Heading to Chicago for NFDA 2025? Between convention sessions, networking, and booth visits, make sure to carve out some time to experience everything the Windy City has to offer. From world-famous food and legendary sports to live shows, museums, and only-in-Chicago landmarks, there’s something for every kind of traveler.
Whether you’re a die-hard sports fan, a foodie, a culture buff, or just looking to make the most of your trip, this guide will help you plan unforgettable moments while you’re in town for NFDA.
For Funeral Directors at NFDA
Take advantage of all the NFDA Convention has to offer. It’s not just funeral-specific talks, they’ve also planned a host of special outings just for funeral professionals to enjoy the city together, including:
- Secret Food Tour
- City Sightseeing Tour and Ledge Experience
- Chicago TV & Movie Tour
- Architectural River Cruise
- Graceland Cemetery Walking Tour
- Wrigley Field Tour
- And more!
For the Sports Fan
Chicago lives and breathes sports. Whether it’s the roar of the crowd at the United Center, or the sea of jerseys on game day, this city’s passion runs deep. See what games are happening during NFDA below.
Chicago Blackhawks vs. Los Angeles Kings
Oct 26 Sun, 6:00 PM
United Center
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Chicago Bulls vs. Atlanta Hawks
Oct 27 Mon, 7:00 PM
United Center
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Chicago Blackhawks vs. Ottawa Senators
Oct 28 Tues, 7:45 PM
United Center
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Chicago Bulls vs. Sacramento Kings
Oct 29 Wed, 7:00 PM
United Center
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For the Food & Drink Connoisseur
Chicago is a city made for food lovers. From deep-dish pizza and sizzling steakhouses to world-class fine dining, every bite tells part of the city’s story. Whether you’re here for a classic taste of Chicago or a Michelin-star experience, your plate – and your glass – will always be full.
The Best Chicago Deep Dish Pizza
This is a highly fought over and coveted title in Chicago. From Pizzeria Uno, said to be the first, to Pequod’s Pizza with its unique caramelized-crust version, there are endless choices – and opinions. That’s why we’ve included a link to Choose Chicago’s list of must-try spots, so you can pick which one you think best.
Deep Dish Pizza Classes at Pizzeria Uno
Multiple dates
Don’t just try it, become a deep dish pizza pro! Get hands-on experience with expert chefs and learn the secrets of making the famous Chicago-style pizza, like the art of creating the perfect crust, layering toppings, and baking to perfection.
Alinea – 3 Michelin Stars
Experience an innovative approach to modernist cuisine at Alinea, one of only 14 restaurants in the U.S. to hold the coveted Michelin 3-Star rating. Named the Best Restaurant in North America by The World’s 50 Best Restaurants.
Gene & Georgetti
Want to eat at the same place as the stars? From George Sinatra and Bob Hope to Russell Crowe and Will Ferrell, some of the biggest names in entertainment have frequented Chicago’s oldest steakhouse since 1941.
View more top steakhouse options here
The Green Door Tavern and The Drifter
Party like it’s 1921 at Chicago’s oldest tavern. With memorabilia from days long past and a continued motto of “eat, drink, be merry,” you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience. Plus, look for the green door downstairs to find The Drifter, the only authentic speakeasy room remaining from the days of prohibition
Three Dots and a Dash
Escape the October cold to a tropical tiki bar, right in Chicago. This “island getaway” is sure to be a welcome break from your busy NFDA schedule. Boasting over 300 different rums, freshly squeezed juices and even group cocktail experiences, this is truly a paradise you won’t want to miss.
Add more cocktail bars to your plans here
Revolution Brewing
Visit the largest craft brewery in all of Illinois. Not only that, it’s the 40th largest craft brewery in the country! This spot is loved by locals and tourists alike. From crisp IPA’s to easy drinking ales, there’s a beer for every palette in their wide selection.
Check out over 160 different craft breweries here
Garrett Popcorn
Few things are as iconic to Chicago as Garrett Popcorn. Since 1949, this family-owned shop has been drawing lines around the block. Their signature Garrett Mix – a sweet-and-salty combo of caramel and cheese corn – is a true Chicago staple and a must-try for visitors. Good thing you can try it right inside the Terrybear booth #1247! Stop by to get yours.
For the Show Catcher
Chicago’s stages are always alive with something special – from laugh-out-loud comedy and Broadway classics to intimate chamber music and legendary performers. If you’re looking to add a little entertainment to your trip, here are a few standout options:
Chris Fleming Live Special Taping
Oct 25, 9:00 PM
Cadillac Palace
If you’ve come to Chicago early and want a laugh, this show is for you. Chris Fleming has toured theaters around the country and even appeared in Netflix’s Last Laugh, ABC’s Abbott Elementary and Apple TV’s Loot.
The Sound of Music (Chicago)
Multiple dates and times
James M. Nederlander Theatre
Get a taste of Broadway in Chicago with one of the most famous stories. With its timeless story and irresistibly charming score, featuring beloved songs like “Do-Re-Mi,” “Sixteen Going on Seventeen” and “Edelweiss,” this show will always delight.
Third Times the Charm: Varo String Quartet at Rosehill Cemetery
Oct 28, 7:00PM – 9:00PM
Horatio N May Chapel
For an evening of Halloween-themed classical music, look no further! This show has been carefully curated to both terrify and delight, exploring mortality and transformation through the string quartet medium.
Geoffrey Dean Trio Ft. Charles Owens
Oct 29, 7:30 PM
Evanston SPACE
Explore a variety of contemporary jazz, hard bop, and traditional jazz repertoire with this versatile combination of modern musicians.
An Evening With David Byrne – Who is the Sky Tour
Oct 29, 8:00 PM
The Auditorium
From Psycho Killer to Burning Down the House, the singer/guitar player from Talking Heads is a truly iconic hit-maker. Experience his melodies live in Chicago!
For the Museum Enthusiast
Chicago is home to some of the world’s most iconic museums and cultural institutions. Whether you’re fascinated by art, history, science, or architecture, you’ll find a collection here that brings the city’s rich past and innovative spirit to life.
The Field Museum
Say hi to SUE, the most complete T.rex skeleton ever discovered, along with millions of artifacts and specimens at this haven for natural history.
Art Institute of Chicago
Explore one of the largest collections of Impressionist art outside the Louvre and make sure to visit the breathtaking modern art wing.
Griffin Museum of Science and Industry
If interactive experiences are what you’re looking for this is the place to be. Discover what it’s like to stand in a tornado, step inside a real U-boat, or be spiderman!
Shedd Aquarium
Step into the wonder of the aquatic animal world. From sharks to sea otters, you’ll meet all sorts of sea creatures.
Adler Planetarium
Escape to the stars at the first ever planetarium in the entire Western Hemisphere. Get ready to discover the secrets of the universe and beyond.
Chicago History Museum
For local history buffs, this is the place to be. Go deeper into the story of the WIndy City, from the Great Chicago Fire to the jazz age and more.
Chicago Architecture Center
From city tours to exhibitions, dive into the birth of the skyscraper, the ever-changing Chicago skyline, and more of Chicago’s distinct architecture.
Rosehill Cemetery Tour with Author Adam Selzer
Oct 26, 11 AM – 12:30 PM
Rosehill Cemetery
Take a stroll through history, art, and incredible stories in Chicago’s historic Rosehill Cemetery with local author and historian Adam Selzer. You may even visit the tomb of an actress who performed for Lincoln the night he was shot.
For the Local Culture Explorer
Make sure to get those only-in-Chicago experiences. From famous locations to breathtaking views, the Windy City’s attractions are as bold and unforgettable as its skyline.
Cloud Gate at Millenium Park
Any trip to Chicago is not complete without a selfie with Cloud Gate, aka “The Bean” – the city’s most iconic piece of public art.
The Ledge at Willis Tower
Test your nerves just outside one of the world’s tallest buildings on an all-glass balcony at Skydeck Chicago.
360 CHICAGO
Wine, dine and experience full panoramic views of the Chicago skyline and Lake Michigan from 1,030 feet up.
Chicago Cultural Center
Gaze upon the awe-inspiring, and world’s largest, Tiffany glass dome and enjoy a wide variety of free events and exhibits.
The Magnificent Mile
From getting that new suit look for work to exploring the magic of the Harry Potter shop, the Magnificent Mile is the shopping and entertainment hub of Chicago.
Frank Lloyd Wright’s Robie House
Visit the UNESCO World Heritage site that exemplifies famous architect Frank Wright’s signature Prairie style.
For Those Who Want to Stand Out with Cremation
Want to be the best in the cremation business? There’s only one stop you need to make: Terrybear Urns & Memorials at NFDA. At Booth #1247 & 1147, you’ll find not only a complete cremation partner, but also unique experiences and exciting giveaways.
- New Cascade Scatter Urn with patent-pending dual-lid for a cleaner scatter.
- New DYOU ‘Design Your Own Urn’ Experience
- New Hobby & Lifestyle Urn Collection
- LifeArt Premium Cremation Containers that are Changing Direct Cremations
- Plus don’t have time to make it to Garrett’s Popcorn? No worries, you can get a classic taste of Chicago in the booth.