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Things To Do In Chicago Besides The Northwestern Game

Penn State football is headed to Chicago this weekend to take on Northwestern.

If you’re making the trip to the Windy City to cheer on the Nittany Lions, there’s plenty to do before and after kickoff.

Here are some events and things to check out while you’re in Chicago for Penn State’s weekend game.

Penn State Alumni Association Events

City Nikki’s Tailgate

The Penn State Alumni Association’s Greater Chicago Chapter is kicking off the weekend with a tailgate at City Nikki’s on Friday from 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

PSAA Roar Tour

The Penn State Alumni Association is keeping the fun going Friday afternoon with its Roar Tour at the Evanston American Legion from 3 to 5 p.m.

The event will feature food, a cash bar, and plenty of Penn Staters gathering before kickoff. 

Sports

Chicago Bears

If one football game isn’t enough, the Chicago Bears have you covered. The New York Jets take on the Bears at Soldier Field on Saturday at noon CDT.

Other Teams

While none of the Blackhawks, White Sox, or Cubs will be in town for Penn State’s trip, all three teams could play away from home on Saturday.

The Blackhawks have a confirmed game against the Buffalo Sabres. The White Sox and Cubs are based on results from the MLB wild-card round.

Bars around the city will feature the games, which should create an awesome atmosphere for folks staying an extra night.

Sightseeing

Cloud Gate (The Bean)

You can’t go to Chicago without stopping by Cloud Gate, better known as the Bean.

Head to Millennium Park, snap a few pictures, and, obviously, go flick it.

Navy Pier

Take a walk along Navy Pier and check out the views of Lake Michigan. 

Wrigleyville

The Cubs have clinched a playoff spot!

Wrigleyville is a fun place to check out while you’re in town. Grab some food or drinks and take in the atmosphere around Wrigley Field.

Willis Tower

Head to the top of Willis Tower and step onto The Ledge, the glass-bottom balconies that extend out from the Skydeck, to get a view over the city.

Chicago River

For a more relaxed night, grab dinner or drinks along the Chicago River.

Folks will get a good view of the city while enjoying some of Chicago’s restaurants and nightlife.

Museums

The Art Institute of Chicago

If you’re looking for something to do indoors, check out the Art Institute of Chicago.

The museum has a massive collection of artwork and is located right in the heart of downtown.

Field Museum

The Field Museum is another option for anyone looking to explore Chicago’s museums. It’s one of the largest natural history museums in the world.

Music

Doja Cat

If you’re sticking around Saturday night, Doja Cat will bring her “Tour Ma Vie World Tour” to the United Center on Saturday, October 3, at 7:30 p.m. CDT.

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About the Author

Lauren Gruca

Lauren is a third-year photojournalism major from Chicago, IL. She loves her dog, Melon, almost as much as she loves iced coffee at any time of day. If you want to reach out to her, her Instagram is @lgrucaphotography or follow her on Twitter @laurengruca.

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