151 BEST Things To Do In Chicago Memorial Day Weekend

Are you looking for the best things to do in Chicago this Memorial Day weekend?

Well, look no further!

We have put together a list of 151 amazing activities that will make your trip to the Windy City unforgettable.

Whether you are an outdoors enthusiast or a culture vulture, there is something here for everyone.

From thrilling adventure sports and outdoor concerts, to historical tours and incredible dining experiences - this list has it all covered!

So forget about spending hours searching online for ideas on what to do in Chicago; we've got everything sorted out so you can easily plan your perfect holiday weekend getaway.

1. Watch the Chicago Memorial Day Parade

The annual parade honors fallen heroes and features marching bands, military vehicles, and patriotic displays.

2. Visit the National Veterans Art Museum

This museum showcases the artwork of combat veterans and provides a unique perspective on war and its impact on soldiers.

3. Attend the Chicago Gospel Music Festival

This free event celebrates the rich history and soul-stirring sounds of gospel music with performances from local and national artists.

4. Take a Segway tour of the city

See the sights of Chicago from a new perspective on a guided Segway tour.

5. Visit the Shedd Aquarium

This world-renowned aquarium is home to thousands of aquatic creatures and offers interactive exhibits and educational programs.

6. Explore Millennium Park

This iconic park features a variety of public art installations, a stunning outdoor concert venue, and plenty of green space for picnics and relaxation.

7. Go on a riverboat tour

Enjoy breathtaking views of the city skyline as you cruise along the Chicago River on a sightseeing boat tour.

8. Visit the Museum of Science and Industry

This interactive museum features exhibits on everything from space exploration to the technology behind modern farming.

9. Attend a Cubs game at Wrigley Field

Experience the excitement of America's favorite pastime in one of the most iconic baseball stadiums in the country.

10. Check out the Lincoln Park Zoo

This free zoo is home to over 1,000 animals and offers family-friendly activities and events throughout the summer.

11. Take a bike tour of the city

Get some exercise while exploring the city's neighborhoods and scenic bike paths.

12. Visit the Art Institute of Chicago

This world-class museum features an extensive collection of art from around the world, including famous works by Vincent van Gogh, Pablo Picasso, and Grant Wood.

13. Attend the Chicago House Music Festival

Celebrate the birthplace of house music with a free outdoor festival featuring live performances by local and international DJs.

14. Take a food tour of the city

Sample some of Chicago's famous deep-dish pizza, hot dogs, and other culinary delights on a guided food tour.

15. Visit the Field Museum

This natural history museum is home to Sue, the largest and most complete Tyrannosaurus Rex skeleton ever discovered.

16. Attend the Belmont-Sheffield Music Festival

This street festival features live music, food vendors, and a beer garden.

17. Explore the Chicago Botanic Garden

This 385-acre garden features a variety of themed gardens, including a Japanese garden and a butterfly habitat.

18. Attend the Chicago Mayfest

This festival celebrates the arrival of spring with live music, craft beer, and plenty of food vendors.

19. Visit the DuSable Museum of African American History

This museum features exhibits on the history and culture of African Americans, including displays on civil rights leaders and the Underground Railroad.

20. Attend the 57th Street Art Fair

This annual art fair features over 200 artists showcasing their work in a variety of mediums, including painting, sculpture, and jewelry.

21. Take a helicopter tour of the city

Get a bird's-eye view of Chicago's skyline and landmarks on a thrilling helicopter tour.

22. Attend the Memorial Day BBQ at Navy Pier

Navy Pier hosts a family-friendly barbecue on Memorial Day with live music and activities for kids.

23. Explore the Chicago Riverwalk

This pedestrian walkway along the river features restaurants, bars, and shops, as well as public art installations and scenic views of the city.

24. Take a sunset sail on Lake Michigan

Set sail on a romantic sunset cruise on Lake Michigan, complete with dinner and drinks.

25. Attend the Belmont-Central Polish Fest

This street festival celebrates Chicago's vibrant Polish community with traditional food, music, and dancing.

26. Visit the Adler Planetarium

This museum features exhibits on space exploration and astronomy, as well as a state-of-the-art sky theater.

27. Take a kayaking tour of the city

See Chicago's waterfront from a new perspective on a guided kayak tour.

28. Attend the Randolph Street Market Festival

This indoor/outdoor market features vintage clothing, furniture, and other unique finds from over 300 vendors.

29. Visit the Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum

This museum focuses on the ecology of the Midwest region and offers hands-on exhibits and educational programs for all ages.

30. Attend the Memorial Day Parade at Navy Pier

This parade features military veterans, marching bands, and patriotic displays, and is followed by a wreath-laying ceremony in honor of fallen soldiers.

31. Attend the Mole de Mayo Festival

This festival celebrates Mexican culture and cuisine with live music, art vendors, and plenty of food stalls serving up authentic mole dishes.

32. Take a walking tour of the city's architecture

Chicago is famous for its stunning skyline and historic buildings, and a guided walking tour is a great way to learn more about the city's architectural heritage.

33. Visit the Museum of Contemporary Art

This museum features exhibits and installations from some of the most innovative artists working today, as well as a variety of educational programs for all ages.

34. Attend the Belmont-Sheffield Music Fest

This street festival features live music across multiple stages, craft beer, and plenty of food vendors.

35. Take a sunset dinner cruise on Lake Michigan

Enjoy stunning views of the city skyline and a delicious meal on a romantic dinner cruise.

36. Visit the Richard H. Driehaus Museum

This restored Gilded Age mansion showcases the opulence and luxury of turn-of-the-century Chicago.

37. Attend the Do Division Street Fest

This street festival features live music, a sidewalk sale, and a variety of food vendors.

38. Visit the Oriental Institute Museum

This museum at the University of Chicago houses an extensive collection of artifacts from ancient Egypt and Mesopotamia.

39. Attend the Chicago Kids and Kites Festival

This family-friendly event features kite-flying demonstrations, face painting, and other activities for kids.

40. Take a ghost tour of the city

Explore Chicago's spookier side on a haunted tour of the city's most infamous landmarks and ghostly hotspots.

41. Visit the Garfield Park Conservatory

This urban oasis features a variety of indoor and outdoor gardens, as well as educational exhibits and programs.

42. Attend the Ribfest Chicago

This festival celebrates all things BBQ, with mouth-watering ribs, live music, and plenty of craft beer.

43. Take a hot air balloon ride

See the city from a whole new perspective on a thrilling hot air balloon ride, complete with stunning views of the skyline and Lake Michigan.

44. Visit the Chicago History Museum

This museum explores the rich history of Chicago, from its early days as a small trading post to its role as a modern metropolis.

45. Attend the Pilsen Food Truck Social

This festival brings together some of the city's best food trucks, serving up everything from tacos to Korean BBQ.

46. Take a yoga class in the park

Enjoy the sunshine and fresh air while getting your yoga fix in one of Chicago's beautiful parks.

47. Visit the National Museum of Mexican Art

This museum features a collection of Mexican art and artifacts, as well as rotating exhibits showcasing contemporary Mexican art.

48. Attend the Memorial Day Parade at Beverly

This family-friendly parade features floats, marching bands, and plenty of patriotic displays.

49. Explore the Chicago Cultural Center

This historic building houses a variety of art galleries and exhibition spaces, as well as performance venues and other cultural events.

50. Attend the African-Caribbean International Festival of Life

This festival celebrates the music, food, and culture of Africa and the Caribbean, with live performances and plenty of food vendors.

51. Go on a brewery tour

Chicago is home to a thriving craft beer scene, and a brewery tour is a great way to sample some of the city's best brews.

52. Visit the Museum of Broadcast Communications

This museum explores the history of radio and television broadcasting, with exhibits on everything from classic sitcoms to political campaigns.

53. Attend the Randolph Street Market Festival

This indoor/outdoor market features vintage clothing, furniture, and other unique finds from over 300 vendors.

54. Take a cooking class

Learn how to make authentic Chicago-style deep-dish pizza or other local specialties at one of the city's many cooking schools.

55. Visit the Swedish American Museum

This museum celebrates the history and culture of Chicago's Swedish community, with exhibits on immigration, folk art, and more.

56. Attend the Old Town Art Fair

This juried art fair features over 250 artists showcasing their work in a variety of mediums, including painting, sculpture, and jewelry.

57. Take a trolley tour of the city

See the sights of Chicago in style on a vintage trolley tour, complete with historical commentary and scenic stops along the way.

58. Visit the Mitchell Museum of the American Indian

This museum showcases the art and culture of Native American tribes from across North America, with exhibits on everything from traditional dress to contemporary art.

59. Attend the Memorial Day Parade at Norwood Park

This family-friendly parade features marching bands, military vehicles, and other patriotic displays.

60. Take a horse-drawn carriage ride through the city

Enjoy a romantic and leisurely tour of Chicago's landmark buildings and scenic streets in a cozy carriage ride.

61. Visit the Polish Museum of America

This museum showcases the history and culture of Chicago's Polish community, with exhibits on everything from traditional dress to famous Polish Americans.

62. Attend the Lincoln Park Greek Fest

This festival celebrates Greek culture and cuisine, with live music, dance performances, and plenty of delicious food vendors.

63. Take a stand-up paddleboard tour of the Chicago River

Explore the city's waterways in a unique and exciting way on a guided stand-up paddleboard tour.

64. Visit the Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum

This museum focuses on the ecology of the Midwest region and offers hands-on exhibits and educational programs for all ages.

65. Go on a photo safari of the city

Take a guided photography tour of Chicago's iconic landmarks and hidden gems, capturing stunning images along the way.

66. Attend the Write Club Chicago

This literary performance event features writers and performers battling it out with their words in a high-energy, competitive showcase.

67. Visit the Money Museum at the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago

Explore the history of money and banking in the United States, with interactive exhibits and displays.

68. Attend the Belmont-Sheffield Wine Fest

This street festival features tastings from over 80 different wines, as well as live music and food vendors.

69. Take a cooking class at the Chopping Block

Learn how to cook like a pro at this popular cooking school, with classes on everything from knife skills to international cuisines.

70. Visit the American Writers Museum

This museum celebrates the rich literary heritage of the United States, with exhibits on famous authors and interactive displays.

71. Attend the Memorial Day Parade at Bridgeport

This family-friendly parade features marching bands, floats, and other patriotic displays.

72. Take a trapeze class

Get your adrenaline pumping on a high-flying trapeze class, perfect for thrill-seekers and adventure lovers.

73. Visit the DuPage Children's Museum

This interactive museum is designed for kids and features hands-on exhibits and educational programs on science, art, and more.

74. Attend the Midsommarfest in Andersonville

This festival celebrates Scandinavian culture and cuisine, with live music, dance performances, and plenty of food vendors.

75. Take a comedy class at Second City

Learn the art of improvisation and sketch comedy at the world-famous Second City Training Center.

76. Visit the Chicago Architecture Biennial

This international exhibition showcases cutting-edge architecture and design from around the world, with installations and exhibits throughout the city.

77. Attend the Memorial Day Parade at Hyde Park

This family-friendly parade features marching bands, floats, and other patriotic displays.

78. Take a mixology class

Learn how to make classic cocktails and creative concoctions at one of Chicago's many mixology schools.

79. Visit the Pritzker Military Museum and Library

This museum and research center focuses on military history and the experiences of veterans, with exhibits on everything from World War I to the present day.

80. Attend the Mayfestiversary

This street festival celebrates the anniversary of Mayfest, with live music, craft beer, and plenty of food vendors.

81. Take a salsa dancing class

Learn how to move to the rhythm of Latin music at one of Chicago's many salsa dancing schools.

82. Visit the International Museum of Surgical Science

This museum explores the history and advancements of surgery and medicine, with exhibits on everything from ancient healing practices to modern surgical techniques.

83. Attend the Memorial Day Parade at Lakeview East

This family-friendly parade features marching bands, military vehicles, and other patriotic displays.

84. Take a glassblowing class

Learn the art of glassblowing at one of Chicago's many glass art studios and create your own unique masterpiece.

85. Visit the Museum of Contemporary Photography

This museum features exhibits and installations from some of the most innovative photographers working today, as well as a variety of educational programs for all ages.

86. Attend the Chicago Gospel Music Fest in Bronzeville

This free event celebrates the rich history and soul-stirring sounds of gospel music with performances from local and national artists.

87. Go on a food crawl

Sample some of Chicago's best cuisine on a self-guided food crawl, hitting up multiple restaurants and food stalls in one afternoon.

88. Visit the National Hellenic Museum

This museum explores the history and culture of ancient Greece and its impact on modern society, with exhibits on everything from mythology to philosophy.

89. Attend the Memorial Day Parade at Edison Park

This family-friendly parade features marching bands, floats, and other patriotic displays.

90. Take a drumming class

Learn how to play traditional West African rhythms on the djembe drum at one of Chicago's many music schools.

91. Attend the Chicago Kids and Kites Festival

The annual Chicago Kids and Kites Festival is held on Memorial Day weekend at Lincoln Park. The festival provides a free kite-building workshop for children and an opportunity to fly their kites in the sky.

92. Dance to live music at Chicago House Party

The Chicago House Party is held annually on Memorial Day weekend at the Chicago Cultural Center. The event features live house music, DJs, dance performances, and workshops.

93. Visit the Garfield Park Conservatory

The Garfield Park Conservatory is a beautiful indoor garden situated on the west side of Chicago. The conservatory is home to a wide variety of exotic plants and flowers.

94. Take a tour of the Chicago Riverwalk

The Chicago Riverwalk is a scenic promenade that runs along the Chicago River. It's a popular spot for walking, biking, and taking boat tours.

95. Explore the Illinois Holocaust Museum and Education Center

The Illinois Holocaust Museum and Education Center is located in Skokie, a suburb of Chicago. The museum houses exhibits and artifacts related to the Holocaust and serves as a memorial to its victims.

96. Shop at the Maxwell Street Market

The Maxwell Street Market is a popular outdoor market that operates every Sunday in the Pilsen neighborhood. The market sells everything from clothing and jewelry to food and household items.

97. See a play at the Goodman Theatre

The Goodman Theatre is a renowned theater company located in the Loop. The theater produces a variety of plays and musicals throughout the year.

98. Take a bike ride on the Lakefront Trail

The Lakefront Trail is a 18-mile trail that runs along the shoreline of Lake Michigan. It's a popular spot for biking, running, and walking.

99. Visit the Museum of Science and Industry

The Museum of Science and Industry is one of the largest science museums in the world. The museum features interactive exhibits, hands-on activities, and live demonstrations.

100. Attend the Chicago Gospel Music Festival

The Chicago Gospel Music Festival is held annually on Memorial Day weekend in Millennium Park. The festival features live performances by some of the best gospel singers in the world.

101. Enjoy a picnic in Grant Park

Grant Park is a large urban park located in the Loop. It's a popular spot for picnics, outdoor concerts, and other events.

102. See a movie at the Music Box Theatre

The Music Box Theatre is an historic cinema located in the Lakeview neighborhood. The theater screens classic, foreign, and independent films.

103. Visit the Chicago Cultural Center

The Chicago Cultural Center is a cultural hub located in the Loop. The center hosts art exhibitions, concerts, film screenings, and other events throughout the year.

104. Take a boat tour of the Chicago River

Boat tours of the Chicago River are a popular way to see the city. Tours are available during the day and at night.

105. Visit the Art Institute of Chicago

The Art Institute of Chicago is one of the oldest and largest art museums in the country. The museum houses a vast collection of artwork from around the world.

106. Watch a Cubs game at Wrigley Field

Wrigley Field is one of the most iconic baseball stadiums in the country. Watching a Cubs game at Wrigley is a must-do for any sports fan visiting Chicago.

107. Visit the Lincoln Park Zoo

The Lincoln Park Zoo is a free zoo located in the Lincoln Park neighborhood. The zoo is home to a wide variety of animals, including lions, tigers, bears, and monkeys.

108. Take a stroll through Millennium Park

Millennium Park is a large urban park located in the Loop. The park features public art installations, gardens, and a splash pad.

109. Explore the Museum of Contemporary Art

The Museum of Contemporary Art is located in the Streeterville neighborhood. The museum features cutting-edge contemporary art exhibitions and performances.

110. Attend the Chicago Blues Festival

The Chicago Blues Festival is held annually on Memorial Day weekend in Millennium Park. The festival features live performances by some of the best blues musicians in the world.

111. Visit the Shedd Aquarium

The Shedd Aquarium is a popular tourist attraction located on the Museum Campus. The aquarium is home to a wide variety of marine life, including dolphins, whales, and sharks.

112. Take a architecture boat tour

Architecture boat tours of the Chicago River are a popular way to see the city's famous skyscrapers and other architectural landmarks.

113. See a show at the Chicago Theatre

The Chicago Theatre is a historic theater located in the Loop. The theater hosts concerts, comedy shows, and other live events.

114. Visit the DuSable Museum of African American History

The DuSable Museum of African American History is located in the Washington Park neighborhood. The museum houses exhibits and artifacts related to African American history and culture.

115. Check out the nightlife in Wicker Park

Wicker Park is a trendy neighborhood known for its nightlife.

116. Take a kayak tour of the Chicago River and see the city from a different perspective.

117. Visit the Garfield Park Conservatory, a 184-acre botanical garden with over 600 species of plants.

118. Experience the nightlife in Wicker Park, where you can find bars, restaurants, and live music venues.

119. Take a trip to the Chicago Cultural Center to see art exhibits and attend performances and events.

120. Take a bike ride along the Lakefront Trail, which spans 18 miles and offers beautiful views of Lake Michigan.

121. Visit the Field Museum, one of the largest natural history museums in the world, and see Sue the T-Rex.

122. Explore the unique architecture of the city on an architecture boat tour.

123. Go shopping on the Magnificent Mile, a famous shopping district with high-end stores and boutiques.

124. Visit the Museum of Contemporary Art to see cutting-edge contemporary art.

125. Take a scenic drive or hike through the Morton Arboretum, a 1,700-acre outdoor museum filled with tree collections and gardens.

126. Visit the National Museum of Mexican Art to learn about Mexican culture and art.

127. Check out the collection at the DuSable Museum of African American History.

128. Take a stroll through Lincoln Park Zoo, a free zoo that's home to over 200 species of animals.

129. Visit the Oriental Institute Museum to learn about ancient cultures and civilizations.

130. Take a food tour of the city and taste some of the best cuisine Chicago has to offer.

131. Attend a game or concert at Soldier Field, a historic stadium that's home to the Chicago Bears.

132. Explore the Chicago Riverwalk, a pedestrian walkway that stretches along the Chicago River.

133. Visit the Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum, a natural history museum featuring exhibits on local wildlife and ecology.

134. Take a trip to Navy Pier, a popular tourist destination with rides, restaurants, and attractions.

135. Attend a performance at the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, one of the top symphony orchestras in the world.

136. Explore the Art Institute of Chicago, one of the oldest and largest art museums in the country.

137. Take a guided tour of the Chicago Theatre, a historic theater with stunning architecture.

138. Visit the Willis Tower Skydeck, a popular observation deck that offers views of the city from 1,353 feet above ground.

139. Take a trip to the Museum of Science and Industry, a museum dedicated to promoting science education.

140. Visit the Chicago Botanic Garden to see beautiful gardens and landscapes.

141. Check out the Adler Planetarium, a museum dedicated to space and astronomy.

142. Take a stroll through Millennium Park, a public park that features art installations, gardens, and a large outdoor amphitheater.

143. Visit the Shedd Aquarium, one of the largest indoor aquariums in the world.

144. Explore the Richard H. Driehaus Museum, a museum dedicated to Gilded Age art and architecture.

145. Take a trip to the Chicago History Museum to learn about the city's rich history.

146. Attend a show at the Second City, a famous comedy club that has launched the careers of many comedians.

147. Take a tour of the Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio, where the famous architect lived and worked.

148. Visit the Chicago Children's Museum, a hands-on museum designed for kids.

149. Take a trip to the McCormick Bridgehouse & Chicago River Museum, which explores the history of the city's bridges and river.

150. Attend a concert or show at the historic Green Mill Cocktail Lounge, a jazz club that dates back to the 1900s.

151. Explore the Garfield Park neighborhood on a guided walking tour to learn about the area's history and architecture.

Please note

Cactus Lands site is a valuable resource, but when it comes to matters of pet's health, always consult with a trained veterinary medical professional.

Never rely solely on digital information.

Taking into account your individual situation will help you make the best decisions for the well-being of your companion pet.

Cactus Lands site serves as an informative resource, but should never be used to diagnose or treat a medical condition of either you or your pet.

When it comes to the health of your pet, always consult with a qualified veterinary medical professional for the best advice and care tailored specifically for you and your pet!

Cactus Lands site and the materials and information it contains are not intended to, and do not constitute, medical, veterinarian, or other health advice or diagnosis and should not be used as such.

You should always consult with a qualified physician or veterinary health professional about your specific circumstances.