Unwind After the Show with Sports, Food, and Local Flavor
FABTECH 2025 is just around the corner, taking place September 8–11, 2025, at McCormick Place in Chicago. After a full day on the show floor, the city is packed with options to make the most of your evenings—whether you’re catching a game, grabbing a great meal, or kicking back with colleagues.
From iconic sports venues to legendary steakhouses, here’s your guide to the best things to do in Chicago after hours during FABTECH 2025.
Experience Chicago's Legendary Sports Scene
Chicago is one of the top cities in the U.S. for live sports—and FABTECH week lands right in the middle of the action:
Catch a Chicago Cubs game at historic Wrigley Field as they host the Washington Nationals and Tampa Bay Rays during show week.
The Chicago White Sox are also playing at Guaranteed Rate Field against the Rays—perfect for a post-show night out.
Monday Night Football: The Chicago Bears kick off their season at home on September 8 with a Monday Night Football matchup at Soldier Field. Expect an electric atmosphere across the city.
Where to Eat, Drink, and Hang Out After the Show
Chicago’s food scene is second to none. When the show wraps, there’s no shortage of places to refuel, unwind, or network with your crew:
Steakhouses & Classic Chicago Eats: Try Gibsons, RPM Steak, or Chicago Cut for a true Chicago steakhouse experience. Or grab a slice of deep-dish pizza from Lou Malnati’s, Giordano’s, or Pequod’s.
Craft Beer & Whiskey Bars: Check out Revolution Brewing, Maple & Ash’s extensive whiskey list, or The Aviary if you want cocktails with a show.
Neighborhood Hangouts: For something more low-key, head to West Loop, Wicker Park, or River North for great bars, casual dining, and late-night eats.
Nighttime Activities for Exploring the City
Looking for something to do beyond the bar? Chicago comes alive at night:
Architecture River Cruise (Evening Tours Available) – See the skyline lit up while learning about the city’s world-renowned buildings.
Comedy Clubs – Catch a show at The Second City or Zanies Comedy Club for a night of laughs.
Live Music – Check out Buddy Guy’s Legends, House of Blues, or local venues for blues, jazz, or rock.
Skydeck Chicago at Night – Head up to the Willis Tower and step out onto the glass Ledge for city views under the stars.
Family in Tow? Here’s What They Can Do During the Day
If you’re bringing the family, Chicago’s packed with daytime attractions to keep everyone entertained while you’re at FABTECH:
Navy Pier: Ride the Centennial Wheel, visit the Children’s Museum, or stroll along the lake.
Museum Campus: Home to the Shedd Aquarium, Field Museum, and Adler Planetarium—all close to McCormick Place.
Millennium Park & Grant Park: Visit the Bean, relax in the gardens, or enjoy the splash fountains.
Lincoln Park Zoo: Free and fun for kids of all ages.
Make the Most of FABTECH 2025
Between the networking, tech demos, and education sessions on the show floor, there’s a full lineup of after-hours fun waiting for you in Chicago. Whether you’re catching a ballgame, digging into a steak, or taking in the skyline, there’s no shortage of ways to make this trip one to remember.
Register now for FABTECH 2025 and get ready to experience everything Chicago has to offer—on and off the show floor.