8 epic things to do in Chicago at night

8 epic things to do in Chicago at night

Discover the best after-dark activities in Chicago, from nightlife to late-night food and spectacular tours.

The Windy City is known for its magnificent architecture, open green spaces, and delightful gastronomy scene, and it really comes alive after dark. Take in city views lit up from the water or a sky-high observation deck. Head to one of Chicago’s many sporting venues and cheer on the home team. Follow the footsteps of notorious gangsters like Al Capone and visit spooky haunts and hidden speakeasies. Or witness a dazzling fireworks display over Lake Michigan from a historic pier. Whatever your interest, this list of epic things to do in Chicago at night has you covered.

The best views of Chicago at night

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1. Have dinner on Lake Michigan

If you time your Lake Michigan cruise right, you can watch the sun set behind the city skyline from the water. Enjoy live music and entertainment as you sail past the city’s most famous buildings, including the John Hancock Center, Wrigley Building, and Willis Tower.

Why do this at night?
Evening cruises are a little more intimate, with spectacular views of the city in lights, and are a great way to spend a romantic evening or a fun one with friends.

Choose your Chicago cruise

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photo: Olivier Bruchez

2. Take in the view from 360 Chicago Observation Deck

For one of the best views in Chicago at night, head up to the top of 360 Chicago. This 94th-floor observation deck offers panoramic views of the city, with a tilting glass lookout for those who aren’t afraid to look down 1,000 feet.

Why visit at night?
If you're wondering what to do in chicago at night, consider going at dusk and seeing the sun sink behind Chicago’s most iconic landmarks before enjoying a drink in the CloudBar and looking out at the city lighting up.

Things to do in Chicago at night if you like food and drinks

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3. Grab a cocktail in a speakeasy bar

Seek out secret speakeasies and step inside these inviting bars from the prohibition era, many of which have been maintained in their original condition. Sip on a cocktail and follow in the footsteps of celebrities and notorious gangsters from the 1920s.

Why do this at night?
Duck into one on an evening after-dinner stroll for a nightcap — the late-night atmosphere is perfect.

Find the perfect drinks experience in Chicago

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photo: Señor Codo

4. Taste your way through Chinatown

Exploring Chinatown and discovering unique dishes from many regions of China is the best way to experience it. Hop between traditional tea houses, dim sum joints, bakeries, and local restaurants. Don’t miss The Nine Dragon Wall, which features colorful glazed tiles modeled after the wall in Beihai Park in Beijing.

Why do this at night?
Dinnertime gives you a chance to experience Chinatown at its most buzzing time. Choose a banquet-style dinner or try a food tour to be led around the tastiest spots.

Explore food tours in Chinatown and across Chicago

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5. Dine on the city’s famous deep-dish pizza

No visit to Chicago is complete without trying the signature dish, deep-dish pizza. Chicago-style pizza is known for its deep base, full of rich sauce and topped with a thick layer of melty cheese. This iconic dish should be at the top of your list of what to eat in Chicago.

Why do this at night?
It’s so good and filling that you might be glad you waited until the end of the day to indulge—a food coma is no fun with so much sightseeing to do. Note that a proper deep dish can take around 40 minutes to prepare, so some places let you order ahead.

Take a tour to find the best deep-dish pizza

Unique things to do in Chicago at night

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6. Explore the history of Chicago

Visit creepy haunts and gangster hangouts as you discover the city’s dark side and notorious gangster history. Walk through the Chicago Loop and areas known for their crime scenes, secret tunnels, and bootleggers. Visit the iconic “Cloud Gate” sculpture in Millennium Park or see the Buckingham Fountain in all its glory.

Why do this at night?
The Loop features lively theaters at night, such as the Chicago Theater or the Symphony Center, which typically have night shows.

Brave a nighttime ghosts and gangsters tour

Enjoy the Navy Pier fireworks show

7. Enjoy the Navy Pier fireworks spectacular

Head to the historic Navy Pier for a dazzling free fireworks show and see the skies over Lake Michigan light up. The display is visible from most of the public spaces on Navy Pier, or you can watch it on a cruise or from a rooftop restaurant.

What nights are best?
The Navy Pier fireworks show occurs on Wednesdays (9:00 PM) and Saturdays (10:00 PM) in summer, from Memorial Day to Labor Day weekend, and is an unmissable Chicago nighttime experience.

Discover night cruises on Lake Michigan

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8. Catch a game

Soak up the atmosphere and cheer on the home team at one of Chicago’s famous sporting venues. Baseball fans can watch the White Sox or Chicago Cubs play, while football fans can catch a Chicago Bears game. Basketball fans should head to the United Center, home of the Chicago Bulls, where sports legend Michael Jordan once played.

Why visit at night?
Most games are in the evening, and offer a fun-filled ambience. There's nothing quite like catching a bsseball game under the lights.

Experience iconic sports venues in Chicago

FAQs

What are some of the nighttime attractions in Chicago?

One of the top attractions in Chicago at night is the Navy Pier fireworks show. Grab a spot on the 3,300-foot-long pier and watch the show light up the night sky over Lake Michigan. Another great thing to do in Chicago at night is to take in a Chicago White Sox or Chicago Cubs baseball game.

What are the best areas for a nighttime stroll in Chicago?

The best place to walk at night is on the Chicago Riverwalk. The path offers breathtaking views of the city and its skyscrapers. You will also find some restaurants and shops along the foreshore. Another great place to walk in Chicago at night is the vibrant Chinatown neighborhood. Step through the Chinatown Gate, grab a bite to eat, and admire The Nine Dragon Wall.

What are the best spots for a romantic night out in Chicago?

The best place to spend a romantic date night with your partner is in a hidden speakeasy. You can also take a Chicago sunset or dinner cruise on Lake Michigan and see the city lights twinkle.