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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Top picks in the Loop

Unique fun activities

You have no patience for the same old routine and need something that actually keeps your attention.

Based on 665 Opinions
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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.

Personalized notes add a hilarious and thoughtful touch to the experience. The bank break-in theme and zodiac game offer unique puzzles and hints that stand out from typical escape rooms.

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 escape rooms offer a unique experience with engaging gameplay."

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
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 delivers a unique blend of humor and audience participation that keeps things wild and engaging. It offers a fun, loud, and innovative experience unlike typical performances.

People are saying

"It's hilariously fun and unpredictable."

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

"It's a unique experience; I laughed the whole time."

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.

03
Embers + Apothecary Co. image 1

Bright, spacious space offers hands-on candle making with a wide variety of scents and luxury vessel options. Warm, colorful atmosphere feels inviting and fun, with games and treats for pets adding to the experience. Suitable for groups, celebrations, and casual outings.

Making candles offers a super fun experience with amazing scents. Staff are personable and fun, making the whole activity easy and enjoyable.

Hands-on scent mixing lets you create unique, personal fragrances with endless combinations. The space offers a one-of-a-kind experience where kids and adults can pour candles and customize scents to their liking.

People are saying

"Making candles here is so fun and relaxing."

"It's so Kid Friendly; the staff is patient with candle making."

"It's a unique, hands-on experience making your own candle."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for candle-making classes, especially on weekends.

2

Street parking is available and generally easy to find in the area.

3

Classes are suitable for all ages, making it a great family activity.

04
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.

Military Notes exhibit offers a unique perspective on currency during wartime. The museum provides a free and distinctive experience.

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 unique because you get a free bag of shredded money."

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.

05
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.

Each room offers a unique, interactive exhibit celebrating color in all its forms. The experience engages all five senses in a way that feels vibrant and immersive without confusion.

People are saying

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

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

"It's a unique, creative explosion of joy for your senses."

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.

06
Sushi Plus Rotary Sushi Bar South Loop image 1

Rotating conveyor belt delivers fresh sushi and varied selections in a bright, modern space. Atmosphere feels clean and inviting, suitable for families and casual dining. Pricing is reasonable with options like all-you-can-eat sushi available.

Dining here feels fun and unique with drinks like spicy mango margaritas and colorful, jiggly desserts adding to the vibe. It works well for a lively date night.

A conveyor belt delivers unique sushi and sushi adjacent dishes right to the table. The Hawaiian roll stands out as fresh and different, making the dining experience fun and distinctive.

People are saying

"The all-you-can-eat sushi deal is a really well-priced lunch option."

"The dining experience was fun and unique with the rotating sushi."

"The dining experience here is fun and unique."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3-6pm with special deals on drinks.

2

The lunch all-you-can-eat deal is well priced and includes a variety of dishes.

3

Sashimi and cheesecake are not included in the lunch all-you-can-eat menu.

07
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 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.

Creative dishes and a pour yourself mezcal and tequila station stand out here. The space features colorful sculptural metal scaffolding and unique lighting, all paired with reggaeton music for a distinct vibe.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and fresh."

"The food and drinks here are unique and delicious."

"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.

08
Maggie Daley Park Ice Skating Ribbon image 1

Ice skating ribbon features a unique track shape with varying elevations that create a more fun experience than typical oval rinks. Skating offers amazing city skyline views and a vibe that feels like skating on a river in the woods. The atmosphere is lively with music and crowds, especially during evening sessions when city lights enhance the scenery.

Skating on the ribbon-shaped ice rink offers a unique experience with its varying elevations and more space than typical rinks. Both beginners and seasoned skaters find it a fun and engaging activity.

A ribbon-shaped ice rink with elevation changes creates a unique skating loop. The uphill and downhill slopes offer a different feel from traditional flat rinks.

People are saying

"The ice skating ribbon offers a fun, unique experience with slopes."

"The ice skating ribbon at these parks feels like skating on a river in the woods."

"I experienced a unique skating ribbon with slopes and hills."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required in advance as time slots fill up quickly.

2

Ice skating is available from mid-November through mid-March.

3

The park has two entrances, one with lockers and restrooms.

09
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.

Cast iron legs serve as a standout art installation. Walking through the sculptures offers a unique and fun experience.

People are saying

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

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

"The cast iron figures are a unique art installation."

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.

10
Francois Frankie Le Carousel Bar image 1

Rotating carousel bar moves slowly, completing a full turn about once per hour, creating a unique focal point. Upscale ambiance combines with comfortable seating and a perfect noise level for conversation. Jazz duo adds to the atmosphere, making it lively yet approachable.

A rotating carousel bar creates a unique and engaging experience. Sitting at the rotating bar adds an extra layer of fun to the visit.

Rotating slowly while drinking creates a carousel bar experience. The space divides into three sections: the bar, nearby tables, and a separate dining area, all with unique decor.

People are saying

"The Amish chicken at this Bar is tender, juicy, and perfectly seasoned."

"The rotating carousel bar is a really fun activity."

"They brought every vision to life and then some."

Good to know

1

On Tuesdays, enjoy a $10 cocktail and oyster night with live jazz music.

2

Happy hour features discounted drinks and appetizers from 4-7pm on weekdays.

3

Expect to spend around $60 per person for a meal with drinks and tip.

11
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 show detailed character with a style that stands out from modern hotels. The space features amazing architecture and a unique atmosphere that feels more inviting than sterile.

People are saying

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

"The rooftop bar has an awesome view of Millennium Park."

"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.

12
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.

The experience offers unique visuals and fun facts through a peaceful augmented reality garden. It stands out as a truly unreal and unique activity.

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 augmented reality garden experience to be peaceful and unique."

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.

13
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.

A Nutella-themed environment creates a unique culinary adventure with options like Nutella-filled crepes and Nutella lattes. Personalizing your Nutella with your name adds a distinctive souvenir to the experience.

People are saying

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

"It's a unique spot with a creative menu starring Nutella."

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

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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