Whether you’re in search of a fright or want to bring your best costume ideas to life, Chicago has a ton of one-of-a-kind events to get you into the Halloween spirit. Just for starters, you can step inside a horror movie museum, play carnival games at an adult pumpkin patch, dance with drag queens at a costume ball, and so much more. Check out some of the top parties, booze cruises, and pop-up experiences for the 21-and-up crowd to start planning your Halloweekend itinerary in Chicago!
Rooftop Asylum Halloween Party at I|O Godfrey
This fourth-floor rooftop will be transformed into a haunted asylum, complete with Halloween food and drink specials (like a charcuterie skull, toxic waste mac, and cheese, or purple poison cocktail). Plus, the roof will be outfitted with nine haunted igloos, each decked out in spooky decor that fits a different Halloween theme. Reserve your spot today.
TILT Terror Nights at 360 CHICAGO Observation Deck
Get your thrills and chills while hovering more than 1,000 feet above Chicago. This Halloween event at 360 CHICAGO offers guests a special after-dark experience, featuring a longer and faster spin on their signature TILT ride. You’ll also find Halloween-themed cocktails and to-die-for city views. Get your tickets today.
Haunted Halloween Ball at Congress Plaza Hotel
Dress up for Chicago’s largest and scariest Halloween costume party. Experience a night of thrills at the Haunted Halloween Ball on Oct. 30 at the (reportedly haunted) Congress Plaza Hotel. The massive ballroom of the 122-year-old hotel will transform into a zombie-themed dance floor where live DJs, vampire bellmen, and costumed go-go dancers rule the night. The event starts at 9 p.m. and goes until 3 a.m. Tickets are available for purchase online.
Totally 80’s Halloween Party at Time Out Market
Swing by Time Out Market Chicago for a Totally 80’s Halloween Party as the food hall travels back in time on Oct. 30. Drink a Pop Rocks-rimmed cocktails, jam to an awesome ’80s soundtrack, snap photos in front of giant Lite Brite, play Pac-Man, or set a high score on Super Mario Bros.
Afrofusion Halloween Party at The Promontory
Dance the night away at this Afrofusion Halloween Party on Saturday, Oct. 30. The Promontory in Hyde Park is hosting this costume content and dance party, where international DJs fuse hip-hop, R&B, reggae, and afrobeat into a one-of-a-kind musical experience. General admission tickets and table reservations are on sale now.
Adults Night Out at Lincoln Park Zoo
While zoo-goers might be familiar with Lincoln Park Zoo’s Fall Fest from Oct. 8 – 21, adults can enjoy an evening stroll among wildlife with a beer, cider, hard seltzer, or glass of wine in hand at Adults Night Out: The Great Pumpkin Glow. With multiple bars and no crowds, this after-hours event offers music from a live DJ, lawn games, and free rides on the Endangered Species Carousel. This special night takes place on Oct. 28 from 6:30 – 10 p.m. and tickets can be purchased online.
Tarot Cocktails at The Gwen
The Gwen Hotel, recently named the best hotel in Chicago by Conde Nast Traveler, will have a full menu of tarot-themed cocktails for October. They’ll also host Halloween events, like screenings of classic horror movies.
Haunted Halloween Booze Cruise
Celebrate Halloween on the water this year. Set sail from DuSable Harbor on a Haunted Halloween Booze Cruise aboard the Anita Dee I Yacht. With amazing skyline views, a full bar, and music, you can dance the night away in your Halloween best at this 21+ event. Enjoy the lake breeze on the open deck as you take in Chicago’s landmarks lit up at night. Costumes are encouraged and tickets can be purchased online.