Searching for what to do this weekend in Chicago? Below are the top things to do in Chicago this weekend (May 10-12, 2024). You can find the best things to do next weekend here.
I suggest bookmarking this blog post as I will be updating it regularly with new events and activities.
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This Weekend Events in Chicago
Below are the best weekend events in Chicago:
Switch on Summer – Saturday, May 11, 2024 from 11:30am to 1pm which celebrates the start of summer with the turning on of Buckingham Fountain.
Chicago Vintage Fest Mothers Day Pop-Up – Saturday, May 11, 2024
Candlelight: A Tribute to Pink – Friday, May 10, 2024
Navy Pier Open Air: Black Coffee at Navy Pier East End Plaza – Friday, May 10, 2024
The Andersonville Wine Walk – Saturday, May 11, 2024 from 3-6PM
Night Nation Run – Saturday, May 11, 2024
Mother’s Day Tea Party at Normandy Park – Saturday, May 11, 2024 from 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM
AirOtic Soirée: A Sensual Cirque Cabaret! – May 10-11, 2024
More Things to Do in Chicago This Weekend
In addition to the weekend events listed above, below are more of the best things to do in Chicago this weekend:
Take an Architecture River Cruise
Taking an architecture river cruise is a must when visiting Chicago.
See Digital Art Projections at Art on the Mart
Art on theMART, projecting contemporary artwork across the 2.5-acre river-façade of theMART, recently resumed its nightly shows with a new commission by internationally acclaimed artist Nora Turato.
When: 30-minute program of projections are shown twice nightly.
Where: The Merchandise Mart, 222 W Merchandise Mart Plaza, Chicago, IL 60654. Spectators can watch the show from the jetty section of the Chicago Riverwalk on Wacker Drive between Wells Street and Franklin Street.
See the Spring Flower Show at the Garfield Park Conservatory
The Garfield Park Conservatory is one of the largest and most stunning botanical conservatories in the US. Often referred to as “landscape art under glass,” the conservatory showcases thousands of plant species from around the world throughout eight indoor display gardens. Visitors can enjoy the lush flora and tropical temperatures indoors even if it is cold or rainy outside.
This is the last weekend to catch this year’s Spring Flower Show, What’s in a Name?, which explains the history and science of botanical nomenclature alongside a beautiful flower show full of blooms.
Where: 300 N. Central Park Ave., Chicago, IL 60624
Hours: Wednesday 10am-8pm; Thursday – Sunday 10am-5pm; Closed Monday and Tuesday
Cost: FREE (suggested donation)
Enjoy Lincoln Park Conservatory’s Spring Flower Show
Although not as large as the Garfield Park Conservatory, the Lincoln Park Conservatory is worth a visit and is more conveniently located for visitors. Advance online reservations are required for entry.
This year’s “Sweet Gnome Chicago” Spring Flower Show is ending this weekend.
Hours: Wednesdays through Sundays from 10am-5pm.
Where: 2391 N Stockton Dr., Chicago, IL 60614
Titanic: The Exhibition
Titanic: The Exhibition is ending its limited time run in the Chicago area in a few weeks. This interactive experience allows you to step inside recreations of the Titanic’s interior. Immerse yourself in the stories of its passengers, see hundreds of artifacts, and discover the tale of the design, creation, launch, maiden voyage, and tragedy of the historic ship.
Where: 4963 Old Orchard Shopping Center, Skokie, IL 60077 (about 17 miles from downtown Chicago)
Cost: Price varies. Click here for full prices and to purchase tickets in advance.
Downton Abbey: The Exhibition
Downton Abbey: The Exhibition is in the Chicago area only for a limited time. Delve deep into the post-Edwardian era with never-before-seen treasures, from original costumes to iconic props, and exclusive series footage. Traverse the grandeur of the Crawley estate, from the bustling kitchen to the opulent dining room. Explore British society, culture, and fashion amidst historical upheavals.
Where: 4963 Old Orchard Shopping Center, Skokie, IL 60077 (about 17 miles from downtown Chicago)
Cost: Price varies. Click here for full prices and to purchase tickets in advance.
As you can see there are many things to do in Chicago next weekend. If you are looking for things to do during the week, here are more things to do in Chicago in May.