What to do
On campus
- Enjoy the Block Museum. Through exhibitions, educational programs, and its Block Cinema film series, the Mary and Leigh Block Museum of Art is where the Northwestern community experiences excellence in the visual arts without leaving campus.
- Enjoy Northwestern's fitness facility—the Henry Crown Sports Pavilion, Norris Aquatics Center, and Combe Tennis Center—including the Olympic-size pool, tennis courts, fitness classes, state-of-the-art exercise equipment, and a suspended track overlooking Lake Michigan. Find out more by visiting www.northwestern.edu/fitness-recreation .
- Plan-it Purple is constantly updated with all events that are hosted on the NU campus.
In the community
- Explore the picturesque town that hosts the conferecne venue. Evanston is a terrific town right outside of Chicago that has many shopping and dining locations in walking distance of campus. Visit the Downtown Evanston website for more information.
- Visitors are encouraged to sample the restaurants, theaters, shops, parks, and other attractions that Chicago has to offer. Selected destinations and events are highlighted at the Chicago North Shore Convention and Visitors Bureau and the Chicago Office of Tourism .
- Do you feel like taking in some of Chicago's cultural offerings? There are an array of museums that house anything and everything.
- Other recommended Chicago attractions:
- Chicago Architecure Boat Tours- Starting at the dock by Trump Tower, this river boat tour provides a beautiful and unique setting to view and learn about the city's architectural heritage and history. Daily tours are at 10:30 a.m., 12:30 p.m., 2:30 p.m., 4:30 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. Additionally, tours leave at 9:30 a.m. on Saturday and Sunday. Tickets should be purchased in advance.
- Willis (Sears) Tower is the tallest in the Western Hemisphere and attracts more than 1.3 million visitors each year. Venture onto The Ledge for a unique and daring view from 103 stories high. The Tower is open daily from 10 a.m. - 8 p.m.; tickets must be purchased at the door.
- Hancock Observatory offers 360 degree views of the city from the Magnificent Mile in downtown Chicago. Night or day, a trip to the top is a great way to view the city. The observatory is open daily from 9 a.m. to 11 p.m. (last admission at 10:30 p.m.); tickets may be purchased at the door.
- The Second City comedy theatre is the leader in improv-based sketch comedy. Legendary Second City alums include Bill Murray, Dan Akroyd, Tina Fey, Steve Carrell, and Stephen Colbert. Shows run at various times throughout the day; it is suggested to purchase tickets online in advance.
- Lincoln Park Zoo provides free, family-friendly animal experience in the heart of Chicago. Visit lions, tigers, bears, (bulls), and more!
- Are you looking for a wallet-friendly day in Chicago? Feel free to peruse websites such as Groupon Living Social and Metro Mix Chicago. These sights will display discounts and weekend events in the Windy City.