Best Hobbies to Try in Chicago

Chicago is the birthplace of improv comedy. Second City, iO Theater, and dozens of neighborhood theaters offer beginner drop-in classes.

Chicago's lakefront trail runs 18+ miles along Lake Michigan — one of the best urban cycling routes in the world. Divvy bike share makes it instantly accessible.

Chicago has a thriving pottery scene with studios in every neighborhood offering beginner wheel-throwing and hand-building classes.

Chicago's architecture, street art, neighborhoods, and lakefront make it one of the world's great photography cities. Architecture boat tours double as photo outings.

Chicago Sailing and the Chicago Yacht Club offer beginner sailing lessons on Lake Michigan. One of the most underrated urban hobbies in the city.

Chicago's food scene is world-class. Sur La Table, The Chopping Block, and dozens of local schools offer classes from knife skills to global cuisines.

Illinois' craft beer boom has a home brewing counterpart. Brew & Grow on the North Side is a beloved local homebrew shop.

Pickleball and disc golf have exploded across Chicago parks and rec centers. Chicago Park District runs adult leagues and open play sessions year-round.

Chicago sits on a major migration flyway — Montrose Point Bird Sanctuary on the lakefront is one of the best urban birding spots in the country.

Chicago Woodworking School and South Side Hackerspace offer beginner workshops. Chicago's neighborhood hardware culture makes sourcing supplies easy.

First Ascent has multiple locations across Chicago with beginner-friendly routes and a strong community atmosphere.

Chicago's winters are long — knitting and crochet are beloved hobbies with multiple yarn shops and stitch-and-sip events across the city.