Theatre tickets and OHC tips

Question

Hi,

I’m visiting Chicago Oct 16th-19th - staying at Weston River North.

I am thinking of booking tickets to see Book of Mormon at the CIBC - when i go to the theatre in London it’s often a bit last minute and i use a discount ticket site - is there one that people recommend please or is it better just to go direct?

On the Saturday night planning to watch the Arts in the Dark parade - any tips for good viewing spots? (And thank you to the person who mentioned this in a comment - it looks fun!). Thinking of going to either Cindy’s or Frontera Grill after if that helps with possible locations.

And last question (for this post 😬) - I am planning to spend some time Saturday morning and Sunday morning seeing some of the OHC locations- but there are a lot to chose from so I would love to hear which are your favourites! On the Sunday morning, to set us up for the day and long flight hope thinking of brunch at Lou Mitchell’s if again that helps with potential locations.

Thank you all for your insights 😊

Answer

Visiting Chicago for mid-October sounds like a fantastic trip! Here are detailed suggestions for your theatre plans, Arts in the Dark parade, and Open House Chicago (OHC) visits.

Theatre Tickets: For shows like Book of Mormon at the CIBC Theatre, you have a few options:

Buying direct from the theatre box office or the official website guarantees your seat and avoids potential scams. This is usually the safest and simplest route.
Discount ticket sites such as TodayTix, TKTS (the Chicago location near Water Tower Place), or Goldstar can offer last-minute or discounted tickets, but availability varies and popular shows like Book of Mormon often sell quickly. If you want flexibility and potential savings, checking these sites a week or two in advance is reasonable.
Consider signing up for theatre newsletters or alerts—they sometimes release “rush” tickets or discounts for specific dates.

Arts in the Dark Parade: This parade takes place Saturday night, typically in the downtown area near Millennium Park or along Michigan Avenue. For optimal viewing:

Arrive early to secure a spot; sidewalks fill up quickly, especially near intersections and prime viewing areas near Millennium Park or Daley Plaza.
Since you’re planning to go to Cindy’s (with its rooftop views) or Frontera Grill afterward, consider catching the parade near these locations so you can walk there for dinner afterward.
Bring blankets or small foldable chairs if allowed, and wear warm layers—it can get chilly in October evenings.

Open House Chicago (OHC) Locations: With limited time Saturday and Sunday mornings, it’s best to focus on a mix of architecture and unique interiors. Some favorites include:

Historical landmarks in the Loop such as the Rookery Building (don’t miss the lobby designed by Frank Lloyd Wright) and the Monadnock Building.
Private residences or modern architectural gems in River North—these often offer interior tours that showcase Chicago’s evolving design scene.
Smaller, quirky venues like repurposed industrial spaces, galleries, or historic clubs—these are usually less crowded and provide an intimate look.

Brunch Options: Lou Mitchell’s is a classic choice on Sunday morning before your flight. Arrive early to avoid lines, as it’s very popular. Other nearby options if you want a slightly quieter brunch:

Wildberry Pancakes & Cafe near Millennium Park for hearty breakfast and coffee.
The Gage, offering a slightly upscale brunch in a casual setting.

Overall, plan your Saturday and Sunday mornings carefully: prioritize a few OHC sites close together to avoid too much walking or transit time. For the parade, aim for a location that’s convenient to your dinner plans. Booking theatre tickets early through official channels is safest, though discount options are available if you’re flexible.