Why Trickery is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family

Trickery in Chicago is a standout place to gather with friends for a uniquely entertaining experience. Known for its captivating magic show hosted by Aaron Rabkin, Trickery combines intricate illusions with humor and interactive fun to keep audiences engaged throughout. The venue itself is charmingly decorated, creating a magical ambiance that enhances every moment spent there. Guests appreciate that it's a BYOB spot, adding a relaxed, personalized touch to the evening. The show lasts about an hour, making it perfect for an exciting outing that fits well into any social schedule. Whether celebrating a special occasion or simply looking for a memorable night out, Trickery offers a refreshing alternative to traditional bars or theaters with its vibrant, intimate atmosphere and high-quality magical performances. Its location in the lively Lakeview Boystown neighborhood also makes it easily accessible and surrounded by other great social venues.

Here's what people think of Trickery

As of recent, Trickery holds a 5-star rating based on 588 reviews.

Customer reviews consistently highlight how exceptional and engaging the Trickery show is, reflected in its flawless 5-star rating from 588 reviews. Many reviewers express surprise by the high level of entertainment relative to the reasonable ticket price, noting Aaron's comedic talent combined with impressive magic tricks that keep everyone guessing. The interactive format and cozy venue receive frequent praise, alongside hospitality that makes visitors feel welcomed and valued. Positive comments especially commend the performer's ability to blend humor with stunning illusions, creating a fun and memorable experience for groups of friends, coworkers, or couples. On the other hand, negative reviews are virtually nonexistent, which speaks volumes about the consistent quality and professionalism of the show. Some minor points occasionally mentioned involve seating comfort or show timing, but these have little impact against the glowing overall feedback. The consensus clearly deems Trickery a must-visit destination for magic lovers and anyone seeking a lively, enjoyable night out in Chicago. This well-rounded mix of entertainment, ambiance, and personalized service sets it apart as a top recommendation in the city's cultural scene.

Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)

Sana Syed

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

This show was amazing! Aaron did a phenomenal job with orchestrating an amazing event! This show was full of comedy, audience participation and magic! My husband and I came here for our anniversary and so glad we did! Truly an amazing show !

Carey Velasco

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Proud theater and magic nerd here - and I will say I have never been to a place that valued the art of magic like Chicago. That being said, my partner and I have made an effort to try all of the magic show venues in Chicago, but oddly enough had not ticked our neighborhood venue, The Trickery, off our list - even though we live a block away. Cue an impromptu date night to catch Aaron’s show this evening. Let me just say The Trickery now holds the title of our favorite show in the city. A calling in both humor and content, this show left us stunned and in stitches with laughter. Clearly a product of immense passion from the performer, owner, and operator, this show was intimate, off the cuff, and yet perfectly practiced. This is the kind of art we need to be supporting in this darkest of times - a neighborhood gem and a wonderful night out. Would give it more than 5 stars if I could.

Michael

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

What a great time! Aaron is a wonderful entertainer who doesn't take the show too seriously. He did a great job of reading the audience and making everyone laugh. There's comedy, suspense, wonder, and thrill - all the things that make a show truly magical. Grab yourself a bottle of wine for BYOB, pick up some snacks at the candy counter, and join the fun.

Joshua Gee

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Bottom line must do in Chicago to see "Where The Magic Happens!" Hoppy The Psychic Wonder Bunny was the star of the show, along with Aaron of course! We loved the decor. The glowing magic hands were cool. Just a fun time!

Kim Mulder

★ ★ ★ ★ ★

Went for our 20th anniversary and he put on a funny and fun filled show. Small audience so felt like almost everyone got to participate with the show. Would highly recommend.

How to reach Trickery

Why rally at Trickery with your friends?

If you're seeking a unique, captivating, and laughter-filled venue to gather with your friends or family, Trickery in Chicago is an exceptional choice. With a perfect 5.0 rating from over 580 reviews, Trickery has earned a reputation as a magical hotspot where entertainment meets intimacy. This boutique magic show spot offers a warm and inviting ambiance that makes every guest feel part of the experience. From the moment you step inside, the decor and atmosphere instantly transport you into a world of wonder, anticipation, and delight. It’s not merely a show but a shared journey that sparks joy, curiosity, and connection among groups of all sizes. The venue encourages interactive participation, ensuring no one is just a bystander—everyone becomes an active member of the magic unfolding before their eyes.

Furthermore, Trickery’s BYOB (Bring Your Own Beverage) policy adds a relaxed and personalized element to your meetup, allowing groups to enjoy their preferred drinks while watching spectacular illusions. The magician and entertainers here, led by Aaron, are highly praised not only for their skillful magic but also for their comedic timing and ability to engage diverse audiences. Whether it's a casual night out, a special birthday, or a corporate team-building offsite, Trickery crafts a memorable experience that strikes the perfect balance between amazement and social fun. For social gatherings, this is where you create lasting memories filled with awe and laughter.

What activities can we enjoy at Trickery?

The heart of Trickery lies in its enchanting live magic shows that combine classic sleight of hand with modern illusions, humor, and interactive elements. The primary activity is an approximately one-hour long magic performance where Aaron, the talented magician, dazzles the audience with tricks that often defy explanation. These include card manipulations, mind-reading feats, coin tricks, and unexpected surprises that keep your group guessing and gasping in amazement. The show’s structure is designed to foster laughter and engagement, with volunteers from the audience invited to assist or experience the magic up close. This interactive format is ideal for groups because it transforms individual spectators into co-creators of the magical moments.

Besides being entertained, your group also has the unique opportunity to learn a magic trick from Aaron during some performances. This hands-on lesson makes your visit more immersive and memorable, providing a fun skill to show off later, making it perfect for team bonding or engaging family members of different ages. The experience extends beyond passive watching; Trickery emphasizes participation and discovery, making the magic feel personal and accessible.

The venue itself enhances these activities with its cozy setup, providing close proximity to the performance area so you never feel distant from the action. With intimate seating arrangements, it’s easy for groups to chat, laugh, and enjoy each other's reactions throughout the show. Moreover, the BYOB policy lets you bring your favorite drinks — whether wine, beers, or soft drinks — further personalizing your experience and adding to the convivial atmosphere. This blend of high-quality magic, interactive learning, and social comfort makes Trickery not just a show but a multi-sensory event perfect for any meetup.

Why is Trickery the perfect spot for a group meetup?

Trickery’s intimate size and personalized magic show format make it a perfect venue for groups looking to share a unique, memorable outing. Unlike large theaters or noisy bars, Trickery offers a cozy, engaging setting conducive to conversation and camaraderie. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, a reunion, or a corporate gathering, the setting fosters a sense of closeness and enjoyment among guests. The show’s highly interactive nature encourages everyone to engage — a key factor in strengthening social bonds and creating collective memories.

Another reason Trickery is great for groups is the flexibility the venue offers. With a single session lasting around an hour, it fits conveniently into various social schedules without requiring a full evening commitment. Including time before or after the show to mingle and share your experiences over your own drinks means the event naturally extends into a social gathering. This makes it easy to incorporate into larger outings, such as dinner plans or post-show meetups.

The professionalism and charisma of the magician Aaron, who is widely praised for his humor and skill, also add tremendous value to group meetups. His ability to read the room and tailor his performance ensures that every audience member — regardless of age or background — feels included and entertained. The venue’s location in Chicago’s Lakeview neighborhood, within the lively Boystown area, also means your group can easily explore nearby restaurants, cafes, or bars before or after the show, adding versatility to your outing.

How does the customer experience at Trickery stand out?

Customers consistently highlight the warm, inviting atmosphere and remarkable entertainment quality at Trickery. Reviews frequently mention the charming décor that sets the perfect magical mood and the intimate space that places the audience mere feet from the action, creating a sense of wonder and inclusion. Audience participation is more than just a gimmick here; it’s woven into the fabric of each show, thrilling guests as they become part of the illusions. This very personal interaction is often cited as a standout feature, making each visit unique and memorable.

Moreover, the magician’s engaging personality, combining skillful magic with humor, enhances the evening’s enjoyment. Guests appreciate the show’s pace — it’s lively, entertaining, and ensures your attention is held from start to finish. The BYOB-friendly policy is repeatedly praised, as it allows attendees to tailor their refreshments, often contributing to a relaxed and festive atmosphere. In addition, many reviews emphasize the accessibility of the show, noting it is equally enjoyable for adults and teenagers, making it suitable for a variety of group types.

The quality and originality of the magic tricks themselves also draw gushes of admiration. Many spectators find themselves utterly mystified, unable to figure out the methods behind the illusions, which adds to the thrill of the experience. Repeat customers highlight how no two shows are exactly the same, encouraging groups to return for multiple visits. Altogether, this combination of ambiance, interactive format, and top-notch entertainment sets Trickery apart as a premier magic venue ideal for communal enjoyment.

What makes Trickery’s location and environment special?

Nestled in Chicago’s vibrant Lakeview neighborhood, Trickery’s location offers both convenience and a lively urban vibe that makes it ideal for social gatherings. The venue is situated in Boystown, an area known for its welcoming, dynamic atmosphere with plenty of nearby dining and nightlife options. This makes it easy for groups to plan a full evening around their Trickery experience, such as grabbing dinner before or drinks afterward at one of the many local hotspots. The surroundings add to the festive mood and make the meetup feel like a complete night out.

Inside, Trickery is a small, intimate space thoughtfully designed to complement the magical experience. The decor immerses guests in a whimsical, mysterious aura, with subtle touches that evoke curiosity and excitement even before the show begins. The seating is arranged to foster community, permitting easy interaction between group members while maintaining excellent sightlines to the stage. This environment promotes engagement and shared enjoyment unlike larger, impersonal venues.

The location’s accessibility and neighborhood charm further enhance the overall appeal. Whether guests arrive by public transport, rideshare, or personal vehicle, Trickery’s address is easy to reach. The bustling area encourages pre- or post-event socializing, ensuring the magic can be a part of a larger celebration. Altogether, the location and ambiance synergize perfectly to support Trickery’s mission of delivering a magical, memorable group experience.

How can Trickery accommodate special group events or corporate meetups?

Trickery is not only ideal for casual friend and family gatherings but also tailored to host more formal group events like corporate meetups, team-building sessions, or celebratory parties. The venue’s intimate size creates an excellent setting for companies or organizations looking for engaging activities that foster communication and camaraderie. One standout feature for corporate gatherings is the magician Aaron’s ability to customize parts of the experience, including teaching the group a magic trick that symbolically promotes teamwork, problem-solving, and creativity.

Groups appreciate the controlled environment and focused entertainment because it naturally encourages group interaction, breaks the ice, and nurtures connections. Many companies have praised Trickery for providing a refreshing alternative to conventional offsites or dinners by offering an experience that is both fun and mentally stimulating. The combination of entertainment and active participation generates laughter and discussion, strengthening team morale.

Additionally, the BYOB policy adds flexibility for groups to manage their refreshments as they prefer, enhancing comfort and hospitality. The venue’s location in the lively Lakeview district is also ideal for corporate groups wanting to explore Chicago’s social scenes after the show. Overall, Trickery offers a unique, effective format for groups seeking memorable, enjoyable, and stimulating meetups beyond the ordinary.

What do customers typically say about their experience at Trickery?

Customers frequently describe their experience at Trickery as “amazing,” “funny,” “magical,” and “unforgettable.” Reviews repeatedly praise the magician’s skill, humor, and ability to maintain engagement throughout the show. Many note how the intimate setting makes the magic feel more personal and immersive than larger theater productions. The combination of laughter, participation, and high-quality illusions results in overwhelmingly positive feedback.

Groups of friends, families, and coworkers alike have found that Trickery delivers value beyond expectations, often sharing that their visit exceeded what they thought a magic show could be. The ability to bring your own drinks is regularly highlighted as a bonus that contributes to a relaxed, enjoyable atmosphere. Many guests also appreciate that the show is suitable for a wide age range, making it ideal for social outings that include teenagers and adults.

Furthermore, customers often commend the venue for its cozy, charming environment and the welcoming personality of the host, Aaron. Repeat visits and recommendations to others attest to its consistent quality and appeal. In summary, customer testimonials confirm that Trickery provides an engaging, fun, and memorable magic experience that makes it a premier choice for group gatherings in Chicago.

Don't just take our word for it. Check out these other websites for more info on the Trickery

• https://business.yelp.com/resources/articles/behind-the-review-how-a-solopreneur-maintains-a-5-star-rating-on-yelp/?domain=local-business
• https://www.tripadvisor.com/AttractionProductReview-g35805-d16878586-Trickery_Chicago_Magic_Show-Chicago_Illinois.html
• https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g35805-d13569649-Reviews-Trickery-Chicago_Illinois.html