Hours of Operation

Neighborhood business hours are generally 9 to 6 Sunday through Wednesday, with later hours Thursday through Saturday. When holidays fall on a weekend, businesses usually close around 4 on the preceding Friday. On a Monday after a weekend holiday, retail businesses are rarely closed but regular businesses often are. Most stores close for Christmas, New Year's, and Easter Sunday.

Chicago museums are generally open daily from 9 to 5, closing only on major holidays; some larger attractions keep later hours (until about 8 pm) one weeknight per week. A number of smaller museums keep limited hours; it's always advisable to phone ahead for details.

Pharmacies might open as early as 8 am and close as early as 5 pm, but many shut later (anywhere from 6 to 10 pm). Major chains have outposts that are open 24 hours.