Enjoy a new activity with unique, Chicago art museums and experiences downtown!
The Museum Campus in Chicago is home to some of the best museums in the country. Of course, they’ll always be highly recommended, especially for tourists who are visiting the Windy City for the first time. However, there are activities right in the heart of The Loop that you should consider if you’re looking to fill your weekend in Chicago with a unique experience, fun for family vacation, a group of friends out on the town, or a lighthearted date night in the city!
Here’s what you may have missed, and what you should plan next during your stay in downtown Chicago:
Color Factory Chicago
Location: Lower level of the Willis Tower
Time: Tuesday – Sunday from 9:00 am – 8:00 pm
Prices: $38 for General Admission and $28 for Children (3-12)
A wonder for all your senses and a seemingly endless maze of immersive activities all based around the phenomenon of color, this experience is perfect for ALL ages. I took three of my best friends, and we had an amazing time taking it slow through each of the 15 rooms and interacting with the multisensory installations that were created in collaboration with both local and international artists. We were as giddy as the kids that spun with delight around us, taking photo opps and collecting the unexpected souvenirs and treats along the way…
Museum of Illusions Chicago
Location: 25 E Washington St
Time: Monday – Sunday, day and night; Check website for available times
Prices: $23 for Adults, $18 for Children (5-12), $21 for Seniors/Military/First Responders, $19 for Family Package
Get ready for your eyes to deceive you! As soon as you walk in, you are presented with varying illusions that make you step back and question reality and perception. This museum is a playground of optical illusions and immersive rooms, perfect to let your kids run wild for an afternoon. Everyone will discover how the impossible becomes possible! This is a great place to stop, especially if you are already taking a stroll through Millenium Park or shopping on State Street. My group of gals got a kick out of the Vortex Tunnel and the Ames Room…
Bicycle Spin Art Chicago
Location: 2828 N Clark St
Time: Various afternoon hours; Check website for available times; Closed Mondays
Prices: $32 for Adults and $20 for Children
A bit further from downtown, between Lake View and Park West, but totally worth the experience for your high-energy, creative little ones–or even for a date night! Suit up, throw a blank canvas down on a wheel, get your paint bottles ready, and tell your partner to “PEDAL!” Let your inhibitions go, and watch as art forms before you, with a little help from your friends. (Plus, adults can BYOB! How fun?) The whole place is covered in splatters of paint and glitter, and the atmosphere simply begs for good fun. My close friend and I had a night of laughter as we encouraged each other to cycle faster to create more swirls in our works of art.
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