Looking for things to do in Chicago this weekend that work for both families and adults, and still leave room for Super Bowl Sunday? I’ve got you covered.
As a Chicago Realtor® and mom of pre-teens and teens, I know how tricky it can be to keep everyone entertained, especially on big weekends like the Super Bowl. Whether your kids want some independence or you’re looking for a little grown-up fun, here are my top picks for making the most of this weekend. I’m also sharing my go-to spot for easy Super Bowl catering, so you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time with your family and friends. Here are four great plans that balance cozy winter fun, kid-friendly outings, and one very important game-day food plan. Whether you want to get out of the house, entertain visiting friends, or keep the kids happy before kickoff, these are easy wins.
🏈 Super Bowl Sunday Catering: Smoque BBQ
If you are hosting or heading to a Super Bowl party on Sunday, this is the move. Smoque BBQ is a Chicago staple and one of the easiest ways to feed a crowd without spending your entire Sunday in the kitchen. This is an easy and delicious way to feed a crowd. My personal faves are the brisket and baked beans. Procrastinators approved! They will take last minute orders for pick up. Bookmark this for your future parties too.
Think smoked brisket, ribs, pulled pork, mac and cheese, cornbread, and sides that actually travel well. Their catering and party packs are ideal for game day and perfect for adults and kids alike.
Why it works for Super Bowl Sunday:
• Crowd-pleasing comfort food
• Easy pickup and reheating
• No guessing on portions
👉 Order details and menu: https://www.smoquebbq.com/catering/
☕ Fika Fest in Andersonville
If you want a cozy, low-key outing that still feels special, Fika Fest is a great Saturday plan. Inspired by the Swedish tradition of slowing down and enjoying coffee together, this neighborhood coffee and cocoa crawl is perfect for winter.
Stroll Andersonville, pop into participating cafés, warm up with treats, and enjoy the neighborhood vibe without a packed schedule.
Good to know:
• Great for adults and older kids
• Easy daytime activity
• Walkable and relaxed
👉 Event details: https://andersonville.org/events/fika-fest/
🐧 Lincoln Park Zoo + Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum Combo Stop
When the weather is cold but you still want to get the kids out of the house, this is one of my favorite Chicago combos. Lincoln Park Zoo and the Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum are right next to each other, making it easy to mix outdoor time with a warm, interactive indoor stop.
Start with a walk through the zoo to see animals that are especially active in cooler weather, then head inside the Nature Museum for hands-on exhibits and the butterfly haven. It’s the perfect balance of movement, learning, and warming up.
Why families love this combo:
• Free outdoor zoo access paired with a warm indoor option
• Great for a wide range of ages
• Easy to adjust based on weather and energy levels
👉 Zoo info: https://www.lpzoo.org/
👉 Nature Museum info: https://naturemuseum.org/
📸 Photo credit: Lincoln Park Zoo and Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum
🎭 Adult Night Out: Sketch & Show at iO Theater
If you want a night out without committing to a long dinner or late night, Sketch & Show at iO Theater is a classic Chicago option. It’s funny, fast-paced, and perfect for date night or a friends night out.
Shows are short, high-energy, and a great reminder of why Chicago comedy is the best.
Best for:
• Adults
• Date night
• Laughing without over planning
👉 Show info and tickets: https://ioimprov.com/
Weekend Planning Tip
This weekend is easiest when you keep it simple and local.
• Saturday daytime: Fika Fest or the Zoo + Peggy combo depending on the weather
• Saturday night: Sketch & Show at iO Theater for an easy adult night out
• Sunday morning: Zoo or Nature Museum if you want to get the kids moving early
• Sunday afternoon: Pick up Smoque BBQ, head home, and settle in for Super Bowl Sunday
No over planning, no long drives, and everyone gets something they actually enjoy. That’s a win.
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Enjoy Chicago,
Juliana