This Week in South Loop & Chinatown: Free Museums and Jaws

Your week-ahead guide to South Loop & Chinatown — 5 picks worth planning around

By Raj Singh · Published June 21, 2026.

A rainy stretch early in the week is practically an invitation to spend it indoors on Museum Campus — and this week stacks two Illinois-resident free days plus a Shedd-hosted Jaws screening. Bring a valid ID and reserve ahead; the free slots sell out.

SUNDAY 6/21

Make Music Chicago: Sousapalooza @ Ping Tom Park

A free, all-ages brass blowout at Ping Tom Memorial Park in Chinatown for the citywide Make Music Chicago day. Late-morning start along the river.

You’re in Chinatown — walk over to MingHin for dim sum and the shrimp har gow.

TUESDAY 6/23

Illinois Resident Free Evening @ Shedd Aquarium

Free 5–9 PM admission for Illinois residents (a $5 online fee per order, or call to skip it), Stingray Touch included. Reserve ahead — these book up.

After, the matzo ball soup at Eleven City Diner on Wabash.

WEDNESDAY 6/24

Illinois Resident Free Day @ Field Museum

Free general admission for Illinois residents all day, 9 AM–5 PM, proof of residency required. SUE the T. rex on a rainy Wednesday is a fine call.

Lunch nearby at Flo & Santos in the South Loop — the Polish-Mexican mashup, get the pierogi.

WEDNESDAY 6/24

Shedd Presents “Jaws” @ Music Box Theatre

Shedd Aquarium hosts Spielberg’s classic on the big screen with aquarium experts on hand to separate shark fact from movie fiction. 7 PM.

The Music Box bar pours wine and beer, so settle in.

THURSDAY 6/25

South Loop Farmers Market @ 1936 S. Michigan

The neighborhood market runs 4–8 PM on Michigan Ave — produce, flowers, and prepared food to round out the week.

Stock up, then a smash burger at Half Sour on Dearborn.

Plan around the rest — see more South Loop & Chinatown events.