Rainy Day Activities in Chicago

Chicago, the third most populous city in the United States, is a bustling metropolis with world-class attractions, vibrant culture, and a thriving culinary scene. With so much to see and do, the Windy City stands out as a must-see destination for anyone visiting the Midwest.

However, with the unpredictable weather patterns of the Midwest, there’s always a chance of rain during your visit. But don’t let that dampen your spirits. After all, Chicago has plenty of fun and interesting things to do on a rainy day. Whether it’s educational, cultural, or just plain fun, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in the rain. Here are some of the best rainy day activities to check out in the Windy City.

Explore the Field Museum

The renowned Field Museum of Natural History is one of the top attractions in Chicago. Located on the city’s beautiful lakefront, the museum offers a wealth of knowledge about natural history and culture from around the world. The Field Museum houses more than 20 million objects from all seven continents in its permanent collection, from ancient Egyptian artifacts to dinosaur fossils.

On rainy days, visitors can explore the museum’s many galleries and take in the stunning architecture and design of the building. Visitors can also take part in educational lectures and interactive exhibits that bring history to life. Whether you’re an avid student of history or just looking for a way to spend a rainy day, the Field Museum is sure to be an enjoyable experience.

Enjoy a Show at the Theater

Theater is alive and well in Chicago, and there are plenty of great shows to see on a rainy day. The city is home to some of the finest theater companies in the world, including the renowned Steppenwolf Theatre Company and the Goodman Theatre. From classic plays to cutting-edge shows, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

For those looking for something more immersive and interactive, Chicago also has several improvisational comedy venues such as The Second City and iO Theater. These comedy groups have been producing some of the funniest comedy shows around for decades.

Experience Art at the Art Institute of Chicago

The Art Institute of Chicago is one of the best art museums in the world. This renowned institution houses works from some of the greatest artists in history, from Impressionist masters like Monet and Degas to modern-day icons such as Andy Warhol and Ai Weiwei. On rainy days, visitors can explore the museum’s vast collection of artwork and take in stunning exhibitions from both past and present.

The museum also offers educational lectures and interactive activities for visitors of all ages. From interactive exhibits to hands-on classes, visitors can learn about art history and create their own masterpieces in the museum’s studios.

Visit Chicago’s Unique Museums

Chicago is home to plenty of unique museums that offer a chance to learn something new while enjoying a rainy day. Highlights include The Museum of Science and Industry, where visitors can explore an interactive science center filled with hands-on exhibits; The Museum of Contemporary Art, which showcases some of the city’s most cutting edge art; and The Adler Planetarium, which gives visitors a chance to explore the night sky with its state-of-the-art planetarium shows.

Tour a Brewery

Chicago is home to some of the best breweries in the country, and there’s no better way to spend a rainy day than touring one of these local institutions. From microbreweries like Half Acre Beer Company and Revolution Brewing to larger establishments like Lagunitas Brewing Co., these breweries offer unique tours that give visitors a chance to experience the process of beer-making firsthand. Many breweries also offer tastings as part of their tours, so visitors can sample some of the city’s best craft beer.

Sample Local Cuisine

No trip to Chicago is complete without sampling some of the city’s iconic local cuisine. From deep dish pizza to Italian beef sandwiches, there are plenty of delicious dishes to sample on a rainy day. Chicago also has an abundance of ethnic restaurants, so visitors can experience a diverse array of flavors from cultures around the world. Whether you’re looking for a quick bite or an upscale dining experience, there’s something for everyone in this culinary haven.

Explore Lincoln Park Zoo

Lincoln Park Zoo is one of Chicago’s most beloved attractions. Located in Lincoln Park on Lake Michigan’s shoreline, the zoo has been open since 1868 and offers visitors a chance to see more than 2,000 animals from around the world. On rainy days, visitors can explore indoor exhibits such as Great Apes or Farm-in-the-Zoo, or take part in educational activities like animal enrichment programs or guided tours.

Take a Tour

For those looking for an immersive experience, taking a tour is one of the best ways to explore Chicago on a rainy day. There are plenty of tours available throughout the city that cater to different interests, from food tours to architectural tours to art walks. These tours offer visitors a chance to learn more about the city’s history and culture while enjoying its many sights and sounds.

Popular Tours in Chicago

For those who want an even more immersive experience while visiting Chicago on a rainy day, here are two popular tours that are worth checking out:

Chicago Architecture River Cruise

The Chicago Architecture River Cruise is a great way to experience the beauty and history of one of America’s most iconic cities. This popular tour takes visitors on a narrated cruise along the Chicago River, giving them an up-close look at some of Chicago’s most famous skyscrapers and landmarks. Along the way, visitors will learn about Chicago’s fascinating history, architecture, and culture from an experienced guide. So if you’re looking for a unique way to explore Chicago on a rainy day, this tour is sure to be an unforgettable experience.

Book a Chicago Architecture River Cruise here.

Chicago Food Tour

For those looking for an even more unique experience on their visit to Chicago, the Chicago Food Tour is sure to satisfy any foodie’s appetite. This popular tour gives visitors an up-close look at some of Chicago’s most iconic eateries while also exploring its vibrant neighborhoods. During this three-hour tour, visitors will sample delicious dishes from some of the city’s most renowned restaurants while learning about its diverse culture and history from an experienced guide. So if you’re looking for an unforgettable culinary adventure on your next visit to Chicago, this food tour is an experience you won’t want to miss!

Book a Chicago Food Tour here.

No matter what brings you to Chicago on your next visit, there are plenty of wonderful activities that will make your trip even more enjoyable — even if it rains! From exploring some of its renowned museums and galleries to sampling local cuisine or taking part in one of its many tours, there’s something for everyone to enjoy on their visit to this vibrant city. So make sure to check out some of these activities on your next visit — you won’t be disappointed!