Activities, Camps and After School Classes in Chicago, IL

This self-guided walking tour is perfect for last-minute travelers who love chocolate! Travelers will use the eATLAS app for directions on where to go, and what to do--map included. You can start and pause the Adventure whenever it is convenient for you. Chicago was once the “Candy Capital of the World,” and chocolate has been a rich, decadent part of the city’s culinary history longer than deep-dish pizza and Italian beef. Milton Hershey even learned how to make chocolate in Chicago at the 1893 World’s Fair. Some of the world’s most beloved chocolate treats, including Tootsie Rolls, Baby Ruth, Butterfinger, Snickers, 3 Musketeers and Milky Way, were invented or are manufactured here. There are 8 delicious Loop and River North stops on our tour/scavenger hunt. Simply read the clues and follow the directions to guess the answers. Hints are provided if you need help. You won’t be required to buy anything, but if you need a quick pick-me-up, what’s better than chocolate?

On this nostalgic and educational tour, we will lead you on a "Christmas treasure hunt" through downtown Chicago in search of the most stunning and impressive Christmas trees and other holiday decorations — and we know where they are! This tour includes not only visits to well-known stops like the Christkindlmarkt and the old Marshall Field’s, but also to little-known stops that contain some of the best holiday decorations downtown. You’ll learn about the origins of some world-famous Christmas characters — some of them from Chicago, some not — as well as the history behind Christmas traditions practiced by people around the world.

Housed in the only remaining building from the 1893 World's Fair, Griffin MSI is a Chicago must-see. When visiting the largest science museum in the Western Hemisphere, you'll experience a 40-foot tornado, climb aboard a World War II German submarine, take a run in a human-sized hamster wheel, descend into an Illinois coal mine, board a 727 hanging from the ceiling and much more! Griffin MSI is not a place where you walk around quietly and observe. You get involved in the fun — and learn — by doing. Just a few miles from downtown with convenient underground parking.

You’ll be creating a unique fragrance that is true to you! We save it on file so you can order refills (at a discounted rate as long as you keep your bottle) and we rotate fragrances on the bar so you can always come in to create a new scent too! We’ve been around for over 30 years (established 1993) and have been a hidden gem in Chicago’s beautiful Lincoln Park area for the entire time. Nothing beats experience and trained perfumers to help guide and create the right proportions for you! We are BYOB—just board liquor allowed. But beer, wine, or a few hard seltzers are ok. It’s the perfect outing for date night, bachelorette parties, bridal showers, birthdays, business outings or even solo! For bigger groups (5+) you will have to book on our website or give us a call for instructions. It is a private activity in the sense that you get your own table or seating with your reservation—just like you would at a restaurant.

On our Secret Food Tour: Chicago, you'll enjoy a variety of foods with culinary influences from the people who built this city. You'll experience all the city's biggest food hits, many dishes with roots dating back over 150 years. This moving feast incorporates a walk through some of the city's world renowned architecture and public art in the famed Chicago Loop District. Experience our famous deep dish pizza, taste the amazing Italian beef sandwich, enjoy gourmet popcorn, and lots of other treats. Plus, there is our mouth-watering secret dish that you can only find out about on the day of the tour! As a private tour, everything works around you! Our start times are much more easy going, dates can open up. It's a much more intimate and cozy experience. No need to shout over other tourists, you will have every question answered, and leave feeling like a native yourself!

Gaze upon the city sights from the pinnacle of Chicago, the Skydeck. Located on the 103rd floor of Willis Tower, formerly Sears Tower -- the third-tallest building in the world -- the Skydeck offers spectacular sweeping views and is full of interactive exhibits. To complete your exciting Chicago experience, head to the Ledge, a glass balcony showcasing unbeatable views of Chicago’s top attractions like Wrigley Field and the Navy Pier. We added a brand new Chicago Experience that you start with by the box office prior taking the elevator trip to the 103rd floor. It is a 45,000 sq ft. museum of today. The New Experience is part Chicago History, part Architecural tour, part Selfie Museum and part Children's Museum. This is fun and interactive for all ages. Ride our "L" Train, see our infinity pizza bed, take pictures ontop of Willis Tower and so much more! This is the best way to see Chicago in one setting. With mobile tickets, simply scan your phone for direct entry into the SkyDeck

An authentic Chicago tradition since 1935, this is the tour that started it all. This unique excursion tells the story of more than 200 years of fascinating social, cultural and political history, and explores more than a century of groundbreaking architecture. The journey begins with an up-close perspective of Chicago's internationally-known architecture as seen from the Chicago River. Then venture through the Chicago Lock on to the calm, cool waters of Lake Michigan for expansive views of Chicago's extraordinary 26-mile skyline. Take the selfie of a lifetime on this inspirational experience!

Our private walking tour of the Chicago History Museum offers a personalized, in-depth experience led by expert guides who bring Chicago’s vibrant past to life through captivating stories, insider insights, and exclusive information tailored to your interests.

Discover the heart of Chicago’s Chinatown with your authentic history and culture tours, exclusively offered by the official Chinatown Visitor Center. Led by experienced local guides, your tours dives deep into the neighborhood’s rich heritage, hidden landmarks, and cultural traditions. Unlike generic tours, we bring you behind the scenes with insider stories, community connections, and exclusive access to local favorites. Experience Chinatown through the eyes of those who know it best. A minimum of 2 participants is required for this experience. If the minimum is not met, the tour may be canceled, and you will receive a full refund.

Discover the Art Institute in a unique way that blends art, storytelling, and photography. After a warm welcome, we'll head inside with tickets included & begin an immersive journey through the galleries. Together, we'll explore the museum's most celebrated highlights, featuring masterpieces by Monet, Picasso, Van Gogh, Dalí, Warhol, Hopper, and more. I'll share fascinating stories that bring the art and its creators to life, revealing the hidden meanings and personal histories behind. Along the way, I'll capture beautiful, candid photographs at the best photo spots. Using your phone or my iPhone 14 Pro, I'll guide you with simple posing tips and angles to ensure you receive stunning, professional-quality images perfect for memories or social media. Anyone looking for more than just a museum visit, you'll leave with gallery-worthy images plus knowledge that transforms how you experience art—an unforgettable blend of photography, storytelling, & culture. Looking forward to hosting you!

We are Chicago's only paranormal investigation tour, and Chicago's oldest ghost and hauntings tours, founded by Ursula Bielski, Chicago's 35 year paranormal researcher and investigator. Like Ursula, all of our guides are all real investigators and true Chicagoans. We love investigating, we love Chicago history, and we would love to show you Chicago's haunted history. This is the only tour which takes you out of the downtown area and into one of the most haunted parts of Chicago: Lincoln Park, the old City Cemetery, which was ravaged by the Great Fire of 1871, leaving 10,000 graves behind. The bodies are all still here, as well as the ghosts. The tour also visits the site of the St. Valentine's Day Massacre and the site of Suicide Bridge, where more than 100 desperate souls lost their lives.

This tour is ideal for first-time visitors or anyone eager to discover the city’s most iconic Top Attractions and Highlights on a guided Chicago Walking Tour. During this 2-hour Walking Tour of Chicago, stroll through downtown’s beautiful streets as expert local guides share rich history, colorful characters, and insider tips to enhance your list of Things to do in Chicago. Your experience includes a FREE 2-hour bike or kayak rental—bike the Lakefront Trail or kayak on Lake Michigan for unforgettable skyline views. Bobby’s Bike Hike tours are nationally recognized by National Geographic, USA Today, and Condé Nast Traveler for excellence in storytelling and urban exploration. You’ll see the landmarks that define Chicago: Millennium Park, the Chicago Riverwalk, the Wrigley Building, the Chicago Theatre, and the famed Magnificent Mile. Covering 1.5 miles (2.25 km) of easy, flat terrain, this tour offers a complete and memorable introduction to the city.

Let our expert local guides share their passion with you for The Art Institute of Chicago on this private 2 hour tour. As you traverse the hallowed halls, you’ll discover an extraordinary collection spanning centuries and cultures, from classical masterpieces to cutting-edge contemporary works. Our expert guides will illuminate the stories behind each brushstroke, sculpture, and masterpiece, providing a rich narrative that breathes life into the art.

Experience the freedom of exploring Lincoln Park, Chicago with these electric bike rentals. Perfect for both leisurely rides and adventurous outings, our e-bikes provide an effortless boost that enhances your outdoor experience. Enjoy the convenience of no traffic hassles and no gas expenses as you zip around the city. Rentals include a thorough demo ride for comfort and fit assessment, ensuring you find the right bike for your journey. - Convenient location on Clark Street, Lincoln Park (Lake Michigan 0.6 miles Away) - Free one-hour test ride available - Expert guidance to help you choose the perfect e-bike - Enjoy a cost-effective travel option without parking fees or Traffic!

The Sloomooverse combines delicious scents (birthday cake, fresh berries, cotton candy), sounds that energize as well as soothe, an invigorating palette, and a feast of visual and tactile wonders. Plus, you’ll design your dream slime at our DIY Bar. Over 4,320,000 unique combinations! Play, connect, enjoy!

On our 3 hour food walking tour of Chicago, you will taste delectable foods from 5 different delicious places. Tease your tastebuds as you savor foods from Chicago's best deep dish pizza restaurant, Rick Bayless' amazing Mexican fare and more.  In addition to all the delicious food, your guide will discuss the history, culture and food scene of the neighborhood. We have vegetarian options at all the food stops and can accommodate other dietary restrictions with advance notice.  Join us on a culinary adventure of Chicago's River North neighborhood. We've done all the delicious research to showcase the best eats in Chicago. Wear your comfy shoes, bring your appetite and we'll take care of the rest...

Studio W.I.P. by Native 312 Events offers a unique spin on BYOB paint night! Join us as we host an intimate look into the world of Street Art as we learn about some different styles and techniques with guest artists. Then you get your hands dirty as you walk around our gallery setting and test out your skills in different mediums like aerosol spray and stencil. At the end of your workshop you will be able to go home with your own piece of art!

On our Secret Food Tour: Chicago, you'll enjoy a variety of foods with culinary influences from the people who built this city. You'll experience all the city's biggest food hits, many dishes with roots dating back over 150 years. This moving feast incorporates a walk through some of the city's world renowned architecture and public art in the famed Chicago Loop District. Experience our famous deep dish pizza, taste the amazing Italian beef sandwich, enjoy gourmet popcorn, and lots of other treats. Plus, there is our mouth-watering secret dish that you can only find out about on the day of the tour!

This tour explores some of the best hidden details, secret buildings and spaces, and untold stories that add wonderful bits of color and texture to the overall narrative of Chicago. On this tour, we will explore the famous and mysterious Chicago Pedway, a system of underground tunnels connecting 40 blocks downtown, popping in and out of buildings to see beautiful and fascinating interior spaces. You'll learn to use this system that most locals don't even fully know or use, and you'll be encouraged to continue exploring Chicago on your own after the tour!

This self-guided Adventure is perfect for last-minute travelers who love animals and games, and for families traveling with kids! Travelers will use the eATLAS app for directions on where to go, and what to do--map included. You can start and pause the Adventure whenever it is convenient for you. The Lincoln Park Zoo is a 35-acre complex with 200 different species from around the world, and features more than 1,100 animals, as well as programs devoted to conservation, environmental protection and education. Every December, ZooLights brings thousands of visitors to see the zoo at night festively decorated for the holiday season. And it’s all just a few miles north of downtown Chicago! There are eight objectives in our scavenger hunt, encompassing the entire grounds of the zoo, which includes the Nature Boardwalk and Farm-in-the-Zoo. The zoo is open 365 days a year, from 8 AM to 5 PM on the weekdays and 8 AM to 7 PM on holidays. There is no charge for admission.

The Lake Michigan Sunset Cruise departs near the DuSable (Michigan Avenue) Bridge on Wendella's world class tour boats. The Cruise will navigate from the Chicago River, through the Chicago Lock and out onto Lake Michigan. Watch the sun slowly set behind the city from the tranquil waters of Lake Michigan on this serene and romantic cruise.