boys
• PUP
• Sleep Token
• Frank Turner and the Sleeping Souls
• Pennywise
• Insane Clown Posse
• Head Automatica
• Nothing,Nowhere.
• White Reaper
• Eshu Tune
• Enter Shikari
• Bowling for Soup
• Spitalfield
• Jehnny Beth
• Drain
• Snapcase
• The Exploited
• Plosivs
• Steve Ignorant Band/Crass
• Warpaint
• High Vis, Rival Schools
• Corey Feldman
• Enola Gay
• Casyette
• Pool Kids
• CK Vassi
• Total Chaos  

Sunday

• The Cure
• The Mars Volta
• The Gaslight Anthem
• AFI
• The Used
• The Dresden Dolls
• Flogging Molly
• Finch, Godspeed You! Black Emperor
• L.S. Dunes
• Gorilla Biscuits
• Ride
• Cults
• Balance and Composure
• Thursday
• H2O
• The Bronx
• Microwave
• The Black Angels
• Nothing
• Smoking Popes
• Free Throw
• Just Mustard
• Hotline TNT
• Earth Crisis
• Empire State Bastard
• Fleshwater
• Fade ‘em All

Riot Fest Tickets

You can purchase Riot Fest tickets for one day, all three days, or any two days of your choice. Tickets are available in three levels: General, VIP, and Deluxe. There’s no downside to purchasing right now—you can upgrade your ticket type at any time!

Here’s what you get with all three Riot Fest ticket options:

General Admission

• Includes access to all GA areas, including food, beverage, and retail vendors, carnival rides, and over 90+ Artists on 5 stages
• Locker Rental Stations with charging capabilities (pre-purchase recommended)
• Complimentary Water Stations
• Free Arcade Games at the On-Site Arcade

VIP Passes

• Includes all benefits of General Admission, plus…
• Unlimited Fest Re-Entry
• Dedicated VIP entrance for expedited entry into the festival
• Commemorative Wristband
• Three (3) Beverage Tickets (*3-Day VIP Passes Only)
• Unlimited Access to the VIP Lounge
• Dedicated Food and Bar options exclusive to the VIP Lounge
• Air-Conditioned, Flushable Restrooms + dedicated banks of trusty porta potties
• Private Locker Rentals w/ charging capabilities (Available for purchase inside the VIP Lounge)
• Access to exclusive vendors such as massage therapists and hairstylists!

Deluxe Passes

• Includes all amenity benefits of VIP, plus…
• Unlimited Fest Re-Entry
• Dedicated VIP entrance for expedited entry into the festival
• Revamped Viewing Areas at Main Stages
• Access to both VIP and Deluxe Areas
• Complimentary Open Bar in Deluxe Lounge
• Air-Conditioned, Flushable Restrooms
• Plush, Cozy, Shaded Lounge
• Complimentary Snacks
• Cell Phone Charging Area
• Free Wi-Fi
• Personal Guest Services
• Private Lockers (Available for Purchase in Deluxe Lounge)

Things to Do Near Riot Fest 2023

If you’re staying in Chicago for the weekend but only attending one day of music, you’re probably wondering how to make the most of your time here! There’s more than enough to do in every neighborhood to fill your time around your Riot Fest schedule, but if this is your first time in the Windy City, there are some sights you need to see! Take the Pink Line to the Loop for these quintessential Chicago experiences:

• Enjoy the weather and view public sculptures like Cloud Gate (“the Bean”) at Millenium Park
• See the city from the 103rd floor of Willis Tower, the city’s tallest skyscraper
• Dive into Chicago history at the Skydeck Museum
• Take a tour of famous Chicago architecture along the river
• Shop to your heart’s content on the Magnificent Mile

Plan Your Visit With Skydeck Chicago

If you need any advice or assistance while planning your weekend in Chicago, we’re happy to help. Get in touch with our team today, and make the most of your visit this September!

Chicago Air and Water Show Schedule:

• Rehearsal Date: Friday, August 9, 2024
• Main Event Dates: Saturday, August 10 & Sunday, August 11, 2024
• Location: Viewable along the lakefront from Fullerton to Oak Street, with North Avenue Beach as the center stage.
• Admission: FREE

Highlights of the Chicago Air and Water Show 2024

The Chicago Air and Water Show is a highlight of the summer in Chicago, featuring jaw-dropping aerial acrobatics and water-based performances. Here’s what to expect:

• U.S. Army Parachute Team Golden Knights and U.S. Navy Parachute Team Leap Frogs: Experience precision parachute jumps that dazzle spectators each year.
• U.S. Navy Blue Angels: Witness the high-speed precision of the Blue Angels, a favorite at the Chicago Air and Water Show.
• U.S. Coast Guard MH-65 Dolphin Helicopter Rescue: Observe a simulated rescue operation that demonstrates the bravery and skill of the Coast Guard.

Best Places to View the Air and Water Show Chicago 2024

Views from Above

For those wondering when is the Air and Water Show in Chicago, the best elevated views can be found at Willis Tower’s Skydeck. We offer panoramic views that are perfect for watching the Chicago Air and Water Show.

Views from the Water

Enhance your experience by viewing the Chicago Air and Water Show from a boat. Lakefront cruises offer a unique perspective on the performances, making them a popular choice for an unforgettable experience.

Lakefront Viewing

North Avenue Beach is the focal point for those attending the Air and Water Show Chicago 2024. It’s the ideal location for experiencing the action up close and personal.

Plan Your Visit to the Chicago Air and Water Show

Whether you’re a local or a visitor, the Chicago Air and Water Show is a must-see event. Make the most of your visit by checking the Chicago Air and Water Show schedule and planning to secure the best viewing spots. Buy your Skydeck tickets today! Don’t miss this spectacular display of aerial and aquatic prowess in the heart of Chicago.

Pitchfork Music Festival and Locations

Where is the Pitchfork Music Festival in Chicago happening? Union Park is located at 1501 W. Randolph Street, Chicago, IL 60697. You can enter the 2024 Pitchfork Music Festival through two locations:

• Ashland Ave, south of Lake Street
• The intersection of Washington Blvd and Odgen Ave.

Both entrances open at 12:00 p.m. The Pitchfork Music Festival schedule lasts from 12 p.m. to roughly around 10 p.m. 

Pitchfork Music Fest Lineup

What can you expect from the 2024 Pitchfork Music Fest Lineup? The full lineup for all three days of the 2024 Pitchfork Music Festival can be accessed at the festival’s official website. Here are the headliners and some highlights of each day (headliners are marked in bold):

2024 Pitchfork Music Fest Schedule: Friday 7/19

• Black Pumas
• Jai Paul
• 100 Gecs
• Jeff Rosenstock
• Yaeji 
• Sudan Archives
• Amen Dunes 
• Billy Woods & Kenny Segal

2024 Pitchfork Music Fest Schedule: Friday 7/20

• Jamie XX
• Carly Rae Jepsen
• Jessie Ware
• De La Soul
• Unwound
• Bratmobile
• Wednesday
• Water From Your Eyes 
• Feeble little horse
• L’Rain

2024 Pitchfork Music Fest Schedule: Saturday 7/21

• Alanis Morrissette
• Brittany Howard
• MUNA 
• Grandmaster Flash
• Les Savy Fav 
• Crumb 
• Jessica Pratt
• Mannequin Pussy

Plan the 2024 Pitchfork Music Festival 2024 with Skydeck Chicago 

The Pitchfork Music Festival in Chicago is guaranteed to be an excellent time for all music lovers. No matter what you’re planning to do on your trip to the 2024 Pitchfork Music Festival Learn about exclusive private events at Skydeck Chicago that will enhance the already-stellar Pitchfork Music Fest lineup. You can also learn about restaurant recommendations near the Loop and experience peak experiences and must-see attractions in Chicago. 

Where Does the Chicago NASCAR Street Race Take Place?

If you’re driving up from O’Hare or Midway, where will you find NASCAR in Chicago? The race will take place around Grant Park, which means you’ll need to navigate strategically when you arrive in the city. Some of the periodic street closings may include:

• Columbus Drive
• Jackson Blvd
• Michigan Ave
• Roosevelt Road
• Balbo Drive
• DuSable Lake Shore Drive

Where Can I Buy NASCAR Chicago Tickets?

You can purchase your NASCAR Chicago tickets now to beat the rush, and there are a variety of different options at different price points. Take a look at your choices:

• General Admission: $240.18
• General Admission Plus: $355.36
• Reserved Seats: Starting at $415
• Hospitality Clubs: Starting at $765.18
• Premier Hospitality Clubs: Starting at $3,000
• VIP Suites: Call for pricing

What Can I Expect for NASCAR in Chicago?

NASCAR in Chicago offers everything from adrenaline-surging races to phenomenal music to world-class cuisine. No matter what brings you into NASCAR Chicago, you’ll be blown away by the scope of entertainment when you step through the gates. Here are just some of the highlights:

• Music Festival: NASCAR Chicago brings in some of the most celebrated musicians in history to one great event. See legends like Keith Urban, The Chainsmokers, The Black Keys, and Lauren Alaina.
• Racing Events: Both Saturday and Sunday will feature much-anticipated racing events, so no matter which day you visit, you can see at least one. The NASCAR Xfinity Series race is on Saturday, July 6, followed by the Cup Series on Sunday, July 7.
• Family-Friendly Fun: Whether you’re traveling from Aurora or far away, feel free to bring the little ones along to experience NASCAR in Chicago! NASCAR Chicago tickets include free admission for kids under 12 on Saturday or $45 on Sunday. Not only can they enjoy the music and the cars, but also tons of tasty food options in the Windy City.

Experience the Chicago NASCAR Street Race This Summer

If you’re planning on visiting for NASCAR in Chicago, don’t forget to check out the city while you’re here. Skydeck is open during the race, which means you can get a view out of the Willis Tower, a whopping 1,353 feet in the air! Stop by Skydeck during the day or night to experience a view like no other, and have a weekend in Chicago that you’ll never forget.

When is Lollapalooza?

The Lollapalooza 2024 lineup runs for four days, including everything from high-octane band performances to mind-blowing DJ sets. The eclectic lineup offers something for everyone, and you won’t want to miss out on a single second. From rap legends to pop stars to indie sensations, here’s a look at some of the daily highlights from the Lollapalooza 2024 lineup:

Lollapalooza Schedule: Thursday

• Tyler, the Creator
• Hozier
• Lizzy McAlpine
• Fisher
• Labrinth
• Benson Boone
• Jungle
• Kesha
• Chappell Roan
• Don Diablo
• Tyla

Lollapalooza Schedule: Friday

• SZA
• Stray Kids
• Laufey with the Chicago Philharmonic
• Renee Rapp
• Zedd
• Faye Webster
• Victoria Monet
• Galantis
• Kevin Abstract
• Raye
• Alok

Lollapalooza Schedule: Saturday

• The Killers
• Future x Metro Boomin
• Deftones
• Tate McRae
• Ive
• Killer Mike
• TV Girl
• Hippo Campus
• Four Tet
• Ethel Cain
• Skream & Benga

Lollapalooza Schedule: Sunday

• Blink-182
• Melanie Martinez
• Conan Gray
• Dominic Fike
• Zeds Dead
• Pierce the Veil
• Teddy Swims
• Two Door Cinema Club
• Vince Staples
• Slow Pulp
• Waterparks

What Else Should I See Around Chicago?

While there’s plenty to see and do in Grant Park, be sure to spend some extra time exploring the Windy City. The food opportunities are endless with everything from deep dish to Chicago dogs to The Original Rainbow Cone, along with world-class culinary experiences. And if you’re staying overnight, options like The Blackstone and Travelodge by Wyndham are right across the street from the festival. Just make sure to book early to avoid getting locked out of those Lollapalooza dates! 

See You in Chicago This Summer!

Now you know when Lollapalooza is and who to see on stage, but why not do a little sightseeing while you’re here? Whether you’re stopping by from the Chicagoland area or another place entirely, get an exclusive look at the city of Chicago at Skydeck. Located on the 103rd floor of Chicago’s tallest skyscraper, the Willis Tower, Skydeck gives a bird’s eye view of the skyline you won’t want to miss!

Get into the holiday spirit with one of Chicagoland’s favorite holiday traditions: the 2021 Chicago Botanic Garden Lightscape! Located in Glencoe, the Chicago Botanic Garden Lightscape provides an escape to a winter wonderland filled with spectacular light displays, music, and more, all among nature’s splendor in the garden. Whether you’re looking for a fun family outing or a delightful winter date night, join us at the Chicago Botanic Garden Lights!

What You’ll See in the Chicago Botanic Garden Lights

There are simple light displays for the holidays that add a little sparkle, and then there’s the Chicago Botanic Garden Lights. Multiple breathtaking displays throughout the garden will ignite your imagination and lift your spirits as you stroll down the garden’s 1.25-mile trail. Some displays you can expect to see include:

• Lighted singing trees
• Twinkling glow of the Winter Cathedral
• Illuminated Zen garden
• Laser displays
• Instagram-worthy photo opportunities
• Hot beverage and snack stands
• Plenty of inventive surprises around every corner

Not only that, the Chicago Botanic Garden Lights has your health in mind. They’ll be enforcing all state and Cook County Covid protocols. They’ve also eliminated interactive exhibits this year. Since your tickets are rain or shine, you’ll want to dress for the weather and be ready to enjoy a lovely, possibly chilly hour or two exploring the innovative Chicago Botanic Garden lights.

Chicago Botanic Garden Lightscape Tickets

Chicago Botanic Garden Lightscape tickets are available from November 12 through January 2, except for Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, and Christmas. They are expected to sell out nightly, so purchase yours in advance.

• Standard adult tickets are $26 for non-members, $24 for members. Premium tickets are $2 more. Standard child tickets are $12 for members, $14 for non-members. Premium tickets are a dollar more.
• Children under three are admitted for free, and the trail is stroller-friendly.
• Parking for non-garden members can be purchased in advance for $10 per vehicle, a 50 percent discount compared to if you pay on arrival.
• New flex tickets are $75, include the price of parking, and allow ticket-holders to enter the Chicago Botanic Garden Lightscape at any time for the night they’re purchased.
• President’s Circle members can purchase VIP passes for $40 each. Pass holders can visit the Chicago Botanic Garden lights at any time during hours of operation.

Enjoy Winter in Chicago with Us!

From ice skating in Chicago to exceptional dining options at the Skydeck, there’s plenty to explore during the winter in Chicago! We look forward to being a part of your memory-making!

Now in its 27th year, the Lincoln Park ZooLights Festival 2021 will light the holiday spirit in guests of all ages! Featuring classic and new lighting concepts, the Chicago ZooLights remain a beloved tradition while always keeping the experience fresh and new. Expect to see new exhibits in a more intimate setting than years past. Plus, this is one of the first opportunities to visit the new Pepper Family Wildlife Center, home of this year’s 18-foot holiday tree. Take a look at what else you’ll experience at Lincoln Park ZooLights Chicago, then take a look at the holiday offerings at the Chicago Botanic Gardens.

Lincoln Park ZooLights Chicago Tickets

Lincoln Park ZooLights Festival 2021 remains one of the most affordable family events of the holiday season in the Chicago area. Running from 4 to 10 pm nightly from Nov. 19-24, 26-30, Dec. 1, 3-15, 17-23, 26-31, and Jan. 1-2, guests will be admitted for free on Mondays and Tuesdays but advance ticket reservations are required and open now. Guests of all ages, including infants, can enter on Wednesday through Sunday for five dollars apiece, which goes directly to animal care, global conservation efforts, and educational programs. A couple of Lincoln Park ZooLights exhibits have an additional three dollar charge: the Light Maze and Enchanted Forest.

Special Events at the Lincoln Park ZooLights in Chicago

While a visit to Lincoln Park ZooLights Festival 2021 is always special, some nights are going to be memorable for more than the spectacular light exhibits. Check out the special events taking place at Chicago ZooLights this season:

• November 19 – Members Only Night: Open only to Lincoln Park Zoo members.
• November 29 – Sensory-Friendly Hours: From 4 to 6 pm music and blinking or moving lights will be disabled.
• December 2 – BrewLights: Sample festive beers from Louis Glunz Beer, Inc. while strolling through the displays.
• December 12 – Chris White Trio’s Tribute to “A Charlie Brown Christmas”: Visit Café Brauer and enjoy a live jazz performance of this holiday classic for $35.
• December 13 – Members Only Night: Open only to Lincoln Park Zoo members.
• December 15 – Sensory-Friendly Hours: From 4 to 6 pm music and blinking or moving lights will be disabled.
• December 16 – Adults’ Night Out Holidaze: At 6:30 pm, it’s grown-ups only (ages 18+) at the Chicago ZooLights! Tickets start at $20 and include unlimited access to the carousel, Light Maze, and Enchanted Forest.
• December 31 – Zoo Year’s Eve: Welcome 2022 with DJs, games, giveaways, and animal enrichment at this 21+ event that begins at 9 pm. Tickets are $10.

Planning a holiday proposal? Contact groupsales@lpzoo.org and we’ll help!

Welcome the Holidays at Lincoln Park ZooLights Chicago!

Whether you’re bringing your family or friends, get into the holiday spirit with uniquely Chicago experiences! From the Chicago ZooLights, to the Thanksgiving parade to a trip to the Skydeck, take advantage of all Chicago has to offer!