We Rank Chicago’s 15 Top Workshops & Classes

Chicago isn’t just about deep-dish pizza and towering skyscrapers; it’s also a city full of opportunities to get creative, learn new skills, and have fun in a more hands-on way. Whether you’re into making your own perfume, painting, or even upcycling clothes, Chicago’s diverse offerings make it a perfect place to try something new.

We love experiences like the Chicago Perfume Making Classes on Magnificent Mile for its personalized scent blending or the BYOB Spray Paint and Sip Workshop that combines street art with a drink in hand.

These classes give you a chance to create a keepsake and meet locals with similar interests—all while exploring this vibrant city.

Chicago’s creative scene covers everything from culinary arts to visual arts and DIY crafts. The list below highlights 15 of the best workshops and classes, including unique offerings like Italian pasta classes, candle making, and even Chinese fan painting. Whatever your skill level or interest, there’s something here that can turn a simple trip into an unforgettable hands-on experience.

1. Chicago Perfume Making Classes on Magnificent Mile

At number 1, this perfume-making experience offers a luxurious, personalized journey into the world of fragrance. For around $85, you’ll spend about 75 minutes exploring a wide range of scent notes—from floral to spicy—guided by expert staff. The highlight is blending your own unique perfume, which you’ll fill into a 1oz bottle and personalize with a name or initials.

Guests rave about how fun and engaging it is, with reviews mentioning how they loved creating a perfume that truly represents their personality.

It’s perfect for solo travelers, couples, or groups looking for a creative, scented souvenir. The class provides hands-on guidance, making it accessible even for beginners.

Bottom line: If you want a memorable, luxurious activity that leaves you with a custom fragrance, this class is a smart pick. Keep in mind it’s a quick 1-hour 15-minute session, ideal for fitting into a busy day of sightseeing.

2. Chicago: BYOB Spray Paint and Sip Workshop

Number 2 on our list is a lively urban art workshop where creativity and good drinks collide. For just $45, guests enjoy 90 minutes of spray-painting on a canvas, with the added bonus of bringing your own beverages (BYOB for 21+).

The workshop is perfect for those who want a fun, relaxed environment to learn street art techniques, all while sipping on their favorite drinks. Participants leave with their own artwork, making it a memorable, social experience.

Reviews highlight how participants appreciated the friendly guidance and the chance to create something they’re proud of.

Bottom line: A fantastic choice for friends or couples who want a hands-on activity that combines art and socializing. Be prepared to get a little messy—and have fun doing it.

3. Chicago Candle Making Class On Magnificent Mile

Number 3 is a candle-making class that invites you to craft your own soy wax candles in about 75 minutes. Priced at $75, the class covers step-by-step techniques to blend fragrances and customize your 8 oz candle with personal scents and vessel choices. The reviews praise the friendly staff and the relaxing vibe, although some mention the price for an 8 oz candle might seem a bit high.

It’s perfect for date nights, girls’ outings, or solo craft lovers looking for a creative outlet. All supplies are included, making it straightforward to learn and enjoy.

Bottom line: For those wanting a calming, sensory-rich activity that ends with a practical keepsake, this candle class offers good value and a cozy atmosphere.

4. BYOT-shirt Screen Printing Workshop

At number 4, this upcycling studio specializes in transforming secondhand garments into wearable art. For $60, you’ll spend 90 minutes learning the art of screen printing, creating your own custom shirt. The instructor is praised for being friendly and resourceful, and the activity is described as unique and fun—perfect for those wanting a creative, eco-friendly twist.

It’s ideal for groups or solo travelers who enjoy tactile, hands-on projects. The focus on sustainable fashion makes this more than just a craft class; it’s a statement piece.

Bottom line: If you’re interested in upcycling and creating a personalized fashion piece, this workshop offers a memorable, environmentally conscious experience.

5. Artisan Italian Pasta Class in Chicago (Includes 3-Course Meal)

Number 5 introduces a cooking class that immerses you in Italy’s pasta traditions. For $125 over approximately 2.5 hours, you’ll learn to make gnocchi from scratch, craft a tomato-basil sauce, and enjoy a classic tiramisu. The class is praised for its friendly chef and authentic approach.

Participants leave with recipes, new skills, and a delicious meal—plus the ability to recreate these dishes at home. This class suits food lovers eager to deepen their culinary skills and enjoy a communal meal.

Bottom line: When you want a relaxed, hands-on cooking experience with authentic Italian flavors, this class is a standout.

6. Exclusive Sushi-Making Class in Chicago (Includes 3-Course Meal)

Number 6 features a sushi-making course that lasts around two hours. For $125, you’ll learn essential knife techniques, ingredient prep, and how to roll sushi like a pro. The class includes making a spicy ahi-tuna roll and a shrimp tempura roll, with guidance from a chef who will teach you how to balance flavors and presentation.

Reviews note the friendly atmosphere and that no previous experience is needed. It’s perfect for sushi fans or those curious about Japanese cuisine.

Bottom line: This class offers a detailed, practical approach to sushi-making for anyone interested in mastering this art in a friendly setting.

7. Pasta Making Cooking Class at a Local Distillery in Chicago

Number 7 combines pasta making with craft spirits in a lively Chicago distillery. For $65 and about two hours, learn to knead, roll, and cut pasta from scratch, then cook it with a flavorful marinara—optionally adding beef. You’ll also sample spirits unique to the distillery, making this a fun, immersive experience.

Reviewers praise the engaging chef and the friendly atmosphere, noting it’s great for a casual, hands-on class with added local flavor.

Bottom line: Perfect for those who love cooking and craft spirits, this class blends culinary and local culture in a relaxed environment.

8. Private Shooting and Spinning DIY Painting Class in Chicago

Number 8 offers a private art session that combines shooting, spinning, and painting, lasting about 45 minutes for $99. Participants get to create a personalized masterpiece guided by skilled instructors.

This activity is suitable for both beginners and experienced artists, looking for a fun, interactive experience. The review highlights its uniqueness and the ability to produce a memorable painting without prior art skills.

Bottom line: If you’re after a creative activity that’s out of the ordinary, this private session offers a fun combination of art and personal expression.

9. Deep Dish Cooking Class at Pizzeria Uno in Chicago

Number 9 brings you inside the birthplace of Chicago’s iconic Deep Dish pizza. For $59, you’ll learn to make and eat an authentic deep-dish pie, with guidance from knowledgeable staff. The class lasts around 90 minutes and includes a salad and drink.

Reviewers note the lively atmosphere and recommend it for solo travelers and groups alike. It’s a tasty way to connect with Chicago’s culinary heritage.

Bottom line: For pizza lovers eager to learn the Chicago style, this class combines fun, food, and a slice of local history.

10. Chicago: Pasta Making Cooking Class at a Local Distillery

Number 10 offers a hands-on pasta and sauce class at a distillery for $75. In about two hours, you learn to craft fresh pasta and a rich marinara—plus a vegetarian or meaty option. The lively environment and craft spirits make it an engaging experience for culinary enthusiasts wanting to combine cooking with local flavor.

Bottom line: An excellent choice for those wanting to learn pasta from scratch and enjoy local distillery vibes.

11. Chicago: Sushi Making Cooking Class at a Local Distillery

Number 11 is a sushi class perfect for beginners. Over two hours, you’ll learn how to prepare rice, slice ingredients, and assemble rolls like California or veggie options. The class is praised for its friendly, social atmosphere and practical techniques. It’s suitable for sushi newbies and anyone curious about Japanese cuisine.

Bottom line: If sushi appeals but you’re worried about experience, this class is approachable and fun, with plenty of guidance.

12. Private Acrylic Painting Class in Chicago

Number 12 takes you into “Fluid Art,” a unique acrylic pouring experience. In about 40 minutes, you’ll create mesmerizing abstract patterns on canvas. No art experience needed, and the process is guided to produce one-of-a-kind pieces. It’s a relaxing, meditative activity that results in a stunning artwork to take home.

Bottom line: For a creative, no-pressure art experience, this class offers a therapeutic escape into color and design.

13. Make Chicago Tavern Style Pizza! A Cooking Class + Dinner Party

Number 13 blends pizza-making with dinner in a lively family-oriented class. For $59, you roll dough, prepare a zesty sauce, and top your pizza. Also included is a classic Chicago dessert—Palmer House Brownies—and a refreshing shaken lemonade. Held in Wicker Park, this class is perfect for families or groups wanting a hands-on meal and local history.

Bottom line: If you enjoy cooking, eating, and sharing a casual meal, this class offers a fun, interactive experience for all ages.

14. Discover Chinese Art Workshop With Liping Zhang

Number 14 features a cultural art experience focusing on Chinese fan painting. For $30, participants learn traditional brush techniques and create their own painted fan. The class is ideal for those interested in Asian art or cultural crafts. Minimum participation is four people, so it’s best suited for groups or dedicated art lovers.

Bottom line: A meaningful way to explore Chinese artistry firsthand, combining cultural education with a creative activity.

15. Private Bear Painting Class in Chicago

Finally, number 15 invites you to make your own custom bear art. For $93, you select colors and pour paints onto a canvas to create a personalized bear painting. No artistic experience needed, and the activity is ideal for friends, couples, or anyone looking for a fun, lighthearted art project.

Bottom line: A playful, engaging activity perfect for a relaxed afternoon or a unique gift.

How to Choose the Right Workshop in Chicago

When selecting a workshop, consider your budget, time availability, and personal interests. Interested in fragrances? The perfume class offers a luxurious, personalized experience. For those who love culinary arts, the Italian pasta or Deep Dish pizza classes might be your best bet. If you prefer hands-on art, the Fluid Art or Bear painting classes are fun options.

Budget-conscious travelers can opt for the Spray Paint Workshop, which offers a lively, artistic experience at a reasonable price.

Booking early is recommended, especially for popular classes like sushi or perfume making, to secure your spot. Think about the time of day that works best for you—most classes are around 1-2 hours long—and plan accordingly.

To sum it up, Chicago’s workshops and classes cover a broad spectrum, from culinary delights to artistic pursuits. The perfume making, sushi classes, and candle workshops stand out for their quality and unique experiences.

Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with family, these activities provide memorable ways to learn about the Windy City’s lively creative scene. Book early and get ready to leave with more than just photos—leave with a skill, a keepsake, or a new hobby.