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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of Loop

Interesting fun activities

You are looking for an experience that offers something genuinely different from the standard options.

Based on 702 Opinions
+699
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Updated May 2026
01
Fox In A Box Escape Room Chicago image 1
Fox In A Box Escape Room Chicago image 2
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Escape rooms feature high production value and intricate themes like prison breaks and Zodiac killer mysteries. Atmosphere ranges from creepy and immersive to gritty and intense, with puzzles that challenge players to think creatively. Personalized souvenirs and themed costumes enhance the interactive experience.

Strong focus on fun and excitement keeps the experience engaging. Challenges in the escape room add a layer of interest and difficulty that enhances enjoyment.

People are saying

"The game master Alex was so fun and helpful with hints!"

"The staff are so kind and patient, making it feel Kid Friendly."

"The game masters here are so patient and friendly, making it interesting."

Good to know

1

The escape room offers private rooms, so you won't play with strangers.

2

Prices are better for larger groups splitting the cost.

3

The zodiac killer escape room features unique technology and trap doors.

02
Chicago Fed Money Museum image 1

Small, modern museum offers an intimate and quiet atmosphere with interactive games and photo spots. Visitors pass through security and show ID for entry, reflecting its location within a federal bank. Admission is free, making it accessible for family fun and educational visits.

Monetary policy turns into fun and quick games that are both interactive and educational. All exhibits work well, making it a free, engaging experience for families.

Interactive exhibits bring the history of the dollar to life with historical coins and bills on display. The museum offers a cool wow factor that keeps all ages engaged and interested.

People are saying

"It's a cool historical site to learn about US currency."

"It's a fun, free, and interactive experience with lots of games."

"It's small and interesting, manageable to see in 40 minutes."

Good to know

1

Admission to the museum is free, but an ID is required for entry.

2

You must pass through security to enter the museum.

3

The museum opens at 10am.

03
Mindworks: The Science of Thinking image 1

Small space offers interactive behavioral science exhibits focused on how people think and decide. Visitors participate in real university studies and earn points redeemable for books and prizes. Atmosphere is educational and engaging, suitable for all ages but with limited survey options.

Exhibits use real-life behavioral science examples to make learning fun and interactive. Activities include participating in research studies that are both thought-provoking and suitable for all ages.

Behavioral science exhibits offer interactive learning activities and thought-provoking studies on cognitive biases and the science of thinking. Real-life examples and surveys make the experience engaging and reflective.

People are saying

"These museums are so interactive and thought-provoking!"

"The exhibits here are really interesting and thought-provoking."

"I found the experience to be fun and free."

Good to know

1

Registration is required in advance to visit the exhibition.

2

Entry to the exhibition is free of charge.

3

Visitors can earn points for participating in studies and exchange them for prizes.

04
Drunk Shakespeare Chicago image 1
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.

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.

The show blends improv comedy with Shakespeare, keeping it relatable and understandable even when actors play drunk royals. It offers a funny and engaging alternative to traditional museum visits.

People are saying

"It's hilariously fun and unpredictable."

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

"I couldn't stop laughing; it was so funny."

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.

05
First Ascent Block 37 image 1
Rock climbing gym

Spacious rock climbing gym with incredible downtown views and varied bouldering problems across many walls. Atmosphere stays friendly and welcoming, serving as a social and relaxing third space. Amenities include a large fitness area, yoga classes, and free keypad lockers, enhancing the overall experience.

Bouldering offers a fun environment with challenging problems set by skilled routesetters. The gym suits both beginners and those seeking an intense workout.

Varied bouldering problems showcase a wide range of interesting moves from multiple styles. Routes feature diverse sets with excellent setting quality.

People are saying

"The climbing gym's setting is the best in the city, forcing technique."

"The route setting here is fun and challenging."

"The bouldering problems here are interesting and diverse and varied."

Good to know

1

The gym opens until 11pm, but the mall closes at 10pm.

2

A daily pass costs $33, which may be high for new climbers.

3

New climbing routes are set approximately twice a week.

06
Agora image 1
Sculpture

106 towering cast iron sculptures resembling headless human figures create a surreal, quiet atmosphere. The installation offers striking views of the city skyline and invites calm reflection. Its rusty reddish-brown color and unique textures emphasize individuality within a crowd.

Walking through the space offers a unique and illogical experience with sculptures and statues. The layout makes the stroll feel super fun and engaging.

Installation features 106 headless and armless iron sculptures by Magdalena Abakanowicz. Counting all pairs of feet on the sculptures offers an interesting close-up experience.

People are saying

"Walking through this sculpture park felt super fun and illogical."

"Walking through the sculptures was a super fun art activity."

"I found the installation of iron sculptures very interesting."

Good to know

1

The Agora features 106 iron sculptures that resemble giant legs and are about 2.7 meters tall.

2

The sculptures are free to view.

3

There are city bikes near a transportation hub for public transit at Agora.

07
Color Factory Chicago image 1

Bright, interactive rooms invite touch, play, and photography with free digital photo stations in each area. The space offers a vibrant, colorful atmosphere that engages the senses and encourages fun. Small size and unique, themed installations create an immersive experience centered on color.

Many activities focus on collaboration and fun with a mix of knowledgeable experiences.

Lots of fun exhibits fill the space with vibrant colors and unique setups. Each room offers an interesting new experience and plenty of photo opportunities.

People are saying

"It's a fun experience for all ages."

"The galleries here are an explosion of creativity and joy."

"It's a fun and interesting place with vibrant exhibits."

Good to know

1

Tickets cost $72, which includes treats and digital photos.

2

The entrance is located next to the Willis Tower Deck entrance.

3

Free items like ice cream and souvenirs are included with admission.

08
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.

Conversion to a game room stands out. The architecture and design show athletic touches and reflect the building's history.

People are saying

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

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

"The architecture and design are really interesting."

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.

09
Block 37 image 1
Shopping mall

Vertical mall with an AMC movie theater at the top offers comfy seating and plenty of tables for relaxing. Atmosphere stays calm and quiet, making it easy to shop or enjoy a drink. Amenities include a climbing wall, simulated golf, and interactive games that add variety beyond typical shopping.

Clue walking games offer a fun and unique way to explore the building and surrounding areas. Families enjoy solving intricate puzzles together, making the experience both challenging and engaging.

Multi-storied layout offers interesting stores on every level. The history and atmosphere add a unique vibe to the shopping experience.

People are saying

"It's a fun walking game, great for seeing new places."

"The cinema at this mall has the most comfortable seats and you can order food."

"It's interesting to walk around and shop the stores."

Good to know

1

Validated parking is available, making it easier to visit.

2

Restrooms close 15 minutes before the mall's closing time.

3

Block 37 connects to the blue and red subway lines for easy access.

10
Verse Immersive Chicago image 1
Amusement center

Space offers interactive augmented reality with colorful visuals and spectacular audio and lighting. Crowded, small rooms create a lively but sometimes distracting atmosphere. Experiences suit all ages, blending gameplay, meditation, and art exploration.

Unreal Garden offers a fun and exciting experience with activities where kids compete for points. The friendly, fun staff add to the overall enjoyable atmosphere.

Magic areas like StarWalk and SecretGarden offer immersive content that feels both fun and educational. The overall concept delivers an interesting experience that captures attention and holds it.

People are saying

"I experienced a really cool immersive experience that felt like VR."

"The staff made our fun activities smooth and comfortable."

"I found the immersive experience to be interesting and fun."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended to ensure a spot during busy hours.

2

The entrance is located right off State Street for easy access.

3

Parking costs $12, which is a significant saving compared to regular rates.

11
Nutella Cafe Chicago image 1

Nutella-themed decor creates a bright and inviting space with personalized Nutella jars as a unique feature. The cafe feels cramped and crowded, with small tables placed very close together, often leading to a noisy atmosphere. Outdoor patio seating offers an alternative to the tight indoor space.

Colorful menu items and customized Nutella jars create a playful atmosphere. Kids enjoy hot chocolate and the chance to take home personalized souvenirs.

Customized Nutella jars with your name stand out as a unique feature. The menu offers interesting desserts featuring Nutella that you don't see elsewhere.

People are saying

"You have to try the Nutella Crepe with bananas; it's very tasty."

"It's a fun experience for Nutella lovers satisfying sweet cravings."

"It's interesting how they customize your Nutella jar with your name."

Good to know

1

Expect a wait time of 30-45 minutes during peak hours.

2

The cafe opens at 8 am daily.

3

You can personalize your Nutella with your name for a unique souvenir.

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