The 12 Best Workshops & Classes in Chicago
Chicago’s vibrant neighborhoods and world-famous landmarks are just the start of what makes this city special. But for those who want a more personal, hands-on way to experience the city’s culture, these workshops and classes stand out. From creating your own signature perfume to mastering Chicago-style deep dish pizza or painting expressive art, each offers a chance to take home a memorable souvenir—your own creation. Whether you prefer to craft, cook, or connect through dance, Chicago has something that will deepen your stay.
These experiences are especially great because they combine local expertise with intimate settings. You won’t find a generic tour here; each one offers a unique peek into Chicago’s rich traditions and creative spirit. Ready to get your hands dirty or your senses tingling? Let’s explore the best workshops and classes the Windy City has to offer.
1. Chicago Perfume Making Classes on Magnificent Mile
At number one, the Chicago Perfume Making Classes on Magnificent Mile are perfect for anyone who loves fragrances and wants a personalized keepsake. This 1-hour and 15-minute workshop guides you through exploring a wide variety of scent notes—from florals to spices—before blending your own perfume. The skillful staff help you craft a scent that captures your personality, filling a 1oz bottle with your bespoke fragrance and personalizing it with a name or initials.
What makes this experience stand out is the attention to detail and personal touch. With a 5.0 rating from 16 reviews, visitors highlight the fun, engaging atmosphere and the chance to create something uniquely theirs. It’s ideal for solo travelers, girls’ trips, or couples wanting a memorable activity. While some found the price of $85 a bit high for the size, most agree the personalized scent and expert guidance make it worthwhile.
Bottom line: If you’re interested in fragrances or want a creative souvenir, this class offers a sensory journey with lasting results.
2. Traveling Spoon Chicago-Style Deep Dish Pizza Private Online Cooking Class
Next up is the Deep Dish Pizza online cooking class, where Nancy shares her signature recipe for making authentic Chicago-style deep dish pizza from your own kitchen. This is a 1.5-hour private session, perfect for those who want to learn a culinary skill and connect with Chicago’s iconic food culture without leaving home.
Nancy’s detailed guidance includes tips for building the tall, cheesy, topping-filled pie and making a chunky tomato sauce. The class’s standout feature is its personalized approach, tailoring the experience to your cooking level. Reviewers like it for being fun, relaxed, and highly informative. The price of $40 per person offers excellent value for a memorable hands-on experience that results in a delicious pizza you can recreate anytime.
Bottom line: Ideal for food lovers and home chefs eager to master Chicago’s most famous dish, all from the comfort of your kitchen.
3. Chicago Candle Making Class On Magnificent Mile
The Chicago Candle Making Class provides a creative escape into the world of scent and design. In about 75 minutes, you learn step-by-step techniques to craft your own 8 oz soy wax candle, choosing fragrances and customizing your vessel. All supplies are provided, making it a convenient, relaxed activity suited for date nights, girls’ outings, or solo fun.
Rated 4.5 stars from 16 reviews, participants praise the friendly staff and the chance to make a personalized gift or keepsake. Some mention that the price of $75 could be a bit steep for the size, but the quality of instruction and the opportunity to create something unique make it worthwhile. It’s perfect if you enjoy crafting or want a thoughtful souvenir.
Bottom line: This class is a charming way to get crafty and take home a personalized candle that captures your style.
4. Private Shooting and Spinning DIY Painting Class in Chicago
For a different kind of artistic experience, the DIY Painting Class offers a 45-minute private session where you can create a personalized masterpiece. Whether you’re a seasoned artist or a complete beginner, this activity promises a fun, no-pressure environment to explore your creativity and leave with a unique painting.
This activity’s highlight is its intimate, tailored instruction and the chance to make something truly your own. While it’s a shorter session, at $99 per person, it offers a high-value artistic experience in a relaxed setting. The reviews are limited, but the focus on personal expression makes it suitable for anyone looking for a memorable, artistic activity.
Bottom line: If you want a quick, custom art piece and don’t mind the price, this private class delivers a creative boost.
5. Experience Chicago Cooking Class with Deep Dish Pizza or Pasta
At number five, Chef Nancy’s cooking class offers a 3-hour, hands-on experience making Chicago’s famous dishes—deep dish pizza or Italian-American pasta. Led by Nancy and her daughter Hailey, this class emphasizes authentic recipes, personal guidance, and a warm atmosphere. It’s a fantastic option for families, small groups, or anyone wanting an immersive food experience.
Guests describe it as a non-touristy activity that provides a genuine taste of local cuisine. For $109, you get to prepare and enjoy your own gourmet meal, making it a great value considering the time and quality of instruction. This class is perfect for travelers seeking more than just sightseeing but a true cultural connection through food.
Bottom line: If you love hands-on cooking and authentic Chicago flavors, this class delivers a memorable, family-friendly experience.
6. Deep Dish Cooking Class at Pizzeria Uno in Chicago
In the birthplace of deep dish pizza, the Pizzeria Uno class offers an authentic 1.5-hour experience. Participants learn how to make this iconic dish from the original pizzeria, then enjoy the pizza with a salad and beverage. The class’s appeal lies in its historical significance and straightforward approach.
Rated 4.0 from five reviews, many praise its fun atmosphere and the opportunity to eat a classic Chicago pizza they made themselves. The price of $59 is reasonable, and the focus on the birthplace of deep dish adds a bit of culinary history. It’s suited for solo travelers and couples looking to indulge in a local specialty with expert guidance.
Bottom line: Perfect for pizza lovers wanting to learn the original recipe and enjoy a memorable meal.
7. Private Bear Painting Class in Chicago
For a quirky art activity, the Bear Painting Class invites you to create a personalized bear masterpiece. Led by skilled instructors, you’ll select colors and pour them onto your canvas, resulting in a unique art piece without any prior experience needed. This 45-minute session is as much about fun as it is about creating art.
With no reviews yet, the activity’s appeal lies in its creative, relaxed atmosphere and the chance to craft a memorable souvenir. The $93 price point reflects the personalized coaching and materials. It’s a great choice for couples, friends, or families wanting a lighthearted artistic break.
Bottom line: If you’re looking for a playful, easy art activity, this class offers a fun way to make a one-of-a-kind bear painting.
8. Private Acrylic Painting Class in Chicago
The Acrylic Painting Class provides a “Fluid Art” experience, guiding you through creating mesmerizing patterns using acrylics, silicone, and heat tools. Over 40 minutes, even beginners will produce striking, spontaneous designs on canvas. No artistic background is necessary—just a willingness to experiment and have fun.
This activity’s highlight is its dynamic process and unexpected results, making each piece unique. Since there are no reviews yet, it’s worth noting that the class’s modern approach and hands-on technique appeal to those interested in a therapeutic, creative outlet. At $88, it offers good value for a memorable, artistic experience.
Bottom line: Perfect for curious travelers and art enthusiasts eager to try a different form of painting.
9. Fluid Bear Public Art Class in Chicago
The Fluid Bears public art class is a lively, interactive session where you craft a personalized bear by blending colors and pouring them onto your canvas. This 40-minute activity is suitable for all ages and no prior experience is needed.
With no reviews yet, its main draw is the creative freedom and the chance to produce a vibrant, one-of-a-kind piece. The $70 fee makes it accessible for families, couples, or solo travelers wanting a fun, colorful project that results in a tangible memento.
Bottom line: An engaging, family-friendly option that sparks creativity in a relaxed setting.
10. Private Tango Class Experience in Chicago
For something truly different, the Tango class offers a 2-hour private dance session designed to build confidence and connection through the passionate Argentine dance. It’s both a social activity and a physical workout, emphasizing the emotional and physical benefits of tango.
Pricing at $200 per person reflects the exclusive, customized instruction. While there are no reviews yet, this is an excellent choice for dance enthusiasts, couples seeking a romantic experience, or anyone interested in learning a new skill. The class is ideal for those who want a memorable, lively activity in Chicago.
Bottom line: If you’re ready to try something energetic and culturally rich, this private tango class is a memorable way to connect through dance.
11. Chicago: Candle Making Class in Downtown Chicago
The Downtown Candle Making Class is a delightful workshop where you learn to craft your own soy candles while enjoying a glass of wine. It’s a hands-on experience lasting about an hour, with all supplies provided. You’ll select fragrances, melt wax, and pour your candles into custom molds, creating a personalized item to take home.
Rated 5/5, this class emphasizes both fun and creativity. The relaxed atmosphere and the chance to make a personal gift or keepsake make it popular among travelers. The price of $75 balances quality instruction with a casual, enjoyable environment.
Bottom line: Perfect for those seeking a relaxed, creative activity that results in a beautiful, personalized candle.
12. Chicago: Hands-on Cooking Classes With Local Chef
Finally, the Cooking with Chef Janet offers a 2-hour immersive class focused on mastering techniques and transforming simple ingredients into gourmet dishes. This activity is suitable for all skill levels, with a friendly, interactive environment that encourages learning and fun.
Rated 4.8/5, previous participants appreciate the practical tips and engaging style of Chef Janet. The $55 price makes it an affordable way to improve your cooking skills while enjoying authentic Chicago flavors. It’s ideal for food lovers eager to get hands-on in the kitchen.
Bottom line: If you want to cook like a local and learn new skills, this class will leave you inspired and well-fed.
How to Choose the Best Workshop or Class in Chicago
Choosing between these options depends on your interests, budget, and available time. If you’re passionate about fragrances, the Perfume Making Class offers a luxurious, personalized experience. For foodies, the Deep Dish Pizza online class and Chef Nancy’s in-person cooking provide authentic, hands-on culinary adventures. Art lovers might prefer the Fluid Art or Bear Painting options.
Budget-conscious travelers should consider classes like the Deep Dish at Pizzeria Uno or the Candle Making for quality experiences at moderate prices. If you’re interested in dance or performance, the Tango Class offers a lively, memorable activity.
Booking early is recommended, especially during busy seasons like summer or holidays. Check the class durations and your available schedule to pick the perfect fit—whether an hour of scent blending or a full afternoon of cooking.
Final Thoughts
The options on this list showcase Chicago’s creative and culinary diversity. For a luxurious, personalized experience, the Perfume Making Class is a top pick. If you want to master the city’s iconic food, a Deep Dish Pizza online class or the Cooking with Chef Nancy will satisfy your cravings.
For those who enjoy hands-on art and craft activities, the Fluid Art and Bear Painting classes offer playful ways to create a personal masterpiece. No matter your interest, booking early and selecting a class that matches your schedule will ensure a memorable experience in Chicago.