Even in a city as dense and exciting as Chicago, sometimes it can be easy to fall into routine, visiting the same bars, eating at the same restaurants, doing the same things; however, there are so many unique things to do around the Windy City, and a pastime that is quickly becoming one of Chicago’s favorites is magic! 

With a number of theatres becoming established shows in recent years, a magic show can make a great option for a fun and unique night out on the town, especially in the cold winter months.

While a good magician never reveals his secrets, a good journalist always does, which is why we here at Chicago Star are bringing you three of our favorite magic shows that are sure to have you saying voila!

The Chicago Magic Lounge

Hidden behind the wall of a vintage laundromat in Andersonville, the show starts right away at the Chicago Magic Lounge. Guests can first enjoy craft cocktails and curated bites in a beautiful, art-deco-inspired speakeasy where they are treated to some light Chicago-style bar magic. From there, an evening at the Magic lounge proceeds to the cabaret theatre, where magicians start with table-to-table tricks before continuing to some of the most mesmerizing stage acts the city has to offer. The Chicago Magic Lounge hosts shows seven days a week with rotating acts and varying theme nights so that no two visits are ever the same.

Location: 5050 N. Clark St. 

Website: The Chicago Magic Lounge 

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The Magic Parlour

Opened in 2011 in the heart of Chicago’s theatre district, The Magic Parlour is the perfect complement to the famous stages it calls its neighbors. Featuring third-generation magician and mindreader Dennis Watkins, guests can expect to be wowed by one of the finest magic shows the country has to offer. Mixing a signature blend of comedy, stage act, and audience participation, Watkins brings classic showmanship to a bygone craft, creating a unique and vibrant experience for all. 

Watkins says on his website that with his shows, he doesn't aim “to fool people” but rather “to spark their sense of wonder again, to help people remember what it felt like to be a kid.” With a beautifully crafted theatre and fully stocked bar, Watkins does just that, making The Magic Parlour a can't-miss Chicago experience.

Location: 50 W. Randolph St.

Website: The Magic Parlour

Trickery Chicago

Owned and operated by head illusionist Aaron Rabkin, Trickery is an intimate magic experience in the Boystown neighborhood of Chicago that never fails to surprise. Performing six shows a week at his unique storefront that is viewable to passing pedestrians, Rabkin grabs the audience's attention from the jump and lets it go with a 65-minute show that showcases everything from classic card tricks to large-scale illusions and mentalism.

Location: 3453 N Halsted St.

Website: Trickery Chicago

Whether you're looking for a fun corporate event, a unique date idea, or a night out with the family, be sure to catch one of these truly magical spectacles spreading wonder across the Windy City.