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Top 10 Off The Beaten Path Things To Do In Chicago

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Chicago, Illinois is full of interesting places and attractions to visit! If you’re considering planning a trip to this beautiful city, you may be looking for what to add to the itinerary. If you're looking for some out-of-the-box options, we've got you covered. From cat cafes to magic shows, here are 10 quirky, fun, and memorable things to do in Chicago in 2021.

10 Quirky Things To Do In Chicago

1. Visit Treehouse Cat Cafe

Looking to mix things up a bit while getting some caffeine? Why not visit Treehouse Cat Cafe. This fun location offers both great coffee and the opportunity to visit with some adorable cats. Reservations are currently required to visit the cats, though a reservation is not needed to just grab a coffee.

Visit Treehouse Cat Cafe

2. Take A Trip To Oz

This public park has some of the typical features you would expect – a playground, gardens, basketball courts. However, Oz Park also contains some unique attractions. The park is home to several Wizard of Oz-themed statues, including a Tin Man Statue and a Cowardly Lion statue! 

Take A Trip To Oz

3. Conquer Your Fear Of Heights

This one might not be for the faint of heart – the Willis Tower Sky Deck Ledge hovers 103 stories above the city below. Visitors are able to step out onto a glass ledge, giving a unique – and somewhat scary – view of the city below. If you’re feeling adventurous, though, a stop here is sure to create some unforgettable memories.

Conquer Your Fear Of Heights

4. Check Out Woolly Mammoth Antiques And Oddities

Here’s the perfect stop for some eccentric and one-of-a-kind souvenirs! This curiosity shop offers all sorts of unique wares, including antique taxidermy and books. The shop requires face masks and only allows a limited number of guests inside at once, currently. 

Check Out Woolly Mammoth Antique And Oddities

5. Enjoy A Drink At The Violet Hour

Looking to grab a drink? Check out The Violet Hour! This chic and sophisticated cocktail bar features an unassuming outside with a somewhat hidden entryway. Once inside, you’ll be treated to excellent and creative drinks, candlelit tables, and a marble bar. 

Enjoy A Drink At The Violet Hour

6. View A Collection Of Miniature Rooms

Located at the Art Institute of Chicago, the Thorne Miniature Rooms are a set of intricately detailed model rooms. Created by artist Narcissa Niblack Thorne, there are 68 shoebox-sized rooms all built in painstaking detail. 

View A Collection Of Miniature Rooms

7. Check Out The Wabash Art Corridor

Experience some of Chicago’s vibrant street art with a visit to the Wabash Art Corridor! The corridor is home to dozens of murals, as well as also hosting live performances and various other art installments. This is not only a great place to see an authentic side of the art scene in Chicago, but also a great opportunity to get some stunning pictures! 

Check Out The Wabash Art Corridor

8. Visit The World's Largest Tiffany Glass Dome

See the world’s largest Tiffany glass dome at the Chicago Cultural Center! This awe-inspiring construction is 38 feet in diameter and was originally built in 1897. The dome was restored in 2008, meaning you can now go view it in all of its original glory! 

Visit The World's Largest Tiffany Glass Dome

9. Stop By Wicker Park Secret Agent Supply Co. 

This quirky shop also has a great mission – it’s the storefront of 826CHI, a nonprofit organization that aims to support writing skills for youth! The store sells quirky souvenirs and gifts, such as mustache disguise kits and voice changers! 

Stop By Wicker Park Secret Agent Supply Co.

10. Watch A Show At The Chicago Magic Lounge

Do you believe in magic? Regardless of the answer, a visit to the Chicago Magic Lounge is sure to provide entertainment! This unique venue features live performances by magicians, as well as offering a variety of cocktails and small plates. A great option for those looking to add something both fun and memorable to their trip, the Magic Lounge’s upcoming lineup is available online! 

Watch A Show At The Chicago Magic Lounge

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Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.