Crocuses blooming in Grant Park, restaurant patios opening along Michigan Avenue and Randolph Street, rising temperatures inviting cyclists, pedestrians, and joggers along Lake Shore Drive trail — spring has officially arrived in Chicago.
It’s one of the best times to visit, live, and work downtown, as the city emerges from its months-long winter slumber and begins a season of festivals, concerts, and all sorts of things to do that lasts well into the summer. If, like us, you’re itching for a chance to get back out and enjoy the city at its finest, here’s a roundup of some can’t-miss events and activities, right by Pru.
For The Sports Fanatics
Major League Soccer’s 2024 season kicked off just a few weeks ago, which means it’s still early enough to follow the home team and catch a Chicago Fire game at Soldier Field (just a scenic stroll through Grant Park from Pru). April’s shaping up to be a perfect month to support the club — the Fire will host the Houston Dynamo on April 6th, Real Salt Lake on April 20th, and Atlanta United on April 27th.
For those who prefer America’s version of football, we’re sure we don’t have to tell you our Chicago Bears hold the number one pick in this year’s NFL draft. To celebrate, the Bears are hosting a Draft Party at Soldier Field for the big night: Thursday, April 25th. Enjoy live music and entertainment, take a tour of the field and facilities, and celebrate as the Bears officially land one of the most celebrated quarterback prospects in recent memory: USC’s Caleb Williams.
For The Art Connoisseurs
The internationally acclaimed art fair EXPO Chicago returns to Navy Pier the second week of April, bringing top contemporary and modern galleries from around the globe just a few blocks from Pru. Featuring a star-studded lineup of exhibitors, programs, installations, speakers, and more, you’ll find inspiration and beauty at EXPO, no matter your taste.
Even closer to home, Pru tenants can pop over to the Art Institute of Chicago to experience Picasso: Drawing from Life, an exhibition featuring over 60 works — drawings, prints, and illustrated books, along with a handful of paintings and a sculpture — from modern art’s most influential figure. Grab your tickets before the exhibit closes!
For The Curious & Adventurous
About Last Knife, the classic American bistro just across the street from Pru, is hosting several Dining in the Dark events — a unique culinary experience where guests are given a secret 3-course menu to enjoy while blindfolded, strengthening their senses of taste and smell. The courses include an appetizer, main, and dessert, and guests can select from menu types that accommodate different dietary preferences.
Right down the street at the Museum Campus, the Shedd Aquarium is hosting Ritmo Del Mar on May 25th — a night of aquatic animals, delicious cuisine, and dancing to Latin music like salsa, cumbia, and merengue. For something a little lower-key, the right-there Adler Planetarium is open late on Wednesdays, making it the perfect after-work activity.
For The Outdoorsy Types
Those looking for sunshine, budding foliage, and flowers in bloom don’t have to go far — Pru overlooks Millennium, Maggie Daley, and Grant Parks, all featuring beautifully manicured lawns and walking paths to stroll. Be on the lookout for Millennium Park’s outdoor workouts, which start in May.
Just down the block, tenants can enjoy the miles-long Lake Shore Drive trail, featuring stunning cityscape and waterfront views, as well as verdant green spaces. Go up the street from Pru and you’ll hit the Chicago Riverwalk, where you can kayak, enjoy al fresco dining, and set sail on the city’s acclaimed riverboat architecture tour — one of Chicago’s best warm-weather attractions.
And if you’re still looking for a quick fix of fresh air and Vitamin D, there’s always the rooftop terrace!
Finally, be on the lookout for events and programming right here at Pru — we’ll be rolling out fun new things to do all spring and summer long.
