Where did the time go? How is it August already!? Well, in that case, we better catch summer’s tail and make this month count, for real. So, allow me to skip all chitter-chatter and get straight to the point — here is your list of things to do in Chicago this August, from art to music to food and drinks. Whether you’re planning a date night out or a staycation weekend, we’re here to hook you up to the best itinerary ever!
National Sandwich Month
Chicago is never short of solid sandwich options! After all, so many of us are hustling for our future and could always use a midday pickup. From Italian subs to the famous Bretzels, Chicago has everything you could ever ask for when it comes to sandwiches. Not sure where to go? Check out our house pick of the best sandwiches in town — we are updating this list to include more spots we’ve discovered since last year!
Celebrate Peppin’s Tavern’s 48th Anni
Pippin’s Tavern is celebrating its 48th anniversary in Chicago this August! Pippin’s will feature “48” themed specials to celebrate its anniversary this month during their happy hour from 4-6 pm Wednesday-Friday. These specials include $0.48 oysters (limit 6 per check), $0.48 Pippin’s Gold brewed by Spiteful Brewing, the infamous Pippin’s 75 cocktails, reimagined with rhubarb for $4.80. Pippin’s will also host a celebration on August 10th, and the first 48 customers will receive a special anniversary shirt.
Shuck Some Oysters
National Oyster Day has passed, but that will not stop us from shucking more delicious oysters! Stop by the best oyster bars in Chicago — even better, catch them during happy hours! And tell us, are you Team East Coast or Team West Coast when it comes to oysters?
Try a “Barbicore” Cocktail
With all the recent buzz around the upcoming live-action Barbie movie, the ‘Barbiecore’ aesthetic is taking over. So, if sweet drinks are your thing, try these bright pink summer cocktails from your favorite bars in Chicago! At FireLake Grill House & Cocktail Bar, the ‘Barbiecore’ trend’s pink hues are featured in the bar’s new Little Pink Corvette cocktail. Meanwhile, LG’s Bar & Kitchen introduces the Pornstar Martini to their lineup, served with a Prosecco split and “Drinking Buddy” garnish.
Grab a Cold One
Aug. 5th was International Beer Day. But if anyone thinks we’d limit our beer celebration to one day, they’re too naive! Grab a cold beer before the temperature drops at one of your favorite joints. Try Kirkwood Bar & Grill or Gaslight if you’re into international beers. Both spots have plenty of imported cans, but also rare micro & local beer finds. Alternatively, follow the advice in our summer beer guide!
Travel Back To Old Tokyo @ The Art Institute
In 1923, Tokyo was devastated by the Great Kantō earthquake. Despite the destruction caused by this natural disaster, the city developed at an astounding rate over the next few decades. During this period, a number of printmakers documented their impressions of the city’s ruin and rebirth.
While some of these prints depict the remnants of destroyed buildings, many more show people enjoying the city’s new developments. Now, art and history lovers have the rare opportunity to admire these unique prints in person at “Recollections of Tokyo: 1923–1945” at The Art Institute.
Visit the WNDR Museum
Yayoi Kusama’s infinity room alone is enough reason for you to pay WNDR Museum a visit this August. However, they also have a ton of other cool exhibitions that will truly show you what an immersive art experience should look like. Dance on a reactive light floor, or explore local performing talents at Boxed In, a rating installation. Trust us, every visit to the WNDR Museum is a new experience.
Tour The Morton Arboretum
Now is your last chance to view the Human + Nature installations at the Morton Arboretum when it’s still warm and green out, since the exhibition only runs through March, 2023. Hike miles of beautiful trails and watch the giant sculptures emerge. Reconnect with nature and experience outdoor art in a whole new way. You can also explore rare species from around the world and many specialty booths and activities at the arboretum. GA tickets are available via their website.
Hello, Dolly
HELLO, DOLLY!, the musical adaptation of Thornton Wilder’s hit play “The Matchmaker,” bursts with humor, romance, and some of the greatest songs in musical theatre history. Experience this charming Broadway hit directed and choreographed by 2-time Tony Award nominee Denis Jones. Musical direction is by Jeff Award winner Ryan T. Nelson. With themes of hope, second chances, and human connection, this production is as relevant as ever to today’s times. HELLO, DOLLY! will run at The Marriott Theater from August 31 thru October 16.
Rooftop Yoga on the Mag Mile
The Summertime Wellness Series features a 45-minute fitness class followed by light bites and cocktails in the Marriott Mag Mile’s rooftop garden. Enjoy breathtaking views of the Chicago skyline as the sun begins to set while you wind down with a light workout at the end of the day. Bites and cocktails feature ingredients from the Marriott’s rooftop garden. Tick
