Navy Pier

"Navigating the hordes of tourists at Navy Pier already feels like a scene from The Walking Dead, so a trip here during the Halloween season already makes sense. Plus, on October 26th, they’ll host Slightly Spooky Saturday. The pier will be ready for trick-or-treating throughout, and there will be festive activities like axe-throwing and live performances. Be sure to check their website for updates." - john ringor, nick allen

"Look, after being stuck in our houses for months, touristy stuff we would never be willing to do before 2020 might seem fun now. Just in case this applies to you, you should know that Navy Pier has reopened, and every Saturday in May has a free fireworks show." - adrian kane

"Something to do at Navy Pier besides watching tourists watch fireworks: Every Thursday and Friday from June 3rd-25th you can hear live music on the stage next to the Centennial Wheel. You can see a list of this week’s performances here." - adrian kane

"Though Navy Pier is a tourist sinkhole that most locals enjoy avoiding, it’s also one of the best places to catch free live outdoor music. From their beer garden to their Wave Wall Staircase, there are performances here every Sunday, Thursday, and Friday. You can hear local rock bands, jazz groups, and a weekend festival in August highlighting the music of the Latin American diaspora. If you get hungry, you can grab a burger or hotdog from the beer garden, or check out one of the not-terrible Navy Pier restaurants like Billy Goat Tavern or Ciccio. Check back here for their event calendar." - john ringor

"Navy Pier happens to be home to Ciccio, one of the best Italian beefs in the city. And though the rest of the food on the pier isn't mind-blowing, a burger from Billy Goat Tavern, some deep dish from Giordano's, or drinks and small plates on the largest rooftop in the United States can help you get through the last 10 miles of the Lakefront Trail. Make sure to cap your meal off with an Original Rainbow Cone so you can justify being at this god-forsaken tourist trap." - adrian kane, veda kilaru