Photo by Jonathan J. Castellon on Unsplash

 

What do you get when you visit — or live — in Chicago? You get whatever you fancy. You can embark on a boat and bask in some sun on Lake Michigan, or take a nature walk around the Chicagoland area in the summer. You can also enjoy some of the finest restaurants in the U.S. and the world — a few of them are even located near or in The St. Regis Chicago Residences, like Miru or Tre Dita. Plus, if you simply want to enjoy a weekend of luxury, Chicago is the place for it. 

There is always something going on in the Windy City. So, whether you are looking for new things to do in Chicago for the weekend or unearthing what’s new in Chicago for the long-term, we have a list of suggestions that might be worth scoping out.

Events

Perhaps you’re into music, art, or cultural events. Festivals in Chicago — many of which are free and centrally located — are often something to look forward to attending. Here are a few of the more popular festivals and events that might be of interest.

Navy Pier Summer Fireworks

While Navy Pier’s fireworks are not necessarily what’s new in Chicago in terms of festivals and events,  they’re celebrated as a kickoff to summer every year. Starting Memorial Day weekend and going through Labor Day weekend, Navy Pier features a fireworks display every Wednesday and Saturday evening.

Jazzin’ at the Shedd

Another popular annual event, that begins in early June, allows Shedd Aquarium members and non-members alike to sway to the rhythm of the water and the music. Groove on down to the Shedd to experience great live music with an unforgettable Chicago skyline as the backdrop while learning about the sea animals inside the aquarium.

Grant Park Music Festival

From the music to the unbelievable setting in the center of Chicago, steps from The St. Regis Chicago Residences in Grant Park, the Music Festival runs all summer. Running between mid-June to mid-August, attendees experience free concerts that highlight artists from individual singers to full orchestras. 

Chicago Air and Water Show

Like other annual events in this list, although the Chicago Air and Water Show is not one of the new things to do in Chicago, it certainly is a resident and visitor favorite. In 2023, the Show, as always with free admission, will be featured along the Lake Michigan lakefront on Saturday, August 19 and Sunday, August 20.

Taste of Chicago

This large feasting festival, located in Grant Park, runs from September 8 through September 10 in 2023. With free admission for attendees, this favorite event showcases culinary experiences that can be found throughout the city of Chicago. Best of all, the festival is all in one area, also just a stone’s throw away from The St. Regis Chicago Residences. 

Shows

Chicago is world-renowned for its theater and entertainment scene. With rotating shows, musicals, and plays, visitors and residents can find something they enjoy, any day of the week. Here are a few that might be worthwhile to look into for the summer months.

Grease

Take a short trip outside of downtown Chicago and travel back in time to the 50s. The beloved movie has evolved into a fun-loving musical, and it is showcasing its smooth moves at the Drury Lane Theatre from April 12 to June 4, 2023. 

West Side Story

For the bulk of the month of June — from June 2 through June 25 —  the timeless, weaving narrative of Tony and Maria comes alive at the Lyric Opera of Chicago.

The Second City

Whether it’s a nightly improv show or a comedy spot that occurs once a week, the famous Second City is a great spot to stop in for laughs on a warm summer evening. It is a quick trip from the Lakeshore East neighborhood up to Old Town.

Visiting and living in the Windy City will open up your eyes to even more new things to do in Chicago. At the very least, you can enjoy the nuances of the city, and one such nuance is the Lakeshore East neighborhood. This area is complete with The Residences at The St. Regis Chicago, which offers residents unbelievable views of the Chicago River, Lake Michigan, and resident-only amenities that highlight the best things about Chicago.

To learn more about The Residences at The St. Regis Chicago, click here