Lollapalooza isn't just a music festival
It's Chicago's biggest summer celebration, bringing music lovers, foodies, and artists together in Grant Park for four unforgettable days. Before you head out, here's everything you need to know to make the most of your festival experience, from packing essentials to post-show nightlife.
2026 Dates: TBD- Stay Tuned!
2026 Hours: Gates open 11:00am daily; performances run until about 10:00pm each night
Step One: Packing Essentials (Allowed Items Only!)
Lolla has strict guidelines, so pack smart and stress-free:
- Clear bags (maximum 12"x6"x12") or small clutch purses/fanny packs (up to 6"x9").
- Your ID
- Personal misting fans
- Empty reusable water bottle (plastic or metal - no glass or aerosol containers).
- Factory-sealed plastic water bottles (two maximum, 1 liter each).
- Non-aerosol sunscreen (personal-sized, sealed container, max 3 oz).
- Hand sanitizer (personal-sized, sealed, 2 oz max).
- Earplugs - you'll thank yourself later!
- Prescription medication (with your matching ID)
Leave these items at home to breeze through security faster:
- NO blankets or towels
- NO aerosol sprays (including sunscreen or bug spray)
- NO chairs or inflatables
- NO outside food or beverages of any kind
- NO umbrellas
- NO professional cameras or audio equipment
For informational use only. Double check Lolla's official policy here before you head out!
Step Two: Getting to Grant Park from Hyde Park
Staying at Sophy Hyde Park puts you close enough for easy transit, yet far enough away to actually relax at night.
Here's your winning game plan:
- Metra Electric Line: Board at the 55th/56th/57th Street station and ride directly to Millennium Station, just a short walk from festival gates.
- CTA Bus (#6 Jackson Park Express): Picks up along Hyde Park Boulevard; drops you conveniently near Grant Park
- Rideshare: Get dropped off a few blocks from Grant Park (try Michigan Avenue & 11th Street) to avoid heavy traffic.
- Bike: Grant Park offers a convenient, free bike valet near the festival entrances.
From your Hyde Park home base, the festival gates are only about 15 minutes away!
Step Three: A look back at Lolla 2025! (Get Excited for 2026)
The Lollapalooza 2025 lineup was incredible, featuring more than 170 artists. Here were some of the headliners:
- Tyler, The Creator – Kicking off the festival on Thursday night, bringing his dynamic hip-hop beats at 9:00 PM on the T-Mobile Stage
- Luke Combs – Country music star bringing soulful vocals and memorable tunes to the Bud Light Stage at 8:30 PM Thursday.
- Olivia Rodrigo – Taking the spotlight Friday night at 8:40 PM on the T-Mobile Stage, ready to captivate with her emotional pop hits.
- Korn – Legendary nu-metal rockers will electrify Friday evening, performing at 8:30 PM on the Bud Light Stage.
- RÜFÜS DU SOL – Electronic dance trio lighting up Saturday night with atmospheric rhythms at 8:45 PM, T-Mobile Stage.
- TWICE – Internationally acclaimed K-pop sensations performing Saturday night at 8:30 PM, Bud Light Stage.
- Sabrina Carpenter – Closing out Sunday with vibrant pop anthems, 9:00 PM on the T-Mobile Stage.
- A$AP Rocky – Ending the festival on a high-energy note Sunday night, performing from 8:45 PM to 10:00 PM on the Bud Light Stage.
Explore the full official Lollapalooza schedule to plan your festival itinerary.
Insider Festival Tips:
- Download the official Lollapalooza app (Apple) (Android) to build your custom schedule.
- Play it safe and set multiple meet up points (Ferris wheel, merch tent, or Perry's arch).
- Fill your reusable water bottle at free hydration stations throughout Grant Park
- Reserve a locker: Lockers are available for General Admission, VIPs, and Platinum guests. Book your locker in advance here as supplies are limited!
Step Four: The Night Doesn't End at Lolla! (Chicago Nightlife)
When the festival closes, the city comes alive. Check out these late-night hotspots:
Near Grant Park:
- Cindy's Rooftop – Sip craft cocktails with unbeatable panoramic views overlooking Millennium Park and Lake Michigan.
- Girl & The Goat – It's helmed by celebrity chef Stephanie Izard and is known for its bold, globally inspired small plates and energetic atmosphere. It's often mentioned in the same breath as the city's top culinary destinations.
- ROOF on the Wit – Set 27 stories above it all, ROOF has earned international acclaim for its expressive design and entertainment, sweeping skyline views, and unique hand-crafted cocktails and cuisine.
- LH Rooftop – Legendary views of the Chicago skyline
Hyde Park Favorites:
- Mesler Chicago – A favorite among Hyde Park locals, Mesler Chicago is one of the city's best-kept secrets - where seasonal cuisine and an intimate outdoor lounge set the scene.
- 14 Parish Restaurant & Rhum Bar – A lively spot with upscale Caribbean plates and an extensive rum list. The decor is colorful and warm, and the vibe feels festive but elevated.
- Virtue – Run by chef Erick Williams, Virtue combines elevated Southern cuisine with refined hospitality
Step Five: Relax, Recover, Repeat
Lolla is a marathon, not a race. Take some downtime to recharge:
- Relax at Promontory Point or Nichols Park - ideal spots for peaceful walks, sunset viewing, or a casual picnic.
- Spend a few hours at The Griffin Museum of Science and Industry or tour Frank Lloyd Wright's Iconic Robie House.
Final Festival Prep Tips
- Charge Up: Bring a portable charger - outlets are rare. Bonus points if you have a solar charger!
- Layer Up: Chicago weather changes fast; wear layers you can easily stash in your clear bag or locker.
- Stay Connected: Cell service can be unreliable, so choose meet-up spots beforehand and stick to them, or band together with a Totem Compass, a small, screen‑free friend‑finding device designed for festivals. It uses satellite and mesh‑network technology to help you navigate to your group in crowded environments - no Wi‑Fi or cell signal needed
- Capture the Moment: Share your festival photos tagging @TheSophyHotel and using #SophyLolla for a chance to be featured!