Chicago, the bustling metropolis on the shores of Lake Michigan, is a city that never sleeps. With its world-class museums, stunning architecture, and vibrant culinary scene, there’s never a dull moment in the Windy City. And while every season offers its own unique charm, May in Chicago is truly something special.
As the city awakens from the long winter, the streets come alive with festivals, concerts, and outdoor activities. The weather is perfect for exploring the city’s many parks and gardens, and the iconic lakefront offers stunning views of the skyline. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned Chicagoan, here are the 9 best things to do in Chicago in May 2024.
Marvel at the Art Institute of Chicago
The Art Institute of Chicago is one of the world’s leading art museums, housing a collection of over 5,000 years of art from around the globe. From ancient Egyptian artifacts to Impressionist masterpieces, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. In May, the museum is hosting a special exhibition on the work of Vincent van Gogh, featuring over 50 of the Dutch master’s paintings and drawings.
Stroll through Millennium Park
Millennium Park is a sprawling urban oasis in the heart of downtown Chicago. The park is home to a number of iconic landmarks, including the Cloud Gate sculpture (also known as “The Bean”), the Crown Fountain, and the Jay Pritzker Pavilion. In May, the park comes alive with festivals and concerts, and the Lurie Garden is in full bloom. Take a stroll through the park, enjoy a picnic, or catch a free concert at the Jay Pritzker Pavilion.
Visit the Field Museum of Natural History
The Field Museum of Natural History is one of the largest and most comprehensive natural history museums in the world. The museum houses a vast collection of specimens from around the globe, including dinosaurs, fossils, and animals from every continent. In May, the museum is hosting a special exhibition on the evolution of humans, featuring fossils and artifacts that tell the story of our journey from ape to human.
Explore the Shedd Aquarium
The Shedd Aquarium is one of the largest and most respected aquariums in the world. The aquarium is home to over 32,000 animals from around the globe, including beluga whales, penguins, and sea turtles. In May, the aquarium is hosting a special exhibition on the Great Lakes, featuring a variety of fish and other animals that call the Great Lakes home.
Attend a Cubs game at Wrigley Field
Wrigley Field is one of the most iconic baseball stadiums in the world, and it’s the home of the Chicago Cubs. Attending a Cubs game at Wrigley Field is a quintessential Chicago experience. In May, the Cubs are scheduled to play a number of home games, so be sure to check the schedule and grab a ticket to see the Cubs in action.
Take a boat tour of the Chicago River
The Chicago River is the lifeblood of the city, and a boat tour is a great way to see the city from a different perspective. There are a number of different boat tours to choose from, ranging from short sightseeing cruises to longer architectural tours. In May, the Chicago River is especially beautiful, with the city’s bridges and buildings lit up at night.
Visit the Navy Pier
Navy Pier is a sprawling entertainment complex on the shores of Lake Michigan. The pier is home to a number of attractions, including a Ferris wheel, a carousel, and a children’s museum. In May, the pier is hosting a number of festivals and events, including the Chicago Blues Festival and the Chicago Air & Water Show. Navy Pier is also a great place to watch the fireworks on Memorial Day weekend.
Shop on the Magnificent Mile
The Magnificent Mile is Chicago’s premier shopping destination. The mile-long stretch of Michigan Avenue is home to a number of high-end stores, including Bloomingdale’s, Saks Fifth Avenue, and Nordstrom. In May, the Magnificent Mile is hosting a number of sales and events, making it the perfect time to find some great deals on designer clothes, jewelry, and accessories.
Enjoy the city’s vibrant culinary scene
Chicago is a foodie’s paradise, with a diverse culinary scene that offers something for everyone. From Michelin-starred restaurants to casual neighborhood joints, there are endless options to choose from. In May, the city hosts a number of food festivals, including the Chicago Gourmet festival and the Ribfest Chicago. So be sure to come hungry, and explore the city’s many culinary delights.
Culture
Chicago is a melting pot of cultures, and the city’s cultural scene is as diverse as its population. The city is home to a number of world-renowned museums, theaters, and music venues. In May, there are a number of cultural events to choose from, including the Chicago Blues Festival, the Chicago Cultural Center’s International World Music Festival, and the Chicago Symphony Orchestra’s Spring Festival.
Best Months to Visit
May is one of the best months to visit Chicago. The weather is pleasant, with average temperatures in the mid-60s. The city is also less crowded than during the summer months, so you’ll be able to enjoy the city’s attractions without the hassle of large crowds.
Nearby Transportation
Chicago is easily accessible by air, train, and car. The city is served by two major airports, O’Hare International Airport (ORD) and Midway International Airport (MDW). Chicago is also a major rail hub, with Amtrak trains serving the city from all over the country. The city is also easily accessible by car, with a number of major highways and interstates passing through the city.
Local Food
Chicago is known for its deep-dish pizza, but the city has much more to offer than just pizza. Other local favorites include Italian beef sandwiches, Chicago-style hot dogs, and Garrett’s Popcorn. In May, be sure to check out one of the city’s many food festivals, where you can sample a variety of Chicago’s culinary delights.
Best Hotels
Chicago has a wide range of hotels to choose from, from budget-friendly options to luxury hotels. Some of the best hotels in Chicago include the Four Seasons Hotel Chicago, the Palmer House Hilton, and the Sofitel Chicago Magnificent Mile. In May, hotel rates are typically lower than during the summer months, so it’s a great time to find a great deal on a luxury hotel stay.
Conclusion
Chicago is a vibrant and exciting city with something to offer everyone. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned Chicagoan, there are endless things to do in Chicago in May 2024. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip today and experience the best of the Windy City.
