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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Chicago's best

Modern fun activities

Activities that keep things fresh and engaging without relying on tired, outdated tropes.

Based on 751 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Drunk Shakespeare Chicago image 1
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Performing arts theater

Small, intimate theater with benches opposite each other and bookshelves on all walls creates a cozy, engaging space. Performers deliver high-energy, hilarious Shakespearean plays while interacting closely with the audience. Drinks and food arrive at seats via QR code ordering, enhancing the relaxed, lively atmosphere.

The show blends centuries-old text with modern culture and humor. The cast delivers Shakespeare with sharp modern quips that connect well with today's audience.

Drunk Shakespeare offers a wildly entertaining show that blends comedy and classic plays. It delivers a high-energy experience that keeps the audience laughing and fully engaged.

People are saying

"It's hilariously fun and unpredictable."

"The performing arts here are hilarious and a great time."

"It's a modern show that's super dope and hilarious."

Good to know

1

Must be 21 to enter; ID checked for all ages at the door.

2

The show is rated R and not suitable for the faint of modesty.

3

Expect a fun and unique experience with a comedic twist on Shakespeare.

02
Sarabande Chicago image 1

Open, modern space features a 360-degree bar, polished Rolls Royce, and customizable photo booth. Bright, elegant design with natural light and a spacious patio creates a warm, chic atmosphere. Guests enjoy ample room for dancing and socializing without feeling crowded.

Space features sleek finishes and stunning lighting fixtures that create a perfect mood. Every area, including the green room, has a thoughtful, elegant design with modern amenities.

Secret comedy shows happen in a space with string lights, a disco ball, and fun couches. A built-in photo booth adds a playful touch and a polished Rolls Royce offers unique photo opportunities.

People are saying

"This place is so classy, with elegant and modern touches."

"The Modern team is so responsive and supportive throughout planning."

"The staff here is so responsive and accommodating with all your questions."

Good to know

1

Sarabande offers free onsite parking, which is rare in Chicago.

2

BYOB is allowed, making it a cost-effective option for events.

3

The open vendor list allows for specific caterers to accommodate dietary restrictions.

03
Madame Puffs and Thai Bistro image 1

Modern, chic dining space features luxurious decorations and bright golden lettering outside. Live jazz music creates a warm, inviting atmosphere that complements the upscale Thai cuisine. The small, intimate layout brings diners close to servers, enhancing the lively vibe.

Modern design shines through with elegant, cozy decor and a thoughtfully designed interior. The ambiance feels chic and welcoming, blending authentic flavors with a fresh, contemporary vibe.

Live jazz nights create a lively atmosphere that adds to the fun. Lighting supports intimate conversations while servers like Toast provide attentive service enhancing the experience.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and full of flavor."

"The Modern food is beautifully presented and tastes even better."

"The live music here makes for a really fun atmosphere."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends to avoid long wait times.

2

The restaurant is BYOB, so bring your favorite drink.

3

Expect a separate charge for protein in dishes, which can increase total costs.

04
River Room at Burning Bush Brewery image 1

Exposed brick walls and high ceilings create a stunning indoor space with large windows overlooking the river. Outdoor patio offers a relaxed atmosphere with heaters, fire pit, and s'mores bar, perfect for gatherings. The venue hosts lively events featuring excellent beer and flexible sound options, though acoustics can challenge conversation across large tables.

Modern bridal suite and an industrial event space create a unique setting. Glass garage doors offer views of the Chicago River, blending modern design with classic charm.

Booking includes access to four beers on tap and specialty cocktails named after guests. The space offers a fun atmosphere with a friendly bartender and impresses with its unique brewery setting.

People are saying

"The beer selection here is amazing, with so many great options."

"It's a gorgeous space with a fun atmosphere by the river."

"It's a modern space with beautiful lighting and stylish furniture."

Good to know

1

Parking is available for guests, including a daycare center lot in the back.

2

The venue offers flexibility for both indoor and outdoor ceremonies.

3

Hiring a Day of Coordinator is recommended for weddings with over 100 guests.

05
Urban Luxe Cafe image 1
Coffee shop

Coffee shop with modern decor and eclectic, edgy design creates an upscale, chill environment. Live entertainment includes open mics, poetry, and music, fostering a creative and welcoming atmosphere. Space serves as a community hub with diverse food options and a vibe that supports local artists.

Ordering happens through a QR code on the table, adding a streamlined, tech-savvy touch. The space features modern decor with an eclectic vibe and enough room for small events.

Hosts family fun events and a comedy karaoke night on Wednesdays. Offers a lively spot for midweek entertainment.

People are saying

"This cafe hosts live music, open mics, and performances."

"The space felt modern, clean, and ample for small events."

"The live music and comedy nights here are so much fun."

Good to know

1

Urban Luxe Cafe hosts live entertainment events every weekend, including karaoke and comedy nights.

2

Open mic nights occur every Thursday, providing a platform for local talent.

3

Family fun events are held monthly, making it a great spot for community gatherings.

06
Fox Training Studio image 1
Fitness center

Spacious fitness center with modern equipment and large video screens showing exercise demonstrations and rep counts. Atmosphere feels welcoming and motivating, fostering a community vibe where people support each other. Music and a smoothie bar add to an engaging and enjoyable workout experience.

Cleanliness and organization stand out with modern equipment and a neat studio. TVs display exercises, adding a contemporary touch to the space.

Varied workouts keep classes fun and challenging. Sessions include engaging movements that make every visit something to look forward to.

People are saying

"The coaches here are amazing, knowledgeable, and friendly."

"The studio and equipment feel so modern and clean."

"The workouts here are so fun and challenging."

Good to know

1

Classes are accessible for all fitness levels and last 50 minutes.

2

Booking classes on the app is super easy.

3

The studio features brand new, top-notch equipment.

07
National Museum of Mexican Art image 1

Art museum offers beautifully curated galleries with colorful murals and Day of the Dead displays that create a calm, immersive atmosphere. Spacious, well-organized rooms invite quiet exploration and contemplation. Free entry and a charming gift shop add to the welcoming experience.

Collection blends modern Mexican visual art with traditional pieces. Exhibits include modern Chican artwork and Mexican-American art that feels poignant and thought-provoking.

Themed exhibits offer a fun and educational experience focused on Mexican culture. Cultural events and a gift shop full of adorable, fun items add to the engaging atmosphere.

People are saying

"I learned so much about Mexican culture and history at these museums."

"I found the modern Mexican art to be vibrant, emotional, and meaningful."

"The art here is fun, interesting, and culturally relevant."

Good to know

1

Admission to the museum is free for all visitors.

2

The museum hosts a special outdoor annual Day of the Dead festival.

3

Community events and makers' markets support local artists throughout the year.

08
SMASH Toys and Collectibles image 1

Toy store resembles a mini toy museum with vintage and modern toys displayed side by side. Atmosphere feels friendly and relaxed with well-lit, organized spaces that invite easy browsing. Collection includes hard-to-find items and nostalgic pieces that appeal to collectors and casual shoppers alike.

A strong mix of modern toys and vintage collectibles fills the shelves. Quality stands out across both eras.

Browsing offers a fun experience with plenty of trivia facts shared. Exploring the store feels engaging and entertaining.

People are saying

"The owner is super friendly and really knows his vintage stuff."

"I found a great selection of modern and vintage toys here."

"The owner's friendly and knowledgeable service made it fun."

Good to know

1

The store has parking available, making it convenient for visitors.

2

Expect a wide selection of vintage and modern toys, including hard-to-find items.

3

The owner is knowledgeable and can provide local recommendations for visitors.

09
Happy Lamb Hot Pot (Bridgeport) image 1

Bright, clean design with spacious layout and semi-private rooms suits both small and large groups. Atmosphere feels warm and social, with steamy windows and the communal cooking adding a unique charm. Self-serve buffet-style ingredients and a sauce bar encourage customization and interaction.

Space feels clean and modern with a spacious layout. Street parking is available and free on Sundays.

Fun centers on the interactive hot pot experience that encourages group participation. The vibe leans more toward occasional enjoyment than frequent visits.

People are saying

"The buffet has lots of fresh options and reasonable prices."

"The bottomless hot pot had unlimited meat and tons of add-ins."

"The variety of broths and meats makes for fun activities."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers free dessert on your birthday with valid ID.

2

All-you-can-eat lunch is available from 11:30 am to 4 pm for about $33.

3

They have specials like 2-for-1 drinks during happy hour.

10
Mabu Generation image 1
Asian restaurant

Neon signs and bright open space create a clean, modern design with a lively, chill vibe. The atmosphere feels unique and welcoming, suited for small groups and families. Music plays loud and upbeat, adding to the energetic setting.

Clean lines and a modern design define the space. The atmosphere feels cool and contemporary throughout.

Pouring over the tea and milk yourself adds a hands-on element that makes the experience very fun. Desserts like the Not Ramen Pudding stand out as both tasty and playful.

People are saying

"The desserts here are ridiculously fun and photogenic."

"The Modern fried chicken is perfectly crispy, juicy, and thick."

"The desserts here are ridiculously fun and adorable."

Good to know

1

Ordering food and drinks is done easily through a QR code.

2

Portions are generous, providing good value for the price.

3

The restaurant offers a wide variety of Taiwanese street food and snacks.

11
Momento Cantina image 1
Mexican restaurant

Space features vibrant Mexican-inspired decor with colorful lights and intricate metalwork. Atmosphere feels fun and lively, enhanced by live mariachi music and reggaeton beats. Unique self-serve tequila and mezcal stations invite guests to sample drinks at their own pace.

A modern atmosphere sets a lively and welcoming tone. The menu blends traditional and modern dishes with generous portions, and staff explain the flavors and preparation behind each item.

A tequila and mezcal dispensing system offers a playful way to try different shots. The self-serve shots station and sample bar add a unique, interactive element to the experience.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and fresh."

"The modern twist on traditional Mexican fare is unforgettable."

"The ordering concept here is a fun activity and really unique."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm with great deals on drinks and appetizers.

2

Friday night features live Mariachi performances starting at 8pm.

3

The venue plans to host live DJ performances in the future.

12
Qiao Lin Hotpot - Chicago Downtown image 1

Modern design blends with traditional Asian aesthetics to create a cozy and inviting atmosphere. Plenty of private booths and comfy seating support intimate dining and easy conversation. A well-stocked sauce station encourages creativity with personalized dipping sauces.

Modern design blends with traditional Asian aesthetics, creating a stylish atmosphere. The space combines authentic Chinese hotpot traditions with elegant decor.

Offers a fun, interactive dining experience that works well with friends. The downtown location adds to the lively atmosphere, making visits enjoyable and engaging.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh and delicious."

"The decor is modern, clean, and inviting."

"The hotpot experience here is delicious and fun."

Good to know

1

Happy hour on Saturday from 3:00 to 6:00 pm offers $5 drafts and $10 cocktails.

2

Reservations are recommended to avoid long wait times, especially on weekends.

3

The kitchen closes at 10pm, so make final orders before then.

13
Haidilao HotPot Chicago Inc image 1

Interactive dining features robot food delivery and live performances by servers, creating a vibrant and fun atmosphere. Spacious, clean, and modern interior includes a seasoning bar and offers semi-good city views. Guests often engage in cooking their own food at the table, enhancing the lively experience.

Modern robots deliver food efficiently. The space has a clean, modern atmosphere that makes dining more pleasant.

Atmosphere feels lively and engaging with fun games offered by staff. It suits celebrations like birthdays and delivers a super fun experience alongside great food.

People are saying

"The Chinese food here is amazing and always fresh."

"The hot pot experience was so fun and delicious."

"The service here is attentive and friendly."

Good to know

1

Birthday celebrations include a song and a gift for the guest.

2

Performances of Sichuan Opera face-changing occur during dinner at specific times.

3

The all-you-can-eat option is available after 8 PM for meat lovers.

14
Jiang Niu BBQ House Lincoln Park image 1

Spacious dining area with a clean, modern vibe and self-grilling setup at each table. Atmosphere feels casual but lively, suited for group gatherings and family barbecues. Tablet ordering system streamlines service, complemented by a huge bar offering various cocktails and beers.

Spacious layout and clean design create a modern vibe throughout the restaurant. The atmosphere feels cool and up-to-date.

Ordering the meat cake and the ferris wheel adds a fun twist to the meal. Grilling at the Korean BBQ is easy and interactive, making it enjoyable for both adults and kids.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and fresh."

"The grilling experience here is so fun and tasty."

"It's got a really spacious and modern vibe."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers all-you-can-eat barbecue at a great value.

2

The all-you-can-eat option costs $36.99 and includes a variety of dishes.

3

The restaurant has a tablet ordering system that reduces waiting time.

15
Zero Degree Karaoke Bar & Club image 1

Karaoke bar with modern private rooms featuring top-notch sound systems and extensive song selections, including YouTube access. Lighting and audio create a lively, vibrant atmosphere that suits both singing and dancing. Space accommodates large groups comfortably, blending a relaxed vibe with energetic club elements.

Clean, modern design shapes the private karaoke rooms and overall space. The environment feels relaxed and visually pretty with a fresh, contemporary vibe.

Fun conversations with the owner and his wife add to the experience. Activities here match or exceed the excitement of clubbing, with a vibe that celebrates girl power and offers a unique kind of fun.

People are saying

"I considered this one of the best karaoke spots I've been to."

"It's a really good spot to have a party and enjoy time with friends."

"The private rooms made karaoke so much fun."

Good to know

1

The private karaoke rooms have a 2-hour minimum booking requirement.

2

Most days, you can walk in and get a room without a reservation.

3

It's recommended to reserve ahead of time for larger parties.

16
Esmรฉ image 1
Restaurant

Dining space resembles an art gallery with rotating exhibits integrated into plating and decor. Atmosphere stays comfortable and elegant, avoiding fine dining pretension while feeling welcoming and calm. Guests experience creative presentations alongside carefully crafted cocktails and dishes.

Inspired modern cuisine unfolds in a gallery space where art and menus update together, creating a clear narrative. Modern beverage selections complement each course, matched by warm and professional service.

The experience offers genuine fun through both the meal and the service. It feels refreshing and justifies the cost with its engaging atmosphere.

People are saying

"The cocktails here are unique, artfully presented, and inspired by the gallery."

"It's a fun activity to eat art and look at art here."

"The modern cuisine here is creative, delicious, and beautifully presented."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially during busy dining hours.

2

The tasting menu changes every 12 weeks, inspired by a local artist.

3

Expect to pay around $80 per person during Chicago Restaurant Week.

17
Thalia Hall image 1
Live music venue

Historic opera house converted into a modern music venue offers intimate concerts with great acoustics and vintage architecture. Spacious layout includes a balcony and multiple bars, creating a cool atmosphere with excellent views from all angles.

Cozy ambiance blends historic charm with modern flair through original walls and Edison bulb lighting. Facilities include a modern restroom and the venue features top-notch sound and lighting production.

Events offer safe and fun experiences for all ages. The neighborhood vibe adds to the cool and lively atmosphere.

People are saying

"It's an intimate venue with awesome sound and good acoustics."

"It's a fun place with a great vibe and friendly bartenders."

"It's a cozy ambiance blending historic charm with modern flair."

Good to know

1

Parking in the area can be rough; add time for street parking.

2

The coat check costs $5.

3

Food is reasonably priced, with popcorn at $4 and hot dogs at $5.

18
Chicago Athletic Association - The Unbound Collection by Hyatt image 1

Venetian-Gothic architecture shapes a stylish hotel with ornate woodwork and intricate carvings. Lively atmosphere fills public game rooms and a rooftop bar with great views of the lake and park. Athletic-themed amenities include basketball, bocce, and yoga, blending historic charm with active recreation.

Rooms blend historic character with modern comforts, creating a unique and comfortable space. The building features Gothic-era architectural details alongside modern functionality.

People are saying

"It's a striking historical site with authentic charm and artistic details."

"It's a restored historic building with modern touches and contemporary comfort."

"The game room is a fun spot for drinks and games like chess or pool."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs daily from 4-6pm with discounted drinks.

2

Expect wedding crowds on weekends due to the hotel's wedding venue status.

3

Reservations are required weeks in advance for dinner at Cindy's Rooftop.

19
ACME Hotel Chicago, Outset Collection by Hilton image 1

Boutique hotel with industrial artistic decor and a strong music theme creates a cool, eclectic vibe. Spacious rooms offer city views and modern amenities, while a lively bar and bakery provide social spots. Loud music and a unique entry system add to its distinctive character.

Rooms feel comfortable and modern with a pop-art charm. Clean spaces include vintage-inspired modern amenities that all function well.

A chalkboard on the room door invites playful interaction. The record label and music theme adds a lively, fun vibe, especially in the evening bar scene.

People are saying

"This hotel's decor and music give it a fun, cultured vibe."

"It's a Modern hotel, just a couple blocks from the Mag Mile."

"I found the hotel to have a fun atmosphere."

Good to know

1

You need to ring a bell and show your key to enter the hotel at night.

2

The hotel is centrally located near bars, restaurants, and shopping.

3

Parking is available, but consider using Uber or walking to nearby attractions.

20
Altitude Trampoline Park - Roscoe Village image 1

Large trampoline park combines neon pink and blue decor with a giant disco ball above the main jump area. The atmosphere stays comfortable and less loud than typical trampoline parks, with plenty of space for parents to watch from all angles. Features include arcade games, huge slides, and snack options, making it a versatile spot for kids and family celebrations.

Facilities feel modern and clean throughout. The design supports a fresh and updated atmosphere.

Offers trampoline fun suitable for adults and kids. Provides a space for children to enjoy active play away from electronics.

People are saying

"The staff here is so attentive and helpful with Kid Friendly events."

"The layout here is excellent, with arcades near the party rooms and tables."

"It's a fun place for the whole family to jump around."

Good to know

1

A wristband is required to enter the trampoline park, even for spectators.

2

Branded grip socks must be purchased to use the trampolines.

3

The facility has family bathrooms and ample parking available.

21
BellyBowl Kitchen & Lounge (Halsted) image 1

Robots deliver food and drinks, adding a modern, fun touch to the experience. Seating includes comfortable couches and leather-upholstered high chairs, creating a cozy, well-decorated interior with varied seating areas. The atmosphere stays calm and soothing, suitable for hanging out or focusing quietly.

Stylish decor and a robot delivering food create a modern atmosphere. The setup feels efficient and adds a fun twist to dining.

Robot servers deliver food, adding a modern and fun touch. Eye-catching claw machines entertain kids while waiting or relaxing.

People are saying

"The food here is always fresh and seasoned well."

"The robot servers made this place a fun activity for kids."

"I found the decor to be stylish and modern."

Good to know

1

The restaurant operates a self-service system where customers order at a kiosk.

2

Expect large portion sizes that offer good value for the price.

3

The bathrooms are exceptionally clean and stylish.

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