Things To Do
Chicago River Dyeing
The Chicago River is dyed green annually for St. Patrick's Day on the Saturday before the holiday, which in 2026 is March 14th! Join the crowds on Saturday morning to watch the river be dyed green, a tradition that dates back to 1962. Be sure to bring some green attire! Hit up one or two or three of the many Irish pubs afterward to keep the party going with the rest of the city
Lincoln Park Zoo
The Lincoln Park Zoo is open 365 days a year and entry is always free! Founded in 1868, the Lincoln Park Zoo is one of the most historic zoos in North America and one of the only free admission zoos in the country. Lauren's favorite exhibit is the McCormick Bird House, and Hannah's is the Regenstein's Small Mammal-Reptile House.
Lincoln Park Conservatory
Located directly next to the Lincoln Park Zoo is the Conservatory! It is free entry with a reservation/ticket! All visits require a timed entry ticket, so be sure to reserve a time slot online in advance. Same day tickets may be available for immediate entry. Tickets can be booked for entry from 10 am until 4 pm, Wednesday through Sunday, doors close at 5pm.
The Art Institute of Chicago
If you're a lover of art, you need to check out The Art Institute of Chicago! Explore thousands of artworks in the museum’s collection—from our renowned icons to lesser-known works from every corner of the globe.
Shedd Aquarium
The Shedd Aquarium is actively involved in protecting endangered species and their habitats, both locally and globally, through conservation programs and research initiatives. We highly recommend checking it out, it has many types of sea life to observe and is overall a beautiful immersive setting.
