An out-of-this-world attraction is unveiled on Michigan Avenue, the new Chicago Fashion Week debuts, two Broadway In Chicago shows enchant the city’s theatre scene, and an old-fashioned speakeasy opens at the historic Palmer House hotel.

Area 51 Encounter, an alien and UFO attraction at former John Hancock Center
Area 51 Encounter

Extraterrestrials land on Michigan Avenue

Outer space aficionados can’t miss the Alien 51 Encounter attraction that recently opened in the former John Hancock Center. See entertaining UFO-themed exhibits that include artifacts, pop culture memorabilia, a virtual reality moon explorer, and even a simulation of an alien abduction.

Learn more about Area 51 Encounter.

Chicago Fashion Week
Chicago Fashion Week

Chicago Fashion Week struts into the city

A 12-day extravaganza celebrating all things fashion, from streetwear to couture, takes place during the new Chicago Fashion Week held from Oct. 9 – 20. Attend runway shows, fashion exhibits, symposiums, and evening events showcasing international and local designers.

Learn more about Chicago Fashion Week.

A scene from Harry Potter and the Cursed Child at HPCC NY.
Harry Potter and the Cursed Child, photo by Matthew Murphy for MurphyMade

Harry Potter brings magic to Chicago

Broadway In Chicago presents the magical Harry Potter and the Cursed Child at the James M. Nederlander Theatre through Feb. 1. The Tony Award-winning show follows Harry’s son Albus on an epic race through time with his friend Scorpius Malfoy, the son of one of Harry’s fiercest rivals.

Learn more about Harry Potter and the Cursed Child and Broadway In Chicago.

The Nutcracker is transformed with hip-hop beats

The Hip Hop Nutcracker is an innovative holiday show presented by Broadway In Chicago from Dec. 10 – 15. The all-ages musical at the CIBC Theatre melds hip-hop dance and the classic music of Tchaikovsky’s The Nutcracker, with the timeless tale set in New York City.

Learn more about The Hip Hop Nutcracker and Broadway In Chicago.

An old-school speakeasy opens at the Palmer House

Potter’s Bar, which exudes a Prohibition Era speakeasy vibe complete with 1920s music, is now serving retro cocktails at the historic Palmer House hotel. The lounge requires a password to unlock the menu and some VIP experiences (get the access code via text from the hotel staff).

Learn more about Potter’s Bar at the Palmer House, a Hilton Hotel.