Is it OK to plant at the end of June?
Chicago Botanic Garden staff continue to plant all summer long.
Things To Do
Featured
Answer Angel: No to leggings
Dear Answer Angel Ellen: I don’t like wearing “leggings,” period. Not to lounge around, not...
The Great American State Fair kicks off in Washington in honor of the nation’s 250th anniversary
The fair is run by a group created by President Donald Trump, and visitors can...
Arts
Metra’s new America 250 locomotive a tribute to ‘people working together’
Metra paired with La Grange-based Progress Rail Locomotives for an engine decorated to commemorate the United States’ 250th anniversary.
Books
Biblioracle: I devoured ‘Dad Had a Bad Day’ by Ashton Politanoff
"Dad Had a Bad Day" is the story of Ned, a married, recently laid-off suburbanite with a young child. It's a fine train wreck of a novel.
Fashion
Answer Angel: Toe or no toe?
Dear Answer Angel Ellen: What is the protocol for showing your naked toes in sandals?
Home and Garden
Kenilworth’s Federalist Antiques closing after 54 years of business
The Federalist Antiques in Kenilworth will close its doors after 54 years of business on June 27, 2026.
Movies
Chicago Bears will be featured in Hallmark Channel’s ‘Holiday Touchdown’ movie this Christmas
The Chicago Bears will be featured in the third installment of Hallmark's "Holiday Touchdown." The movie will be filmed in and around Chicago.
Museums
Chicago Architecture Center new exhibits highlight region’s natural and built wonders
“Chicago's Living Habitat” and “Flyway City” examine the region’s ecosystems, migratory birds, and intersection of nature and architecture across the Chicago area.
Music and Concerts
‘A bucket list item that I didn’t know I had’: Suburban garage rockers prep for first headlining gig since ’60s
The Huns broke up after high school and haven't performed together in public — much less picked up a guitar, for some of them — since the late 1960s. That's about to change.
Theater
Review: ‘Reality Detox’ at Second City e.t.c. needs that old Second City chemistry
For its 50th revue, Second City e.t.c. has transformed itself into an improv theater, with few pre-written sketches. It was a brave attempt at shaking things up.
TV and Streaming
‘The Bear’ final season: Cloudy with a chance of cornballs
Season 5 closes out this Chicago story of a humble Italian beef sandwich shop turned fine dining restaurant.
Restaurants, Food and Drink
‘The Bear’ was a love letter to Chicago. For the final season, here’s every local restaurant that was featured.
Though “The Bear,” is ending with its final chapter airing June 25, fans can find solace in that it was driven by real-life places and people.
Travel
Chicago rises to nearly 57 million visitors last year, despite drop in international tourism
Navigating a sharp decline in international travel to the U.S. and other headwinds, Chicago saw an increase in tourism last year, with 56.8 million visitors spending a record $21.5 billion in the Windy City.
Things To Do
Illinois 250: What we’ve invented, innovated, created and manufactured
Illinois builds things. We invent and innovate, too — everything from the Pullman car to plastic party cups.
Entertainment
‘Serial monogamists’ who love scandal, Lincoln Park Zoo’s same-sex penguin couple showcase animal diversity
During Pride Month, Chicago-area zoos are highlighting LGBTQ+ animals.