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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of Near South Side

Fun activities

You are looking for ways to fill your time that actually feel like a departure from the routine.

Based on 678 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Bottle & Bottega by Painting with a Twist image 1
Bottle & Bottega by Painting with a Twist image 2
Bottle & Bottega by Painting with a Twist image 3
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Spacious studio offers artistic vibes and upbeat music for a warm, welcoming night. Creative painting sessions with an instructor make it easy and fun. Group outings shine with social energy and casual drinks.

Creative painting sessions led by an instructor make the activity easy and enjoyable. Group outings and nights with friends stand out as fun, engaging, and social experiences.

People are saying

"I had so much fun during the experience!"

"The art instructors here are so kind and make it a fun experience."

"It's a fun and creative atmosphere for a relaxing night out."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for private events to ensure availability.

2

The venue provides all painting supplies; just bring your own food and drinks.

3

Parking can be challenging due to its location in a busy area.

02
My Gym South Loop image 1
Gymnastics center

Gymnastics center offers a colorful environment with high energy staff who create fun, safe activities for kids. Warm, welcoming staff blend structured classes with free play, supporting physical and social growth. Frequent themed programs keep experiences fresh and engaging.

High energy staff create a fun engaging environment with activities that are safe and perfect for little ones. Kids can burn energy while enjoying a warm and smooth experience.

People are saying

"It's so kid friendly; the staff handles everything smoothly and makes it stress-free."

"This gym is amazing for hosting stress-free birthday parties."

"The staff made the fun activities so engaging and stress-free."

Good to know

1

The gym is great for toddlers with engaging activities and a safe environment.

2

Birthday parties can be organized with a party planner for a seamless experience.

3

Expect a warm and fun atmosphere that encourages children's engagement.

03
F45 Training South Loop image 1

Group workouts build a strong community spirit with supportive members. Energetic trainers lead fun full body workouts that stay challenging. High-energy music keeps pace lively in a clean, modern facility with varied workouts for all levels.

Energetic trainers lead fun, full body workouts that stay challenging. Classes keep motivation high with a mix of intensity and enjoyment.

People are saying

"The coaches at this weight lifting gym are super knowledgeable and push you."

"It's a lively community where everyone feels supportive and included."

"These fun activities are challenging and keep you motivated."

Good to know

1

F45 South Loop offers morning, afternoon, and evening classes for convenience.

2

New clients can take advantage of special offers.

3

Classes are designed for all fitness levels, ensuring everyone can participate.

04
Fly Club image 1
Dance school

Studio offers pole and aerial dance classes in a clean, warm space with skilled instructors like Chantel and Kirstin. Sessions are fun and beginner-friendly, creating a lively, supportive atmosphere. Community values authentic self-expression and connection through movement.

Sessions feature fun instructors like Chantel and Kirstin who create a comfortable, beginner-friendly atmosphere. Classes focus on enjoyment and learning, making activities engaging and lively.

People are saying

"This dance spot is a welcoming, supportive place for growth and healing."

"This yoga spot has a beautiful community where you can be yourself."

"Chantel's class is so fun and makes you feel confident."

Good to know

1

Fly Club hosts various workshops featuring aerial, dance, yoga, and contortion stars.

2

Registration links for events are created by Fly Club, managing payments and waivers.

3

The studio offers classes for all skill levels, ensuring everyone can participate.

05
Storm Warning Chicago Fishing Charters image 1

Fishing trips with Captain Mike and Brian offer energetic music and beautiful scenery. Crew shares thorough explanations about fish behavior, making the experience both fun and educational. Catching all five Lake Michigan species is a rare thrill.

Captain Mike and Brian lead with easygoing charm and personable knowledge that make every fishing trip engaging. Hanging out with the crew brings immense fun and a lively atmosphere.

People are saying

"The captain worked hard to find and keep us on fish."

"The seafood here is amazing; the captain cleaned the fish superbly."

"I had a great time fishing and plan to come back."

Good to know

1

Booking a charter in advance is recommended for the best experience.

2

The charter is suitable for both beginners and experienced anglers.

3

Fishing trips usually last around 4-6 hours.

06
Haidilao HotPot Chicago Inc image 1

Enjoy robot food delivery and live shows by servers in a vibrant atmosphere. Cook your own meal at the table and try fun games hosted by staff. Perfect for birthday celebrations with great food and a lively vibe.

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 bathrooms are so clean and well-stocked with extras."

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.

07
THC by Chitiva South Loop image 1

Cozy cannabis store offers a chill vibe with infused edibles and a modern design. Bingo games add fun activities and drinks with a light glow keep energy lively. Creative products and a cafe feel make it a unique spot.

Bingo games create a fun atmosphere with drinks that have a light glow. The spot offers a unique experience that keeps the energy lively and enjoyable.

People are saying

"The cafe staff is always kind and professional."

"I found this place to be really cool and creative."

"I found the fun activities here to be the most enjoyable."

Good to know

1

The cafe is open late until 11 pm, perfect for evening visits.

2

Free Bingo happens every Thursday night, a fun way to engage with the community.

3

Expect a 20-minute wait for hot chocolate on busy weekends.

08
Prohibition THCafe - South Loop image 1

Cafe offers live music and card games for fun. Walls feature art-lined decor, creating a lively vibe. Outdoor patio and late hours make it a chill, convenient hangout.

Music, card games, and art along the walls create a lively vibe. Staff remain professional, helpful, and add to the fun atmosphere.

People are saying

"The lemonade here is top-tier, with friendly and knowledgeable service."

"I loved the chill vibe and the music here."

"It's a fun atmosphere with music and games."

Good to know

1

Karaoke night happens every Thursday at 10pm with a two-drink minimum.

2

Open Mic events are held regularly, but check for cancellations.

3

Prices for pre-rolls start at $25.

09
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Physical fitness program

Studio features varied workouts that challenge small muscle groups. Classes mix fun activities with fitness, keeping sessions engaging. Supportive community and clean space make it welcoming for all ages and skill levels.

Classes offer a variety of formats that stay challenging and engaging. Workouts combine a great workout with fun activities.

People are saying

"The Barre Class instructors are knowledgeable, encouraging, and genuinely invested in your growth."

"The classes are a great workout and really fun."

Good to know

1

Classes are available at various times throughout the week to fit different schedules.

2

The studio offers a variety of class types to keep workouts engaging.

3

All fitness levels are welcome, making classes accessible to everyone.

10
12th Street Beach image 1
Public beach

Large beach with crystal clear water and clean sand offers a quiet, chill atmosphere perfect for families. Lifeguards and snack kiosks add safety and convenience. Plenty of space supports family-friendly fun and activities for all ages.

Clean and safe, this spot offers fun activities suitable for kids and adults alike. The environment encourages family-friendly fun with plenty of space to enjoy.

People are saying

"I found the beach to be an awesome place to relax."

"I found this hidden beach to be a cool, secluded spot."

"It's a fun and clean place for activities."

Good to know

1

Parking costs $20 for the full day in the lot nearest the beach.

2

Lifeguards mark the swimming limit for safety.

3

The beach is family friendly and has public restrooms.

11
McCormick Place image 1
Convention center

Enormous convention center offers spacious halls and stunning lake views. Auto show brings family-friendly fun with new cars and lively activities. Easy navigation thanks to escalators and sky bridges keeps the experience smooth.

Events offer fun experiences with a variety of characters and activities. The auto show provides a chance to explore new cars and enjoy a family-friendly atmosphere.

People are saying

"I found the parking here easy and safe."

"I was surprised how clean the bathrooms stayed."

"I had so much fun at all the different activities here."

Good to know

1

Parking costs $27 per car at McCormick Place.

2

Expect long wait times for parking, especially after events.

3

The Metra stop is conveniently located inside McCormick Place.

12
Reggies Chicago image 1
Bar & grill

Multilevel bar with live bands and a rooftop deck featuring a basketball hoop offers a punk rock vibe. Lively, loud atmosphere with friendly staff and comfy balcony seating makes it a fun spot for music and hanging out.

Live music fills a small bar setting with a loud and exciting vibe. Friendly staff and fun party buses add to the energetic atmosphere, while the rooftop offers a lively spot to hang out.

People are saying

"The bar food, especially the pulled pork, is some of the best I've had."

"It's a live music hub with gritty charm and energetic vibes."

"The pulled pork and mac n cheese are some of the best I've had."

Good to know

1

Parking can be challenging; consider using public transport or rideshares.

2

The venue hosts live music events almost every weekend.

3

Food service ends at 10pm, so plan accordingly.

13
The Staley image 1
Sports bar

Large sports bar feels like a dark basement man cave with huge projector screens and many TVs. Trivia nights led by Breezy add unique lively twist while free arcade games offer casual fun beyond sports.

Large TV screens and a bright, renovated bar create a fun, spacious setting. Trivia nights led by Breezy add a unique, lively twist, while the energy during games keeps the vibe rowdy and welcoming.

People are saying

"The food here is unique, delicious, and top-notch."

"The staff here is super friendly during live sports."

"You have to check out trivia night; the host is a legend."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not accepted on game days; plan accordingly.

2

A 20% service charge is automatically added to bills on game days.

3

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

14
Hue Chicago image 1
Restaurant

Small space with an intimate setting and nightclub vibe fuels a lively mood. Rap/Hip-Hop music keeps energy high while finger food platters offer tasty bites. Welcoming atmosphere makes for a fun night out with friends.

Welcoming atmosphere creates a fun night out with a mix of great food and lively energy. The space encourages enjoyment and socializing.

People are saying

"The food here is great, especially the shrimp and grits."

"The bar here is intimate and packed."

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

Good to know

1

Reservations are required for private events, especially for larger groups.

2

Parking can be tricky; be cautious of ticketing in the area.

3

It's guest list only, so RSVP online before your visit.

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