Hey, festival fans! Get ready to dive into the ultimate Lollapalooza 2025 guide, your go-to resource for rocking out at one of the biggest Chicago music festivals 2025 has to offer! From July 31 to August 3, 2025, Lollapalooza will transform Chicago’s Grant Park into a music lover’s paradise, featuring headliners like Olivia Rodrigo, Tyler, The Creator, Sabrina Carpenter, Luke Combs, and over 170 other acts across eight stages. With its iconic Lollapalooza Chicago skyline views and vibrant energy, this four-day extravaganza is a must-attend. Whether you’re a local or traveling to the Windy City, this Lollapalooza Chicago travel guide covers everything from tickets and transportation to nearby attractions and food. Let’s get you prepped for an unforgettable weekend!
Why Lollapalooza 2025 Is a Can’t-Miss Event
Lollapalooza, born in 1991 as a farewell tour for Jane’s Addiction, has grown into a global phenomenon, with Chicago’s Grant Park as its flagship home since 2005. Expect over 400,000 fans, eight stages, and a diverse lineup spanning pop, hip-hop, EDM, rock, and more. Beyond the music, you’ll find Chow Town with Chicago’s top eats, Plant Base for vegan options, and Kidzapalooza for families. This Lollapalooza 2025 guide will help you navigate it all, from getting to Grant Park to finding the best spots to eat and stay. For the latest updates, check lollapalooza.com.
Getting to Lollapalooza 2025: Transportation Tips
Lollapalooza Public Transport 2025
Chicago’s public transit system makes getting to Grant Park a breeze. The Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) and Metra are your best bets for Lollapalooza public transport 2025:
Checkot Lollapalooza 2025
- CTA Rail: Take the Red, Blue, Orange, Green, or Brown Lines to State/Lake, Washington/Wabash, or Adams/Wabash, then walk east to Grant Park (5–10 minutes). The Red and Blue Lines are closest, with Yellow Line service extended to 1:00 AM during the festival.
- CTA Bus: Routes like #126 Jackson (from Union Station) or #J14 Jeffery Jump (from Ogilvie Transportation Center) drop you near the festival entrance.
- Metra: Check metra.com for extra trains during Lolla weekend. Millennium Station is a short walk from Grant Park. Note: Alcohol is banned on Metra trains during the festival.
- Ventra App: Download the Ventra app to buy fares and check schedules in advance.
Pro Tip: Public transport is the way to go—traffic and parking are a nightmare during Lolla. Plan your route at transitchicago.com/lollapalooza.
Lollapalooza Parking 2025
Driving to Lolla? Lollapalooza parking 2025 is available but challenging due to street closures and high demand. Millennium Garages (beneath Grant Park and Millennium Park) offer 24-hour parking for about $20/day, the most convenient option. Book early at lollapalooza.com to secure a spot. Alternatively, park further out and take CTA to avoid congestion.
Pro Tip: Avoid driving on Michigan Avenue during peak hours. Use Lake Shore Drive or Columbus Drive for drop-offs at Monroe Street or Congress Parkway to minimize walking.
Biking and Ridesharing
- Biking: Lollapalooza partners with REVERB for free bike valet near the main entrance (Michigan Ave. and Ida B. Wells Drive). Rent a Divvy bike or scooter for a quick ride.
- Ridesharing: Uber and Lyft drop-offs are at Michigan Avenue and 11th Street. When leaving, walk west of State Street for pickups to avoid crowds.
Lollapalooza Grant Park Directions
Grant Park is in downtown Chicago, between Michigan Avenue and Lake Michigan. Main entrances are at Michigan Ave. and Jackson Dr. or Michigan Ave. and Van Buren St. From The Loop, it’s a 5–10-minute walk. Follow festival signage or use the Lollapalooza app for a map. If you’re using GPS, enter 337 E Randolph St, Chicago, IL 60601 for the park’s central location.
Where to Stay: Hotels Near Lollapalooza 2025
Finding the right place to crash is key. Hotels near Lollapalooza 2025 in The Loop, South Loop, or River North put you close to the action. Here are some top picks:
- Hilton Chicago: Steps from Grant Park, offering modern amenities and festival proximity.
- The Blackstone: A historic hotel with luxury vibes, within walking distance.
- Staypineapple: A boutique option in The Loop with free bikes for festival commuting.
- Swissotel Chicago: Combines comfort and lakefront views, ideal for a relaxing stay.
- River North Options: Slightly farther but vibrant, with nightlife and CTA access. Try booking early for deals.
For budget travelers, consider hostels or serviced apartments in The Loop or South Loop. Book early via lollapalooza.com or platforms like Expedia, as rooms fill up fast. Expect rates to start at $150/night for budget options and $300+/night for luxury during the festival.
Pro Tip: Stay in Hyde Park (15 minutes by CTA) for quieter vibes and spots like Sophy Hotel, which offers festival packages.
Lollapalooza Festival Camping 2025
Unlike some festivals, Lollapalooza festival camping 2025 isn’t available at Grant Park due to its urban setting. However, RV camping is an option outside the city. Nearby campgrounds include:
- Chicago Northwest KOA: About 40 miles from Grant Park, offering RV sites with hookups. Drive or take Metra to the festival.
- Leisure Lake Campground: Located in Joliet (45 minutes away), with RV and tent sites.
Dry camping in parking lots near Grant Park is possible but lacks facilities, so confirm with the lot in advance. Cooking on festival grounds is prohibited, so plan to eat at Chow Town or nearby restaurants.
What to Do: Chicago Attractions Near Lollapalooza
Lollapalooza’s location in Grant Park puts you steps from some of Chicago’s best attractions. Here are top Chicago attractions near Lollapalooza for downtime between sets:
- Millennium Park: Just north of Grant Park, home to the iconic Cloud Gate (aka “The Bean”) and free concerts.
- Art Institute of Chicago: A short walk away, featuring world-class art exhibits. Perfect for a cultural break.
- Navy Pier: A 20-minute walk or quick CTA ride, offering the Centennial Wheel, dining, and lakefront views.
- Willis Tower: Visit the Skydeck for panoramic Lollapalooza Chicago skyline views from 1,353 feet up.
- Magnificent Mile: Stroll Michigan Avenue for shopping and dining, just 10 minutes from Grant Park.
Pro Tip: Download the Lollapalooza app to balance festival time with exploring nearby spots like Buckingham Fountain in Grant Park.
Where to Eat: Lollapalooza Nearby Restaurants 2025
Chicago’s food scene is a festival highlight, and Lollapalooza nearby restaurants 2025 offer something for every palate. Inside the festival, Chow Town features over 80 vendors, including Chicago staples like Lou Malnati’s (pizza), Harold’s Chicken, and The Original Rainbow Cone (ice cream). Plant Base offers vegan options, and Dessert Island satisfies sweet cravings.
Outside the festival, try these spots in The Loop or nearby:
- The Dearborn: A short walk from Grant Park, perfect for brunch with tavern-style pizza and cocktails.
- Billy Goat Tavern: Famous for its “cheezborgers,” a Chicago classic on Michigan Avenue.
- Girl & The Goat: In West Loop, offering bold, globally inspired small plates by chef Stephanie Izard.
- Cindy’s Rooftop: Overlooking Millennium Park, ideal for craft cocktails and skyline views.
- Virtue: In Hyde Park, serving elevated Southern cuisine for a post-festival dinner.
Pro Tip: Use Lolla Cashless (via PayPal/Venmo) for quick purchases at festival vendors. Most accept cards, but cash is handy for smaller stands.
Lollapalooza 2025 Tickets and Lineup Highlights
Tickets for Lollapalooza 2025 went on sale March 20, 2025, with 4-day General Admission (GA) passes starting at $385 and single-day GA at $149. VIP ($1,565–$1,880), Platinum ($4,500), and Cabana (custom pricing) options offer premium perks like stage-side viewing and lounges. Join the waitlist at lollapalooza.com for sold-out tickets or check verified resale sites like StubHub.
The lineup features headliners like Olivia Rodrigo (Thursday, T-Mobile Stage), Luke Combs (Sunday, Bud Light Stage), Tyler, The Creator, Sabrina Carpenter, and Rüfüs Du Sol, plus acts like Clairo, Martin Garrix, and Young Miko. The full schedule drops in early July via the Lollapalooza app.
Festival Tips for a Smooth Experience
- Pack Smart: Bring a clear bag (12″x6″x12″ max), empty reusable water bottle (no glass), and sunscreen. Check the bag policy at lollapalooza.com.
- Stay Safe: Use hydration stations, carry sanitizer, and stick with a buddy. Buy travel insurance for unexpected cancellations.
- Aftershows: Catch late-night performances at venues like Metro or House of Blues. Tickets sell out fast, so check lollapalooza.com.
- Weather Prep: Chicago’s summer weather can shift—pack layers and a raincoat.
- Lockers: Reserve a locker for GA, VIP, or Platinum guests to store essentials.
Why Lollapalooza 2025 Is Worth It
With its unbeatable lineup, stunning Lollapalooza Chicago skyline views, and vibrant Chicago setting, Lollapalooza 2025 is more than a music festival—it’s a cultural experience. From dancing at Perry’s Stage to savoring eats at Chow Town, you’ll make memories that last a lifetime. Whether you’re a first-timer or a Lolla veteran, this Lollapalooza 2025 guide has you covered. Grab your tickets, plan your trip, and get ready for four days of music, food, and fun from July 31 to August 3, 2025!
For the latest details, visit lollapalooza.com.
FAQs: Lollapalooza 2025
When and where is Lollapalooza 2025?
Lollapalooza 2025 runs from July 31 to August 3 at Grant Park, Chicago, IL, with gates open from 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM daily.
How do I get to Lollapalooza using public transport?
Take CTA Red, Blue, Orange, Green, or Brown Lines to State/Lake or Washington/Wabash, or use Metra to Millennium Station. CTA buses like #126 or #J14 also work. Download the Ventra app for fares.
Is there parking at Lollapalooza 2025?
Yes, Millennium Garages offer 24-hour parking for $20/day, but book early. Public transport is recommended due to limited spots and road closures.
Are there hotels near Lollapalooza 2025?
Yes, try Hilton Chicago, The Blackstone, or Staypineapple in The Loop, or explore River North or South Loop. Book early via lollapalooza.com.
Is camping available at Lollapalooza 2025?
No on-site camping, but RV campgrounds like Chicago Northwest KOA or Leisure Lake are 40–45 minutes away. Dry camping in nearby lots is an option but lacks facilities.
What are the best restaurants near Lollapalooza 2025?
Inside, Chow Town offers Lou Malnati’s and Harold’s Chicken. Outside, try The Dearborn, Billy Goat Tavern, or Cindy’s Rooftop for skyline views.
What attractions are near Lollapalooza?
Visit Millennium Park, Art Institute of Chicago, Navy Pier, or Willis Tower Skydeck, all within a 5–20-minute walk or CTA ride.
Can I bring my own food or water?
Bring an empty reusable water bottle (no glass) or two factory-sealed 1-liter plastic water bottles. Food is not allowed, but Chow Town has plenty of options.
