Chicago Enters Phase 4 Of Reopening, But Plan Ahead

Chicago is set to begin Phase 4 of reopening the city on Friday. With this expansion, there are plenty of questions from entertainment-starved citizens on what will open, in what capacity, and what guidelines must be followed to ensure everyone’s safety. Let’s take a look at what to expect as we attempt to get back to something resembling our regular routines.

Businesses reopening on Friday include indoor movies and theaters, gyms, museums and zoos, and indoor dining. Fifty is the target number now concerning gatherings at these establishments. Either 50 people or 50% room capacity is what the new Phase 4 guidelines allow. 

Movie theaters: While drive-ins have been brought back during Phase 3 of the city’s reopening plan, indoor movie theaters will be reopening in Phase 4. Again, attendance is cut off at 50 people or 50% of the theater’s screening room capacity. Theaters in the suburbs of Elmhurst, North Riverside, Fox Lake, and Elk Grove Village are set to screen films starting Friday. However, many theaters will remain closed, so be sure to check ahead before heading out to catch a flick. 

Gyms and fitness centers: Many of us have been going stir crazy since gyms shut down back in March. Thankfully, we, as a city, have done our part to reduce the spread of COVID-19 and now can finally return to our local gyms. These establishments must limit capacity to 50% for the time being. Of course, face coverings and social distancing are a must. Check with your fitness center for any specific rules they may have regarding returning to work out. 

Museums and Zoos: Many of the Chicago area’s amazing museums and zoos will be allowed to open again during Phase 4, but many are not ready to do so just yet. For instance, the Shedd Aquarium will reopen to the public on July 3, and the Field Museum will open in the next few weeks. Capacity must be limited to 25%, and interactive exhibits will remain closed for the time being. The Lincoln Park Zoo will reopen June 29, but you will need to make reservations ahead of time. Find more info about visiting the Lincoln Park Zoo here. The Chicago Botanical Gardens will be open by reservation only. Check out how to preregister for a visit here.

Live performance venues: With virtually every summer concert canceled due to COVID-19, there won’t be any significant changes. Small venues can reopen Friday but must limit capacity to 50 or fewer, which for many spots won’t help due to not enough money coming in to cover costs. For the time being, any club that packs in audiences like sardines will remain closed until we reach the final phase, signaling a true return to normal. 

Indoor dining: We have been cooped up for so long that dining indoors almost seems like a dream. Well, wake up because Chicago has allowed indoor dining to return, but not without restrictions. Restaurants, bars, and breweries can reopen on Friday. Still, they must limit capacity to 25% with groups of 10 or less allowed. Be sure to call ahead if you plan on dining indoors any time soon to find out if reservations are required before visiting your favorite Chicago eatery. 

While we are thrilled to enter Phase 4 of reopening in Chicago, it is vital to uphold social distancing measures and protect ourselves. We have made great strides in bringing down the COVID-19 mortality rates and decreasing the number of new cases. The only way to continue our progress until a vaccine is produced is to keep up the good work we have done so far. So go have a great time out this weekend, Chicago. But be careful out there.

ERIC KAPLAN AND DEAN’S TEAM CHICAGO