Despite the winter cold settling in, there are some great activities to take advantage of in Chicago and the suburbs this weekend. From free museum days to a night of blues and meditation in the forest, here are five ways things to do this weekend in Chicago and the suburbs.
All weekend: The Office Experience in Chicago
The world of The Office has arrived on the Magnificent Mile. Fans can see the show come to life through set recreations—including the Dunder Mifflin Scranton offices and Schrute Farms—original show costumes and props. Tickets start at $37.50.
540 N Michigan Ave.
All weekend: Free days at the Shedd Aquarium and Art Institute of Chicago
Illinois residents can visit the Shedd Aquarium for free from Jan. 13–17. The Art Institute of Chicago has also announced free days on Mondays, Thursdays, and Fridays, Jan. 3–March 17. Be sure to grab your tickets online in advance for both the aquarium and museum, as tickets won’t be available onsite. As always, donations are welcome.
January 14 and 15: Sharehouse Open Volunteer Sessions
Register for a volunteer session on Friday or Saturday at Sharehouse. Volunteers will be helping sort and inventory donations of baby and toddler essentials for children in need across Chicago. Kids as young as 6 are welcome to volunteer.
3800 N Milwaukee Ave.
January 14: The Heavy Sounds ft. Oscar Wilson and Michael Damani
Visit SPACE in Evanston for a night of classic soul and blues. Oscar Wilson of the Cash Box Kings will join instrumental soul quartet The Heavy Sounds, featuring the music of Wilson Pickett, Albert King, Eddie Floyd, BB King and more. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. and the show begins at 7:30 p.m. Tickets range from $15 to $25.
1245 Chicago Ave.
January 16: Winter Blizzard Competition
Visit the Skatium Ice Arena in Skokie on Sunday to watch the 2022 Winter Blizzard Competition. Figure skaters with the Learn to Skate USA Program and U.S. Figure Skating will be performing.
9340 Weber Park Pl.
January 16: Forest Bathing
Reconnect with nature this Sunday by participating in Forest Bathing at the Emily Oaks Nature Center in Skokie. Visitors will take a mindful, guided walk through nature and conclude the walk by sharing tea around a campfire. The event is for adults 18 and older. Pre-registration is required. Fee per person: $15 Resident/$19 Non-resident
4650 Brummel St.
