Things to Do In Chicago From The Experts

Concierge Hot Spots
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Joyce Fong
Chef Concierge,  Waldorf Astoria Chicago
Spring is the time that Chicago emerges from its winter slumber. Though we had a mild winter, outdoor activities and spring gardens showcases everything that is possible.
Others to Try:
  • The Bloomingdale Trail at The 606 was once an abandoned rail line has been transformed into a walking, jogging, biking outlet for all. Take the time to explore the neighborhoods at various access points or schedule a tour. 
  • Located in the southeast corner of Millennium Park, Lurie Garden is a 'secret garden' created to be a place of rest and renewal. Experience the flora that makes up the Lurie Garden.
  • Don't let a little rain keep you from exploring. Visit the historic Garfield Park or Lincoln Park Conservatory for their Spring Flower Show. Make your Free Advance Reservations to experience the tranquility of lush exotic plants from around the world along with outdoor gardens.
Sharyne Tu
Concierge,  Macy's

Upcoming film festivals: European Union at the Siskel Film Center (March), Asian Pop-Up Cinema at various theatres (March), Center for Asian American Media film festival (May), Chicago Palestine Film Festival (April), and future festivals Chicago International Film Festival (October), Black Harvest Film Festival, etc.

Others to Try:
  • May is Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month. This could include many topics including Asian museums, activities, spotlighting Asian business (Japanese, Korean, Cambodian, Thai, Filipino, etc) that have been featured or under the radar like Khmai restaurant, Konbini & Kanpai, Heritage Museum of Asian Art and more. Barbara’s Bookstore has been featuring AAPI books during Heritage Month for the last couple of years.
  • Walking tours, paid and free, throughout the city. e.g. Chicago Architecture Center, Chicago Greeter, TV and Movie walking tour, Gangster tour, etc.
  • Spring flowers in April (hopefully) and Easter
Philippe Gills
Chef Concierge,  Langham

Chicago House Music Festival Saturday June 24th, 2023 – legendary DJ’s Psycho – B and Roy Davis Jr headline a ridiculous lineup of talent celebrating a true Chicago grown genre!

Others to Try:
  • “Where the Light Corrupts Your Face” showcases three brilliant interdisciplinary artists: Andres L. Hernandez, Tonika Lewis Johnson and Roland Knowlden who use art to examine how socio-economic and geographic oppressions impact the way we see (or don’t see) our environments. Beautifully presented in a historic space – Southside Community Art Center.
  • Chicago City Model Experience at Chicago Architecture Center. Still amazing with more than 4’000 buildings and even more interactive elements. See Chicago in a whole new way!
  • Love dining and drinking at: Bambola – This adventurous new venue features Michelin-starred Executive Chef Marcos Campos and Executive Pastry Chef Shannah Primianoan, for an adventurous global menu based in part on the Silk Road route utilized by Eastern and Western cultures. Great flavors and textures abound, but really sets it apart is a ‘worldly’ wine program from Michelin Guide 2022 Sommelier Award Winner Colin Hofer, an equally creative cocktail program, and a surprising TEA program that must be experienced! A beautifully eye-popping interior paired with great music makes for a truly energetic experience!
The Concierge Blog