Chicago isn’t just a city of towering skyscrapers and vibrant neighborhoods; it’s a place where you can get hands-on with your interests and learn something new. Whether you’re craving a fragrant perfume, a creative spray-paint session, or a delicious pasta dish, Chicago’s array of workshops offers authentic, memorable experiences. We especially love the Chicago Perfume Making Classes on Magnificent Mile for its personal scent creation, perfect for a solo indulgence or a fun girls’ trip. The city’s mix of arts, food, and style makes it an ideal place to get creative.
Quick Overview
Our list showcases a diverse set of workshops and classes in Chicago, including perfume crafting, street art, candle making, screen printing, Italian pasta and sushi classes, and even upcycling clothing. From a 1-hour perfume experience to a 2.5-hour pasta dinner, each offers a unique slice of Chicago life. Now, let’s dive into what makes each one special.
1. Chicago Perfume Making Classes on Magnificent Mile
At number 1, this perfume-making class combines luxury and creativity in the heart of Chicago. Over roughly 75 minutes, you’ll explore an array of fragrance notes—from floral to spicy—guided by an expert to craft your own signature scent. The session culminates with filling a luxurious 1oz bottle personalized with your chosen initials or name. It’s a sensory treat perfect for those who want a tangible keepsake of their trip or a unique gift. Guests consistently praise the personalized attention, with reviews like “We had such a blast! Thank you for the opportunity, and the beautiful perfume!”
What sets this apart is its capacity to make perfume crafting accessible and fun, even for beginners. The class is intimate, allowing for detailed guidance. For around $85, you get an hour and fifteen minutes immersed in fragrance artistry. It’s best suited for travelers who love personal experiences and sensory exploration.
Bottom Line: A chic, personalized activity that offers a luxurious souvenir and a chance to learn the art of perfume blending in Chicago.
2. Chicago: BYOB Spray Paint and Sip Workshop
Next up at number 2, this urban art workshop merges street art with social fun. For 90 minutes, you’ll learn spray-paint techniques to create your own graffiti-inspired piece, all while sipping your favorite drinks—BYOB is encouraged for those 21+. The workshop is lively, interactive, and perfect for groups or solo travelers wanting a taste of Chicago’s vibrant street art scene. Participants get to take home their finished artwork, making it a satisfying creative milestone.
Reviews highlight the energetic atmosphere, with one saying, “It was very unique and fun activity.” The cost at $45 per person makes it an affordable, engaging way to add a splash of color to your trip. No prior experience is needed, just a willingness to get a little messy and creative.
Bottom Line: Ideal for art lovers and social butterflies who want to create a bold piece and enjoy a relaxed night out.
3. Chicago Candle Making Class On Magnificent Mile
Ranking third, this candle-making class offers a cozy, sensory-focused experience. In about 75 minutes, you’ll craft your own 8oz soy wax candle, choosing from a selection of fragrances. Guided by friendly staff, you’ll learn techniques to create a candle that’s both beautiful and personal. The class is well-reviewed for its engaging staff—one review calls the facilitator “absolutely great.” Though some note the price ($75) might seem high for the size, the quality of the experience and the chance to take home a custom candle make it worthwhile.
Perfect for date nights, solo adventures, or small groups, you’ll leave with a handcrafted gift for yourself or someone special. The class’s location on Michigan Avenue adds extra convenience for sightseeing afterward.
Bottom Line: A relaxing, creative pastime that results in a bespoke candle—great for those wanting a calming, artistic break from busy city life.
4. BYOT-shirt Screen Printing Workshop
In fourth place, this upcycling studio specializes in transforming secondhand garments into wearable art. During the 90-minute class, you’ll learn basic screen printing techniques to decorate your own shirts with bold, playful designs. The instructor is praised for being friendly and resourceful, making the process accessible even if you’re new to screen printing. For $60, you’ll leave with your own custom-designed shirt, a fun keepsake of your Chicago visit.
This workshop promotes sustainability, encouraging mindful clothing choices. It’s perfect for creative travelers who want a hands-on, eco-friendly activity that produces a wearable keepsake. Note that the class is small, which enhances individualized attention.
Bottom Line: A creative, eco-conscious activity suited for fashion enthusiasts and those looking to remake their wardrobe with a personal touch.
5. Artisan Italian Pasta Class in Chicago (Includes 3-Course Meal)
At number 5, this pasta-making experience takes place in a cozy kitchen. Over about 2.5 hours, you’ll learn to make gnocchi from scratch, craft flavorful sauces, and enjoy a full three-course meal featuring bruschetta, pasta, and tiramisù. Guided by a chef, you’ll master Italian techniques that can be recreated at home. Though one review calls the price ($125) “a little high,” the inclusion of a sit-down meal makes it a good value for food lovers.
Guests appreciate the authentic experience and the chance to learn culinary skills in a warm setting. The class suits those who enjoy hands-on cooking and want a taste of Italy without leaving Chicago.
Bottom Line: A flavorful, educational class perfect for foodies who want to master Italian dishes and enjoy a communal meal afterward.
$125.00 per person
6. Exclusive Sushi-Making Class in Chicago (Includes 3-Course Meal)
Number 6, this sushi-making class offers a rare chance to learn from a professional chef. In about two hours, you’ll learn knife skills, prepare fresh ingredients, and create sushi rolls like spicy ahi-tuna and shrimp tempura. The class includes a three-course meal, making it a complete culinary experience. Although some reviews are pending, the price of $125 seems justified given the quality instruction and the meal provided.
Designed for beginners and sushi aficionados alike, this class is ideal if you’re eager to get hands-on with Japanese cuisine. It’s in a friendly kitchen setting, with plenty of room for socializing and learning.
Bottom Line: A comprehensive, interactive sushi class that’s perfect for sushi lovers wanting to learn and eat their creations.
$125.00 per person
7. Pasta Making Cooking Class at a Local Distillery in Chicago
Seventh on our list, this pasta-making class combines culinary craft with craft spirits. Hosted at a distillery, it lasts about two hours and includes making pasta from scratch and preparing a flavorful marinara, with an option to add beef or go vegetarian. It’s a lively setting where you can learn the secrets of classic Italian pasta alongside craft cocktails or spirits. The reviews highlight the fun atmosphere and expert instruction.
It’s perfect for those who want to combine food and drink or are interested in Chicago’s local distilling scene. The price ($65) offers good value for a two-hour, hands-on experience.
Bottom Line: A fun, spirited way to learn pasta and enjoy local spirits, suitable for social groups or couples.
$65
8. Private Shooting and Spinning DIY Painting Class in Chicago
Number 8 offers a personalized painting experience using shooting and spinning techniques. In just 45 minutes, you’ll create a unique artwork guided by a skilled instructor. Whether you’re an artist or a curious beginner, this class offers a memorable, hands-on artistic journey with a surprising twist.
Ideal for small groups or those seeking a quick, creative outlet, reviewers mention how fun and unique the process is. The class is affordable at $99 per person.
Bottom Line: A quick, fun art activity that results in a one-of-a-kind piece, perfect for those wanting something different from typical painting classes.
$99.00 per person
9. Deep Dish Cooking Class at Pizzeria Uno in Chicago
Number 9 features a deep dish pizza class in the city’s birthplace. In approximately 90 minutes, you’ll learn to make authentic Chicago-style deep dish, then enjoy your creation with a salad and drink. Guests praise the guide for being knowledgeable and funny, making the experience both educational and entertaining. The class costs $59, making it a reasonable choice for pizza lovers.
This experience is best for those interested in Chicago’s culinary history and iconic dishes. It’s suitable for solo travelers, couples, or families wanting a hands-on meal.
Bottom Line: An engaging class that teaches you Chicago’s signature pizza style while providing a tasty meal.
10. Chicago: Pasta Making Cooking Class at a Local Distillery
Tenth, this pasta class emphasizes crafting both pasta and sauce from scratch. In a lively distillery setting, you learn to make pasta and marinara, with options for a meaty or vegetarian version. The instructor is praised for clarity and friendliness, making it accessible for beginners. The approximately two-hour session offers both culinary skills and a relaxed atmosphere.
This is great for foodies wanting to combine pasta skills with a taste of Chicago’s local spirits scene. The price ($75) offers good value considering the duration and quality.
Bottom Line: An interactive, flavorful experience for those who love authentic Italian pasta and local craft drinks.
$75 per person
11. Chicago: Sushi Making Cooking Class at a Local Distillery
Number 11’s sushi class combines learning professional sushi techniques with a fun, social environment. In two hours, you’ll learn to prepare rice, slice ingredients precisely, and assemble classic rolls like California and veggie options. No experience needed, and the class includes a meal. Reviews are pending, but the focus on quality ingredients and technique makes it appealing.
Perfect for sushi beginners or those wanting to refine their skills, this class is ideal for a casual, social outing. It costs $75 per person.
Bottom Line: A well-rounded sushi class that teaches essential skills, suitable for all levels of sushi fans.
$75 per person
12. Private Acrylic Painting Class in Chicago
Twelfth, this fluid art experience uses acrylic paints, silicone, a hair dryer, and a gas burner to produce mesmerizing patterns. Lasting about 40 minutes, it’s perfect for beginners and experienced painters alike. No artistic background is necessary, and each piece is unpredictable and one-of-a-kind.
Reviewers note how relaxing and fun the process is. At $88 per person, it offers a uniquely artistic way to spend under an hour in Chicago.
Bottom Line: An exciting, spontaneous art class that results in a striking, abstract painting—ideal for stress relief and creative expression.
$88.00 per person
13. Make Chicago Tavern Style Pizza! A Cooking Class + Dinner Party
Thirteenth, this family-friendly pizza-making class combines hands-on cooking with a local dinner experience. You’ll roll dough, prepare zesty sauce, and top your pizza with fresh ingredients. The class also features Chicago’s famous Palmer House Brownies and Illinois State Fair’s shaken lemonade, making it a full meal and dessert. The class lasts about two hours and ends with everyone enjoying their creations together.
Ideal for families or groups, the class offers both culinary skills and a taste of Chicago’s iconic comfort food. It’s a lively, interactive evening.
Bottom Line: Perfect for families or small groups seeking a fun, educational dinner with classic Chicago flavors.
$59
How to Choose the Right Workshop for You
When selecting a workshop in Chicago, consider your interests and your time. For a luxurious, fragrant experience, the Perfume Making Class is a top pick. If street art excites you, the Spray Paint and Sip offers a creative, social outlet. Food lovers should check out the Italian Pasta and Sushi classes for their delicious, hands-on learning.
Budget-wise, the spray-paint workshop at $45 and the acrylic painting at $88 are accessible options, while the culinary classes at $125 provide more involved experiences. Think about your fitness level—most are quite manageable—and whether you prefer crafting, cooking, or artistic expression. Booking in advance is recommended, especially for popular classes like sushi or perfume, to ensure your spot.
Final Thoughts
From luxury perfume blends to creative street art, Chicago offers an impressive array of workshops for every interest. For travelers seeking a creative escape, the Chicago Perfume Making Classes and Candle Making stand out for their personalized and sensory experiences. Foodies should consider the pasta and sushi classes for authentic culinary skills and delicious meals, perfect for making memories and trying something new.
Each activity provides a chance to connect more deeply with Chicago’s vibrant culture—whether through scent, art, or cuisine. To get the most out of your trip, book early, especially if you want a specific experience or date. These workshops aren’t just fun—they’re a chance to take home something truly memorable from your Chicago visit.