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Chicago

Chicago River is dyed green for St. Patrick's day
Chicago

40 Fun Things to Do In Chicago in March from a Local

by Jessica Mlinaric / February 27, 2026March 10, 2026

Whether you’re into cultural events or green beer, here’s 40 fun things to try in Chicago this spring.

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Chicago River is dyed green
Chicago, Culture

The Secret Behind Dyeing the Chicago River Green

by Jessica Mlinaric / February 24, 2026March 6, 2026

Learn how Chicago Plumbers Local 130 make the emerald magic.

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chicago skyline at sunrise by Jessica Mlinaric
Chicago

50 Fun Things to Do In Chicago in February from a Local

by Jessica Mlinaric / January 27, 2026January 30, 2026

Here’s 50 fun things to try in Chicago this winter

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Snowtrekking at Northerly Island in Chicago
Chicago

55 Fun Things to Do In Chicago in January From a Local

by Jessica Mlinaric / January 1, 2026January 1, 2026

Whether you’re a local or visiting Chicago here are 55 fun things to do

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People browsing outdoor Chicago Christkindlmarket
Chicago

Chicago’s 20 Favorite Christmas Traditions to Enjoy the Holiday Season

by Jessica Mlinaric / December 9, 2025December 18, 2025

Sip mulled wine, visit a festive pop-up, and catch a Christmas performance in Chicago.

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A stained glass window is illuminated with blue and green glass
Chicago

Secret Chicago Printable Calendar – December 2025

by Jessica Mlinaric / December 1, 2025December 1, 2025

Download a free printable calendar for December 2025 featuring one of Chicago’s hidden gems.

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View of downtown Chicago at sunrise
Chicago

50 Fun Things to Do in Chicago in December From a Local

by Jessica Mlinaric / November 25, 2025December 31, 2025

From winter fun to holiday cheer, check out these 50 fun things to try in Chicago this winter.

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Deer at Lincoln Park Zoo in Chicago
Chicago

Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer’s Roots in Chicago

by Jessica Mlinaric / November 17, 2025November 17, 2025

Learn how Chicago inspired a Christmas classic in this video!

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Skyscraper with wavy balconies
Chicago

This Hotel is a Chic Urban Retreat in Chicago’s Loop

by Jessica Mlinaric / November 10, 2025November 11, 2025

This downtown Chicago hotel offers style and service from a prime location.

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Sculpture of a family in a park with orange fall leaves and blue sky
Chicago

Secret Chicago Printable Calendar – November 2025

by Jessica Mlinaric / November 1, 2025November 5, 2025

Download a free printable calendar for November 2025 featuring one of Chicago’s hidden gems.

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About Me

Urban Explorer is a travel blog highlighting history, culture, and hidden gems to inspire curious travelers by Jessica Mlinaric, author of 'Secret Chicago' and 'Chicago Scavenger.'
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