There’s never a shortage of things to do in downtown Chicago. If you’re looking for events happening this weekend near you to add to your calendar, check these out!

Printer’s Row Art Festival

Courtesy of Amdur Productions

This second annual art festival will take place in South Loop on Dearborn Street (between Harrison and Polk) on 9/14-15, and will showcase of a variety of art. The selection will include paintings, street art, beauty products, crafts, jewelry, up cycled art, photography, and other mixed media pieces, as well as food vendors from local restaurants, like Magic Circle Crepes and Judy’s Pizza, and live music by Cirrus Falcon.

Some of the artists that will be featured at Printer’s Row Art Festival

Bourbon and Barbecue Festival

Stop by this lively event for fare from local vendors like Lexington Betty Smokehouse, Big Joe’s Backyard BBQ, and I-94 Ribs. The event will feature live music from Chicago based tribute bands, including 16 Candles and the Trippin Billies. The Chicago Bourbon and Barbecue Festival will be held in Roscoe Village on Damen Ave 12pm to 5pm on 9/14-15.

Courtesy of Jacly Rivas

2019 Blackhawks Training Camp Festival

The Blackhawks Training Camp Festival will open at 8am on Sunday, 9/15 and will include appearances by former Blackhawks, live music, and other entertainment. At 11am, attendees can head inside to watch a scrimmage on the ice. The Blackhawks Training Camp Festival will be in Lot C at the United Center (1901 W. Madison St) in the West Loop. There is no cost to attend the outdoor portion. Tickets for the indoor scrimmage are $5 and can be purchased here.

Courtesy of Blackhawks Staff

All three of these events happening this weekend will be held outdoors and is free to attend.

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near downtown Chicago? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!

Looking for things to do near Streeterville this weekend?

 The 54^th Chicago International Film Festival

The 54^th Chicago International Film Festival begins October 11^th and continues through October 21^st at AMC River East in Streeterville. The festival will bring over 150 films from around the world. Multiple directors, producers, and actors are expected to be in attendance. Tickets for screenings start at $8 and range up to $150 for festival related events.

Fall Yoga

Start your weekend off right in Streeterville! Stop by Navy Pier on Saturday morning, October 13^th, at 10am for yoga sponsored by VibeUP. Bring your own yoga mat and head to the Polk Bros Park Performance Lawns. All levels of yoga ability are welcome!

If you’re looking for things to do near Lincoln Park, check out Bloody Mary Fest!

Bloody Mary Fest

Lincoln Park’s Bloody Mary Fest will take place Sunday, October 14^th at Theater on the Lake, the 2400 block of Lakeshore Drive. Innovative Bloody Marys from Chicago’s Bloody Mary Competition 6 will be featured. (You may even find Bloody Marys garnished with other Bloody Marys). Tickets are $30 and doors open at 12pm.

All ages things to do near downtown Chicago this weekend:

Boo At The Zoo

Ferrara Candy Company will be hosting its annual Halloween event at Brookfield Zoo from Saturday, October 13^th through October 28^th. This all ages event will feature hay rides, carnival games, a carousel, and other fall themed activities. Wear your costume and come visit your favorite animals!

Willis Tower Farmers Market

The Willis Tower Farmers Market will be held the last three Fridays in October, beginning October 12^th at 7am. Stop by for fresh produce and flowers in this convenient Loop location, 233 S. Wacker Drive.

By Sophie Morrison

Near South Loop Neighborhood

Positioned directly South of the heart of downtown Chicago is the near South Loop neighborhood. Widely known for its Museum Campus and Soldier Field, the South Loop has many cultural experiences to offer! With delicious dining, wonderful parks and gorgeous lakefront beaches, this neighborhood is a sure stand out.

Things To Do Near South Loop

The South Loop features amazing museums perfectly positioned between Lake Michigan and downtown. The Shedd Aquarium, Field Museum, Museum of Science and Industry, and Adler Planetarium are all located in the near South Loop.

With walkways connecting all of them, this pedestrian-friendly area is perfect for any outing. Adjacent to the campus is home of the NFL Chicago Bears, Solider Field. The McCormick Place, located near Soldier Field, is the largest convention center in North America. Home of the Chicago Auto Show every February and a host of trade shows and meetings, the McCormick place is an essential part of Chicago’s convention and conference scene.

Parks Near South Loop

Take a break from the hustle and bustle of downtown life and take a walk through the many green areas the near South Loop has to offer. Grant Park has both walking paths and a dog park, perfect for you and your furry friend. Well within walking distance of the Loop and South Loop, this is a great park to hang out and relax in. Dearborn Park is smaller, yet highly reviewed park near the South Loop is a great alternative to busier areas. Another great area for dogs is Roosevelt Park, located on a dead end; the area attracts many dog lovers.

Dining Near South Loop

The near South Loop neighborhood is home to some of the best and most diverse dining in downtown Chicago. From sushi at Kai Sushi, Mediterranean at Sociale Chicago, or Italian at Sofi Restaurant you’ll be able to find any cuisine you’re craving. Some great bars to check out include Kasey’s Tavern for a sports-bar pub, First Draft and the intimate lounge Brando’s Speakeasy. There is something here for everyone to love!

Looking for luxury apartments for rent near the South Loop? Contact us today! We’d be happy to keep you in the Loop!