Air Chicago Summer 2026

SUMMER 2026

OBAMA

PRESIDENTIAL CENTER

CHICAGO 250 HYDE PARK CAIRO

Reserve from your home.

Collect at O’Hare Club Avolta members save more when you reserve online.

Shop Now Terms & Conditions apply.

SUMMER 2026 1 AIRCHICAGOMAGAZINE.COM

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

rosemont BEYOND THE TERMINALS If you’re traveling through Chicago this summer for work or leisure, there is a destination just minutes from the airport that makes it easy to turn downtime into something memorable. The Village of Rosemont, celebrating its 70th anniversary this year, lives up to its motto, “It’s All Here” — offering a convenient way to make the most of your time, whether you have a long layover or several days to explore.

Located minutes from O’Hare International Airport and easily accessible from Midway International Airport via train or car, Rosemont is a hasslefree option for travelers looking for dining, shopping and entertainment all in one place. Its concentrated mix of attractions makes it simple to enjoy a full itinerary without complicated travel plans.

As Rosemont celebrates 70 years, the village reflects on decades of growth that have shaped it into one of the region’s most accessible entertainment and hospitality hubs. Looking ahead, that momentum continues with the Rosemont History Museum, set to open in 2026, which will showcase the village’s story and evolution over time.

As the village continues to evolve, Rosemont remains committed to offering year-round experiences for both residents and visitors. During the summer months, Rosemont offers a steady calendar of outdoor programming. At the Parkway Bank Park entertainment district, “Rockin’ in the Park” brings free outdoor concerts to its central great lawn, along with fireworks on select nights. Fitness in the Park offers free morning and evening classes, giving visitors an easy way to stay active or start the day before meetings or sightseeing.

For business travelers, Rosemont serves as a natural extension of the workday. After meetings or conferences, the area provides an

DON’T JUST PASS

THROUGH O’HARE AND MIDWAY — MAKE THE MOST OF IT IN ROSEMONT

impressive variety of dining and entertainment options without the need to travel into downtown Chicago. It’s an ideal setting for client dinners or a relaxed evening before an early flight.

Couples and solo travelers will find an easy rhythm here. An evening can unfold naturally with outdoor drinks, dinner within walking distance and live music nearby, all without the need for long transfers or detailed planning.

Families benefit from the same convenience, along with seasonal experiences that make even a short stay feel like a getaway. This summer, Minecraft Experience: Villager Rescue at EXP Rosemont offers an immersive, interactive adventure that brings the world of the bestselling video game to life.

Shopping is also a central part of the Rosemont experience with Fashion Outlets of Chicago, an indoor luxury outlet destination featuring more than 130 designer brands. The space also includes public art installations, adding a unique cultural element that elevates a typical shopping visit.

What defines Rosemont is its efficiency. Hotels, dining, entertainment and shopping are all located within a short distance, creating a destination that works just as well for a few spare hours as it does for a longer stay.

This summer, Rosemont offers a way to make travel feel less like transit and more like time well spent. Whether you are passing through or staying awhile, it’s a destination that fits seamlessly into your plans.

For more information, visit Rosemont.com.

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION AIRCHICAGOMAGAZINE.COM 2 SUMMER 2026

From unbeatable shopping at the Fashion Outlets of Chicago to mouthwatering dining for every craving, Rosemont is your all-in-one destination for fun. Experience live music, comedy shows, and can’t-miss events happening all year long.

Share your experience!

Tag & follow us on instagram @VillageofRosemont

Scan for upcoming events, hotel & dining options in Rosemont: SUMMER 2026 3 AIRCHICAGOMAGAZINE.COM

Visit ROSEMONT.COM to plan your fun!

LETTER FROM THE EDITORS

ISSUE NO. 37

SUMMER 2026

Publisher Ten Thirty Media, LLC

Editors

Akai Higginbotham Siobhan Higgins

Contributors

IN THIS ISSUE

Crai Bower Jayne Clark Rosalind Cummings-Yeates Debbie Emery Serra Kook Patricia Szpekowski Duane Wells

Art Direction Jaidy Schweers

On March 7, 2015, President Barack Obama, First Lady Michelle Obama, and daughters Sasha and Malia joined Representative John Lewis to commemorate the 50th anniversary of “Bloody Sunday” in Selma, Alabama.

Credit: Official White House Photo by Lawrence Jackson

Virtue Restaurant Black Yacht Weekend Credit: Virtue Restaurant Credit: Rena Captures

Cover Images

President Barack Obama Credit: The Obama Foundation

Advertising Inquiries

For all advertising inquiries email jenniferp@consultvistra.com ©2026 Air Chicago Magazine is published quarterly by Ten Thirty Media, LLC. All rights reserved. Points of view expressed do not necessarily represent those of Chicago Department of Aviation. The publisher reserves the right to accept or reject all advertising matter. The publisher assumes no liability for return or safety of unsolicited art, photographs, or manuscripts.

HYDE PARK

Independence Hall Egypt

SUMMER ENTERTAINMENT GUIDE

Air Chicago is a joint venture by Clear Channel Airports and Ten Thirty Media.

Credit: Sean Pavone Credit: Givaga

DIGITAL EDITION AVAILABLE ONLINE AT WWW.AIRCHICAGOMAGAZINE.COM SEND COMMENTS, QUESTIONS AND SUGGESTIONS TO COMMENTS@AIRCHICAGOMAGAZINE.COM

PHILADELPHIA To learn more about the latest happenings at Air Chicago, follow us on TWITTER, INSTAGRAM and YOUTUBE @airchicago AIRCHICAGOMAGAZINE.COM 4 SUMMER 2026

CAIRO

AIRPORT INFORMATION WWW.FLYCHICAGO.COM

President Obama at the Obama Presidential Center

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Credit: The Obama Foundation

SUMMER 2026

Across the Map 34 Cairo 40 Small Town Charm 44 Philadelphia Ancient wonders meet vibrant modern life

How the heartland shapes America

Celebrating our nation where it all began

At the Airports

50 Airport News Main Feature Obama @ ORD 51 10 Obama Presidential Center 53 The Legacy of Butch O’Hare 7 4 31 2 5 3 8 2 3 Airport 4 Shopping Guide 7 9 4 8 5 2 1 54 5 2 6 5 7 6 7 In 2 4 Chicago O’Hare leads global travel once again

/26 Very-Easy Sudoku

Air PuzzleJunction.com Chicago 5/26 Hard Sudoku

Air Chicago 5/26 Medium Sudoku

PuzzleJunction.com

PuzzleJunction.com

Back when Air Force One used to visit

To solve the Sudoku puzzle, each row, column and box To solve the Sudoku South puzzle, each column and To boxsolve Siderow, roots to global iconthe Sudoku puzzle, each row, column and box must contain the numbers 1 to 9. must contain the numbers 1 to 9. must contain the numbers 1 to 9.

Heroic history behind the world’s busiest airfield

Travel-ready style, gifts and must-haves

1

4

6 7

3

8 6 9 1 2

2

3 8 5 2 18 Maps & Games 6 7 4 1 2 3 9 8 Hyde 3 9 97 4 1 4 1 5 Park 22 & Midway Maps 58 O’Hare 1 5 9 5 8 5 1 2 9 7 4 6 7 3 Guide 6 6 2 7 Summer Entertainment 1 26 64 Games

Chicago 8 5 250

9

Chicago’s impact on America’s story

Where culture, intellect and history thrive

CopyrightChicago ©2026 PuzzleJunction.com summer: festivals, music,Copyright energy©2026 PuzzleJunction.com

Copyright ©2026 PuzzleJunction.com

Crossword and Sudoku

Solution

Solution

Solution

SUDOKU EASY SOLUTION

SUDOKU MEDIUM SOLUTION

SUDOKU HARD SOLUTION

2 4 1 5 9 7 8 3 6

6 5 7 3 8 2 9 4 1

1 5 9 2 3 4 7 6 8

7 8 9 1 3 6 4 5 2

6 5 3 8 4 2 9 1 7

5 9 8 2 6 3 1 7 4

4 3 6 7 8 1 5 2 9

1 2 7 4 5 9 6 8 3

9 1 2 6 7 8 3 4 5

3 7 4 9 1 5 2 6 8

8 6 5 3 2 4 7 9 1

2 1 3 9 5 4 6 7 8

9 8 4 6 7 1 5 2 3

4 6 8 7 1 5 3 9 2

5 7 9 4 2 3 8 1 6

1 3 2 8 6 9 4 5 7

7 9 1 5 3 6 2 8 4

8 4 6 2 9 7 1 3 5

3 2 5 1 4 8 7 6 9

2 8 7 9 5 6 3 4 1

4 3 6 7 8 1 9 2 5

9 2 5 1 6 7 8 3 4

3 7 8 5 4 9 2 1 6

6 4 1 3 2 8 5 9 7

8 6 2 4 9 5 1 7 3

7 9 4 8 1 3 6 5 2

CROSSWORD SOLUTION

5 1 3 6 7 2 4 8 9

SUMMER 2026 5 AIRCHICAGOMAGAZINE.COM

AIRCHICAGOMAGAZINE.COM 6 SUMMER 2026

LETTER FROM THE MAYOR

GREETINGS FROM MAYOR BRANDON JOHNSON

Mayor Brandon Johnson

DEAR TRAVELER: It is my privilege to welcome you to Chicago, just in time to celebrate another summer season!

Summer here is an experience unlike anywhere else, as our city pulses with excitement brought about by warmer temperatures and longer days. After months of cool weather, we’re looking forward to gathering again outdoors with loved ones, lounging on the lakefront and attending a variety of exciting events from festivals to the WNBA All-Star Game, all of which are also bringing visitors like you to the Windy City.

Mayor Br andon Johnson: Cour tesy of Walter S. Mitchell III, City of Chicago.

America is celebrating its 250th birthday in July, and we are proud of the many contributions our city has made to the country throughout its existence. We have a saying that “everything dope about America comes from Chicago,” and you can read about the Windy City’s role in our nation’s history starting on Page 18.

While in town, I hope you’ll stop by Hyde Park, the culturally-diverse, South Side lakefront community that’s home to the University of Chicago and the Griffin Museum of Science and Industry. Hyde Park is also famous for its arts and culture scene, its parks and marinas, as well as events like the 57th Street Art Fair and the world-renowned Chosen Few DJs Picnic & Music Festival. To find out all there is to do in this eclectic, one-of-a-kind community, go to Page 22.

And to get caught up on the great festivals we’ve got lined up citywide this summer, head over to Page 26.

It’s only fitting that as we Chicagoans prepare to ring in America’s milestone birthday, we are getting ready to celebrate the opening of the Obama Presidential Center in June. Located just south of the Hyde Park community in Jackson Park, the eight-story center will be a worldclass testament to the history-making legacy of President Barack Obama, whose professional and political life were shaped by his beloved South Side. We are honored to have America’s 44th president and First Lady Obama take center stage in the Summer Air Chicago issue, beginning on Page 10.

From culture and leisure to work and play, Chicagoans know how to make the summer a most memorable occasion.

Thank you for joining us, and welcome to Chicago… we’re glad you’re here!

Sincerely, Brandon Johnson Mayor

SUMMER 2026 7 AIRCHICAGOMAGAZINE.COM

AIRCHICAGOMAGAZINE.COM 8 SUMMER 2026

FROM THE COMMISSIONER’S OFFICE

GREETINGS FROM THE

CHICAGO DEPARTMENT OF AVIATION

Dear Traveler: It is my pleasure to welcome you to O’Hare and Midway International Airports, and to a new issue of Air Chicago!

As one of the world’s busiest aviation systems, the Chicago Department of Aviation is used to seeing many people arrive at our airports throughout the year. Passenger traffic traditionally picks up once summer comes, and like always, we are happy to serve all who spend time with us.

Chicago is celebrating America’s 250th birthday this season with the rest of the nation, and at O’Hare and Midway, many shops and concessions are offering anniversary-themed items as part of the city’s Chicago 250 campaign. Our airports are further buzzing with the unveiling of new routes and a new American Airlines Admirals Club lounge at O’Hare. You can check it all out by going to the At the Airport section starting on Page 48, where we also have a profile of Butch O’Hare — an American military legend and World War II hero whose name graces the world’s busiest airfield.

Commissioner Mike McMur r ay: Cour tesy of Chicago Depar tment of Aviation.

Commissioner Mike McMurray

The soul of America can be found in its people and attractions spanning the busyness of big cities to the relaxed vibe of small towns. Some of those great places include Philadelphia, Tennessee’s Tri-States area and mid-sized towns across Nebraska and South Carolina. And around the world, amazing sights, tastes and adventures await visitors in cities like Cairo, the iconic Egyptian capital. Looking to add more destinations to your travel list? We’re happy to help you get started — just visit the Across the Map section for destinations with new and expanded air service this summer, starting on Page 32.

No matter where you travel this season, it is an honor to be of service to you at O’Hare and Midway, where we strive to show visitors a little of what makes Chicago a city that is loved worldwide. We hope you enjoy the summer!

Sincerely, Michael McMurray Commissioner Chicago Department of Aviation

SUMMER 2026 9 AIRCHICAGOMAGAZINE.COM

Obama Presidential Center Museum Credit: The Obama Foundation

BY ROSALIND CUMMINGS-YEATES

AIRCHICAGOMAGAZINE.COM 10 SUMMER 2026

Presidential libraries not only preserve the documents and official records of America’s commanders-in-chief, but also reflect the policies and narratives of their administrations. On June 19, during the Juneteenth holiday, history will be made on the South Side with the opening of the Obama Presidential Center, honoring the country’s first Black president.

CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE SUMMER 2026 11 AIRCHICAGOMAGAZINE.COM

The 19.3-acre campus will boast an array of public spaces that include a museum, an athletic center, a garden, a public plaza, a playground and a library. Designed to inspire and connect communities, the center is much more than a presidential monument. It’s a testament to the power of the grassroots political movement that helped elect Obama, as well as the South Side community that nurtured him and his family.

“With a library and a foundation on the South Side of Chicago, not only will we be able to encourage and effect change locally, but what we can also do is to attract the world to Chicago,” Obama said in May 2015, when along with then-first lady Michelle Obama, he announced that the South Side had been chosen to house the future center. “I’m thrilled to be able to put this resource in the heart of the neighborhood that means the world to me,” the first lady added. “Every value, every memory, every important relationship to me exists in Chicago. I consider myself a South Sider.”

Before the presidency and the world’s attention, the Obamas’ story began in the same community that houses the new presidential center.

STARTING ON THE SOUTH SIDE From community organizing in Roseland to working at the University of Chicago in Hyde Park to living in Kenwood, the various communities of the South Side have been an important foundation for the president and Michelle Obama. The first lady grew up in South Shore, which borders the city’s southern shoreline along Lake Michigan. Learning to read at age four, Michelle Obama also played the piano and joined a gifted program in sixth grade. After graduating from Whitney Young High School in 1981, she enrolled at Princeton, where she graduated with a major in sociology before earning her law degree from Harvard.

Before finishing law school (also at Harvard, but at a different time), Barack Obama worked as the executive director of the Developing Communities Project, a non-profit organization in Roseland. With a mission to use community organizing to improve the quality of life in Roseland and nearby communities, the future president helped establish a tenants’ rights organization, a job training program and a college prep tutoring program — experiences he would later label “the best education I ever had.”

After meeting at Chicago’s Sidley & Austin law firm, where Michelle Robinson (as the future first lady was known then) worked and Obama interned, the two began dating. Their courtship took them to many South Side locations including, the Baskin-Robbins’ Hyde Park location where they first kissed in 1989, and to church basements, where Robinson witnessed Obama’s charisma and debating skills during community meetings. After a few years of courtship, they married in 1992 at Trinity United Church of Christ on the far South Side.

A STRONG POLITICAL DEBUT While teaching at the University of Chicago Law School, Barack Obama became the director of Illinois Project Vote!, a grassroots organization dedicated to increasing minority voter turnout during the election season. Within a few months, Obama recruited staff and volunteers and helped train 700 deputy registrars. His community organizing skills helped register more than 150,000 Black voters citywide before the Illinois and national elections held in November 1992, which scored the presidency for Bill Clinton and a U.S. Senate seat for Carol Moseley Braun, the nation’s first Black woman to win the post. The massive voter turnout marked Barack Obama’s official debut as a rising local

AIRCHICAGOMAGAZINE.COM 12 SUMMER 2026

political star, and in 1996, he won his first political race for the Illinois State Senate’s 13th District, which features a big swath of the South Side (including Hyde Park, Kenwood, South Shore and Woodlawn). He was reelected to a four-year term in 1998 and won a third term in 2002.

As a state senator, he helped pass major bipartisan legislation that focused on criminal justice, ethics reform and healthcare. He was also instrumental in the passage of the state’s first law requiring homicide interrogations to be taped, co-sponsoring a law that improved tax credits for the working poor and serving as the point person for the Gift Ban Act, which prohibits politicians from using campaign funds for personal use. During his state senate tenure, Obama also served as the Democratic spokesperson for the Public Health and Welfare Committee, co-chairman of the Joint Committee on Administrative Rules and a member of the Judiciary and Revenue Committees.

Michelle Obama was also active during this time, working at the University of Chicago and helping establish the University Community Service Center, which helps students connect with Chicago’s diverse communities, particularly on the South Side. After the Obamas’ daughters, Sasha and Malia, were born, she was appointed executive director of community affairs at the University of Chicago Medical Center, later becoming its vice president for community and external affairs. By 2004, the Obamas had put down deeper roots on the South Side, having purchased an eight-bedroom mansion in the Kenwood community, just north of Hyde Park. At the same time, Barack Obama’s political ambitions were moving from Illinois to the national stage.

A SPEECH & A PRESIDENTIAL CAMPAIGN On July 27, 2004, Obama, who months earlier had announced his candidacy for Illinois’ junior U.S. Senate seat, gave the keynote speech at the Democratic National Convention in Boston. Although not widely known outside of the Land of Lincoln, he had been chosen from a short list of rising stars within the Democratic Party.

Not long after stepping onto the stage against the backdrop of the civil rights-era classic, “Keep on Pushing,” by Chicago’s own Impressions, Obama shared the story of his multicultural background and commitment to social change, declaring that, “[t]onight, there is not a liberal America and a conservative America; there is the United States of America. There is not a Black America and a white America and Latino America and Asian America; there’s the United States of America.” After walking off the stage with Michelle Obama, he was no longer an unknown from Illinois but a national political superstar with a future shot at America’s highest office.

Less than four months after his Boston speech, Obama was elected to Moseley Braun’s former seat in the U.S. Senate. A few years later, on Feb. 17, 2007, he stood with his family on the steps of the Old Illinois State Capitol in Springfield — the same steps where Abraham Lincoln delivered his famous “House Divided” speech in 1858 — and declared his candidacy for president. Channeling his Chicago political past, Obama rallied grassroots support from volunteers and donors across the country, adopting the now-famous slogan “Yes We Can” for his campaign. More than a year later, on Nov. 4, 2008, Obama was elected as the country’s first Black president.

“If there is anyone out there who still doubts that America is a place where all things are possible, who still wonders if the dream of our founders is alive in our time; who still questions the power of our

Obama Presidential Center

Iconic Chicago Sculptor Richard Hunt

President Obama tours the Obama Presidential Center

Uprising of the Sun by Julie Mehretu

Credit: Angie McMonigal

Credit: The Obama Foundation

Credit: Lawrence Agyei for Obama Foundation

Credit: The Obama Foundation

CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE SUMMER 2026 13 AIRCHICAGOMAGAZINE.COM

Obama Presidential Center’s 83-Foot Painted Glass Window by Artist Julie Mehretu Credit: Lamar Johnson Collaborative and Julie Mehretu Studio Images Courtesy The Obama Foundation

To have this cultural institution right here on the South Side, by the first Black president, stands as a monument to Black excellence.

Aliza Nisenbaum “Reading Circles/ Weaving Dreams/ Seeding Futures” (detail), 2025, Oil on linen Credit: Izzy Leung Courtesy the artist, Anton Kern gallery, and Regen Projects

AIRCHICAGOMAGAZINE.COM 14 SUMMER 2026

President Obama tours the Obama Presidential Center Credit: The Obama Foundation

democracy, tonight is your answer,” Obama famously said to a crowd of more than 120,000 in Grant Park, where he was flanked by Michelle Obama and their daughters. “It’s the answer told by lines that stretched around schools and churches in numbers this nation has never seen; by people who waited three hours and four hours, many for the very first time in their lives, because they believed that this time must be different; that their voice could be that difference.”

LIFE AFTER THE PRESIDENCY Since leaving office in 2017, President Obama and the first lady have remained busy. The two — who have authored three best-selling books apiece — have a production company, Higher Ground, that has produced various documentaries and specials for Netflix.

Michelle Obama also hosts a podcast with her brother, Craig Robinson, called “IMO (In My Opinion),” which shares conversations, lessons and life challenges from their upbringing. The Obamas have further focused on philanthropy through the Obama Foundation, established in 2014, which supports civic engagement, leadership development and the construction of the Obama Presidential Center.

“The Obama Presidential Center is the embodiment of the mission that the Obamas have followed through their public life — that ordinary people can do extraordinary things and make the world a better place,” Michael Strautmanis, Chief Corporate Affairs Officer for the Obama Foundation, told Air Chicago.

Stretching along Stony Island Avenue between 60th and 63rd Streets in Woodlawn, the museum features four floors that document Obama’s story.

The museum’s highlight is an immersive replica of the Obama Oval Office, complete with common items found there, including a wooden bowl of apples on a coffee table. The Sky Room, located in the museum building, offers panoramic views of Chicago. The newest branch of the Chicago Public Library will open at the center, featuring interactive digital media spaces and a reading room. Another focal point of the center is the Forum, a community space that includes the Democracy In Action Lab, a recording studio, the Elie Wiesel Auditorium and the Hadiya Pendleton Atrium. A gift shop, grab-and-go cafe and restaurant complete the amenities.

The 60,000-square-foot Home Court athletic and event space is designed to promote health, mentorship and leadership skills. Outdoor areas include the Great Lawn, a 58,000-square-foot green space for summer gatherings and winter sledding; the Eleanor Roosevelt Fruit & Vegetable Garden and Teaching Kitchen (for learning about growing, harvesting and preparing fruits and vegetables); and the John Lewis Plaza. The campus’s additional amenities feature a playground, a water terrace, a women’s garden and courtyards. “The center had to be accessible and a place for creativity to happen and the community to gather,” said Strautmanis.

ART AND CONNECTION Perhaps one of the most striking features of the Obama Presidential Center is the presence of commissioned artwork throughout every space. Of the 16 official presidential libraries, only one includes a site-specific commission, which is a mural created in 1961 for the Harry S. Truman Library and Museum in Independence, Missouri.

There are 28 commissioned art installations displayed across the campus from a diverse range of artists and disciplines. Large-scale pieces for the center were designed by 30 artists from across the country. Some of the artists contributing work boast a global reputation, like Ethiopian-born painter Julie Mehretu, who created “Uprising of the Sun,” a massive glass installation on the museum’s north side. Among emerging artists showcasing at the center, Lindsay Adams, a recent graduate of the School of the Art Institute of Chicago, designed the color-splashed, mixed-media work, “Weary Blues,” for the cafe. Other contributors, like painter and muralist Dorian Sylvain, enjoy such a widespread community art presence that their work is instantly recognized throughout Chicago.

A South Side native, Sylvain has painted murals in South Shore, Bronzeville, Hyde Park, Chatham and Kenwood.

She often uses colors and textures to highlight cultures and history, and was excited to have the chance to create a piece that reflects the center’s surrounding area. “It feels affirming for an artist who grew up on the South Side during the ‘60s, ‘70s and ‘80s, witnessing Black people pushing for liberation with the Black Arts Movement, Operation Breadbasket with Jesse Jackson and watching Jesse run for president — then seeing Obama elected twice,” Sylvain told Air Chicago. “To have this cultural institution right here on the South Side, by the first Black president, stands as a monument to Black excellence.”

Sylvain and multidisciplinary Chicago artist Sam Kirk collaborated on “Pass It Forward,” an evocative, twostory mural featuring basketball players and women playing double dutch, set against cultural patterns and shapes. “The title is a play on basketball lingo, but I see it as part of my practice of mentorship and creating opportunities for emerging artists,” said Sylvain. “How do we create the next generation of culture keepers if we don’t pass it forward?”

Hope, change and service — themes that President Barack Obama promoted throughout his social activism and political career are the tenets underpinning the Obama Presidential Center. With a large campus to engage visitors of all ages and backgrounds, there’s no question that the center is truly passing it forward.

Obama Presidential Center – 6001 S. Stony Island Ave.

SUMMER 2026 15 AIRCHICAGOMAGAZINE.COM

Lollapalooza 2025

Credit: Djoby Pooneh Ghana

IN CHICAGO

AIRCHICAGOMAGAZINE.COM 16 SUMMER 2026

18 CHICAGO 250 PAGE 22 HYDE PARK PAGE 26 SUMMER ENTERTAINMENT GUIDE PAGE

SUMMER 2026 17 AIRCHICAGOMAGAZINE.COM

Chicago History Museum Credit: Chicago History Museum

BY SERRA KOOK

AIRCHICAGOMAGAZINE.COM 18 SUMMER 2026

With the U.S. this year celebrating 250 years of independence, various activities and events around Chicago will pay homage to the city’s roots and its role in shaping the nation, all while encouraging reflection on what it means to be American.

“Chicago represents the soul of America, not just in our triumphs, but in our struggles to build a more just and inclusive democracy,” Mayor Brandon Johnson said in March, when announcing the city’s participation in the America 250 commemoration. “For 250 years, progress in this country has come when working people stood in common purpose, organizing, demanding fairness and pushing this nation closer to its founding promise. That spirit lives in Chicago.”

Chicago is part of a broader statewide effort led by the Illinois America 250 Commission to recognize the people, places and movements across the Land of Lincoln that have shaped the nation’s history. Partnering with Choose Chicago to lead the “Chicago 250 Commemoration, Celebrating the History and Soul of America” campaign, the city is organizing events across Chicago’s museums, concert halls and libraries to celebrate the semiquincentennial. Choose Chicago has also launched a new online hub celebrating America’s birthday, featuring dozens of in-person and virtual events throughout town. (Organizers will update the calendar throughout the year, so be sure to check it regularly.)

The Chicago 250 campaign has begun with a treat for history buffs. An early copy of the Declaration of Independence is now on display at the Newberry Library (60 W. Walton St., 312-943-9090), which from the early 20th century through the 1960s was a popular spot for orators, radicals, poets and labor activists to meet and exchange ideas. In the spirit of public debate, prompts throughout the exhibit encourage visitors to engage with questions such as what Congress meant when it declared that “all men are created equal,” and that people had an unalienable right to “the pursuit of happiness.” The exhibit also challenges visitors to reflect on how our understanding of this document might differ 250 years after it was drafted.

CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE SUMMER 2026 19 AIRCHICAGOMAGAZINE.COM

Chicago Jazz Festival

Credit: Herbie Hancock Institute of Jazz

Chicago History Museum Credit: Chicago History Museum

AIRCHICAGOMAGAZINE.COM 20 SUMMER 2026

Chicago History Museum Credit: Chicago History Museum

Chicago Air & Water Show

Credit: Patrick L. Pyszka, City of Chicago

Just around the corner from the Newberry, the Chicago History Museum (1601 N. Clark St., 312-642-4600) boasts an extensive archive and interactive collection of artifacts dating back to the city’s official founding in 1837. The museum is expanding its permanent collection, which showcases items such as the Pioneer, the first steam engine to operate in the city in the 1840s, as well as a section of collectibles from the Great Chicago Fire. The museum also features four rotating art installations by local artists inspired by various historical documents.

Visitors are encouraged to consider the systems that influence daily life — including Indigenous history and workers’ rights — as part of a larger effort to promote conversation about how communities, the city and the nation continue to change.

Libraries are an essential part of Chicago’s neighborhoods, so it’s fitting that all 81 of the city’s public library branches are hosting activities commemorating the nation’s semiquincentennial. In the spirit of honoring the past, present and future, the Chicago Public Library (CPL) is launching a “Letters to America” campaign, inviting Chicagoans to “contribute their voices and reflect on what this moment means for our city and our country,” said CPL Commissioner Chris Brown as part of the Mayor’s America 250 announcement.

After soaking up the Windy City’s rich past and present, head to the South Side to check out the Obama Presidential Center (6001 S. Stony Island Ave.), which opens to the public June 19 in Jackson Park. The center’s museum, library and 19-acre outdoor campus are designed to engage, educate and inspire Chicagoans and visitors from around the world, while honoring the many contributions the Obamas have made to our nation’s history. Buying tickets before visiting the museum is strongly recommended.

In June 2026, Symphony Center (220 S. Michigan Ave., 312-294-3000) will celebrate the nation’s birthday with its “America 250: A Musical Journey” series. Notable performers include Wynton Marsalis and the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra, along with concerts paying tribute to composers such as George Gershwin and John Williams.

“We are proud to mark this historic moment through music that reflects the diverse cultural traditions that define our nation,” Jeff Alexander, president of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra Association, said as part of the Mayor’s announcement. “Through ‘CSO America 250: A Musical Journey,’ we look forward to celebrating the power of music to bring people together and honor the many voices that have shaped America’s artistic legacy.”

Outdoor adventures will also be aplenty this summer through arts and crafts activities in Chicago’s public spaces and parks. The Chicago Park District is inviting the public to participate in various events showcasing art and programming — including dance, theater, spoken word and live music — as part of its involvement in America 250.

And the Chicago Air and Water Show, a big draw every August, will honor Chicago 250 with a themed day celebrating both America and Chicago’s contributions to the nation’s history. Don’t miss being out on the lakefront Aug. 15-16 to catch this spectacular event, with the best views taking place along North Avenue Beach (1601 N. DuSable Lake Shore Drive), Oak Street Beach (1000 N. DuSable Lake Shore Drive) and Ohio Street Beach (600 N. DuSable Lake Shore Drive).

“From transformative social movements to cultural and technical innovations that changed the world, Chicago’s influence on our nation’s history is profound,” said Kristen Reynolds, the president and CEO of Choose Chicago, in the Mayor’s announcement. “In this milestone year, there is no better place to visit to experience the spirit of America than Chicago.”

SUMMER 2026 21 AIRCHICAGOMAGAZINE.COM

Smart Museum of Art Credit: Jason Smith

AIRCHICAGOMAGAZINE.COM 22 SUMMER 2026

BY DUANE WELLS

To call Chicago a melting pot is an understatement. Encompassing 77 distinct communities, the city boasts one of the country’s most ethnically and culturally diverse landscapes. Perhaps nowhere is Chicago’s diversity more evident than in Hyde Park, the South Side lakefront enclave whose blend of history, culture and New England-style intellectual flair makes it a community unlike any other in the city.

Griffin Museum of Science and Industry Credit: Griffin Museum of Science and Industry

CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE

SUMMER 2026 23 AIRCHICAGOMAGAZINE.COM

In many ways, Hyde Park is an extension of arguably its most famous institution, the University of Chicago. Bookstores and coffee shops abound here, lectures about big ideas are often hosted by neighborhood institutions and random philosophical debates flourish among residents hanging out in places from parks to bars.

Jackson Park

Credit: Choose Chicago

Hyde Park also reflects its South Side roots, with magnificent murals celebrating Black history and the social activism that has long been the community’s hallmark. Art galleries and installations, particularly those adorning the neighborhood’s viaducts, epitomize Hyde Park’s creative spirit and its emphasis on accessibility. And the neighborhood’s proximity to the lakefront lends an almost-beachy casualness to the community, where joggers, picnickers and admirers of Chicago’s skyline flock.

Profiling the neighborhood in 2008 one month after Barack Obama was elected president, the New York Times described Hyde Park as “a compact grid of wide, tree-lined streets that are home to a friendly mix of wealthy African-American professionals and less-affluent professors who mingle easily at the neighborhood’s wine shops, cash-checking places and university bookstores.” In recent years, Time Out magazine has also paid homage to Hyde Park, naming it one of the 40 coolest neighborhoods in the world.

What keeps this South Side gem from feeling the least bit pretentious is its warmth and camaraderie shared by residents of different backgrounds. In a city full of great neighborhoods, Hyde Park stands in a class of its own.

THE HISTORY Hyde Park’s beginnings go back to the early 1850s, when attorney and real estate developer Paul Cornell (whose cousin, Ezra, established Cornell University) purchased 300 acres of lakefront land and persuaded the Illinois Central Railroad that his latest acquisition would make for an ideal town stop. Hyde Park would be annexed by the city of Chicago in 1889, and four years later hosted the groundbreaking World’s Columbian Exposition, where the Ferris Wheel, the dishwasher and large-scale electricity were unveiled, and whose convention buildings inspired the Beaux-Arts grandeur that would come to symbolize much of the neighborhood’s architecture.

With funding from John D. Rockefeller, the University of Chicago was founded in 1890. The school and its subsequent achievements would add gravitas to the neighborhood and the city, going on to produce more Nobel laureates per capita since its founding than nearly any other institution worldwide, which solidified Hyde Park’s reputation as an intellectual hub.

It was also in Hyde Park that the first artificial, self-sustaining nuclear chain reaction was produced as part of the Manhattan Project. Pulitzer Prize-winning author Saul Bellow, boxing legend Muhammad Ali and famed lawyer Clarence Darrow all at one time called Hyde Park home. Barack and Michelle Obama also became luminaries of Hyde Park, as well as in nearby Kenwood, before the future president’s history-making run for the White House took them both to Washington. (The Obamas still maintain a home in Kenwood, although they spend most of their time in D.C.) More than a decade in the making, Barack Obama’s history-making presidency will be memorialized in June with the grand opening of the Obama Presidential Center (6001 S. Stony Island Ave).

AIRCHICAGOMAGAZINE.COM 24 SUMMER 2026

Millie’s Puddin’ at Virtue Restaurant Credit: Virtue Restaurant

Tutankhamun

Credit: Courtesy of the Institute for the Study of Ancient Cultures of the University of Chicago, photo by Tom Van Eynde

THE MUSEUMS & THE ARTS

THE FOOD

Hyde Park is home to several museums, each documenting important periods in history, and possibly the most well-known is the Griffin Museum of Science and Industry. Housed in one of the last surviving buildings from the Columbian Exposition, it is among the largest science museums in the world, featuring more than 2,000 exhibits, some of which include a WWII German U-boat and the famous Pioneer Zephyr train.

Hyde Park’s restaurant scene mirrors its environment — cool, unpretentious and a satisfying destination for those in and out of the neighborhood.

The University of Chicago campus is home to two museums — the fine arts collection of the Smart Museum of Art and the Institute for the Study of Ancient Cultures, one of the world’s foremost centers for the study of ancient Near Eastern civilizations. Located near both institutions is the Robie House, a UNESCO World Heritage site designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, which hosts tours. Beyond the university’s borders, the DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center — the country’s first institution dedicated to African-American history and culture — anchors the sprawling Washington Park. For those interested in doing a deep dive into the history of the community, check out the Hyde Park Historical Society, a small museum that housed a cable car station in the early 20th century, and which since 1975 has been dedicated to documenting the neighborhood’s history.

Rounding out the neighborhood’s museums is the Hyde Park Art Center, Chicago’s oldest alternative exhibition space, which has been a driving force in the city’s art scene since its founding in 1939.

Not far from the new Obama Presidential Center is “Sky Landing,” an artwork consisting of a dozen, 12-foot lotus flower-like pieces created by Yoko Ono. The work, which was unveiled in 2016, is Ono’s first permanent public art creation in America and is located in Jackson Park. “Sky Landing” also shares park space with the serene Osaka Garden.

DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center – 740 E. 56th Place, 773-947-0600 Griffin Museum of Science and Industry – 5700 S. DuSable Lake Shore Drive, 773-684-1414 Hyde Park Art Center – 5020 S. Cornell Ave., 773-324-5520 Hyde Park Historical Society – 5529 S. Lake Park Ave., 773-493-1893

Leading the pack is Virtue, the Southern-styled restaurant helmed by James Beard Awardwinning chef Erick Williams. Opening in 2018, the restaurant has earned national recognition for its soulful, tummy-tickling menu highlighted by staples like fish and grits, gumbo, collard greens and biscuits. Another acclaimed neighborhood restaurant is Nella, a Michelin Bib Gourmandwinning eatery owned by renowned pizzaiola Nella Grassano, which is noted for its authentic Neapolitan pies. Other top-shelf options include Dawn A.M. Eatery, which serves all-day brunch alongside a menu of Southern staples; Mesler, a New American restaurant, lounge and bar located inside the Sophy hotel; and Roux, chef Charlie McKenna’s New Orleans-inspired brunch spot where the beignets are the stuff of legend.

There is also no shortage of shops to grab coffee in Hyde Park, and one great java spot is Plein Air Cafe, which is tucked into the neighborhood’s quieter quarters, steps away from the university.

For more casual dining, Valois, the no-frills cafeteria famously frequented by Barack Obama, is a local institution and a favorite among students, professors and locals. Southern fare can also be found at the New Orleans-infused Daisy’s Po’ Boy and Tavern, where the bread is flown in from a New Orleans bakery and the po’ boys are considered among the best and most authentic in Chicago. And right next door to Daisy’s is Ja’ Grill, which serves mouth-watering Jamaican plates like jerk chicken, goat curry and oxtail stew.

Daisy’s Po’ Boy and Tavern – 5215 S. Harper Ave., 773-675-8767 Dawn A.M. Eatry – 1642 E. 56th St., 773-966-6522 Ja’ Grill – 1510 E. Harper Court, 773-752-5375 Mesler – 1401 E. 53rd St., 773-289-1005 Nella – 1125 E. 55th St., 773-966-4150 Plein Air Cafe – 5751 S. Woodlawn Ave., 773-966-7531 Roux – 1055 E. 55th St., 773-770-4785 Sophy – 1411 E. 53rd St., 773-289-1003 Valois – 1518 E. 53rd St., 773-667-0647 Virtue – 1462 E. 53rd St., 773-947-8831

Institute for the Study of Ancient Cultures – 1155 E. 58th St., 773-702-9514 Robie House – 5757 S. Woodlawn Ave., 312-994-4000 Smart Museum of Art – 5550 S. Greenwood Ave., 773-702-0200 Jackson Park and Osaka Garden – 6401 S. Stony Island Ave., 773-256-0903 Washington Park – 5531 S. King Drive, 773-256-1248

SUMMER 2026 25 AIRCHICAGOMAGAZINE.COM

Olivia Rodrigo at Lollapalooza 2025 Credit: Kirby Gladstein

AIRCHICAGOMAGAZINE.COM 26 SUMMER 2026

entertainment

BY DUANE WELLS

Few cities go full tilt in the summer like Chicago.

Streets close for neighborhood celebrations, public parks fill with music and the Lake Michigan shoreline becomes a stage for some of the city’s most-beloved seasonal events.

From house music royalty in Jackson Park to global headliners in Grant Park and to basketball’s best gathering for an allstar showdown, Chicago’s summer 2026 calendar is packed with something for everyone.

CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE SUMMER 2026 27 AIRCHICAGOMAGAZINE.COM

CHICAGO BLUES FESTIVAL June 4-7 The largest free blues festival in the world — and arguably the most popular — returns to ring in the summer. The Chicago Blues Festival began in 1984 in Grant Park, one year after the death of Muddy Waters, the pioneering musician who took the Delta blues music of his native Mississippi and electrified it upon moving to the Windy City — thus laying the groundwork for rock and roll. The event relocated to Millennium Park in 2017 and has been holding its kickoff night at the Ramova Theatre since 2024, shortly after the Bridgeport venue’s reopening. Among the highlights for this year’s fest are Taj Mahal and the Phantom Blues Band and a celebration honoring the 55th anniversary of Alligator Records.

57TH STREET ART FAIR June 6-7 Summer begins in earnest with the 57th Street Art Fair, which is also the city’s oldest juried outdoor art fair. Celebrating its 79th year in 2026, nearly 200 artists from across the country will showcase original paintings, sculpture, jewelry, ceramics and more at this free gathering.

The fair will also feature live blues music, children’s activities and tasty bites from food trucks.

JUNETEENTH Mid-to-late June Various events across town will be marking this year’s Juneteenth holiday, and a centerpiece of the festivities is Bronzeville’s 6th Annual Juneteenth Community Celebration (June 20), which takes place along Bronzeville’s historic 47th Street corridor. On the Southwest Side at the intersection of 110th Street and Longwood Drive, the 7th Annual Juneteenth Family Festival of Beverly/Morgan Park (June 20) will feature live music, African dance and drumming, family fun and other activities, while Juneteenth in the Park (June 13) will welcome visitors to LeClaire-Hearst Park with a full day of activities including a 3K walk/ run, volleyball, softball and dance. Juneteenth also falls during Black Yacht Weekend (June 18-21), which will host its kickoff party on the holiday at Vertiport Chicago.

CHICAGO PRIDE FEST AND PRIDE PARADE Pride Fest – June 20-21 Pride Parade – June 28 A weekend before the 54th annual Chicago Pride Parade, the Chicago Pride Fest will mark its 25th anniversary in Northalsted, which was designated as a gay district in 1997 and is widely recognized as America’s oldest official gayborhood. As in previous years, the festival will feature drag performers, DJs, artisan booths and thousands celebrating LGBTQ+ joy. Created in 1970 (and paused for a couple of years due to the pandemic), the parade is one of the nation’s oldest pride events, and this year’s event is organized around the theme of “Free to Be Proud.”

AIRCHICAGOMAGAZINE.COM 28 SUMMER SPRING 2026 2026

Mavis Staples at Chicago Blues Festival 2025 Credit: Walter S. Mitchell III, City of Chicago

TASTE OF CHICAGO Main Event – July 8-12 Neighborhood Events – TBD Taste of Chicago in Grant Park is not only one of the city’s signature foodie events, but also the largest free-admission food festival in the world. This year’s event will be held in July for the first time since 2022, and it continues to expand into neighborhoods with pop-up events and community-focused programming to reflect the city’s culinary diversity.

Visitors this year can expect vendors and food trucks to not only dish out Chicago staples like Italian beef sandwiches and hot dogs, but to also offer a wide variety of international fare. In addition to the food, the Taste will host a star-studded lineup of national and international artists at free nightly concerts, live dancing by way of the SummerDance series, as well as the traditional Eli’s Cheesecake Birthday Celebration, in which a ceremonial 1,000-pound Eli’s cheesecake is cut before attendees (who receive a complimentary piece of the creamy, sweet treat).

WINDY CITY SMOKEOUT

Chicago Pride Parade

Credit: Steven M. Koch

Chicago Jazz Festival

Credit: Patrick L. Pyszka, City of Chicago

July 8-12 Nothing quite says summer like barbecue and good music, which goes a long way toward explaining why the Windy City Smokeout has become a popular Chicago draw. Set up outside the United Center, this newer summer event is also a hotspot for country music artists, pitmasters and barbecue vendors from across America, all congregating for a tasty weekend of music, food and fun. Headliners performing at this year’s event include Blake Shelton, Hootie & The Blowfish, Lainey Wilson and Jordan Davis.

CHOSEN FEW DJS PICNIC & MUSIC FESTIVAL July 11 House music was born in Chicago, and nowhere else is the genre celebrated better than at this annual event, which is hosted by the eightperson Chosen Few DJ collective at Jackson Park (a stone’s throw away from the new Obama Presidential Center). The picnic began in 1990 behind the Griffin Museum of Science and Industry, and was originally a small get-together of the Chosen Few among family and friends. More than 30 years later, it is the world’s longest-running house music festival, attracting over 40,000 people a year. For 2026, the “Woodstock of House Music” will have a lineup featuring DJ Jazzy Jeff and Chicago’s DJ Boolu Master, along with members of the Chosen Few spinning classic and modern house tunes.

CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE SUMMER SPRING 2026 29 AIRCHICAGOMAGAZINE.COM

CHICAGO GOSPEL MUSIC FESTIVAL

CHICAGO JAZZ FESTIVAL

July 24-25 Get ready to make a joyful noise at the Chicago Gospel Music Festival, which has been inspiring concertgoers since it first began in 1985 at the South Shore Cultural Center (then known as the South Shore Country Club). The initial event was organized as a tribute to modern gospel music pioneer Thomas Dorsey, and is now held at Millennium Park, featuring artists performing a variety of gospel styles from the classic to the contemporary. Admission is free.

Sept. 3-6 The oldest of the city’s free lakefront music festivals, the Chicago Jazz Festival is a Labor Day tradition featuring performances from legends and emerging talent across multiple stages. The roots of the festival go back to 1974 when a group of Chicago musicians organized an event paying tribute to jazz legend Louis Armstrong, who had just died that August. The first Chicago Jazz Festival was held five years later in Grant Park, attracting more than 125,000 attendees, before moving decades later to its current home at Millennium Park. Performers over the years have included jazz icons such as Herbie Hancock, Dave Brubeck, Esperanza Spalding and Ramsey Lewis.

WNBA ALL-STAR GAME July 24-25 It’s not just music, art and barbecue that get Chicagoans hyped for the summer, as it’s also a great time for checking out sports. Six years after Chicago last hosted the NBA All-Star Game, women’s basketball will showcase its skills in the Windy City at the 2026 WNBA All-Star Game.

Festivities kick off July 24 at the league’s 3-Point Contest and Skills Challenge, which will take place at the Wintrust Arena before the AllStar Game is played the next night at the United Center. Other league activities during All-Star Weekend include an interactive fan festival and various community events throughout the Chicago area.

LOLLAPALOOZA July 30–Aug. 2 Since making Chicago its permanent home in 2005, Lollapalooza has been one of the city’s defining events, attracting massive crowds to the lakefront for packed stages, skyline views and a tightly-scheduled marathon of performances. The sprawling, four-day showcase of pop, rock, hip-hop and dance also remains the city’s biggest global music draw, with an estimated 460,000 people flocking to 2025’s event.

This summer will see more than 170 artists performing across eight stages at Grant Park, with a lineup of headliners including Charli XCX, Lorde, Olivia Dean and Tate McRae, as well as acts such as Duke Dumont, the Chainsmokers and Zara Larsson. Beyond the music, Lollapalooza will feature art and brand activations, food from top Chicago restaurants and family programming at its Kidzapalooza area.

CHICAGO AIR & WATER SHOW Aug. 15-16 (Rehearsal Aug. 14) Centered along North Avenue Beach (but good to catch from other nearby spots), the Chicago Air & Water Show transforms the lakefront into a spectacle of high-speed aviation stunts, military demonstrations and precision flying worthy of another “Top Gun” sequel. Expect breathtaking aerial performances by the U.S. Navy Blue Angels and Golden Knight parachutists, water rescue demonstrations, as well as appearances by other elite military and civilian flight teams. Free to attend, the show is one of the largest events of its kind in the country.

AIRCHICAGOMAGAZINE.COM 30 SUMMER 2026

To find more summer events in Chicago, go to: https://www. choosechicago.com/articles/festivals-special-events/chicago-festivalevent-guide/

LOCATION OF EVENTS 57th Street Art Fair – 57th Street, between Woodlawn Avenue and Kenwood Avenue; Kimbark Avenue, between 56th Street and 57th Street Grant Park – 331 E. Randolph St. (Columbus Drive), 312-742-3918 Jackson Park – 6401 S. Stony Island Ave., 773-256-0903 LeClaire-Hearst Park – 5120 W. 44th St., 312-747-6438 Millennium Park – 201 E. Randolph St. North Avenue Beach – 1601 N. DuSable Lake Shore Drive Oak Street Beach – 1000 N. DuSable Pake Shore Drive Pride Fest – North Halsted Street, between Addison Street and Grace Street Pride Parade – Starting location: Sheridan Road and Broadway/Ending location: Diversey Avenue Ramova Theatre – 3520 S. Halsted St., 312-988-0838 United Center – 1901 W. Madison St., 312-455-4500 Vertiport Chicago – 1339 S. Wood St., 312-995- 6100 Wintrust Arena – 200 E. Cermak Road, 312-791-6900

Taste of Chicago

Credit: Walter S. Mitchell III, City of Chicago

Lollapalooza 2025 Credit: Nathan Zucker

Chicago Pride Fest Credit: Steven M. Koch

Windy City Smokeout Credit: Windy City Smokeout

Chicago Pride Fest

Credit: Steven M. Koch

SUMMER 2026 31 AIRCHICAGOMAGAZINE.COM

Iron Menace at Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom Credit: Discover Lehigh Valley

ACROSS THE MAP 34 CAIRO PAGE 40 SMALL TOWN CHARM PAGE 44 PHILADELPHIA PAGE

AIRCHICAGOMAGAZINE.COM 32 SUMMER 2026

SUMMER 2026 33 AIRCHICAGOMAGAZINE.COM

BY CRAI BOWER

AIRCHICAGOMAGAZINE.COM 34 SUMMER 2026

Dusk over Cairo

Credit: zevana/Adobe Stock

CAIRO MONUMENTS – VIBRANT IN MIND & MEMORY Visiting Cairo is like stepping into ancient history, a chance to take in and admire monuments with deep cultural significance. Gazing at the pyramids of Giza, Saqqara and Dahshur — as well as examining the extensive antiquities of the Egyptian Museum — provides unforgettable, pinch-me moments that reveal the core of our civilization, and the essence of human society. But Cairo also combines ancient Egypt’s awe with the liveliness of a modern global city. And to explore the City of a Thousand Minarets is to immerse oneself in everything that has made, and continues to make, Cairo an internationally-captivating destination.

CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE SUMMER 2026 35 AIRCHICAGOMAGAZINE.COM

ANCIENT LANDMARKS The Great Pyramids of Giza exist in rarefied air, having at one time been the world’s tallest human-made structure and, presently, the last remaining Seven Wonders of the ancient world. The construction of this royal complex spanned multiple generations and includes smaller tombs (primarily for queens), cemeteries and the Great Sphinx. Visitors can spend days exploring the environment left behind by the pharaohs Khufu, Khafre and Menkaure, and then a lifetime reflecting on its significance.

If the Great Pyramids can take days to experience, the Grand Egyptian Museum requires months to explore its 100,000-plus artifacts, including King Tutankhamun’s treasures on permanent display. The museum also has exhibits from prehistoric times to the Roman era, providing an excellent introduction to Egyptology.

The Mit Rahina Museum offers unique insights into the region’s rich history, particularly in Memphis, the capital of ancient Egypt. Home to a breathtaking statue of Ramses II, this open-air gallery showcases all that remains of what was once the cultural, economic and political epicenter of civilization.

Memphis is also the site of the Saqqara Pyramid — Egypt’s oldest structure, constructed circa 26th century B.C.E. The step pyramid was designed by Imhotep, an architect so revered for his creation that he was considered a god. Pyramid envy began early in Memphis, where the monarch Sneferu erected his structure in Dahshur to compete with that of the Saqqara pyramid. When his first structure failed, Sneferu erected the Red Pyramid that stands today, one of countless extant monuments that open passageways into our collective past.

SHOPPING AND DINING The Khan El-Khalili Bazaar remains the social and cultural center of Cairo, a warren of scents, tastes and mercantile activity dating back to 1382. Enter the endemic spice trade by selecting dukka — a blend of seeds and nuts together with sesame, cumin and hazelnut — and baharat, a mix of black pepper, cardamom, cloves and cinnamon.

These ancient mixtures, among myriad choices throughout the bazaar, could change your palate forever.

Khan El-Khalili teems with vendors selling gorgeous jewelry, clothing and tapestries in stalls dating back centuries. The culinary options at the market are equally plentiful, abounding with samples like ta’ameya (a fava bean falafel), hawawshi (a meat-stuffed bread) and other “only in Cairo” street foods like kebda, a spicy liver dish prepared with garlic, pepper and spices.

Like any global capital, the culinary journeys that Cairo offers are exhaustive, and delicious trails begin here with koshary, Egypt’s national dish. Comprised of rice, vermicelli, macaroni and lentils (and accompanied by chickpeas, tomato sauce, garlic, vinegar and fried onions), koshary has been recognized as an item on UNESCO’s esteemed List of Intangible Heritage.

Though Cairo’s choice of restaurants for koshary is plenty, Abou Tarek stands out as a go-to place for the street food, ranking among the world’s 150 legendary eateries by the online travel guide TasteAtlas. If you’re craving protein, consider Andrea El Mariouteya, which has been recognized by the World’s 50 Best Restaurants list. The restaurant’s specialty — chargrilled chicken — is served on skewers, deboned or in larger pieces, and is best when served

AIRCHICAGOMAGAZINE.COM 36 SUMMER 2026

Great Sphinx of Giza Credit: ocipalla

with feteer meshaltet, a layered pastry for which the city is known.

Another Cairo culinary institution that has received acclaim by the World’s 50 list is Fasahet Somaya, which is famed for its all-Egyptian menu highlighted by molokhia, a regional spinach delicacy prepared as a soup or stew, and served with rice and lemon.

PARKS, GARDENS AND THEATERS With its historic and present-day attractions, Cairo is the embodiment of an immersive traveling experience. For an opportunity to traverse the Nile River, stop by Gezira Island. Accessible via three bridges, the island is famous for its vast collection of global plants and is located in the Zamalek residential district, one of Cairo’s wealthiest.

Al-Azhar Park is another natural setting where visitors can stretch their legs among vibrant vegetation while encountering cultural landmarks.

Located in the center of the city, the 80-acre, 20-year-old park is near the Cairo Citadel, with its apex offering one of the best views of greater Cairo. Not far from Al-Azhar is Al Fustat Park, which spans over 250 acres and features lush plantings throughout. The Middle East’s largest park includes seasonal and rare floral displays, children’s playgrounds, as well as ample lawn areas for picnicking, recreation and relaxation.

Cairo’s theater scene is also in full bloom throughout the year. Worldrenowned ballet, concerts and theatrical productions can be seen at the Cairo Opera House, which also hosts premieres of international opera performances. For a variety of theatrical and musical performances, stop by the Gomhouria Theatre, which is also operated by the Cairo Opera House.

The Giza Pyramids

Credit: Tiffany/Adobe Stock

Khan el Khalili Souk in Cairo Credit: markobe/Adobe Stock

Khan el Khalili Souk in Cairo

Credit: Stockbym/Adobe Stock

CONTINUED CONTINUEDON ONNEXT NEXTPAGE PAGE SUMMER 2026 37 AIRCHICAGOMAGAZINE.COM

GETTING THERE EgyptAir will start service between O’Hare (ORD) and Cairo International Airport (CAI) on June 21. Flights will be available on Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays. The route will be operated on a 340-seat Airbus A350-900.

AIRCHICAGOMAGAZINE.COM 38 SUMMER 2026

The Mosque of al-Hakim bi-Amr Allah

Credit: mrahmo/Adobe Stock

DIVINE DESTINATIONS Along with its cultural and culinary attractions, Cairo is also famous for institutions dedicated to the study, appreciation and practice of Islam.

To see Cairo’s oldest mosque standing in its original form, make a trek to the Mosque of Ibn Tulun. Erected in A.D. 884, the worship space features a broad inner courtyard and an unusual minaret distinguished by an external spiral staircase. After visiting Ibn Tulun, make time to stop by Aqsunqur Mosque (aka the Blue Mosque), which is regarded as one of Islam’s most beautiful places of worship.

The Cairo Citadel, also known as the Citadel of Saladin, is a UNESCO World Heritage site that was built in the 12th century to fend off the Crusaders. The Citadel once protected approximately 100,000 people and remained the royal residence for 700 years. Currently, the Citadel also houses the Mosque of Muhammad Ali Pasha, which is a stunning fusion of Ottoman and European design.

Part of Old Cairo, Coptic Cairo is believed to have sheltered the Holy Family during their flight into Egypt from Herod. The area is also home to the Babylon Fortress — built by the Romans in A.D. 300 — and the Hanging Church. One of many Christian churches in Old Cairo, the Hanging Church is built above the Babylon Fortress (hence the name, ‘Hanging’) and constructed with a roof resembling Noah’s Ark. To view many artifacts from the area’s Christian churches and the world’s largest collection of Coptic relics, don’t pass up the chance to visit the Coptic Museum.

EXPLORING THE NILE A two-hour ride aboard a felucca (a wooden sailboat) on the Nile provides insights into the natural beauty of Cairo’s surrounding countryside. Traditional sailboats ferry passengers past historic sites, often mixing live entertainment with breakfast, lunch or dinner.

Nile River in Cairo

Credit: Alex Anton

The sites of the Nile are best experienced, if possible, on a multi-day cruise — starting south of Cairo and proceeding from the city of Luxor to Aswan (or beginning in Aswan and traveling north). The south-tonorth cruise typically begins at Philae Temple, which is dedicated to Isis and other gods. The boats then pause at the Edfu and Kom Ombo Temples, both dedicated to deities including Sobek, the crocodile god, who is worshiped with numerous mummified crocs.

The Luxor Temple is next on most cruises, featuring several icons of Ramses II along with an avenue of sphinxes. Near Luxor on the journey is the Karnak complex, which is dedicated to Amun Re (“King of the Gods”). Most cruises also include day trips from the boats to the Valley of the Kings, where you can explore numerous tombs of several Ramses pharaohs, as well as the storied tomb of King Tut. The other virtue of a multiday Nile cruise is the river itself, which winds through large rock formations and features many natural bankside features. The stunning desert sunrises, sunsets and night skies are best viewed from the river, and nightly cultural entertainment is also provided on cruises.

Whether choosing a three-day Nile excursion, a half-day food tour or sunset at Giza, exploring Cairo and its environs is not only an invitation to disappear into ancient history. It is also an opportunity to witness, up close, a culture that today continues to amaze travelers.

SUMMER 2026 39 AIRCHICAGOMAGAZINE.COM

Spotted Salamander in Columbia, S.C. Credit: Helen Dennis

Motocross in Columbia, S.C. Credit: Sean Rayford Photography

Roan Mountain

Credit: Northeast Tennessee Tourism Association

Downtown Allentown Credit: Discover Lehigh Valley

AIRCHICAGOMAGAZINE.COM 40 SUMMER 2026

As the United States gears up to celebrate its 250th birthday, there is no better time than this year’s Independence Day to honor the small towns that make up the backbone of America’s history and culture. Thanks to new direct routes out of Chicago, these cities are more accessible than ever.

ALLENTOWN, PENNSYLVANIA Founded in eastern Pennsylvania in 1762, Allentown proudly wears its contributions to the nation’s economic and historical development.

During the Revolutionary War, the Liberty Bell was secretly transported to the city, hidden beneath the floorboards of Zion Reformed Church, away from the prying eyes of the British. Once a textile and manufacturing hub, Allentown today is Pennsylvania’s third-largest city, and one of the state’s major spots for dining, entertainment and various other cultural options.

WHAT TO DO Live entertainment flourishes downtown at the Archer Music Hall, a newly-opened venue that hosts everything from touring musicians to stand-up comedy and local events. Just a few blocks away, the PPL Center is the hockey home of the Lehigh Valley Phantoms, the AHL affiliate of the NHL’s Philadelphia Flyers. Attracting energetic crowds during hockey season, the arena also hosts concerts from national touring acts, family shows and other large-scale events.

Families will enjoy escaping the summer heat at Dorney Park & Wildwater Kingdom, which features over 100 rides and attractions, including the 160-foot Iron Menace rollercoaster. In the city’s west end, the Allentown Fairgrounds host various events throughout the year, and other popular events include downtown’s Blues, Brews and Barbecue Festival and the Mayfair Festival of the Arts, held at Cedar Crest College. The city also offers great attractions for art lovers, including the Allentown Art Museum, which houses 17,000 works spanning 2,000 years. The museum’s permanent collection includes works by Rembrandt and Franz Kline, as well as a library designed by Frank Lloyd Wright.

WHERE TO STAY Just steps from the PPL Center, the Renaissance Allentown Hotel embraces the city’s industrial heritage with a sleek, modern “Steel City” style. A few blocks away is the historic Americus Hotel, a Hyatt brand originally opened in 1926 that combines Jazz Age elegance with modern comforts. For a more pastoral escape, visit the west end of Lehigh County in Fogelsville, where the Glasbern Inn provides a slower pace. Located on a former working farm, this country-style bed-andbreakfast features fine dining and cozy accommodations amid rolling pastures, stone barns and wood-beam interiors — an ideal spot for travelers looking for a peaceful countryside retreat.

BY DEBBIE EMERY CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE SUMMER 2026 41 AIRCHICAGOMAGAZINE.COM

WHERE TO EAT

WHERE TO STAY

The Lehigh Valley’s fertile farmland provides a variety of fresh ingredients to local restaurants. Among the beneficiaries of the region’s breadbasket is Bolete in nearby Bethlehem, a renowned farmto-table restaurant where the chefs smoke their own meats and fish.

If you are looking for a music-inspired dining experience, head to the album cover, art-adorned The Broken Record, where small plates are served alongside curated playlists.

The Carnegie Hotel in Johnson City is a replica of the original namesake that opened in the city in 1891, and features elegantlydecorated rooms and a luxurious spa. For lodging described as being a “Virginia remix of a Tennessee classic,” head across the state line to the Bristol Hotel, which comes with modern guest rooms that overlook the Appalachian Mountains.

GETTING THERE

The Tri-Cities area is known for its pork-heavy barbecue, with popular spots that include the Ole Crow Tavern in Kingsport and Southern Craft BBQ, which has three locations in Tennessee and one in Bristol, Virginia. For locally-grown fare, Gourmet & Company in Johnson City is worth sampling, with selections that include pan-roasted chicken, trout and grilled tenderloin.

United Airlines offers service between O’Hare and Lehigh Valley International Airport (ABE).

TRI-CITIES, TENNESSEE The Tri-Cities of Bristol, Johnson City and Kingsport are situated in northeastern Tennessee, close to the Virginia border. Set amid the Blue Ridge and Appalachian Mountains, the region has a rich cultural heritage bursting with charm, music and family-friendly activities.

WHAT TO DO Among the first European settlers to the Tri-Cities area in the 1760s were the Scots-Irish, and their traditional music of ballads and fiddle playing later developed into the bluegrass and country music the region is famous for. The Birthplace of Country Music Museum honors the Tri-Cities’ musical heritage and such local icons as Ralph Peer, who recorded the Bristol Sessions in 1927, which helped launch country music’s commercial success.

Other popular attractions include the Rocky Mount State Historic Site, located in the former capital of the Southwest Territory, and the Allandale Mansion, a Georgian-style structure in Kingsport that was formerly a 500-acre farm, and which today serves as a venue for weddings, concerts and special events (tours are also available).

As auto racing is deeply woven into the culture of the Tri-Cities, two local racetracks provide plenty of NASCAR action for fans. The Bristol Motor Speedway is the region’s most famous racetrack — renowned for its short, exciting layout and stadium-style design — and the Kingsport Speedway is a popular spot to watch younger, emerging drivers compete.

Pinewood Bowl Theater Credit: Visit Lincoln

AIRCHICAGOMAGAZINE.COM 42 SUMMER 2026

WHERE TO EAT

GETTING THERE American Airlines offers service between O’Hare and Tri-Cities Airport (TRI).

LINCOLN, NEBRASKA The capital of Nebraska, Lincoln is the second-biggest city in the state — after Omaha — and home to the state’s flagship university.

The city, which is located in the southeastern part of Nebraska, was founded in 1856 and originally called Lancaster. Renamed in 1867 in honor of Abraham Lincoln, the city today embodies “Midwest nice” through its welcoming atmosphere and combination of rural charm and urban convenience.

WHAT TO DO Described as Lincoln’s oldest tourist attraction, Robber’s Cave was once a hideout for notorious outlaws like Jesse James. Today, brave visitors can take guided tours through its tunnels when the space is not being used for events such as weddings and corporate affairs.

Lincoln offers 134 miles of trails, with 30 miles located in Wilderness Park, a natural area that spans the Salt Creek floodplain where visitors can bike, walk or ride horses. Those looking to observe wildlife should visit Pioneers Park Nature Center, a 668-acre wildlife sanctuary housing bison, deer, elk and birds of prey. Meanwhile, those with a

green thumb will enjoy the Sunken Gardens, once a neighborhood waste landfill that has been converted into a terraced garden filled with thousands of plants, waterfalls, ponds and paved pathways.

For sports, Memorial Stadium is the place to watch University of Nebraska football, where play usually starts at summer’s end. Lincoln is also a great place for live outdoor music in the summer, with the Pinewood Bowl Theater hosting concerts by high-profile bands and events taking place throughout town like Jazz in June and the Hub & Soul Music Series, which feature intimate concertgoing experiences.

WHERE TO STAY Located on the Nebraska Innovation Campus, the Scarlet Hotel is a modern 154-room hotel with a rooftop bar, event space and complimentary shuttles. For those wanting a home-away-from-home feel, Annabell Gardens is an all-suite hotel near downtown with accommodations that include living rooms, sofa beds and kitchens.

WHERE TO EAT Nebraska is one of the top cattle-producing states in the U.S., and Lincoln has an abundance of fine steakhouses such as JTK Cuisine & Cocktails and Misty’s Steakhouse & Lounge. More casual, must-have bites are available at Nebraska’s popular Runza restaurant chain, which has over 90 restaurants that also include locations in Iowa, Kansas, Colorado and South Dakota. Arguably Runza’s most popular item is its namesake sandwich, which is a bread pocket stuffed with beef, onions and cabbage.

GETTING THERE United and American Airlines offer service between O’Hare and Lincoln Airport (LNK).

COLUMBIA, SOUTH CAROLINA Located in the heart of South Carolina, Columbia is the Palmetto State’s capital and second-largest city, with Charleston to the southeast only larger. The city played a pivotal role in the outbreak of the Civil War, as it hosted the first convention in 1860 that led to South Carolina becoming the first state to secede from the Union. In the 21st century, Columbia has become an educational hub anchored by the flagship University of South Carolina campus, and in 2024 was honored by Southern Living magazine as one of the South’s best places to live.

Nebraska State Capitol

Credit: Ultima_Gaina

WHAT TO DO Visitors can explore Columbia’s rich history at the South Carolina State Museum, which features art exhibits, natural history collections and a planetarium. The Columbia Museum of Art is another must-visit for art lovers, featuring displays of ancient and modern works, and the institution occasionally hosts Pilates classes.

Columbia was established at the fall line of the Congaree River, and that area has been preserved as the Congaree National Park, home to the largest intact expanse of old-growth, bottomland hardwood forest remaining in the Southeastern U.S. One of the highlights of the park is the Boardwalk Loop, a trail that traverses the natural flood plain, where a variety of tree species, diverse vegetation, otters and wading birds can be viewed. More wildlife is abundant at the Riverbanks Zoo & Garden, where visitors can tour the animal enclosures as well as watch demonstrations, learn about animal care and have backstage experiences with some of the favorite residents.

WHAT TO EAT The Columbia area has a growing culinary scene that boasts several James Beard-recognized restaurants, including Spotted Salamander and City Limits BBQ (located in suburban West Columbia). For a complete taste of the city, the Soda City Market — which takes over Main Street every Saturday — has more than 200 vendors who sell everything from local produce, fresh flowers and exotic fruits and vegetables, to antiques and vintage items.

WHERE TO STAY Located near the University of South Carolina, the Hilton’s Graduate Columbia, SC blends the city’s history with Gamecocks athletic tradition for a college-nostalgic atmosphere. And for a truly memorable stay, the rooms at the Hotel Trundle — in the historic Western Auto building on Main Street — are uniquely designed with locally-sourced amenities.

GETTING THERE United and American Airlines offer service between O’Hare and Columbia Metropolitan Airport (CAE).

Roan Mountain

Credit: Northeast Tennessee Tourism Association

SUMMER 2026 43 AIRCHICAGOMAGAZINE.COM

Franklin Bridge in Philadelphia Credit: xbrchx

FREEDOM

AIRCHICAGOMAGAZINE.COM 44 SUMMER 2026

SUMMERTIME IN AMERICA’S BIRTHPLACE

BY JAYNE CLARK

On July 4, 1776, after the Second Continental Congress in Philadelphia adopted the Declaration of Independence, America’s founding fathers didn’t go into the streets to celebrate. One year later, however, citizens in the city — which 13 years later became the nation’s capital — gathered for a big official party, shooting fireworks in the air and lighting bonfires to mark the country’s first birthday.

As John Adams reflected in a letter he wrote to his daughter, Abigail, “American independence … was celebrated here with a festivity and ceremony becoming the occasion.”

Fast forward to 2026, and the City of Brotherly Love is pulling out all the stops for America’s 250th birthday, marking the semiquincentennial with a variety of festivities through the summer and beyond.

CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE SUMMER 2026 45 AIRCHICAGOMAGAZINE.COM

Independence Hall Credit: Sean Pavone

MARQUEE EVENTS & EXHIBITS The Wawa Welcome America celebration will take place from June 19 (Juneteenth) to July 4 at various locations, including the Delaware River waterfront and the Benjamin Franklin Parkway. The event will feature free daily programming and performances by artists such as Queen Latifah, Idina Menzel and Eve. The 16-day bash — the nation’s largest commemorating July 4 — culminates in a huge fireworks show over the Philadelphia Museum of Art on Independence Day. “The Declaration’s Journey” is an immersive exhibit at the Museum of the American Revolution that explores how the Declaration of Independence has impacted subsequent freedom movements worldwide. More than a hundred nations have adopted ideals from this seminal document, as have domestic movements dedicated to causes such as abolitionism, women’s suffrage and civil rights. Among artifacts in the exhibit are the prison bench where Martin Luther King Jr. wrote his classic “Letter from a Birmingham Jail,” a spinning wheel belonging to Mahatma Gandhi and a draft of the French Declaration of Rights annotated by Marquis de Lafayette, a French aristocrat who fought alongside American forces during the Revolutionary War. The exhibit is on view through Jan. 3, 2027.

“Let Freedom Ring” is a soaring, interactive bell tower that is on display at the Cherry Street Pier from June through Sept 7. Created by artist Paul Ramirez, the 600-pound bell rings out the patriotic anthem, “My Country ‘Tis of Thee,” up to the final note, when visitors can pull a lever to finish the tune and declare what freedom means to them.

WHAT’S NEW The First Bank of the United States, the country’s first centralized bank and a forerunner to the Federal Reserve, reopens July 1 after a 50-year closure to the public — and comes with two new exhibits. Located in AIRCHICAGOMAGAZINE.COM 46 SUMMER 2026

Independence National Historical Park, the bank was established by Alexander Hamilton in 1797 to economically unify the fledgling nation.

It last operated as a bank in the 1800s and has been used as office space by the National Park Service over the years.

Pennsylvania Hospital, the nation’s first chartered hospital, was cofounded in 1751 by Ben Franklin and operates today as part of Penn Medicine (an affiliate of the University of Pennsylvania). Opening in May in the campus’s historic Pine Building is the Pennsylvania Hospital Museum, which will feature eight galleries with interactive video and other activities. Among the museum’s exhibits are the hospital’s historic library and surgical amphitheater, as well as a newly-restored apothecary.

Located in Independence Mall on the grounds of Independence National Historical Park, the National Constitution Center boasts two new galleries worth visiting. Opened this February, the America’s Founding gallery chronicles conflict and struggles in the nation’s early days, while the Separation of Powers gallery (debuting May 15) examines America’s executive, legislative and judicial branches of government. One of only 14 existing copies of the Constitution is at the center, and will be on display through 2026.

PHILLY FIRSTS Philadelphia has been spotlighting its own groundbreaking history this year with 52 Weeks of Firsts, a free festival taking place every Saturday in different neighborhoods from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Some of the country’s monumental firsts were achieved in Philadelphia, such as the first American balloon flight (1793), the first professional basketball league (the National Basketball League, in 1898) and the first Slinky toy (invented in 1945). The family-friendly events also feature live music, giveaways and games.

SHOWCASING THE ARTS For the nation’s birthday, the Philadelphia Museum of Art (through July 5, 2027) and the Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts (through Sept. 5, 2027) have teamed up for the joint exhibition, “A Nation of Artists.” On view are works by major American artists, including Mary Cassatt, Thomas Eakins, Georgia O’Keeffe and Jasper Johns, as well as from various minority, immigrant and lesser-known artists. The sweeping exhibit encompasses 1,000-plus works, including 120 from the private collection of Philadelphia Phillies managing partner John Middleton and his wife, Leigh. Besides paintings, “A Nation of Artists” also features furniture, sculpture and photographic displays.

We The Youth mural

by Keith Haring in South Philadelphia

Credit: andipantz

ArtPhilly, a five-week festival from May 27 to July 2, invites artists to reflect on America’s history and consider the question, “What now?”

The multidisciplinary lineup includes concerts, theater, dance and visual arts, with performances held around the city. To get a taste of art beyond Philadelphia, check out Bells Across PA, which features replica fiberglass Liberty Bells in all 67 Pennsylvania counties. In Philadelphia alone, 24 of these artist-decorated bells are located in public parks and commercial spaces.

FLAGS, CROSSINGS & MEDICAL MILESTONES Popular Philly-area tourist haunts are also rolling out special programming to mark the nation’s 250th birthday. At the Betsy Ross House, a birthday-themed Flag Fest is set for June 6-14. On the banks of the Delaware River, Washington Crossing Historic Park will ramp up its traditional July 4th festivities and fireworks display, and stage two re-enactments in December of George Washington’s heralded military attack against the British during the 1776 Christmas holiday.

And the Mutter Museum, the site of anatomical specimens and 19thcentury medical instruments, has launched the “Revolutionary Botany” exhibit, which examines the origins of botanical medicine (on view through 2026).

Liberty Bell

Credit: Songquan Deng

GAME TIME Beyond a bevy of semiquincentennial happenings, 2026 has some major sports events coming to the Philadelphia area. At Aronimink Golf Club in suburban Newtown Square, the PGA Championship takes place May 11-17. Baseball will bring its top players to town July 11-14 for the MLB All-Star Game festivities at Citizens Bank Park, and Philadelphia will host six FIFA World Cup soccer matches from June 14 to July 4 at Lincoln Financial Field (home to the 2025 Super Bowl champion Philadelphia Eagles). Both stadiums are situated next to each other at the South Philadelphia Sports Complex, which includes Xfinity Mobile Arena, home to basketball’s 76ers and hockey’s Flyers.

Even if you can’t attend a World Cup match, you can get in on the action at the FIFA Fan Festival at Lemon Hill in East Fairmount Park.

Live matches will be broadcast on giant screens on game days, and related events will continue for the 39 days spanning the games. Some concert events require tickets, but game day access is free. Other highlights include community events, a vendor pavilion showcasing handcrafted merchandise and a rotating fleet of local food trucks.

GETTING THERE United, American and Frontier offer nonstop flights between O’Hare and Philadelphia International Airport (PHL).

SUMMER 2026 47 AIRCHICAGOMAGAZINE.COM

Terminal 5 Baggage Claim at O’Hare Credit: Jonathan Michael Castillo

AT THE AIRPORTS AIRCHICAGOMAGAZINE.COM 48 SUMMER 2026

50 AIRPORT NEWS PAGE 51 OBAMA @ ORD PAGE 52 BUTCH O’HARE PAGE 54 SUMMER SHOPPING GUIDE PAGE

SUMMER 2026 49 AIRCHICAGOMAGAZINE.COM

Mayor Johnson and Commissioner McMurray Credit: City of Chicago

O’HARE RECLAIMS TITLE AS WORLD’S BUSIEST AIRPORT

O’HARE EXPANSION REACHES MAJOR MILESTONE

O’Hare has once again been named the busiest airfield in the world, reclaiming a top global ranking based on recently-released data from Airports Council International World. The announcement, made by Mayor Brandon Johnson and the CDA, highlights the airport’s ongoing importance as a major hub for domestic and international travel.

O’Hare’s return to the number one spot underscores a strong recovery in aviation activity and reflects the airport’s vital role in connecting passengers and commerce worldwide.

Chicago is moving forward with a major expansion at O’Hare, as city leaders and aviation partners marked the April 23 start of vertical construction on the new Concourse D. The 19-gate, 580,000-squarefoot facility is a key part of the broader ORDNext modernization program and is expected to be finished in 2028. The milestone was celebrated with a ceremonial “first beam” signing, signaling progress beyond the foundational work already underway. Officials say the project will boost capacity, efficiency and the passenger experience while supporting long-term economic growth.

AMERICAN AIRLINES EXPANDS CHICAGO HUB WITH NEW ADMIRALS CLUB LOUNGE American Airlines is strengthening its presence in Chicago with plans to open a new, larger Admirals Club lounge at O’Hare. The more than 10,000-square-foot space in Concourse L will replace the current lounge, providing more room, upgraded amenities and modern design elements inspired by Chicago’s local culture. Floor-to-ceiling windows will offer sweeping runway views, while distinct “neighborhood” zones will serve different traveler needs that range from relaxation to productivity.

AIRCHICAGOMAGAZINE.COM 50 SUMMER 2026

NEW ROUTES Chicago’s global reach continues to expand with the addition of two new international routes that will enhance connectivity at O’Hare.

Philippine Airlines will launch its first nonstop service to Manila November 9, creating a direct connection between the Midwest and the Philippines with onward access across the Asia-Pacific. EgyptAir will begin nonstop flights to Cairo June 21, marking O’Hare’s first direct passenger link to North Africa and opening gateways to destinations across Africa and the Middle East.

NOW BOARDING:

BOLD FLAVOR TERMINAL 3 Food Court Near Gate K4

IT’S BETTE AT THE BE R ACH

BURRITOBEACH.COM

President Obama at O’Hare Credit: Karen Pride/City of Chicago

OBAMA @ ORD Air Force One at O’Hare Credit: Karen Pride/City of Chicago

Barack Obama left Chicago in 2009 to serve as U.S. president, occasionally returning to town on Air Force One and landing at O’Hare. Each visit carried a quiet symbolism, a homecoming marked by motorcades and memories. The airport became a threshold between past and power, where the city that shaped him met the office that defined him.

Photographs capture fleeting moments — a wave, a glance, the tarmac stretching wide. In these images, Chicago is not just a backdrop, but a constant presence in a presidency rooted in place and memory, which endures beyond each departure.

SUMMER 2026 51 AIRCHICAGOMAGAZINE.COM

AIRCHICAGOMAGAZINE.COM 52 SUMMER 2026

REMEMBERED FOREVER: THE STORY OF LT. BUTCH O’HARE

BY PATRICIA M. SZPEKOWSKI

U.S. Navy Lieutenant Commander Edward Henry “Butch” O’Hare is one of America’s military legends, a gallant World War II hero whose daring aerial combat missions earned him a lasting legacy as the namesake of O’Hare International Airport.

Born March 13, 1914, in St. Louis, O’Hare was destined to serve at a young age, graduating in 1932 from the Western Military Academy in downstate Alton (right across the Mississippi River from St. Louis) before enrolling at the U.S. Naval Academy. Following graduation from the academy, O’Hare trained with an air squadron, where he received instruction in aerial combat, night carrier landings and gunnery, later becoming an expert marksman.

After completing flight school in 1940, O’Hare was assigned to the USS Saratoga aircraft carrier during WWII, later being reassigned to the USS Lexington (both of which were the Navy’s first fleet carriers). On Feb. 20, 1942, just a few months after the bombing of Pearl Harbor, O’Hare displayed his heroism in the Pacific Theater when his F4F-3 fighter plane successfully defended the Lexington by fighting off nine enemy bombers — shooting down five and severely damaging a sixth. His acts of courage earned him a Congressional Medal of Honor, awarded by President Franklin D. Roosevelt in a White House ceremony April 21, 1942, with O’Hare’s wife doing the honors of adorning the medal around his neck.

“As a result of his gallant action, one of the most daring if not the most daring single action in the history of combat aviation, he undoubtedly saved his carrier from serious damage,” Roosevelt pronounced during the ceremony.

On Nov. 23, 1943, O’Hare would fly his final mission. Over the South Pacific, his plane was attacked by enemy aircraft and crashed into the ocean — neither O’Hare’s body nor his plane were found, and he would be officially declared dead in 1944.

Three months after O’Hare’s last mission, Orchard Field opened northwest of downtown Chicago as a wartime military airfield for the Douglas Aircraft Company, which operated a manufacturing plant on the property. Transferred over to the City of Chicago following the war, plans soon began to build the city’s second airport on the former farmland area once known as Orchard Place.

LT “Butch” O’Hare

Credit: San Diego Air and Space Museum Archive

Butch O’Hare Exhibit at ORD Credit: City of Chicago

Chicago Tribune editor and publisher Robert McCormick, one of the city’s most prominent figures, launched a civic campaign to have the new airport named in O’Hare’s honor. On Sept. 17, 1949, months after the Chicago City Council approved the renaming measure, a ceremony was held to officially change Orchard Field to O’Hare International Airport. (Its three-letter International Air Transport Association code, ORD, remains a nod to the airport’s original name).

Today at O’Hare, travelers can view the F4F-3 Wildcat Fighter exhibit honoring O’Hare in the Rotunda Building in Terminal 3. A meticulouslyrestored, glass-encased Grumman F4F Wildcat provides a rare view of O’Hare’s heroic legacy, with the displays telling the story of a true military hero while offering a unique perspective of the actual aircraft.

O’Hare is memorialized at the National Cemetery of the Pacific Wall of the Missing in Honolulu.

SUMMER 2026 53 AIRCHICAGOMAGAZINE.COM

JOHNSTON & MURPHY OLLIE LACE-TO-TOE Terminal 1, near Gate B6 Smooth, laid-back and effortlessly cool, these Johnston & Murphy suede sneakers add a refined touch to everyday style. Complete with buttery-soft material and TruFoam cushioning, the shoes feel as good as they look, while subtle perforations keep things breathable. Easy to dress up or down, they’re your go-to for polished, off-duty vibes.

AIRCHICAGOMAGAZINE.COM 54 SUMMER 2026

GALLERY ORD LONGCHAMP ÉPURE S CROSSBODY BAG IN PETAL PINK Terminal 5, near M14-16 Effortlessly stylish with a hint of Parisian charm, this Longchamp crossbody bag combines smooth leather with a sleek, sculpted shape. The subtle neutral color pairs with a bold woven strap for contrast, while its compact design keeps essentials close — polished, practical and ready to elevate your everyday look.

BARBARA’S BOOKSTORE Frida’s Cook Terminal 1, near Gate B10 and C15; Terminal 2, near Gate E5; Terminal 3, near Rotunda and Gate H4 A rich, art-filled journey into Frida Kahlo’s world, “Frida’s Cook” weaves passion, secrets and sensory details into an irresistible story. Following a young cook drawn into Frida’s circle and a granddaughter uncovering hidden truths, the book is a lively tale of food, friendship and fierce female resilience across generations.

MAC LIPGLASS CUSHION HIGH-PIGMENT LIP OIL Terminal 2, Main Hall A vibrant splash of color meets glassy shine in MAC’s Lipglass Cushion HighPigment Lip Oil. This smooth, non-sticky formula coats lips in bold pigment and long-lasting hydration. The plush applicator glides on effortlessly, leaving lips soft, luminous and irresistibly plump all day with a glossy finish that grabs attention.

CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE SUMMER 2026 55 AIRCHICAGOMAGAZINE.COM

SPIRIT OF THE RED HORSE; TALIE FAHLO ANIMAL BRACELETS Spirit of the Red Horse – Terminal 1, near Gate C21 Talie – Terminal 1, near Gate H1 A bracelet with a story — and a wild side. Fahlo Animal Bracelets combine rich, earthy beads with a bold animal charm. The real magic? Each one allows you to track a real animal. It’s stylish with purpose, an adventure on your wrist and a daily reminder that you’re part of something bigger.

SUNGLASS HUT – A$AP ROCKY X RAY-BAN COLLECTION Terminal 1, near Gate C9; Terminal 2, near Gate F9; Terminal 3, near Gate K5 Bold, culture-shifting and undeniably cool, A$AP Rocky x Ray-Ban sunglasses blend iconic design with a futuristic touch — imagine sleek metal frames, eye-catching lenses and a confident attitude. Inspired by Rocky’s creative vision, the sunglasses challenge conventions while remaining effortlessly stylish, and are perfect for those who don’t just follow trends but create them.

FIELD MUSEUM STORE TYRANNOSAURUS REX SKULL FOSSIL Terminal 1, near Gate B8 All teeth, attitude and pure prehistoric drama, this Tyrannosaurus rex skull fossil from the Field Museum is impossible to ignore. With bonecrushing jaws and dagger-like teeth on full display, it radiates power from another era. Mounted like a trophy, it offers a fierce, fascinating glimpse into Earth’s legendary predator.

AIRCHICAGOMAGAZINE.COM 56 SUMMER 2026

DUFRY SOL DE JANEIRO FOUR-PIECE PERFUME MIST SET Terminal 5, near M14-15 A tropical getaway in a bag, this Sol de Janeiro four-piece perfume mist set combines their most-loved scents in a fun collection.

From warm, beachy notes to bright, fruity vibes, each mist layers beautifully. Perfect for on-the-go spritzing, it’s sunshine, confidence and vacation energy bottled up and ready to wear.

BRIGHTON SPLENDOR BUTTERFLY NECKLACE Terminal 3, near Gate H3 A little piece of sunshine you can wear, the Splendor Butterfly Necklace instantly brings joy. Colorful enamel butterflies dance across a glowing gold pendant, accented with delicate florals and a touch of sparkle.

Whimsical, feminine and full of charm, it’s the kind of necklace that makes every outfit feel a little more magical.

CHI BOYS CHICAGO LOVE SNAPBACK Terminal 3, near Gate H6 Subtle yet full of attitude, the Chicago Love Snapback from Chi Boys is all about representing the Windy City with style.

The rich corduroy fabric, tonal “Chicago Love” embroidery and vintage rope detail give it that effortlessly cool vibe — like you just threw it on but still nailed the look.

SUMMER 2026 57 AIRCHICAGOMAGAZINE.COM

CHICAGO O’HARE INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT TERMINALS 1, 2 & 3

TERMINAL 3

TERMINAL 2

CONCOURSES G, H, K, L & ROTUNDA Aer Lingus • American Airlines

• Japan Airlines (JAL)

• British Airways (Departures only) Contour Airlines

(Domestic; International Departures only)

CONCOURSES E, F JetBlue Southern Airways Express

Air Canada Alaska Airlines Denver Air Connection/ Key Lime Air

(Departures only)

• Iberia Airlines (Departures)

• United Airlines

(Domestic; International Departures only)

• United Express

(All check-in and baggage claim)

(All check-in)

• Denotes airlines with international service departing from Terminals 1, 2 & 3 and arriving into Terminal 5.

DINE

LEGEND

SHOP

RELAX

E17

F26

F28

Hudson

SERVICE/AMENITY

F25 (lower level)

FULL-SERVICE RESTAURANT

E15

F24 (lower level) F22

F27

Eat Well.

Travel Further.

F20

Starbucks Coffee

F21

24 HOUR LOCATIONS

Brioche Dorée

– Dunkin’ Gates H5, M16

F16 F17 E7

Hudson

F12 F11

T5 Arrivals

F10

– Evolve by Hudson Gate M14

G20 G21 G19

– Starbucks Gates B9, E2, K4

G19A

Hudson

G14, G14A (lower level)

Hudson Sarah’s Candies Dunkin’ Sunglass Hut

Mamava Lactation Pod

G13, G17 (lower level)

G12

E5

McDonald’s

G7 G8

G3

H11A

Barbara’s Bookstore Chicago Cubs Bar & Grill

CNN Newsstand Chicago O’Briens Restaurant & Bar

H6

H5

Manchu Wok

K18

K4 K5

K19

K15

K13

Hudson

B2 B3 B1

E1

Seaway Bank Foreign Currency Exchange

CLEAR Lanes Fly with Butch O’Hare Family Lounge Travelers Aid

Summer House Santa Monica

Headphone Hub CIBO Express Gourmet Market

Tortas Frontera

by Rick Bayless

Macaroni Grill

Brioche Dorée

(pre-security)

InMotion Garrett Popcorn Shops

Garrett Popcorn Sho

Field Museu

Chili’s

K2

Shoe Hospital Travelers Aid Great American Bagel Company

Mamava Lactation Pod Hudson

CLEAR Lanes

Terminal Getaway Spa

K3

Starbucks Duty Free Store

Seaway Bank Foreign Currency Exchange

MAC Cosmetics Mamava Lactation Pod Coach Wicker Park Seafood & Sushi

H2

Brookstone Brighton

K6A

K9

K20

E2

F3

Great American Bagel Company

K6B

K8

K12

Brioche Dorée Facades Bar

F4

Hudson

H1

Bubbles Wine Bar Vosges Haut-Chocolat Brooks Brothers

H4

H3

K10

Connect Bar F1

Manchu Wok Subway Half Moon Empanadas

Talie

Barbara's Bookstore

Sunglass Hut

McDonald’s

Travelers Aid

D E PA RT U R E S / T I C K E T I N G

Starbucks

Dunkin'

McDonald’s Reggio's Chicago Style Pizza Burrito Beach B-Smooth, Smoothies & Salads The Bronze Tap

Wolfgang Puck Express

Mamava Lactation Pod

CIBO Express Gourmet Market

ChiBoys

Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory

Skyscrapers Bar

Goose Island Beer Company

Starbucks

Hudson

H8 H9

Nuts on Clark Green Market Starbucks

Service Animal Relief Area

G1B

Great American Bagel Company

H10

Carry Out/Carry On Nuts on Clark Auntie Anne's E3

Duty Free Store

Hudson Brioche Dorée Farmers Market

G2A G2B

G1A

H11B

McDonald’s

InMotion

G4

H12

La Tapenade Mediterranean Café Fulton Street Cafe Hudson

Veteran Roasters / Brown Sugar Bakery

Yoga Room Mother’s Room USO

G6A

Rush Street Bar

H15

Home Run Inn Pizza Stanley's Blackhawks Kitchen & Tap Barbara's Bookstore

E4

F5

Rotunda Mezzanine Level

G6B

G5

F6

Reggio's Chicago Style Pizza

H16 H18 H14

F7

Chili’s

G10

G9

H13

E6

Hoypoloi, An Uncommon Gallery

Chili’s

G11

H17

E8

Mother’s Room

F9

G18 G16

Hudson

BJ's Market

E10

F14

F15

K16

E12

E9

Sky Bridge Bar & Grill

– Dunkin’ & Baskin Robbins

E14

E11

La Tapenade Mediterranean Café

F23

F19

E16

E13

Seaway Foreign Currency Ex

Eli's Chees Home Run Inn Pizza - Vienn

Hudson Nonstop

K17

Mamava Lactation Pod

ING

K1

Mamava Lactation Pod

Publican Tavern

McDonald’s Gold Coast Dogs Mother’s Room L6B

Hudson Goose Island Beer Company

Hudson Café Descartes

L6A

Hudson

TERMINAL 2 MEZZANINE LEVEL (PRE-SECURITY):

L1 L3

TERMINAL 2 BAGGAGE CLAIM / LOWER LEVEL

USO Chapel

Hudson

Green Market

L5

Starbucks ICE Dishes & Drinks

L7 L9

TERMINAL 3 BAGGAGE CLAIM / LOWER LEVEL

L4

L8

L10A L10B L10C

ency Exchange

L2A

L2C

DE

PA

RT

UR

ES

/ T

ICK

ET

Service Animal Relief Area

L11, L11A, L11B (lower level)

L20

Starbucks

To

L21

Terminal (via ATS)

L22

ng

Burger Federation

tt Popcorn Cart

L23

Chick-fil-A

L25

Chicago Neighborhood Market & Goods

M/

M8

Service Animal Relief Area

Mother’s Room The Hampton Social

L27

M7

Chi Life Market

58 SUMMER 2026 AIRCHICAGOMAGAZINE.COM Publican Quality Bread M6

L24

Mother’s Room

M5

M4

M3

M2

Mamava Lactation Pod

SEE GETTING AROUND ORD ON THE NEXT PAGE

TERMINAL 1 BAGGAGE CLAIM / LOWER Ciao Gourmet Market Hudson Café Descartes

TERMINAL 1 CONCOURSES B, C

• ANA

• United Airlines

(Departures only)

(All check-in & baggage claim)

(Domestic; International Departures only)

• Lufthansa

(Departures only)

C2

C1

C4

C3

Wicker Park

• United Express

C5 C6

C7

C8

C9

Goose Island Beer Company McDonald’s

Hudson Sunglass Hut Home Run Inn Pizza

C10 C11

Mamava Lactation Pod Brookstone

C16 C15

3

B4

Barbara's Bookstore Ciao Gourmet Market Beaudevin Wine Bar

La Tapenade Mediterranean Café Travelers Aid B5

l

ne

n Tu B8

en

we

t be

e

rs

ou

nc

Co

Nuts on Clark Hudson Brioche Dorée

C B/

Reggio's Chicago Style Pizza Jazz Bar Salad Works

C21

Hudson C22

Spirit of the Red Horse Fresh Market on the Go

Oakley

Reggio's Chicago Style Pizza C24

Starbucks Duty Free Store CNN Newsstand Chicago

ES

C23

Berghoff Cafe

Mamava Lactation Pod C26

Hudson

B9

C25

/ T IC

C28

KE

C27

TI NG

R LEVEL

Jamba Juice

UR

secake na Beef

InMotion

RT

y Bank xchange

C20

B7

PA

um

C19

Mamava Lactation Pod The Bronze Pizza

DE

ops

Hoypoloi, An Uncommon Gallery Johnston & Murphy Hudson Nonstop

Manchu Wok Café Zoot!

Billy Goat Tavern & Grill

C18A

Barbara's Bookstore Tortas Frontera by Rick Bayless McDonald’s

B10

Mother’s Room

B11

Shoe Hospital Hudson B12

Terminal Getaway Spa

Chili’s Great American Bagel Company Pronto Sandwiches Hudson Dunkin’ Express

B14

Hudson B16

B18

B17

Tuscany Café B19

Hudson B24 B23 B22

B21

near Gate G1, K15, T1 Ticketing/Pre-Security

The Bronze Pizza Gate B7 The Bronze Tap Gate K4 Bubbles Wine Bar Gate H4 Burger Federation Gate L21 Burrito Beach Gate K4 Café Descartes T1, T3 Baggage Claims Café Zoot! Gate C19 Carry Out Carry On Gate E2 CHI Life Market Gate C27 Chicago Cubs Bar & Grill T3 Rotunda/near Gate G1 Chili’s Gates B14 , F9 , G10 , H2 Ciao Gourmet Market Gate C15, T1 Baggage Claim CIBO Express Gourmet Market Gates E1, H1 Connect Bar Gate F3 Dunkin’ Gates F9, H5 Dunkin’ Express Gate B14 Eat Well. Travel Further. Gate F20 Eli’s Cheesecake - Home Run Inn Pizza Vienna Beef Gate B9 Facades Bar Gate K15 Farmers Market T3 Rotunda/near Gate G1 Fresh Market on the Go Gate C23 Fulton Street Cafe Gate H14 Galileo Bar & Grill Gate B19 Garrett Popcorn Shops Gates B8, H2 Gold Coast Dogs Gate L4 Goose Island Beer Company Gates B1 , C10,

C32 C31

Gates B14, H10, K1, T3 Rotunda/near Gate G1

Green Market Gates H6, L3 Half Moon Empanadas T3 Rotunda/near Gate G1 Home Run Inn Pizza Gates E5, C11 ICE Dishes & Drinks Gate L1 Jamba Juice Gate B7 Jazz Bar Gate C19 La Tapenade Mediterranean Café Gates B4, E9, H14 Macaroni Grill Gate K2 Manchu Wok Gate C19, T3 Rotunda/near Gate G1, H5 McDonald’s Gates B11, C10, F7, H5, H9, K9, L4 Nuts on Clark Gates C19, E4, H8, T5 Baggage Claim O’Briens Restaurant & Bar Gate H5 Pronto Sandwiches Gate B14 Publican Tavern Gate K1 Reggio's Chicago Style Pizza Gates C19, C22, G8, K4 Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory Gate H5 Rush Street Bar Gate H14 Salad Works Gate C19 Skybridge Bar & Grill Gate F15 Skyscrapers Bar Gate K9 Smoothie King/The Grove Gate B6 Stanley’s Blackhawks Kitchen & Tap Gate E5 Starbucks Gates B5, B9 , C17, E2 , E11, H1, H6, K4

Galileo Bar & Grill

B20

C30

CHI Life Market C29

Barbara’s Bookstore Gates B10, C15, E5, G1B, H4 Brighton Gate H3 Brooks Brothers Gate H3 Brookstone Gates C11, H3 ChiBoys Gate H6 CNN Newsstand Chicago Gates B9, H5 Coach T2 Main Hall Dufry Gates M15, M20 Duty Free Store Gates B9, F5, K5 Field Museum Gate B8 Headphone Hub T2 Main Hall Hoypoloi, An Uncommon Gallery Gates B6, E5 Hudson News & Gifts T1, T2, T3 Terminal Locations,

Great American Bagel Company

Seaway Bank Foreign Currency Exchange

C18

America's Dog Starbucks Travelers Aid

SHOP

America’s Dog Gate C17 Auntie Anne’s Gates C18, E4 B-Smooth, Smoothies & Salads Gate K4 Beaudevin Wine Bar Gate C17 Berghoff Café Gate C26 Billy Goat Tavern & Grill Gate C19 BJ’s Market Gate K15 Brioche Dorée Gates C21, F19, T3 Rotunda/

L10A

C17

Starbucks Smoothie King/The Grove Vosges Haut-Chocolat B6

Auntie Anne's Hudson

DINE

and T1, T2, T3 Baggage Claims

Hudson Nonstop Gates B6, K1 InMotion Gates B7, H2, K12 Johnston & Murphy Gate B6 MAC Cosmetics T2 Main Hall Oakley Gate B8 Sarah’s Candies Gate F9 Spirit of the Red Horse Gate C21 Sunglass Hut Gates C9, F9, K5 Talie Gate H1 Vosges Haut-Chocolat Gates B6, H4

RELAX Terminal Getaway Spa Gates B12, H1 Yoga Room T3 Mezzanine Level of Rotunda/near Gate G1

SERVICES & AMENITIES ATMs Gates B9, C18, E5, F1, F11, H2, H6, K4, L2, T1, T2 Upper Level before Security, T3 Rotunda/near Gate G1 and T1, T2, and T3 Baggage Claims

Chapel T2, Mezzanine Level (Pre-Security) CLEAR Lanes T1, T2 Upper Level/Ticketing Fly with Butch O’Hare Family Lounge Terminal 2 Main Hall near Gate F3

Mamava Lactation Pod Gates B7, C11, C23, E1, F1 near Family Lounge, G12, K1, K5, K19, L24

Mother’s Room Gates B10, F8, T3 Rotunda/near Gate G1

Seaway Bank - Foreign Currency Exchange Gates B9, C18, F1, K10

Service Animal Relief Area Gates C10, L26, T3 Rotunda/near Gate G1, T1, and T2 Lower Levels (Outside)

Shoe Hospital Gates B10, K2 Travelers Aid Gates B8, C18, F4, K2, T2 Main Hall USO T2, Mezzanine Level (Pre-Security) T3, Mezzanine Level of the Rotunda/near Gate G1

, L1, L21

Subway T3 Rotunda/near Gate G1 Summer House Santa Monica T2 Main Hall Tortas Frontera by Rick Bayless Gates B10, K4 Tuscany Café Gate B18 Veteran Roasters / Brown Sugar Bakery Gate K15 Wicker Park Gate C1 Wicker Park Seafood & Sushi Bar Gate E1 Wolfgang Puck Express Gate K12

FULL-SERVICE RESTAURANT 24 HOUR LOCATION * Hours for restaurants and retailers may vary from actual hours until further notice.

FIND YOUR WAY: FLYCHICAGO.COM SUMMER 2026 59 AIRCHICAGOMAGAZINE.COM

CHICAGO O’HARE INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT TERMINAL 5

DINE

Bar Siena Gate M34 Big Bowl Gate M11 Burger King Gate M11 Butcher & The Burger Gate M26 CHI Life Market Gate M4 Chicago Neighborhood Market & Goods Gate M9 Chick-fil-A Gate M10 The Dearborn Gate M17 Dunkin’ Gate M16 Dunkin’ & Baskin Robbins T5 Baggage Claim Garrett Popcorn Shops Gates M10 (Cart), M18 The Goddess and Grocer T5 Ticketing/Pre-Security The Hampton Social Gate M5 Hub 51 Gate M16 McDonald’s T5 Baggage Claim Metropolis Coffee Company Gate M30 Nuts on Clark T5 Baggage Claim Protein Bar & Kitchen Gates M15, M25 (Kiosk) Publican Quality Bread Gate M5 R.J. Grunts Gate M16 Tocco Gate M11 Tortas Frontera by Rick Bayless Gate M18 Urban Olive Gate M16 Wow Bao Gate M16

GETTING AROUND ORD Airport Transportation System (ATS)

Terminal Transfer Bus

The Airport Transportation System (ATS) is operating 24/7 to service passengers to and from Terminals 1, 2, 3 and 5, as well as the Multi-Modal Facility (MMF) for rental cars, Economy Parking Lot F, Kiss ‘n’ Fly, Pace buses and Metra.

Passengers with connecting flights can use the secure airside bus service between Terminal 5 and Terminals 1 and 3 to avoid exiting and re-entering security. For bus stop locations and operating hours, visit flychicago.com/TransferBus.

DINE

LEGEND

SHOP

RELAX

SERVICE/AMENITY

FULL-SERVICE RESTAURANT 24 HOUR LOCATIONS

Mother’s

– Dunkin’ Gates H5, M16 – Dunkin’ & Baskin Robbins T5 Arrivals

– Evolve by Hudson Gate M14

M21

– Starbucks Gates B9, E2, K4

SHOP

M24

BLVD & Branch Gate M30 Brookstone Gate M11 Dufry Gates M15, M20 Evolve by Hudson Gate M14 Gallery ORD Gate M16 Hudson News & Gifts Gate M20 and T5 Baggage Claims I Love Chicago Gate M11 InMotion Gate M29 Six Points Market Gate M30

Interfaith Room

Protein Bar & Kitchen Kiosk M26 M27

Butcher & The Burger InMotion

SERVICES & AMENITIES

BLVD & Branch

ATMs Gate M18 and T5 Arrivals CLEAR Lanes T5 Departures Interfaith Room Gate M25 Mother’s Room Gates M8, M20, M32, M37 Seaway Bank - Foreign Currency Exchange

M28 M29

M30

Six Points Market Metropolis Coffee Company

Gate M14, T5 Arrivals

Service Animal Relief Area Gates M8, M28, T5 Sterile Corridor, T5 Baggage Claim

M32

Bar Siena Mother’s Room

M33

Travelers Aid Gate M15, T5 Upper Level/Ticketing, and T5 Baggage Claim

M34

Mother’s Room

M35

M36 M37

FULL-SERVICE RESTAURANT 24 HOUR LOCATION * Hours for restaurants and retailers may vary from actual hours until further notice.

M38 M39

M40

FIND YOUR WAY: FLYCHICAGO.COM AIRCHICAGOMAGAZINE.COM 60 SUMMER 2026

M25

s Room

TERMINAL 5 CONCOURSE M Gallery ORD The Dearborn

Travelers Aid

M16 M15

Garrett Popcorn Shops

M17

Protein Bar & Kitchen Evolve by Hudson

M14

Tortas Frontera

by Rick Bayless

M13

Seaway Bank - Foreign Currency Exchange I Love Chicago Big Bowl

M18

Brookstone M19

Tocco

M11

Hudson Dufry

M10

D E PA R

M20

TURES

/ TICK

Garrett Popcorn Cart

ETING

Chick-fil-A Chicago Neighborhood Market & Goods

Hub 51 R.J. Grunts Urban Olive Wow Bao Dunkin’

Snacks, drinks, essentials & more.

Burger King

CLEAR Lanes Travelers Aid The Goddess and Grocer

M8

Dufry

Mother’s Room The Hampton Social M7

M6

Chi Life Market M5

M4

Publican Quality Bread

TERMINAL 5 BAGGAGE CLAIM / LOWER LEVEL

M3

Hudson Dunkin' & Baskin Robbins McDonald’s Nuts on Clark Travelers Aid Seaway Bank Foreign Currency Exchange Service Animal Relief Areas (Post Security)

AeroMexico Air France Air India Air Serbia • American Airlines

Arajet Austrian Airlines Avelo Airlines Avianca Airlines • British Airways

• ANA

Cathay Pacific Airways Copa Airlines

(International Arrivals only) (International Arrivals only)

(International Arrivals only)

Delta EgyptAir Emirates Ethiopian Airlines Etihad Airways EVA Air Finnair Frontier Airlines

• Iberia

(International Arrivals only)

Icelandair ITA Airways • Japan Airlines (JAL)

(International Arrivals only)

KLM Royal Dutch Korean Air

M2 M1

To

Terminals (via ATS)

LOT Polish Airlines • Lufthansa

(International Arrivals only)

Qatar Airways Royal Jordanian Scandinavian Airlines (SAS) Sun Country SWISS

To

Terminals (via ATS)

TAP Air Portugal Turkish Airlines • United Airlines

(International Arrivals only)

Viva Volaris WestJet

• Denotes airlines with international service departing from Terminals 1, 2 & 3 and arriving into Terminal 5.

GET CONNECTED

fly2ohare

SUMMER 2026 61 AIRCHICAGOMAGAZINE.COM

CHICAGO MIDWAY INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT CONCOURSES A | B | C B23

B25

CONCOURSE

B

B26

Hudson Nonstop The Orange Line

B21

B24

Home Run Inn

O N TH E C O N C O URSES

B22

Camden food co.

Dunkin’ Express

Woodgrain Nea

B20

Toilets ATM

B18

Toilets B15

R.J. Grunts

A

B16

Mr. Beef Porkchop Garrett Popcorn Shops

CONCOURSE

Hudson News & Gifts

B11 B14

ATM

B9

Hubbard Inn

B12 A19

Chicago Sports

A17 A15 A11

A14

A9 A12

Toilets

A10

ink by Hudson ATM

Toilets B2

Cielo Cantina Einstein Bros. Bagels Fannie May Seating Zone A7 FAO Schwarz Hudson News & Gifts

Chapel Mezzanine Level

Seaway Bank and Trust Company Currency Exchange

A5

B1

Central Market

ATM

Toilets A3

A2

A1

Toilets

SEE DETAILED VIEW ON OPPOSITE PAGE

SEE DETAILED VIEW BELOW

Departures News Specialty Vending

B3

Johnston & Murphy

Concourse A Food Hall

Fuel Bar

ReR

B5 B8

Harry Caray’s Shortstop

Big Shoulders Coffee Toilets

A4A

B10

Southside News

A16

Toilets

Big City Chicken

B7

Toilets

A18

A4B

ink by Hudson iStore Adult Changing Table

B17

ATM Pet Relief Toilets Lactation Pod

Gameway

The Specialty Kids Play Battle of Atrium Vending Area Midway Exhibit

C2 C3

Specialty Vending

Security Checkpoint EXIT

CONCOURSE

C

BAGGAGE CLAIM LOWER LEVEL:

C O N C O U RS E A F O O D HA L L

Chicago Police Department Yoga Room Mother’s Room USO Hudson C1 News & Gifts

Main Terminal Pet Relief Area

Café Descartes

Ticket Counters Upper Level Departures

Hudson News & Gifts

Ticket Counters Upper Level Departures

Outside of Baggage Claim Entrance Door 4

Specialty Vending Toilet

Toilet

To Gates

A9 - A19

Arami Woodgrain Neapolitan Pizzeria Billy Goat Tavern

Reilly’s Daughter

iStore

LEGEND

EAT

SHOP

RELAX

SERVICE/AMENITY

Nuts on Clark

AIRLINES To Concourse

B, C and Central Market Toilet

To Gates

A4A and A4B

Lactation Pod Pet Relief

ATM

AIRCHICAGOMAGAZINE.COM 62 SUMMER 2026

Delta Porter Southwest Volaris Allegiant Air

Southwest

Frontier Public Charters

For the most up to date map, locations, and additional info on the airport visit FlyChicago.com Sarah’s Candies To Concourse

B

Big Bowl Tallboy Taco

Beecher's Handmade Cheese

Garrett Popcorn Shops

C EN TRA L M A R K ET

Gene’s Bistro

Toilets

America's Dog & Burger Connie's Pizza

apolitan Pizzeria

B2

B1

Central Market Seating Zone The Club MDW

ATMs

M Burger Dunkin' Donuts

EVOLVE by Hudson TUMI Se

White Sox Bar & Grill

g in at

MAC Cosmetics/Jo Malone

Toilets

Specialty Vending Chapel

Mezzanine Level

eilly’s Daughter

To Concourse

To Concourse

A

C

Seating

Baggage

Claim Security Checkpoint Security Checkpoint

Reilly's Daughter

EXIT

Chicago Police Dept.

Mother’s Room Specialty Vending USO Yoga Room Toilets

Main Terminal EAT

SHOP

SERVICES & AMENITIES

America’s Dog & Burger Central Market Arami Concourse A Food Hall Beecher’s Handmade Cheese Central Market Big Bowl Central Market Big City Chicken Gate B7 Big Shoulders Coffee Gate A14 Billy Goat Tavern and Grill Concourse A Food Hall Café Descartes Baggage Claim Camden food co. Gate B20 Cielo Cantina Gate A7 Connie’s Pizza Central Market Dunkin’ Central Market Dunkin’ Express Gate B21 Einstein Bros. Bagels Gate A7 Fuel Bar Gate A4A Garrett Popcorn Shops Central Market, Gate B14 Gene’s Bistro Central Market Harry Caray’s Shortstop Gate A9 Home Run Inn Gate B17 Hubbard Inn Gate B7 M Burger Central Market Mr. Beef Gate B14 Nuts on Clark Baggage Claim, Concourse A Food Hall,

Chicago Sports Gate B10 Departures News Gate A4B EVOLVE by Hudson Central Market Fannie May Gate A5 FAO Schwarz Gate A5 Hudson News & Gifts Baggage Claim, Gates A5, B9, C1 Hudson Nonstop Gate B21 ink by Hudson Gate A9, B17 iStore Concourse A Food Hall, Gate B17 Johnston & Murphy Gate B8 MAC Cosmetics/Jo Malone Central Market Sarah’s Candies Central Market Southside News Gate A11 Specialty Vending Central Market The Atrium Gate A5 TUMI Central Market

Adult Changing Table Gate B15 ATMs Concourse A Food Hall, Gates A1, A8,

Gate A4A, Gate A5, Gate C1 Tallboy Taco Central Market

The Orange Line Gate B21 White Sox Bar & Grill Central Market Woodgrain Neapolitan Pizzeria Concourse A Food Hall SIT-DOWN SERVICE

OPEN 24 HOURS

Outside Baggage Claim Door 4

Seaway Bank and Trust Company Currency Exchange Gate A1 Toilets Concourse A Food Hall, Central Market, All Concourses, Baggage Claim

USO Concourse C Yoga Room Concourse C

RELAX

Easy food pick up at your fingertips

Battle of Midway Exhibit Gate A1 Central Market Seating Zone Central Market Gameway Gate A5 Kids Play Area Gate A5 Seating Zone Gate A5 The Club MDW Gate B1

Order from your phone

Scan the QR Code or visit GoEatMDW.com. * Map subject to change through 2026.

Check out new changes on MDWMOD.com or FlyChicago.com

AIRCHICAGO 04.09.2026

Gate A5, Central Market

Porkchop Gate B14 Reilly’s Daughter Concourse A Food Hall, Central Market R.J. Grunts Gate B16 Specialty Vending Baggage Claim, Central Market,

Central Market, B9, B18

Chapel Concourse C, Mezzanine Level Chicago Police Department Concourse C Lactation Pod Concourse A Food Hall Mother’s Room Concourse C Pet Relief Concourse A Food Hall,

VISIT flychicago.com

SUMMER 2026 63 AIRCHICAGOMAGAZINE.COM

CROSSWORD & SUDOKU

Air Chicago 5/26 Crossword

PuzzleJunction.com

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 Across 44 Holier ___ thou 1 Tibetan monk 45 Circle segments 14 15 16 5 Accumulate 46 Mongoose-like 10 Crate component animal of South 17 18 19 14 “Paradise Lost,” Africa 20 21 22 23 e.g.

49 One who works 15 “American Buffalo” the land 24 25 26 playwright 52 Baker’s unit 27 28 29 30 16 Frau’s partner 53 CEO’s degree 17 Sister of King 54 Ballet move 31 32 33 34 35 Arthur 55 Makes level 18 City on the 57 Navy commando 36 37 38 Mohawk 58 Puccini piece 39 40 41 19 Exchange premium 59 Chew the 20 Bishop’s scenery 42 43 44 jurisdiction 60 Excited about 45 46 47 48 21 Gravity-powered 61 Beethoven’s vehicle birthplace 49 50 51 52 53 22 Satirical mimicry 62 Points at the 24 Troubles dinner table 54 55 56 57 26 George Sand’s 63 British 58 59 60 “___ et lui” submachine gun 27 Racetrack tipster 61 62 63 28 Sanctified Down 31 Gesture indicating 1 Chow line?

Copyright ©2026 PuzzleJunction.com indifference 2 Sleeping disorder 49 Spare tire 33 Where “Aida” 3 Vegetable soup 13 “Iliad” city 35 Ruby, e.g.

50 Prefix with premiered 4 Air hero 21 Wallop 37 Prudent 34 “Valmont” actress 5 It works like a 23 In addition 38 Wing-shaped nautical 51 Downpour Tilly charm 25 Music category 40 Engage 36 Plane, e.g.

6 Bro’s, in Australia 26 High society 41 Recipe follower 52 Nicaragua’s second-largest 37 Bad impressions?

7 In the thick of 28 Hair style 43 Asian skiff city 38 Cutting the 8 Dry, as wine 29 Rampart 44 Makes fun of mustard 9 Desk items 30 Pastrami playfully 56 Lexington, VA school 39 Hither’s partner 10 Stock units purveyor 46 ___ Carlo 57 Family 11 Danish 31Chicago Mud hole 47 Taper PuzzleJunction.com off 26 Very-Easy Sudoku 40 Door part Air Chicago 5/26 Medium Sudoku toy PuzzleJunction.com Air 5/26 Hard Sudoku nickname 41 Prospector’s right company 32 Tough guy 48 Bird of prey’s 42 Stops 12 Like the Sahara 33 Small change picker-upper

To solve the Sudoku puzzle, each row, column and box must contain the numbers 1 to 9.

Level: Easy

5

To solve the Sudoku puzzle, each row, column and box must contain the numbers 1 to 9.

Level: Medium

3 8

2 1 6 7 2 4 1 4 3 9 8 5 2 3 9 8 4 1 5 7 5 1 2 9 1 6 2 7

2

4

8 5

Copyright ©2026 PuzzleJunction.com

AIRCHICAGOMAGAZINE.COM 64 SUMMER 2026

3 7

6 7 5 4 1 7

7 4

3 7 3

4 1 5 8

9

1 2

9 4 6 5 2

2

9

To solve the Sudoku puzzle, each row, column and box

must contain the numbers 1 to 9.

Level: Hard

5 8

6 7 3 9

2 8 6 9 1 2

Solution - next page

6

1 4 6 7

Copyright ©2026 PuzzleJunction.com

Copyright ©2026 PuzzleJunction.com

3

5

Solutions on page 5

Puzz

A D E FIN ITIVE TOP STEAKHOUSE — Chicago Magazine A F E AST FO R THE E YES | Winner : "Best D esign" — Jean Banchet Awards "A M AST E R PIECE from MICHE L I N STAR R E D CHE F JE NNE R TO M ASKA"

CHICAGO'S NEW GOLD STANDARD 750 N. STATE STREET, CHICAG O

|

T H E A LSTO N . CO M | 3 1 2 . 5 4 8 . 2 5 56

Our promise NO Artificial Flavors NO Synthetic Colors NO Artificial Sweeteners NO High Fructose Corn Syrup NO Hydrogenated Fats

Whether you’re sprinting for a connection, boarding an overnight flight, or simply craving something honest between gates, Eat Well. Travel Further. is your travel companion.

Fresh, thoughtfully-made food options, so you feel ready for wherever your trip takes you.

Now available in select locations at Chicago O’Hare International Airport.