Arts & Entertainment

This Chicago Summer Has Been Hot and Smoky. Here Are Some Ways to Explore the City Inside

Between temperatures that feel like 100 degrees and hazardous wildfire smoke that shut down beaches and pools, spending time outside this summer hasn’t always been the most enticing (or safe) plan.

We’ve rounded up some ideas for things to do inside when it’s just too hot or hazy to enjoy even Chicago’s lakefront.

Make Something Inside Harold Washington Library’s Maker Lab

Spend an afternoon getting crafty inside the Chicago Public Library’s first (and free!) maker space by reserving a 3D printer, Cricut machine or button maker.

Shop at One of Chicago’s Global Grocery Stores

Celebrate Chicago’s vibrant immigrant communities by checking out new-to-you ingredients at a grocery store. I recommend exploring Patel Brothers in Rogers Park (2610 W. Devon Ave.) for Indian spices, Joong Boo Market (multiple locations) for Asian flare, or the Polish staple Andy’s Deli in Jefferson Park (5442 N. Milwaukee Ave.) for ready-to-eat meals and desserts.

Watch a (Cheap) Movie

Chicago is home to several historic movie theaters (Music Box, Logan Theatre, Davis Theater) that offer discounted tickets to matinee screenings. For those based near the western suburbs, check out the family-owned theater chain Classic Cinemas, which offers $6 tickets for any showing on Tuesdays.

Visit a Museum

Yes, any one of Chicago’s heavy-hitters (Field Museum, Art Institute and now the Obama Presidential Center — if you can get tickets) is always a good time, but have you heard of the Intuit Art Museum or the International Museum of Surgical Science? No? Google them now and thank me later.

Explore Chicago’s Pedway 

Get lost in Chicago’s underworld, aka the Pedway. The city’s pedestrian walkway system connects more than 40 blocks across five miles, taking people to public and private buildings and transit areas, but also expect to find some eateries, bars and shops. Just make sure to print yourself a map before heading down.

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