Photo courtesy of Verbs & Vision Media
The Democratic National Convention draws politicos and volunteers from all over the country eager to make a difference in the U.S. In between jam-packed days and witnessing Kamala Harris take her position as the party’s official nominee. Chicago offers an exciting line-up of activities.
Celebrating Chicago at Daley Plaza
Mayor Brandon Johnson and the Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs have organized a series of performances, DJs, food trucks, artisan markets and interactive events in the heart of the Loop, at Daley Plaza.
Don’t miss the Indigenous/First Nations mapping event on 8/20, from 1-3-m, the renowned Jesse White tumblers on 8/21 at 1 pm, the Heart of Chicago Soul Club of women DJS spinning Motown and Doowop on 8/22 from 4-7 pm and the 40 Years of House Music Celebration on 8/23/
Check out the full schedule here.
Stroll the Chicago Riverwalk and Check out the Art on the Mart
Get another perspective on the city and head to the riverwalk that edges the Chicago River. You’ll find restaurants, bars, art installations and lots of beautiful views. If you want to learn about the river’s history, take the free Chicago Riverwalk and History Tour.
For an evening treat, check out the Art on the Mart digital display on the walls of The Mart around 7:30 pm. This massive runs 2.5 acres and is one of the world’s largest digital art platforms. The Riverwalk between Wells and Franklin provides the best sightlines.
Photo courtesy of Chicago Water Taxi
Catch a Water Taxi Ride
The famous Chicago Architectural Tour Boat Ride is noted for jaw-dropping views of Chicago skyscrapers and their history But if you want the views without the info or pricey fee, hop a Chicago Water Taxi.
Glide along the river and see Chicago’s skyline up close and personal. For extra entertainment, take a taxi to Chinatown and roam the historic neighborhood for restaurants, cafes and architecture.
Enjoy a Free Jazz Concert in the Grass
Chicago serves up some of the best musicians in the country and you can experience a live jazz concert at the Museum of Contemporary Art’s weekly Tuesdays on the Terrace series, from 5:30-8:00 pm.
Sink into the grass of the museum’s Ann & John Kern Terrace Garden and groove to the sounds of Sistazz of the Nitty Gritty, a collective of women multi-instrumentalists. The museum is free on Tuesdays for Illinois residents so head inside and view the exhibits.
Ohio Street Beach courtesy of Verbs & Vision Media
Lounge on a Beach Just Minutes Away from Your Hotel.
With all the stunning architecture, restaurants and museums, visitors often forget that Chicago sits near a great lake. That’s right, Lake Michigan gives the city 26 miles of beaches.
So grab a serene moment sitting on the sand or dipping your toes into the water. The closest beaches to the United Center are McCormick Place are 12 St. Beach and Ohio Street Beach but check out the full list of Chicago beaches here.
