8 Things to do in the City & Western Suburbs: May 17

Enjoy the spring season with new experiences to make your days brighter! From outdoor activities like nature walks and festivals, to exploring new areas and shops, there’s something for everyone. Here’s a round-up of five activities this weekend that we think you will love to kick off the spring season!

The Architecture of DuPage County 

Built to Last: Celebrating DuPage County’s Historical Architecture is a limited-time exhibit that explores the variety of architectural styles expressed over the decades and how they influenced the region. While many of these historical buildings no longer serve the purpose for which they were built, their unique presence continues to this day. 

Date: Through May 31 
Time: Fri 10:30AM to 4:00PM; Sat & Sun 12:00 to 4:00PM 
Cost: $5 Suggested Donation 
Location: DuPage County Historical Museum, 102 E. Wesley St, Wheaton 
More Info: dupagemuseum.org  

Sounds Like Don Quixote… 

Celebrate the opening of Donkey Hodie: From Make-Believe to Someplace Else, a new exhibit that explores the creative visual world of the Emmy-nominated, live-action puppet series on PBS. Learn about the visual evolution from Donkey Hodie’s debut on Mister Roger’s Neighborhood in the 1960’s to the puppet series of today. Enjoy family activities followed by a reception with light bites, music, and members of the show’s creative team. 

Date: May 17 
Time: Family Activities 5:00 to 7:00PM; Reception 7:00 to 9:00PM 
Cost: $23; Free for Museum Members 
Location: Elmhurst Art Museum, 150 Cottage Hill Ave, Elmhurst 
More Info: elmhurstartmuseum.org

Glen Ellyn Bike Rodeo 

This is a great chance for kids to learn bike safety and conquer the rules of the road. There will be multiple stations featuring a variety of fun drills and activities designed to keep kids safe on the road. Participants ages 5 to 12 with an adult should bring their own bike and wear a fitted helmet. 

Date: May 18 
Time: 1:00 to 3:00PM 
Cost: Free with registration 
Location: Main Street Recreation Center, 501 Hill Avenue, Glen Ellyn 
More Info: gepark.org  

Discover Paseo Boricua 

Also known as the Puerto Rican Promenade, Paseo Boricua is a half-mile long stretch of Division Street in Humboldt Park filled with thriving Puerto Rican restaurants and shops. With insight from professional guide and local resident Eduardo Arocho, this 90-minute walking tour delves into the community’s history through its murals and public art. 

Date: May 18 
Time: 10:00 to 11:30AM 
Cost: $25; $22.50 for Members of the Chicago History Museum 
Location: Meet at Ciclo Urbano, 2459 W. Division St, Chicago 
More Info: chicagohistory.org 

It’s Prom Season! 

Did you skip Prom? Or maybe you want to relive the experience? Everyone is invited to the All 80’s Prom: Chicago High, featuring the Chicago-based live band Tributosaurus. Taking place in the vintage Stagg Court gymnasium, the event features prom photos, a prom-style punch and an unforgettable night of nostalgic fun! 

Date: May 17 
Time: 7:30PM 
Cost: $60 
Location: Stagg Court, Chicago Athletic Association, 12 S. Michigan Ave, Chicago 
More Info: hyattexperiences.com  

Margarita Time 

Elevate your margarita game at the Chicago Margarita Fest. Enjoy a curated line-up of 15 different margaritas, from the classic to the exotic, along with Latin food vendors, local businesses, and artists. 

Date: May 17-19 
Time: Fri 5:00 to 10:00PM; Sat & Sun 12:00 to 10:00PM 
Cost: $5 Suggested Donation 
Location: 1800 S. Peoria St, Chicago 
More Info: margaritafestchi.com

After Hours at the Nature Museum 

This 21-and-over event is your chance to chill with a chinchilla, meet a ferret, and get to know Daphne, the boa constrictor. Ticket price includes one drink and access to all exhibits, including Wild World: Miracles in Conservation, a fascinating soon-to-close temporary exhibit. Additional food and drink available for purchase.

Date: May 17 
Time: 6:00 to 9:00PM 
Cost: $30; $25 for Museum Members 
Location: Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum, 2430 N. Cannon Dr, Chicago 
More Info: naturemuseum.org

Designing for Change: Opening Event 

Celebrate the opening of the Chicago History Museum’s newest exhibit: Designing for Change: Chicago Protest Art of the 1960’s-70’s examines major social movements of the era through the lens of graphic art. This opening event includes guided tours, expert speakers, interactive arts-making, and more. 

Date: May 19 
Time: 12:00 to 2:00PM 
Cost: Included with Museum Admission ($19 for adults; $17 for students & seniors) 
Location: Chicago History Museum, 1601 N. Clark St, Chicago 
More Info: chicagohistory.org 

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