Chicago, the “City of Big Shoulders,” is running full steam ahead with such highly anticipated events and attractions in 2025 such as:
The annual EXPO Chicago (April 24-27, 2025) where leading international galleries are hosted in Navy Pier’s Festival Hall, alongside one of the highest quality platforms for global contemporary art and culture. The exposition, which was acquired by Frieze in 2023, draws upon the city’s rich history as a vibrant international cultural destination, while engaging the region’s contemporary art community and collector base.
A new Harry Potter Shop opening in Spring 2025 in a 12,3000 square foot space at 676 Michigan Avenue. The new Chicago store comes following the success of official Harry Potter Shops at Kings Cross in London and in Manhattan, and the launch of Harry Potter and the Cursed Child Musical currently playing in Chicago. The shop will offer interactive displays, photo opportunities, original film props, and more.
Navy Pier Marina has begun construction in anticipation of its grand opening during the 2025 boating season. The Navy Pier Marina will provide a home in the heart of Chicago for boaters across the city and suburbs and around the Great Lakes, offering lunch and dinner hourly tie-ups as well as overnight stays. The Chicago International Boat Show (August 21-24, 2025) will be the first major event at Navy Pier Marina this summer featuring an exclusive lineup of luxury boats, yachts, and watercraft, alongside curated showcases from luxury automotive brands, private aviation, and world-class culinary experiences.
COMING NEXT YEAR: The Obama Presidential Center – Covering 19 acres, the campus will include a fruit and vegetable garden, an athletic facility for programs and events, a premier museum, an auditorium, a branch of the Chicago Public Library, and additional amenities. The programming will encourage visitors, whether local or international, to carry the impact of their experience with them. The full campus is currently set to open early 2026.
The full list of new developments, openings, attractions, activities, events and more for Q1/Q2 2025 can be seen here