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Group activities in Chicago
Chicago works for nearly any group: world-class architecture, a lake that turns into a beach town in summer, an improv and comedy scene with deep roots, and food that ranges well past deep-dish. It's best from late spring to early fall, but plenty works year-round.
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Plan by occasion
Tailored picks for what you’re celebrating in Chicago.
Bachelorette
A Chicago bachelorette is at its best in summer, when the lake opens up.
Bachelor Party
A Chicago bachelor party can mean a Cubs game, a boat on the lake, and blues clubs late.
Birthday
For a group birthday, Chicago has activities for every season and every kind of group.
Team Outing
Chicago is one of the easiest cities for a team outing, with plenty of activities built for groups.
Every group activity in Chicago
Tap a card’s button to see live group prices.
Architecture river cruise
Boat tours on the Chicago River pass the city's famous skyline with a guide explaining the buildings. Probably the single best group activity in the city.
Lake Michigan boat charter
A private boat on the lake with skyline views. In summer, groups often anchor in a spot where boats raft up together.
Second City show or improv workshop
Second City is one of the most famous improv theaters in the country. Groups can catch a show or book a private improv workshop, which works especially well for teams.
Cubs game at Wrigley Field
A day game at Wrigley is a Chicago group classic. Rooftop venues across the street sell group packages with food and drinks.
Deep-dish pizza tour
A walking tour that hits several pizza spots and covers why Chicago pizza turned out the way it did. A good group lunch that settles the which-place argument.
Prohibition and speakeasy tour
Tours covering Chicago's gangster history, some ending in a speakeasy-style bar. A fun way to start a night out.
Blues club night
Chicago is a blues city, and long-running clubs like Kingston Mines and Buddy Guy's Legends have live music most nights.
Skyscraper observation decks
Skydeck at Willis Tower has glass ledges sticking out from the building; 360 Chicago has TILT, which tips you toward the street. Quick, memorable, and easy to book.
Chicago River kayak tour
Guided kayak tours through downtown on the river. A different view of the architecture and good teamwork.