Things to Do

The Renter's Guide to Divvy: Best Neighborhoods for Bike Commuting
How Divvy bike-share works in 2026 and which Chicago neighborhoods are best for bike commuting, from the 606 and the Lakefront Trail to the protected lanes downtown.

Free Things to Do Near You This Weekend (by Neighborhood)
A renter's guide to the best free things to do in Chicago, from Millennium Park and the Lincoln Park Zoo to free museum days, summer concerts, and neighborhood mural walks.

The Dog Park and Dog Beach Map for Chicago Renters
Every Chicago dog beach and off-leash dog park renters should know, from Montrose Dog Beach to Wiggly Field and Grant Bark Park, plus how to get the required DFA permit.

Date-Night Map: Where to Go When You Live in a Given Neighborhood
A Chicago date-night guide by neighborhood, with a dinner, a drink, and an after-dinner plan in River North, the West Loop, Wicker Park, Logan Square, Lincoln Park, and more.

Brunch Crawl: The Best Weekend Brunch in Wicker Park, West Loop and Lakeview
A weekend brunch guide to three of Chicago's best eating neighborhoods, with the standout spots, signature dishes, and walkable routes in Wicker Park, the West Loop, and Lakeview.

The Best Rooftop Bars Within Walking Distance of Your Apartment
Chicago's best rooftop bars by neighborhood, so you can rent where the skyline views are a short walk from your door. River North, West Loop, and the Loop.

The Best Patios and Outdoor Drinking Spots by Neighborhood
A neighborhood guide to Chicago's best patios, beer gardens, and rooftops, from Sheffield's in Lakeview to Kaiser Tiger in the West Loop and Parson's in Logan Square.

The Best Happy Hours Near the Loop and Fulton Market Offices
Where to grab an after-work drink near Chicago's two big office districts, with the best happy hours in the Loop and Fulton Market and the days and deals to know.

The Best Gyms and Fitness Studios by Neighborhood (Plus Buildings With Gyms)
Where to work out in every Chicago neighborhood, from destination clubs like East Bank Club to boutique studios, plus how to find an apartment building with a great in-house gym.

The Best Coffee Shops to Work From in Every Chicago Neighborhood
A neighborhood-by-neighborhood guide to Chicago's most laptop-friendly coffee shops, with the spots that have the outlets, wifi, and seating to actually get work done.