Chicago, in the heart of October, is a city buzzing with a diverse array of activities that cater to all interests, whether you're a local or a tourist. Here are some fun and unique things to do in Chicago, covering a mix of current events, popular attractions, and hidden gems.
### Halloween Celebrations
As Halloween approaches, Chicago transforms into a vibrant and spooky landscape. One of the most anticipated events is the **Wrigleyville Halloween Crawl**, where party-goers can bar-hop through Wrigleyville's best bars, showcasing their creative costumes and enjoying a night of music, dancing, and drinks.
For those who prefer daytime celebrations, the **Halloween DAY Crawl in River North** offers a unique experience with breakfast included, followed by a crawl through River North's top bars while the sun is still shining.
The **Haunted Hotel Halloween Ball at Congress Plaza Hotel** promises a thrilling night at one of Chicago's most haunted hotels, complete with costume contests and spooky ambiance.
### Cultural and Artistic Experiences
For art enthusiasts, **Open House Chicago** is a must-visit event. Taking place on October 19th and 20th, this free event allows visitors to explore over 200 of Chicago's most fascinating and usually off-limits buildings, showcasing the city's rich architectural heritage.
Music lovers can enjoy the **Paul Bielatowicz’s “Nosferatu Live!”** at The Athenaeum Center on October 25th and 26th. This event features a live musical performance and multi-media production of the 1922 silent horror classic "Nosferatu".
### Outdoor Adventures
Fall in Chicago is perfect for outdoor activities. **Jack’s Pumpkin Pop-Up** on Goose Island is a popular spot, offering a corn maze, axe throwing, carnival games, food trucks, and full bars spread over 2 acres. This is an ideal place to immerse yourself in the fall spirit.
Just outside of Chicago, the **Richardson Farm’s corn maze** is another attraction. With 9-10 miles of trails and five maze games, it's a great place for families and adventure seekers. The maze is open Thursdays through Sundays until October 27th.
### Sports and Fitness
October is a great time for sports enthusiasts in Chicago. Catch a game at historic venues like **Wrigley Field** for the Cubs or the **United Center** for the Bulls and Blackhawks. The month is also filled with other sporting events, including football and soccer matches.
For fitness enthusiasts, the **Bank of America Chicago Marathon and Fitness Expo** took place on October 13th, but the city still offers various fitness activities and health expos throughout the month.
### Food and Drink Experiences
Chicago's culinary scene is vibrant and diverse. The **Chicago Beer Festival** at the Field Museum, although already passed, sets the tone for the city's craft beer culture. However, you can still enjoy beer festivals and wine tastings like the **Lincoln Park Wine Festival**, which offers wine tastings and commemorative wine glasses.
For a unique dining experience, **LG's Bar & Kitchen** celebrates Halloween all month long with special menus and cocktails. Additionally, **Central Park** offers free pizza and unique cocktails, making it a great spot to relax and enjoy good food.
### Ghost Tours and Haunted Events
Chicago is known for its haunted history, and October is the perfect time to explore this side of the city. Take a **Ghost Tour** or a **Ghost Pub Tour** to delve into the city's spooky past. These tours cover various haunted locations, including pubs and bars, and offer a pay-what-you-want walking tour option.
The **Lincoln Park Haunted History Tours**, led by Adam Selzer, provide a spine-tingling walk through the zoo’s cemetery roots and other allegedly haunted locations in Lincoln Park.
### Family-Friendly Activities
For families, **Lincoln Park Zoo's Spooky Zoo** is a fun and safe way to celebrate Halloween. Kids can dress up in costumes, trick-or-treat, and enjoy craft stations, live music, and a haunted house.
The **Windy City Market Halloween Vintage & Artisan Market** on October 27th at the Logan Square Auditorium is another family-friendly event where you can discover unique treasures, enjoy food and beverages, and explore the local artisan scene.
In summary, Chicago in October is a city that offers something for everyone, from spooky Halloween celebrations and cultural events to outdoor adventures, sports, and unique food experiences. Whether you're a local or just visiting, there's no shortage of exciting and memorable activities to enjoy.
