A Local's Guide to LollapaloozaSpend 4 days in the festival crowds of Lollapalooza and the city streets of the Windy City. See famed headliners and indie artists amidst the stages in Grant Park. Soak up the tunes, head to aftershows, and indulge in all that Chicago has to offer!Authorskatherinebeard
DestinationsChicagoItinerary

Stays

Best Western Grant Park Hotel
Toward the South End of Grant Park, this hotel is steps away from festival entrances.
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The River Hotel
Close enough to Lollapalooza that you can walk to the festival while still having enough distance to feel less caught up in the festival madness.
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Chicago Athletic Association - The Unbound Collection by Hyatt
This upscale, modern stay is right on Grant Park! It is perfect for festival goers hoping to unwind and reset after long days in the crowds.
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Hotel Blake, Ascend Hotel Collection
Stay at this boutique hotel just a few blocks from the park for a more tranquil experience while at the festival.
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Palmer House a Hilton Hotel
A stay right off of Grant Park that is conveniently located for festival-goers.
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WEDNESDAY: PRE LOLLA

Evette's Lincoln Park
Grab their chicken shwarma sandwich or falafel options to-go! Bring them for a delicious picnic on the lakefront.
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North Avenue Beach
This is a local favorite during the summer to admire city views and spend the day by the lake, walking, running, biking, and lounging. Take a dip off the iconic ledge to cool down. Pack a picnic to bring with you!
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Millennium Park
Check out the water towers and views down Michigan Avenue before the festival completely takes over downtown! It is a great spot for an afternoon walk before dinner and getting ready for the aftershow.
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Cindy's Rooftop
Make a reservation for an evening dinner overlooking Grant Park and Lake Michigan. It is upscale and more relaxed making it worth a go before a crazy, busy weekend!
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The Vic Theatre
A favorite host for the Lollapalooza "aftershows."
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THURSDAY: DAY ONE

Magnificent Mile
If you need a break or want to get started later, fill your morning with some shopping on Chicago's Mag Mile. You can grab any last minute essentials or items you've been searching for!
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Lou Malnati's Pizzeria
At the festival they will be selling Lou Malnati's Pizza, a true Chicago staple! If you miss it at the festival, grab some at the location by TAO. The lines are usually the shortest for pizza too!
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TAO Chicago
For more live music & aftershows, head to the iconic Tao night club. TAO is THE spot. Note that there is a dress code enforced here, so make sure to check their online guidelines ahead of time.
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FRIDAY: DAY TWO

Billy Goat Tavern (The Original)
Grab a "cheeseborger" at this Chicago favorite! Around since 1934 and now a feature restaurant in the Lollapalooza lineup, this is a must-try for true Chicago grub!
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The Salt Shed
Head to this outdoor concert venue, once the Morton Salt Factory, for an aftershow with a concert-venue vibe!
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SATURDAY: DAY THREE

Harolds Chicken Shack
A locally and Lollapalooza featured Chicago fried chicken joint! Stop by their booth to grab a heartier meal during the festival.
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Harold's Chicken Shack
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The Original Rainbow Cone - Ice Cream Truck
Another restaurant feature at Lollapalooza, cool down with an ice cream cone from this shop that has been scooping for over 95 years in the city!
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Wow Bao – Theater District
A classic food feature at Lollapalooza that conveniently has a spot just blocks away from House of Blues! Grab a convenient, Chicago staple right before the aftershow for some dancing fuel.
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House of Blues Chicago
A bucket-list true Chicago Blues venue, perfect for more music on a Friday night!
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SUNDAY: DAY FOUR

Connie's Pizza
Grab one last slice of Chicago style pizza from this local favorite that is usually a staple at Lollapalooza. The lines are usually the shortest for pizza too!
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Metro
Close out the weekend at an aftershow here on Sunday night. A successful "lolla" weekend in Chicago!
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