Thanksgiving in Chicago: Is There Anything Actually Open?
Thanksgiving: a day of gratitude, family, and... panic if you forgot to pick up the cranberry sauce. But fear not, fellow procrastinators! We're here to spill the beans on what's actually open in the Windy City on this most gluttonous of holidays.
Museums: Your Intellectual Escape
Okay, so you've eaten your weight in turkey and mashed potatoes. What now? Well, if you're looking to escape your relatives and engage in some adult conversation, Chicago's museums have got you covered. The Field Museum, Shedd Aquarium, and Adler Planetarium are all open on Thanksgiving, offering a much-needed respite from the chaos. Just remember, don't feed the animals your leftover stuffing.
Movies: A Dark Theater, Your Only Friend
If you're more of a "Netflix and chill" type, then head to the movies. AMC and Landmark Cinemas are open on Thanksgiving, so you can enjoy the latest blockbuster while pretending you're not surrounded by strangers who are also avoiding their families. Just be prepared for a theater full of people who are also stuffing their faces with popcorn.
Restaurants: Because Cooking is Overrated
Let's be honest, cooking a Thanksgiving dinner is a marathon, not a sprint. If you're too exhausted to lift a fork, never mind cook an entire meal, then fear not! Several restaurants in Chicago are open on Thanksgiving, offering everything from traditional turkey dinners to complete culinary adventures. Just be sure to make reservations, or you might end up eating cold pizza.
Shopping: A Black Friday Warm-Up
Okay, so maybe you're not technically shopping on Black Friday, but if you're one of those crazy people who likes to hit the stores immediately after stuffing your face, then good luck to you! While most stores are closed on Thanksgiving, there are a few exceptions, so you can start your holiday shopping early (or just continue your food coma).
What About Everything Else?
Let's face it, most of the world shuts down on Thanksgiving. So don't expect your local grocery store or post office to be open. And if you're planning on visiting the zoo, well, you might be disappointed. But hey, at least you have a good excuse to binge-watch TV all day!
How To... Thanksgiving Survival Guide
- How to survive your relatives: Bring a strong drink and a good book.
- How to avoid cooking: Order takeout or make reservations at a restaurant.
- How to deal with food coma: Take a nap. Or two.
- How to find something to do: Check out museums, movies, or shopping (if you dare).
- How to recover: Eat lots of leftovers and drink plenty of water.
So there you have it, a survival guide to Thanksgiving in Chicago. Remember, the most important thing is to enjoy time with loved ones (or at least tolerate them). Happy Thanksgiving!
