places you must visit in chicago

Chicago   Travel Guide

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28 Fun Things to Do in Chicago

Chicago shines for its world-class museums, various shopping districts, vibrant neighborhoods and lively nightlife venues. Explore the city's innovative roots at the Griffin Museum of Science and Industry, where you can walk inside the U-505

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Millennium Park and Cloud Gate Millennium Park and Cloud Gate free

U.S. News Insider Tip: Construction around the Cloud Gate sculpture will limit the public's access to this top tourist attraction until spring 2024. While you might not be able to snag a selfie with "The Bean," many other attractions are available within the park. – Cortney Fries

A first-time visit to Chicago isn't complete without a stop at Millennium Park. Situated in the Loop just north of the Art Institute of Chicago , this 25-acre space is used to showcase cutting-edge art, architecture and landscaping; it also acts as a backdrop for concerts and festivals. Most visitors come to Millennium Park to see the Crown Fountain and Cloud Gate, better known as "The Bean." Designed by Spanish artist Jaume Plensa, the Crown Fountain features two 50-foot towers that face each other at opposite ends of a shallow reflecting pool. The towers' LED screens project the faces of 1,000 different Chicago residents, which are perfectly aligned with spouts so that it appears they are spitting water on passersby. The water flows mid-spring through mid-fall, while the faces are projected year-round. Cloud Gate – created by British-Indian artist Anish Kapoor – is a 110-ton bean-shaped sculpture forged from stainless steel. The Bean's elliptical shape reflects the Chicago skyline. A quintessential Chicago souvenir is a photo of your reflection in The Bean.

Grant Park and Buckingham Fountain Grant Park and Buckingham Fountain free

U.S. News Insider Tip: If you're visiting Chicago Sept. 8 through 10, head to Grant Park early – around 11 a.m. to avoid the lines – for the Taste of Chicago. Enjoy the park and eat the best cuisine the city has to offer. Admission is free. – Sarah Estime

Often referred to as "Chicago's front yard," Grant Park is an approximately 313-acre swath of green space that starts at the eastern edge of the Loop and stretches down to the northern fringes of the Near South Side. First-time visitors should plan on spending a fair amount of time in Grant Park: This is where you'll find several of Chicago's most popular things to do, including The Field Museum , the Art Institute of Chicago and Shedd Aquarium . ( Millennium Park also rubs elbows with the northwest corner of Grant Park.) Baseball diamonds, flower gardens, walking paths and wide-open grassy terrain are available as well.

Art Institute of Chicago Art Institute of Chicago

Home to one of the country's most impressive collections of impressionist and post-impressionist art (plus works from numerous other genres), the expansive Art Institute of Chicago features nearly 300,000 works from all over the world in its permanent collection. You'll find pieces created in the Byzantine era, as well as paintings completed just a few decades ago. Highlights include Jacob Lawrence's "The Wedding," Georgia O'Keeffe's "Sky above Clouds IV" and Grant Wood's "American Gothic." The Art Institute's exhibits also include all sorts of intriguing artifacts, from European armor to the Thorne Miniature Rooms, which showcase interior design and furnishings in Europe and America from the late 13th to early 20th centuries. In addition to the permanent collection, the Art Institute hosts traveling exhibitions covering a variety of subjects and showcasing a diverse array of artists and genres.

The Art Institute of Chicago earns high praise from recent visitors, thanks in part to its impressive collection. Art enthusiasts particularly commend the museum's impressionist collection, which features pieces from famous artists like van Gogh, Monet and Renoir.

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The Magnificent Mile The Magnificent Mile free

U.S. News Insider Tip: The Magnificent Mile, known for its world-class shopping, also has plenty to offer architecture buffs. Book a walking tour with the Chicago Architecture Center and hear the untold stories of North Michigan Avenue's architectural icons. Tours start at $30. – Sarah Estime

For shopping at more than 450 retailers within walking distance in downtown Chicago, make your way to The Magnificent Mile. This portion of Michigan Avenue – which stretches between Lake Shore Drive and the Chicago River – beckons to shopaholics with department stores and luxury retailers like Bloomingdale's, Marcus, Macy's, Tory Burch and Nordstrom. Additionally, The Magnificent Mile is home to several top-notch eateries and luxury hotels, including The Drake , the Sofitel Chicago Magnificent Mile and the InterContinental Chicago Magnificent Mile .

Navy Pier Navy Pier free

Extending out onto Lake Michigan, Navy Pier offers plenty in the way of family-friendly entertainment. The first thing you'll spot once you set foot on the pier is the towering Ferris wheel (which stands 196 feet tall); you'll also find a drop tower and a carousel. Once the kids have had their fill of thrill rides, you can spend some time cruising the Chicago River on a sightseeing or speedboat tour or spend a few hours exploring the Chicago Children's Museum , with hands-on exhibits ranging from treehouses to fire trucks.

But you don't have to be a kid to enjoy a visit to Navy Pier. Grown-ups can catch a show at the Chicago Shakespeare Theater, flex some credit card muscle at a variety of shops or grab a drink at the Navy Pier Beer Garden. And be sure to check Navy Pier's website for a list of events: Concerts are often held here, and from Memorial Day to Labor Day (as well as New Year's Eve), impressive fireworks displays light up the skies on Wednesday and Saturday nights. Many of the city's top Segway tours offer special summer evening tours to the pier to catch the semiweekly fireworks show.

Lincoln Park Zoo Lincoln Park Zoo free

U.S. News Insider Tip: North Avenue Beach is a short walk over the North Avenue Bridge when you park at the southern end of the Lincoln Park Zoo lot. Explore the zoo, then stroll over to the beach for an afternoon in the sand. – Cortney Fries

Located 2 miles north of the Loop in the North Side neighborhood of Lincoln Park, the Lincoln Park Zoo is home to nearly 200 species, such as zebras, sloths and hippos. Visitors can view the zoo's furry (or scaly) friends in their natural habitats: Check out the gorillas in the sprawling, award-winning Regenstein Center for African Apes, or head to the Kovler Seal Pool to get up close and personal with harbor seals. Seal training and feeding occurs daily at 11:30 a.m. and 2 p.m.

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360 CHICAGO Observation Deck 360 CHICAGO Observation Deck

One of Chicago's most notable attractions is its skyline, and one of the best places to experience it is at the 360 CHICAGO Observation Deck. Formerly known as the John Hancock Observatory, 360 CHICAGO towers 1,000 feet over The Magnificent Mile from its location on the 94th floor of the John Hancock Center (or 875 North Michigan Avenue as its more formally known). Encased by floor-to-ceiling windows, 360 CHICAGO boasts expansive views of the city; on a clear day, you can see four states. Meanwhile, the interactive screens will help you identify different landmarks that appear in your panorama.

For a different point of view (and an adrenaline rush), test out 360 CHICAGO's TILT. In this mechanized room, visitors hold on to handlebars as the top of the room's windows extend outward, tilting you toward bustling North Michigan Avenue down below. For another memorable way to immerse yourself in the views, try ClouldWalk, a 3D art experience introduced in 2022. Mural artist Nate Baranowski created an optical illusion on the observation deck that makes visitors feel as though they are standing on a crane platform in the clouds.  Should you prefer to experience the view without feeling your heart skip a beat, grab a cup of coffee, a glass of wine or a snack at the cafe and bar, or look for souvenirs in the gift shop.

The Field Museum The Field Museum

U.S. News Insider Tip: After hours of museum hopping, grab a kid-approved lunch at Kim & Carlo's Hot Dog Cart. The no-frills stand offers everything from vegan dogs to the traditional Chicago hotdog. Enjoy your lunch on the water. – Sarah Estime

This extensive natural history museum occupies half an acre of Grant Park 's Museum Campus and houses exhibits that showcase artifacts from multiple eras and destinations, making it a must-see for kids (as well as any fans of the "Indiana Jones" movies). Some of the most popular parts of the museum include the "Inside Ancient Egypt" exhibit, which features a reconstruction of a three-story replica of an Egyptian tomb, one of the largest collections of mummies in the United States and interactive representations of life on the Nile. There's also the Restoring Earth area in the Abbott Hall of Conservation, where visitors can learn more about sustainability through hands-on activities. But no visit to The Field Museum would be complete without some quality time with SUE, the facility's T. rex who just happens to be the largest, most complete T. rex ever discovered. SUE is 40 feet long from nose to tail and boasts 55 terrifying teeth.

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Chicago Architecture River Cruise Chicago Architecture River Cruise

A visit to 360 CHICAGO or Skydeck Chicago will give you a good overview of the city's layout. But if you want to learn more about Chicago's sky-high buildings, tag along on an architecture river cruise. During a river cruise, you'll gain great views and historical insight about well-known structures like the Wrigley Building, the Leo Burnett Building and the Fulton House.

Though several companies, including Wendella Sightseeing Co. and Chicago Line Cruises, offer architecture river cruises, most travelers recommend climbing aboard a Chicago's First Lady Cruises boat with a Chicago Architecture Center docent. You'll learn tons of information about the area's architecture, plus catch superb skyline photo-ops.

Maggie Daley Park Maggie Daley Park free

U.S. News Insider Tip: There are many restaurant options around the park, but Wildberry Pancakes & Café is a satisfying brunch spot. Choose from creative pancake options, a variety of omelets, crepes, sandwiches and salads. Go hungry and leave happy. – Cortney Fries

Opened in 2014, Maggie Daley Park is an expansive property located just east of Millennium Park in downtown Chicago. The 20-acre green space offers numerous activities for both kids and adults alike, including a climbing wall, a mini-golf course, a 3-acre playground, a public garden, an ice-skating skating "ribbon" during the winter and scooter and rollerblade rentals in the summer, not to mention a tennis facility. Whatever you choose to do, you'll get to enjoy fantastic views of the Chicago skyline. Recent visitors loved that the park is free to access, and they noted that the attraction is excellent for family fun.

Griffin Museum of Science and Industry Griffin Museum of Science and Industry

U.S. News Insider Tip: Mid-November through the first week of January, experience the annual "Christmas Around the World" and "Holidays of Light" exhibits. Volunteers decorate more than 50 trees in celebration of holiday traditions from around the globe. – Cortney Fries

Chicago's extensive Griffin Museum of Science and Industry is the Western Hemisphere's largest science museum, showcasing more than 35,000 artifacts and a variety of hands-on exhibits meant to inspire creativity. The museum resides in the 14-acre former Palace of Fine Arts, which hosted the famous World's Columbian Exposition in 1893. The fair brought together some of the world's greatest scientific minds, including Thomas Edison and Nikola Tesla, who at the time were competing to prove which type of electricity – direct current or alternating current – was more effective. 

Wrigley Field Wrigley Field

U.S. News Insider Tip: If you're visiting during the holiday season, don't miss Winterland at Gallagher Way for family-friendly rides and games inside and around the ballpark. Christkindlmarket Wrigleyville is free to enter. Enjoy festive shopping and international food and beverage selections. – Cortney Fries

Chicagoans take their love of sports very seriously. So, for a real taste of Chicago culture, head north of the Loop to Wrigley Field to watch the Chicago Cubs play ball at the Friendly Confines. History buffs will also appreciate this sports treasure, which first opened in 1914 and holds the honor of being the second-oldest Major League Baseball stadium in the country (after Fenway Park in Boston ).

Shedd Aquarium Shedd Aquarium

U.S. News Insider Tip: If you're visiting in the summer (June through August), check out Jazzin' at the Shedd. You can enjoy jazz music and drinks with incredible views from the terrace. Plus, the lights dim in the aquarium for a unique experience. – Elizabeth Von Tersch, Senior Editor

Shedd Aquarium is one of the world's largest indoor aquariums, housing around 32,000 creatures. While you're here, you can feel stingrays float beneath your fingers, listen to sea lions bark and learn all about a variety of turtles. A visit to Shedd Aquarium will lead you through a cornucopia of habitats, where you'll find additional animals like penguins, piranhas, sharks and beluga whales. Or, for an additional fee, you can participate in specialty experiences like animal encounters, feeding experiences and virtual reality.

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The Chicago Riverwalk The Chicago Riverwalk free

U.S. News Insider Tip: During the summer, there is nothing better than watching the boats go by as you relax at City Winery Riverwalk Wine Garden. Rent a retro boat from Chicago Electric Boat Company and cruise the river yourself. – Cortney Fries

When the weather warms up in Chicago, there are few better places to enjoy the outdoors than the Chicago Riverwalk. The 1.25-mile pedestrian walkway on the south bank of the Chicago River is the perfect place to take a stroll and observe the city skyline. Plus, there are numerous activity options to enjoy directly on the water, such as a boat or kayak tour . If you prefer to explore on your own two feet, visit the public gardens and art displays, or grab a meal at a popular restaurant or bar overlooking the Chicago River. And if you want to learn more about the river's unique history, check out the McCormick Bridgehouse & Chicago River Museum, which celebrates the city's famous movable bridges. What's more, Art on theMART – a massive digital art projection on the facade of theMART (formerly The Merchandise Mart) – is best viewed from the Riverwalk.

Skydeck Chicago at the Willis Tower Skydeck Chicago at the Willis Tower

More than 1.7 million people make their way to Willis Tower's Skydeck Chicago each year, and it's easy to see why. Occupying the 103rd floor – that's nine floors higher than 360 CHICAGO – of the 110-story Willis Tower (the third-tallest building in North America after One World Trade Center and Central Park Tower), Skydeck Chicago boasts breathtaking views of the city. Visit on a sunny day and you may be able to see far beyond Chicago's borders to Indiana, Michigan, Wisconsin and other parts of Illinois.

The highlight for most visitors is the Ledge. Extending 4.3 feet beyond the building's exterior, this platform is made entirely of glass – even the floor. Travelers also liked the video screens that show what it would be like to stand 103 floors above other Chicago attractions, including Wrigley Field and Millennium Park . However, long lines quickly form for Skydeck Chicago, so plan on arriving early or purchasing a Chicago CityPASS, which covers expedited admission into the attraction. Or, simply pay extra for expedited entry, which features an express line to the elevators. For the best views, it's advised that you visit just after opening or after sunset. If you'd like to enjoy the sunset from the tower, plan on arriving 30 to 45 minutes before sunset to ensure you have enough time to get through the elevator line and up to the top.

North Avenue Beach North Avenue Beach free

Located in Lincoln Park directly on Lake Michigan, North Avenue Beach is one of the most popular swimming spots in Chicago. The sandy beach has volleyball courts, plenty of space for visitors to stretch out and multiple things to do near nearby. Plus, it offers spectacular views of the city skyline. Beachgoers can also find restaurants, sports rental companies, restrooms and more inside a 22,000-square-foot beach house adjacent to the shore.

Recent visitors said the beach is a nice spot that is perfect for relaxing, biking and running, but they warned that it can get busy on warm summer days.

The Second City The Second City

If you've seen a sketch comedy show or hilarious movie in the last 40 years, it's likely that someone from The Second City appeared in it. The Second City is one of the world's most iconic improvisational comedy theaters, and it has helped launch the careers of numerous famous comedians, including Bill Murray, Tina Fey, Keegan-Michael Key, Steve Carell and Stephen Colbert. If you're in the mood for a laugh, check out a live show on any night of the week at any number of The Second City's seven stages (which are all housed in its facility at the northwest corner of North Avenue and Wells Street in Old Town). 

Recent reviewers said that everyone in their group could not stop laughing during the shows, which typically last 90 minutes to two hours. Ticket prices vary by the show and date, but run anywhere from $30 to $100.

The Chicago Theatre The Chicago Theatre

Aside from Cloud Gate and Buckingham Fountain , The Chicago Theatre's red and yellow marquee is perhaps one of the city's most recognizable landmarks. Illuminating North State Street at the northern edge of the Loop, The Chicago Theatre first opened its doors in 1921 as an extravagant movie theater and performance venue. Throughout its history, the theater has hosted such big names as Duke Ellington, Diana Ross and Prince, in addition to screening blockbuster flicks. Though the theater fell into disuse in the 1970s, new management and a full renovation in the 1980s helped return the venue to its former glory. Today, the theater is still used for a variety of comedic, theatrical and musical performances.

According to past patrons, the theater's historic appearance enhances the overall experience of catching an event here. Just remember, cameras and video cameras, including those on cell phones, cannot be used during tours or performances. If you're not in town for a show, consider signing up for one of the venue's guided tours. Tour tickets cost $20 for adults and $15 for kids ages 12 and younger. Tours are available Monday and Tuesday at noon and 2 p.m. and last about an hour.

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Chicago Children's Museum Chicago Children's Museum

Located at Navy Pier , the Chicago Children's Museum offers temporary and permanent play-based exhibits for babies, toddlers and kids ages 4 and older. Founded in 1982 by the Junior League of Chicago as a response to cuts in arts programming, the museum was originally housed in two hallways of what is now called the Chicago Cultural Center . Today, children can dig for "teeth" and "bones" in "Dinosaur Expedition," climb through tunnels of "Cloud Buster," test their STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Math) skills in the Tinkering Lab and paint, draw or sew in the art studio.

Recent visitors appreciated the interactive, hands-on exhibits, which they recommend for young children.

American Writers Museum American Writers Museum

U.S. News Insider Tip: Across the street from the museum, you will find the first Nutella Café, where you can savor French and Italian dishes featuring the heavenly hazelnut spread. The gelato is roll-your-eyes-to-the-back-of-your-head good. – Cortney Fries

The first museum in the United States dedicated to celebrating the diverse voices and influence of American authors, the American Writers Museum is an interactive journey through more than five centuries of written and spoken word. This relatively small museum, which opened in 2017, features thoughtful and reflective exhibits that you can touch, smell, hear and see. 

DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center

U.S. News Insider Tip: If driving in Chicago isn’t your thing, consider taking the No. 55 bus to the museum. The bus drops you off within just a five-minute walk of the museum. – Sarah Estime

The DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center, named for Jean Baptiste Pointe DuSable, the entrepreneur who is credited with founding Chicago, is a must-visit for anyone looking to learn more about African American history in the city of Chicago and America. It celebrates its 62nd anniversary in 2023, and is full of thought-provoking exhibits, including those that showcase fine art created by influential African American artists and historical materials. Note that visitors hoping to enjoy “The March” exhibit, an immersive experience depicting the historic March on Washington and Martin Luther King Jr.'s "I Have A Dream" speech, can go in groups of no more than four at a time.

Adler Planetarium Adler Planetarium

The first planetarium in the Western Hemisphere, the Adler offers unrivaled insights into our solar system. Indeed, "Our Solar System" is one of its permanent exhibits, along with "Mission Moon," "The Universe: A Walk Through Space and Time," "Telescopes: Through the Looking Glass" and "Astronomy in Culture," among others. Its facilities include the Doane Observatory, which has the largest telescope available to the public in the Chicago area, through which visitors can glimpse celestial objects trillions of miles away. The Adler also has three full-size theaters – the 3D Universe Theater, the Definiti Space Theater and the Grainger Sky Theater – in which it screens programs like "Destination Solar System," "Planet Nine" and "One World, One Sky: Big Bird's Adventure."

Space enthusiasts invariably find the Adler's presentations both informative and entertaining, if somewhat pricey. Most visitors suggest setting aside a few hours to explore the various exhibits and shows. Travelers recommend maximizing your parking expenses by also visiting the Shedd Aquarium or The Field Museum , which also sit on the Museum Campus. Reviewers also appreciated the Lake Michigan and skyline views as seen from the planetarium.

Offbeat Street Art Tour Offbeat Street Art Tour

U.S. News Insider Tip: If you’re looking for unique souvenirs from your Chicago trip, consider The Goddess & Grocer for its gift baskets. – Sarah Estime

In Chicago, you can find eye-catching street art nearly everywhere. As you sightsee, you’ll be greeted with unique, thought-provoking art on the sides of buildings and underneath bridges. If you’re looking for an experience that walks you through the history and cultural significance of Chicago's street art scene, look no further than the Offbeat Street Art Tour. On this two-hour tour, you’ll discover new artists and learn the inspiration behind their colorful works, along with some interesting neighborhood history. You’ll also be able to take great photos along the way.

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The Green Mill The Green Mill

U.S. News Insider Tip: For visitors looking for a bite to eat after a night of jazz music, head across the street to Damera for an authentic Ethiopian meal, or down the block to the Fat Cat for a burger. – Sarah Estime

Best known for serving gangsters during its speakeasy days, the Green Mill invites travelers to step back in time. The long bar that runs along the club's left side sits in front of smokey mirrors and is peppered with decor reminiscent of the Prohibition era. The entire place is cast in a warm reddish glow while old-time jazz plays from the jukebox. The bar – one of Al Capone’s favorites – has no set menu; order whatever cocktails you like (though the chocolate martinis are delicious). There is also a selection of beer and wine.

Garfield Park Conservatory Garfield Park Conservatory free

One of the biggest botanical conservatories in the United States, the Garfield Park Conservatory houses thousands of plant species in eight indoor gardens, as well as 10 acres of outdoor gardens.

Each indoor space has a distinct focus. The Aroid House features varieties of its namesake, which are among the most popular houseplants; it also features sculptures by the world-renowned glass artist Dale Chihuly made specifically for the Aroid House. As its name suggests, the Desert House boasts cacti and succulents, while the Fern Room arranges ferns around an indoor lagoon. The Palm House, the conservatory's largest structure, recreates a tropical landscape complete with more than 70 palm trees. Meanwhile, the Elizabeth Morse Genius Children's Garden aims to educate little ones about plants. Horticulture Hall displays a range of flowers and plants and also has tables where visitors can take a seat and have a rest.

The Richard H. Driehaus Museum The Richard H. Driehaus Museum

Occupying a restored mansion built in 1883, the Richard H. Driehaus Museum presents exhibitions relating to architecture, art and design from the 19th century to the present day.

The Nickerson Mansion containing the museum boasts an entrance hall made with so much marble that the building was nicknamed "the Marble Palace." (The museum takes its current name from the philanthropist who founded it in 2003.) Its reception room features intricate woodwork as well as items from the museum's permanent collection, such as a Tiffany Studios lamp that dates back to the early 1900s. Meanwhile, the front parlor displays Renaissance Revival furniture original to the Nickerson Mansion. The dining room, fitted with elaborately carved oak, houses a silver punch bowl first exhibited at the 1893 World's Columbian Exposition. Other highlights from the permanent collection include a gem-encrusted inkstand, a ceramic clock, multiple chandeliers, paintings, sculptures and an array of decorative items.

Chicago Cultural Center Chicago Cultural Center free

The "People’s Palace," a popular destination occupying a full city block in the downtown Loop neighborhood, is a stunning architectural marvel as well as a venue for a great deal of cultural programming, including art exhibits and concerts. Among its features are one of the largest Tiffany stained-glass domes in the world (made with around 30,000 individual pieces of glass) and a marble lobby adorned with mosaics made of gold, glass and precious stones.

Visitors invariably rave about the impressive structure and its elaborate decorations, saying it’s worth it to pop in for free to see the ornate ceiling.

University of Chicago University of Chicago free

Founded in 1890 by John D. Rockefeller, the University of Chicago is an urban research university in the city's Hyde Park neighborhood close to Lake Michigan. Currently, it has more than 7,000 undergraduate students and more than 10,000 graduate, professional or other students as well as nearly 2,400 full-time faculty members.

Impressive as those statistics may be, they aren't reasons to visit. But the university's 217-acre campus, which was designated a botanic garden in 1997, and its mixture of English Gothic and modern architecture are. Some of the newer structures were designed by celebrated architects like Ludwig Mies van der Rohe and Eero Saarinen, while some of the older ones are adorned with gargoyles that date back to the 1893 World Columbian Exposition. The university welcomes visitors to explore its campus, and provides information about its architecture on its website. Those who've visited before routinely call the buildings diverse and beautiful, and many recommend stopping by in the spring when flowers bloom across campus, or fall when amber leaves transform the grounds.

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The 32 best Chicago attractions

The best Chicago attractions include museums, vast city parks, jazz clubs and theaters.

Chicago might be the Second City, but our attractions are first class. Need evidence of that fact? Look no further than the many Chicago museums , where you'll find everything from the best-preserved T.Rex skeleton ever found to paintings from Van Gogh and Picasso. Or take a stroll through our gorgeous parks and gardens , home to some of the best public art in Chicago (hello to The Bean). Or spend a day swimming in Lake Michigan's surprisingly huge freshwater waves at one of the many Chicago beaches , or see a jazz show at a bar once frequented by Al Capone, or have a Michelin-starred meal at one of the best Chicago restaurants ... the list goes on. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or a lifelong Chicagoan looking to see a little more of their home city, we’ve curated a list of the very best attractions Chicago has to offer, just for you.

RECOMMENDED: The best things to do in Chicago right now RECOMMENDED: The best cheap things to do in Chicago RECOMMENDED: The best hotels in Chicago RECOMMENDED: The best boutique hotels in Chicago

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Best Chicago attractions

1.  Art Institute of Chicago

• Art and design
• price 2 of 4

What is it? Located in downtown Chicago, the Art Institute is a great art museum that is home to  more than 300,000 artworks that span centuries .

Why go? Here, you can find one of the world’s most iconic   paintings like Georges Seurat’s A Sunday on La Grande Jatte (which you may have seen in the cinematic classic  Ferris Bueller’s Day Off ), Edward Hopper's Nighthawks and Grant Wood's American Gothic . Afterwards, explore the stunning Modern Wing, itself a work of art by architect Renzo Piano, or special exhibitions like Life and Afterlife in Ancient Egypt , featuring artworks and artifacts spanning 3,000 years.

2.  Lincoln Park Zoo

• Things to do
• Lincoln Park

What is it? It's   l ocated smack dab in the middle of Lincoln Park, and is home to more than 1,000 animals, including lions, bears, apes and red pandas! 

Why go? You don't even need to open your purse to come here, as it's the only remaining free zoo in Chicago, so just walk right in! It's a great place to take the kids to and requires very little planning. They even offer parties for adults at night, if that's your bag. 

3.  360 CHICAGO

• Streeterville

What is it? Sitting right at the top of the towering 875 N Michigan Avenue building (formerly the John Hancock building), this observation deck places you 1,030 feet in the air. On a clear day, visitors can see four different states ( Illinois, Indiana, Wisconsin and Michigan) .

Why go? If you want to do more than just take a really good look at the view then you should probably test your mettle on 360 CHICAGO’s TILT attraction , which dares guests to not freak out as the observation deck is tilted (duh) out over the busy streets below. If you’ve got a fear of heights, this may not be for you.

4.  Garfield Park Conservatory

• Parks and gardens
• East Garfield Park

What is it? T his enormous greenhouse in Garfield Park is a mong the largest conservatories in the United States. It provides a home for some 600 species of plants (most of which aren’t indigenous to the region).

Why go? Make sure to secure a (free!) reservation online and then s top by to admire the gigantic trees that fill the Palm House, or the Jurassic Park -evoking Fern Room, designed to show you what Illinois may have looked like millions of years in the past. In the warmer months, be sure to make time to explore the sprawling outdoor gardens too. 

5.  The Field Museum

• Science and technology
• Museum Campus

What is it? In 1893, this huge natural history museum   was created to become the home to biological and anthropological collections. And, fun fact: It has more dinosaur bones and ancient artifacts than any other institution in Chicago.

Why go? Take a trip here and be transported back in time. Here, you'll find a recreation of   an ancient Egyptian tomb, stand beneath a towering skeleton of Máximo the titanosaur, or encounter Chicago's most famous prehistoric resident, SUE the T. Rex , the largest and most complete T. Rex fossil skeleton ever found. Fuel your passion for discovery with dinosaurs, ancient artifacts, cultural insights and groundbreaking science.

6.  Millennium Park

• Millennium Park

What is it? One of the most popular places to spend time outdoors in the city, Millennium Park really is vast, covering a massive 24.5 acres. It hosts well-known pieces of public art and a long list of special events, including free concerts and movie screenings in the summer—plus it’s also very good for a nice sit-down.

Why go? Snap a requisite selfie in front of the hulking Cloud Gate (a.k.a. the Bean), take a walk to the Boeing Galleries, go for a stroll through the serene Lurie Gardens or relax on the lawn in front of the Frank Gehry-designed Jay Pritzker Pavilion.

7.  Museum of Science and Industry

What is it? Interactivity is the name of the game at the Museum of Science and Industry, a long-running Hyde Park institution and the largest science center in the Western Hemisphere. It boasts such attractions as a mirror maze, a simulated tornado and an entire WWII-era U-505 submarine.

Why go? Step inside a building that dates back to the World’s Columbian Exposition of 1893 and explore exhibits that depict a Chicago street circa 1910 and a massive model railroad that depicts the 2,200-mile journey from Seattle to Chicago. Right now MSI is hosting Pompeii: The Exhibition, dedicated to the ancient Roman city that was destroyed by a volcanic eruption 1,900 years ago.

8.  Wrigley Field

• Sports and fitness
• Baseball & softball
• Wrigleyville
• price 1 of 4

What is it?   Built in 1914, this timeless institution is home to the city’s North Side baseball team, the Chicago Cubs.

Why   go?   Whether it’s a weekday afternoon or a Saturday night game, expect a sold-out crowd of faithful fans as well as out-of-towners who have made the pilgrimage just to visit the venerable stadium. Even if you have no interest in baseball, you can grab a Chicago-style hot dog and soak in the electric atmosphere. And when the last out has been recorded, head over to the myriad of neighborinig bars and restaurants to keep the good times going.

9.  The 606

• Humboldt Park

What is it? This is Chicago’s version of NYC's High Line,  a  2.7-mile stretch of an abandoned elevated rail line. It has now been revamped into a pedestrian path that connects Logan Square, Humboldt Park, Bucktown and Wicker Park.

Why go? Try coming here for a run, or even take a bike along and quickly get around to many different neighborhoods, with more than a dozen entrance and exit points along the route. You'll see some great art on your journey.

10.  Shedd Aquarium

• Zoo and aquariums
• price 3 of 4

What is it? This Museum Campus staple is the home to thousands of aquatic creatures from all around the world, including adorable rockhopper penguins, a truly impressive selection of sharks and a giant Pacific octopus.

Why go? Watch tropical fish swim through a 90,000-gallon aquarium in the gigantic Caribbean Reef exhibition or pony up some extra cash to have a face-to-face encounter with a penguin, otter or an adorable beluga whale.

11.  Chinatown

What is it?  One of the oldest Chinese-American communities in the country.

Why go?  Explore a variety of Asian businesses, learn about Chinese culture by checking out a museum or have a picnic in a beautiful park when you visit Chinatown. There’s no shortage of things to do and you can easily spend an entire day wandering the South Side neighborhood. Best of all, a seemingly endless wealth of restaurants are at the ready to help you refuel once you’re worked up an appetite, so prepare to feast on dumplings, noodles, barbecued meats and much more. 

12.  Music Box Theatre

• Movie theaters
• Independent

What is it? This beloved two-screen Lakeview movie house doesn’t usually show the latest blockbusters, but that’s kind of the charm. What it does offer is a beautifully curated selection of films in a vintage theater with clouds projected on its ceiling.

Why go? The Music Box is one of the best spots in town to see movies that don't typically make it to the multiplex. Think arthouse releases, documentaries and foreign language films. It’s also got a comfortable lounge and garden, perfect for killing some time before or after a film. If you don't feel like leaving the house to see a flick, you can rent one through the Music Box Direct streaming platform .

13.  The Green Mill

• Cocktail bars

What is it? This Uptown cocktail lounge is a fixture of Chicago’s live jazz scene and has been slinging drinks since before Prohibition (Al Capone and other gangsters used to hang out at the Green Mill—his associate ‘Machine Gun’ Jack McGurn was even a part-owner).

Why go? Once you’ve snapped a picture of the iconic Green Mill marquee, head inside, order a cocktail and take in a set from some of the city’s top jazz musicians. The music typically goes late—weekdays it shuts at a whimsical 1:11am—but you’ll usually need to show up early if you want to score a good seat.

14.  Jackson Park

• Literary events

What is it? You might know Jackson Park best for the fact that it served as the site of the World’s Columbian Exposition of 1893. It's also a great place to visit to get lost in nature, without even having to leave the city.

Why go? Take a walk through the Garden of the Phoenix and see Yoko Ono's stunning Skylanding sculpture. Or head over to the iconic Statue of the Republic at the intersection of Hayes and Richards Drives. Or, if you’re really looking for a ramble, take a detour to the nearby Midway Plaisance Park, which leads to Washington Park.

15.  Lakefront Trail

• South Shore

What is it? This epic 18-mile trail stretches all the way from Hollywood Avenue to 71st Street. On it you'll find walkers, runners and cyclists, getting their daily exercise and soaking in the glorious lakeside views.

Why go? Unsurprisingly the trail is hugely popular—prepare to fend off crowds in summer, though it's worthwhile to make a trip for the view and easy access to the lake for a dip. 

16.  National Museum of Mexican Art

• Lower West Side

What is it? Located in the Latino neighborhood of Pilsen, this cultural institution hosts one of the country’s largest collections of Mexican art—and admission is always free.

Why go? Inside the permanent “Nuestras Historias” exhibition, you’ll see work from famous artists like José de Páez and Miguel Cabrera as well modern pieces by Chicago-based talent such as muralist Héctor Duarte and imagist Errol Ortiz.

17.  Hideout

• River West/West Town

What is it? Situated in a tiny house on a nondescript industrial corridor is o ne of Chicago's smallest and most hallowed independent music venues .

Why go?  It can be difficult to reach this tucked-away spot via public transportation, but it is worth it for the cheap beer, fresh sounds and DJs dropping nostalgia, from Prince to Devo.

18.  Museum of Contemporary Art

What is it? T his iconic Chicago museum mainstay is a destination for cutting edge exhibitions and programming. It h osts one of the largest collections of contemporary art in the United States.

Why go? Take in a constantly shifting lineup of exhibitions, including touring shows from the likes of Takashi Murakami and Kerry James Marshall, or stop by the MCA Store, where you'll find everything from ceramics made by local artists to apparel from internationally-renowned designers.

19.  Chicago Riverwalk

What is it? T he Riverwalk provides a pedestrian path along the city’s most popular waterway as it hugs  the banks of the main branch of the Chicago River. It’s lined with restaurants, bars and gathering spaces.

Why go? The waterside walkway allows you to observe some of the city’s most gorgeous architecture from a new perspective. Plus, it's the best spot to take in the late night Art on theMart, which projects images on the side of Merchandise Mart in the evenings.

20.  Humboldt Park

What is it? Humboldt Park is one of the biggest stretches of green space on Chicago’s West Side. And it’s a good one, filled with  lagoons, pedestrian paths, wide-open fields and a boathouse.

Why go?  Humboldt Park is especially great in the warmer months, when it becomes something of a community hub, attracting crowds who come to enjoy the views of the lagoons from the boathouse, eat Puerto Rican food sold by vendors throughout the park and ramble along the winding paths.

21.  Chicago Architecture Center River Cruise

What is it? A 90-minute boat tour on the Chicago River.

Why go?  You may be familiar with the city’s gorgeous skyline, but do you know the deep history behind it? The Chicago Architecture Center's renowned boat cruise will take you down the Chicago River and give you the fascinating scoop on more than 50 buildings along the way. It’s the perfect way to see the city from new angles and learn something in the process.

22.  Chicago Theatre

• Music venues

What is it? A hundred-year-old theater in the heart of downtown.

Why go?   From Aretha Franklin to Frank Sinatra, some of the biggest names in the world have performed at this legendary, 3,600-seat theater. You can catch all types of concerts and stand-up sets here every week. If you’re more interested in the history side of things, book a tour that lets you explore the venue and even stand on the historic stage!

23.  Chicago Cultural Center

What is it? Cultural events and the arts are the focus of this public building, which also happens to contain the world’s largest stained glass Tiffany dome.

Why go? There’s always something happening in the Chicago Cultural Center, including free concerts in the Preston Bradley Hall and art exhibitions on the third floor. Best of all, you’ll never have to pay admission. Want to snag a souvenir? Stop by Buddy , a shop showcasing local artists.

24.  Chicago History Museum

What is it:  Once upon a time this museum was just the stodgy old Chicago Historical Society, which let you sift through thousands of archived photographs and curio. That library still exists, but joining it are several permanent and temporary exhibits, the largest of which is "Chicago: Crossroads of America," a treasure trove of fascinating historical objects, including a chunk of the original Fort Dearborn.

Why go:  I f you want an in-depth look at the people, places and things that make Chicago what it is today, the History Museum is well worth a visit.

25.  WNDR Museum

• Installation

What is it?  An interactive experience based around art and technology that encourages guests to reconsider the world around them.

Why go?  The WNDR Museum is the home of Chicago's only Infinity Mirror Room, created by Japanese artist Yayoi Kusama. After you snap a selfie inside of it, check out more one-of-a-kind art installations, including a room dedicated to the work of artist Keith Haring and a hallway that features a light-up floor.

26.  Historic Pullman Foundation Visitors Center

What is it?  This destination houses exhibits about the growth and preservation of this historic South Side neighborhood, site of the 1894 Pullman Strike and other important moments in U.S. labor history.

Why go? Back in the 1880s, businessman George Pullman built a company town to house employees for his eponymous railroad sleeper car company. The town was annexed into Chicago at the turn of the 20th century, and the industrial complex has since been designated a National Monument. Swing by the Visitors Center on the first Sunday of every month for a guided tour.

27.  The Second City

• Comedy clubs

What is it? Bill Murray, Tina Fey, Stephen Colbert and Joan Rivers are just a few of the famous folks who honed their talents onstage at this theater devoted to sketch and improvised comedy.

Why go? You’ll see some of the most talented rising comedic talents (and maybe a couple future Saturday Night Live cast members) on the Second City’s Mainstage. If you want to learn more about improv, stand-up or sketch writing, you can sign up for a class at the Training Center.

28.  Goose Island Fulton Street Brewery & Taproom

• United Center

What is it? Goose Island, one of Chicago's oldest craft breweries, produces many of its beloved beers at this facility. It also contains a barrel aging warehouse and a sleek taproom where visitors can pop in for a drink.

Why go?  Whether you’re after a fresh-poured Goose Island beer or you’re on the lookout for a rarity (including the sought-after Bourbon County Stout and its many variants), you can grab a seat in the Fulton Street brewery's taproom or patio. 

29.  Robie House

• Historic buildings and sites

What is it? This house is widely considered to be the greatest example of architect Frank Lloyd Wright's signature Prairie-style architecture. It was inspired by the flat Midwestern plains when it was constructed in 1910.

Why go? It's free to admire the building from outside. But if you want to get the full experience, snag a ticket for a tour offered by the Frank Lloyd Wright Trust, you can go inside and see the original art glass accents, restored furniture and a fireplace that divides the home's living and dining areas.

30.  Navy Pier

What is it? Navy Pier is a popular spot for tourists to flock to, and it stretches out into  the waters of Lake Michigan. It's also home to a 200-foot Ferris wheel, Chicago Children's Museum, Chicago Shakespeare Theater and plentiful dining options.

Why go? This is a great place to bring the whole family along to, as there's something to do for everyone. You can take a ride on the Ferris wheel, take a boat tour or even visit the world's largest rooftop bar, Offshore .

31.  The B_Line (Hubbard Street Murals)

What is it? Back in 1971, artist Ricardo Alonzo and local volunteers from the West Town Community Art Center filled a stretch of Hubbard Street in the West Loop with vivid murals on environmental themes as a street art project. Now, with curator and managing director Levar Hoard at the helm, local artists have been working to restore and reimagine this open-air street art gallery since 2019.

Why go? There are many incredible places to view street art in Chicago, but The B_Line, which runs along West Hubbard Street roughly between Racine and Halsted, is diverse, vivid and a clash of past and present—you'll see some of the original works alongside newer landmarks, including a powerful tribute to late Chicago rapper Juice WRLD.

32.  DuSable Museum of African American History

What is it?  Founded in 1961 by educator and artist Margaret Taylor Burroughs, the DuSable Museum is the country's oldest independent African American museum. The museum is named for Jean Baptiste Point DuSable, a Haitian trader who is considered the first permanent resident of Chicago, and holds more than 15,000 pieces. Pay a visit to see paintings, sculptures, print works and historical memorabilia relating to the history, contributions and experiences of African and African American people.

Why go?  The DuSable Museum hosts a variety of exhibitions focusing on national, local and global Black history and culture, as well as timely programming—current highlights include "Fighting Racism in the Trenches," which chronicles the story of World War I veteran Kathryn Magnolia Johnson.

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23 Best Things to Do in Chicago

By Nicole Schnitzler

Home to 77 neighborhoods, a robust lineup of festivals, a sprawling waterfront, and charming parks and walkways throughout, Chicago packs in something for every one of its locals. Add to that list award-winning theaters, iconic architecture, and a dynamic dining scene, and you’re looking at a world-class destination, too—smack dab in America’s heartland. The city’s draws only continue to grow, thanks to arrivals in everything from music venues to Michelin-starred restaurants—and the town’s hospitality remains strong, invested in helping others to enjoy those experiences across the board. From an education in the arts to an entirely outdoors itinerary (and plenty of easy-to-elegant noshes along the way), here are some of the best things to do in Chicago now.

Read our complete Chicago travel guide here.

This gallery has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

Garfield Park Conservatory Arrow

Step into the humid, glass-enclosed domes of Garfield Park where the air is clean thanks to thousands of jewel-toned plant specimens filtering toxins throughout. The space is fashionably untamed across its verdant showcase of flora from wet and dry environments, and those between. Spread across twelve acres, there's abundance year-round, from the colorful spring flower show to permanent indoor exhibits and holiday displays. Plant and garden enthusiasts should make the conservatory—easily accessed by Green Line—one of their stops.

Pizza City USA Arrow

In writing his book Pizza City USA , James Beard Award-winning food reporter Steve Dolinsky had organized the city into 10 different styles of pizza, quickly understanding Chicago’s wide array of pie styles. That research led him to start a tour showcasing that range, offering him and a team of “doughcents” a chance to tout Chicago’s diverse pizza scene to visitors and locals alike. There are four different kinds of tours, each exploring 3-4 styles of pizza. A walking tour Friday nights (downtown), a bus tour (various neighborhoods), and a walking tour (West Loop) on Saturdays, and a walking tour on Sundays (Bucktown/Wicker Park). Though the venues vary by tour, you can expect stops at favorites like Labriola (deep pan), My Pi (deep-dish), Robert’s (artisan), Paulie Gee’s Logan Square (Detroit-style), Eataly, and Bar Cargo (Roman). Get ready to grow your pizza IQ—in addition to discussing the range of pie styles, the team shares plenty of ‘za terminology and local history.

Urban Kayaks Arrow

Kayaking on the Chicago River or lake front is one way to shake up your perspective while visiting. Urban Kayaks offers tours along either. Move through the pulsing heart of the city on the river or travel Lake Michigan and circle Museum Campus (featuring the Field Museum , Adler Planetarium , Shedd Aquarium and Soldier Field). A night tour on the river boasts views of the glowing Merchandise Mart, which is showered in rotating, digital art displays projected onto the building. A one and a half hour skyline paddle in Lake Michigan gives you all the tourist sites without the foot traffic and crowds, showing you Grant Park and Navy Pier on a route few tourists trek.

The Salt Shed Arrow

The team responsible for some of Chicago’s best restaurants and concert halls is behind this hugely popular newcomer, housed within the iconic Morton Salt building on the North Branch of the Chicago River. The indoor-outdoor space made a soft debut last summer and continues those rollouts this year, with indoor shows this past winter and a full lineup this summer (including acts like First Aid Kit, Pretty Lights, Caamp, and Tash Sultana). Multi-level ticketing tiers help guests in selecting their vantage point for shows. Even if you don’t have prime sightlines every time (now considered the largest independent concert venue in Chicago, the space has a capacity of 5,000 for outdoor shows and 3,500 for indoors), you’re still in luck: They feature a state-of-the-art sound system by L-Acoustics. The venue also features a solid lineup of local food options, including Pizza Friendly Pizza and Café Tola. Find them in the outdoor Fairgrounds space (perfect for grabbing a bite pre-show).

Matt Ortile

Siobhan Reid

Kinza Shenn

Lauren Burvill

The Morton Arboretum Arrow

Located about 30 minutes west of downtown Chicago, the Morton Arboretum feels like a world away. It's a pastoral escape that feeds the mind and heart. Art installations on site are rotated seasonally, several of them are dedicated to the natural sciences, such as the living exhibit dedicated to tree growth. 'Human+Nature' is the current installation here, showcasing the work of acclaimed sculptor Daniel Popper. Five pieces are currently on display in various locations across the arboretum's 1,700 acres, making this Popper's largest exhibition to date anywhere in the world. Open from 7:00 a.m. to sunset, daily—it's a relative bargain at $16 a ticket. With a maze garden and over 16 miles of hiking trail, this is the ideal urban getaway for outdoorsy sorts looking to decompress.

Wrigley Field Arrow

Iconic Wrigley Field is arguably one of Chicago's most storied landmarks, with millions of baseball fans flocking to the stadium just to get a photo in front of the iconic Wrigley Field Marquee (whether they’re rooting for the Cubs or not). The stadium anchors the Wrigleyville neighborhood, which has experienced a boon in development. A new outdoor plaza, luxury hotels, and an influx of restaurants/bars have boosted the area's cultural cachet, so it's worth hanging around before or after your stop at the stadium.

Museum of Contemporary Art, Chicago Arrow

The MCA is one of the city’s museums that’s in a near constant state of transition. With its relatively small permanent collection, it relies on special shows—from large scale installations to video, fashion, music, photography, and more—that showcase just as many rising local talents and underground, avant-garde renegades as recognizable names. Past exhibits include David Bowie Is, Takashi Murakami: The Octopus Eats Its Own Leg, and Virgil Abloh: Figures of Speech.   It also has one of the best gift shops (ever) and is home to Marisol, where chef Jason Hammel puts forth thoughtful, seasonal cuisine. Come summer, visit for their “Tuesday on the Terrace” music series, along with 21 Minus, an annual festival celebrating the next generation of artists.

Midway Plaisance Arrow

Known simply as the Midway, this mile-long natural stretch on the South Side connects the east end's Washington Park to Jackson Park on the west. Once the site of amusements during the 1893 Columbian World's Exposition (AKA World's Fair), the Midway is flanked by Hyde Park's noted gothic architecture, particularly the University of Chicago campus, and tree-lined boulevards, as well as outfitted with an ice skating rink and other facilities to keep folks visiting year-round.

Lincoln Park Zoo Arrow

Located in the heart of Chicago's Lincoln Park, this zoo offers free, family-friendly entertainment year-round including the festive Zoolights around the holidays (reservations are required for all visits though). The sprawling grounds are seamlessly woven into the park’s landscape, balancing open, natural spaces and numerous animal exhibits. If you skip the pricey concessions (but maybe spring for a paddle boat ride), Lincoln Park Zoo is a great option to keep all ages occupied while staying on a budget. Visit the animals, take a spin on the AT&T Endangered Species Carousel or the Lionel Train Adventure, and enjoy family-friendly dining options, such as Bird’s Eye Bar & Grill or the Patio at Café Brauer. 

Art Institute of Chicago Arrow

If you're coming to Chicago for culture, you're hitting the Art Institute first. It is the city's grandest museum, a Beaux Arts gem flanked by two bronze lions that are as much a symbol of the city as the Willis Tower and it has as fine an impressionist collection as you'll find anywhere. While you're there, plan to take a stroll through Millennium Park next door.

Bloomingdale Trail (The 606) Arrow

Chicago's answer to New York's High Line , the Bloomingdale Trail—a.k.a. The 606—is a nearly three-mile, elevated greenway running west and east on the city’s North Side. Unlike its NYC counterpart, the trails are wide enough to accommodate active patrons running, walking and cycling without running off more casual strollers, the formerly abandoned rail line is also lined with public art installations and gardens. During fairer weather, the trail also hosts various free events for families with young children.

3 Arts Club Cafe Arrow

Today there are more than 15 RH restaurants across the nation, but Chicago’s 3 Arts Club Café, which opened in 2015, was the first. Guests will discover it within Restoration Hardware’s 70,000-square-foot design gallery, which formerly functioned as the Three Arts Club, a residence built in 1914 for young women studying music, drama and the visual arts. Today, that space has been royally reimagined in the hands of RH, turning the six-story building into a lavishly outfitted labyrinth featuring its myriad décor whimsies (from the brand’s Design Atelier line to its children’s collections). Come here with friends or a special plus one, and arrive early—you'll want to factor in time for grabbing a coupe and perusing the historic property as you await your table.

Humboldt Park Arrow

One of Chicago's prettiest parks, this nearly 200-acre green space is located within the larger neighborhood of Humboldt Park (both are named for German naturalist Alexander von Humboldt). It's home to several statues—including one of its namesake, and two bison that were placed there during the 1893 World's Fair—as well as the National Museum of Puerto Rican Arts & Culture, located in the park's former stables. It's easy to drop in if you're headed down the 606 trail, but the park is big enough that it could take more than half a day to do all of it, so it's best if you're not in a rush.

The Second City Arrow

Tina Fey, Bill Murray, and Chris Farley all grew out of the scene at Second City and it continues to nurture some of the country's best comedy talent. Over three stages and four intimate studio theaters, there's plenty to see. The Mainstage show, featuring that season's top billed act, features long-form improv sketch, and is often packed on marquee nights. The same can be said for the e.t.c. Theater, which showcases up-and-comers, and the Up Comedy Club, for stand-up comic acts. The shows tend to be full, and ticketed for general admission, so come early to snag a prime seat. (Pro-tip: Avoid front row if you don't want to crane your neck all night.)

Chicago Lakefront Trail Arrow

The 18-mile long trail hugs the coast of Lake Michigan, offering almost all manner of activity along the shore. From sandy beaches and sprawling parks, to some of the best views of the Chicago skyline, the Lakefront Path is one of the city's great public treasures, enjoyed by visitors and locals alike. Runners and cyclists love the width and ease of use of the trail, while intramural type teams make use of the many open spaces found up and down the path. If you don't want to run around, there’s plenty of room to just sit and people watch, as well as check out a number of art installations that pop up throughout the year.

Chicago Electric Boat Company Arrow

Auditorium Theatre Arrow

Inspired to build a theater that would benefit the city and serve as the world’s largest and most ornate building, Chicago businessman Ferdinand Wythe Peck began plans for the Auditorium Theatre and debuted the venue in 1889. Since then, the theater has been the site of major historical events and performances and earned impressive titles along the way (including a National Historic Landmark designation). Keep an eye on this season's calendar for events with Tom Hanks, The National, and Loreena McKennitt, among others. Anyone seeking a dose of the arts in elevated, historic environs will do well by a visit here. Gather friends for a speaker event or concert, or make it a date night.

Green Mill Arrow

Do not come here expecting fancy drinks—or anything fancy, really. This is living, breathing history. And it's a rocking good time. The Green Mill is a warm and inviting throwback to a bygone era. There’s live jazz, cheap drinks, and loads of local history (Al Capone used to have a booth reserved here during Prohibition); what's not to love? Bar eats are not on the menu here. Bring your own potato chips if you think you'll need a snack (no one will judge you). The craft beer list has expanded commendably over the past few years. So grab yourself a cold one or a whiskey soda and see where the night takes you.

Chicago Architecture Foundation River Cruise Arrow

Run by the Chicago Architecture Center, the Architecture River Tour is one of the most polished operations in town ( and a wonderful alternative to some of the cheesier tours ). Taking place on a barge in spring, summer, and fairer fall weather, the cruise explores Chicago's beginnings from various branches of the Chicago River—offering both day and evening tours. While groups are typically large, the Architecture Center-trained docent speaks via loudspeaker, audible from throughout the boat. (Pro-tip: Head straight upstairs when you board and snag a seat in the rear for optimal views.) In 90 minutes, you'll get to know 50 buildings along the Chicago River, hear secrets about a map of the river's topography hidden in plain sight, and learn about the only skyscraper in the skyline designed by an award-winning female architect.

Promontory Point Arrow

This man-made peninsula in Burnham Park has become a favorite gathering and photo shoot spot for locals due to its manicured landscape and rock formations along the lakefront. Our plan of attack here is to have a picnic at the point, then walk among a number of public art works edging the surrounding park. Some of the most interesting  public art installations and gathering spaces, such as Sounding Bronzeville and La Ronda Parakata, are actually within the Burnham Wildlife Corridor, which is composed of the Burnham Centennial Prairie, Burnham Nature Sanctuary, and McCormick Bird Sanctuary.

Chicago Symphony Orchestra at Symphony Center Arrow

Intuit: The Center for Intuitive and Outsider Art Arrow

Among the only museums in the world dedicated wholly to outsider art, Intuit is an impressive shrine to self-taught creators across all forms of media. Beyond an unassuming, brick facade, you’ll brush up against a concise-yet-vibrant collection of paintings, sculptures and assorted ephemera. The collected work draws you in with an air of unconventional audacity. This is a whimsical environment with an industrial edge. Exhibits are spread out with ample room for wandering and gazing at your leisure. The museum is curated by passionate docents who are committed to the cause of promoting the artistic output of marginalized creatives.

Chicago Botanic Garden Arrow

The Chicago Botanic Garden, a 385-acre living plant museum, features 28 distinct gardens and four natural areas. Those figures are impressive enough to draw more than one million visitors annually, making it one of the most frequented botanical gardens in the United States . Inside the gates, the Garden’s living collections feature more than 2.8 million plants from around the world that grow well in the Chicago area and are adapted to Midwest climate and soils. Expect to see a lush array of trees, shrubs, vines, and tropical plants, among other varieties.

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40 Best Things to Do in Chicago, From Iconic Sights to Can't-miss Museums

Planning a trip to the Windy City? Here are 40 of the best things to do in Chicago.

Meena Thiruvengadam is a lifelong traveler and veteran journalist who has visited more than 50 countries across six continents. Her writing has appeared in The Wall Street Journal , Departures , TripSavvy , and other publications.

Chicago may not be the city that never sleeps, but there is surely more to do here than you'll have time for. Whether it's world-class art, a cultural experience, or sports you seek, you'll find it in the Windy City. Here are 40 of the best things to do in Chicago.

Valerie de Leon/Travel + Leisure

See masterpieces at the Art Institute of Chicago.

This downtown museum isn't just an architectural gem, it's one of the best art museums in the United States. It's home to famous pieces, including Edward Hopper's "Nighthawks" and Grant Wood's "American Gothic," as well as the largest collection of works by Claude Monet outside of Paris.

Take an architecture river cruise.

With several buildings designed by greats like Frank Lloyd Wright and Ludwig Mies van der Rohe, Chicago is an architecture nerd's paradise. And one of the best ways to appreciate the cityscape is from the river. While there are dozens of cruise operators, Chicago's First Lady Cruises stands out for its 90-minute architecture cruise guided by experts from the Chicago Architecture Center.

Tour a submarine at the Museum of Science and Industry.

The largest science center in the Western Hemisphere, this Hyde Park museum is a great place to spend a cold or rainy day. The permanent exhibits focusing on science, technology, and nature are extensive but it's worth upgrading your ticket to include a tour of the only German submarine in the U.S. Check the schedule for special exhibitions, which can also be a treat.

Step back in time at the Chicago History Museum.

Chicago is where Al Capone once played and where Playboy was born. It's a city full of stories to tell, and there's no better place to discover them than one of the city's oldest cultural institutions, the Chicago History Museum .

Meet a dinosaur at the Field Museum of Natural History.

The Field Museum is one of the largest natural history museums in the world, and its permanent collection includes a number of fossils and the remains of Sue, the Tyrannosaurus Rex. Sue is estimated to be 67 million years old and made her debut at the museum in 2000.

Have a few laughs at a comedy club.

Several famous comedians (Tina Fey, Chris Farley, and Jim Belushi, to name a few) got their start at Chicago's well-known comedy clubs, including The Second City . New stages have since popped up, like Laugh Factory and The Revival . Who knows? You might see the next rising star of Saturday Night Live before they hit it big.

Listen to live music.

Chicago is a live music heaven, with venues that host performers of all genres throughout the year. In the mood for classical? Experience the talents of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra . Craving jazz? Head to the historic Green Mill jazz club. The city is also home to several music festivals, including Lollapalooza , Riot Fest , and world-famous blues and jazz festivals.

Go to the beach.

Believe it or not, Chicago is a beach town during the summer. Oak Street and North Avenue beaches are two sandy beaches along Lake Michigan that are close to downtown and will allow you to bask under both the sunshine and the shadows of the city's skyscrapers.

Brave the Skydeck of the Willis Tower.

Formerly known as the Sears Tower, this towering giant was once the world's largest skyscraper. That may have changed, but its expansive observation deck on the 103rd floor still offers some of the best views of the city. Those looking for a thrill can step onto The Ledge, a glass balcony extending out 4.3 feet from the building.

Stop at 875 North Michigan Avenue.

This 100-story building (formerly known as the John Hancock Center) may not be as well known as the Willis Tower, but it's another place for epic city views. There are restaurants, bars, the 360 Chicago observation deck , and occasional events like yoga classes.

Enjoy the free attractions in Millennium Park.

Located in downtown Chicago, Millennium Park is one of the city's largest green spaces. It's easy to spend a few hours here, especially since most of its attractions are free. The Frank Gehry-designed Jay Pritzker Pavilion hosts free concerts and other public events every summer. On a hot day, many cool off in the whimsical Crown Fountain , an interactive public artwork designed by Catalan artist Jaume Plensa.

Take a photo with "The Bean."

Chicago is full of public art , but this reflective sculpture by artist Anish Kapoor is one of the most recognizable pieces. While the Millennium Park attraction is officially titled "Cloud Gate," most visitors and locals affectionately call it "The Bean."

Admire Buckingham Fountain.

If you've ever watched Married with Children , this fountain set in sprawling Grant Park at the edge of Lake Michigan is one you'll definitely recognize. Opened to the public in 1927, it's one of the largest fountains in the world.

Take an architecture walking tour.

There are few better ways to experience Chicago's world-famous architecture than on foot. The Chicago Architecture Center offers several different walking tours, including some focusing on the skyscrapers that tower high above the city's streets.

See the animals at Lincoln Park Zoo.

This 35-acre zoo , founded in 1868, is one of the oldest zoos in North America. It's free to visit and hosts an annual holiday lights show .

Go to the theater.

Broadway isn't the only place to catch a show. Chicago has more than 200 theaters, including the well-known James M. Nederlander Theatre and Cadillac Palace Theatre in the Theater District. It's also worthwhile to check out the city's independent stages, such as the Tony Award-winning Chicago Shakespeare Theater at Navy Pier or the innovative Steppenwolf Theatre in Lincoln Park.

Shop the Magnificent Mile.

If you're looking to do some serious damage with your credit cards, look no further than the stretch of Michigan Avenue known as the Magnificent Mile . You'll find a mix of high-end designer stores, sprawling department stores, and more affordable retailers like Marshalls.

Tour a Frank Lloyd Wright house.

If you're a fan of architect Frank Lloyd Wright's work, head to the University of Chicago campus in Hyde Park, where you'll find the Frederick C. Robie House . The house, built in the early 1900s as a single-family home, is a fine example of Prairie School design and is among nearly two dozen homes in the area designed by the famous architect.

See the "Home Alone" house.

You'll need a car to get to this house in the Chicago suburb of Winnetka, but if you grew up on "Home Alone," it'll be worth the drive. You'll recognize it the second you pull up, but remember it's a private residence, so you'll have to appreciate it from the outside.

Go ice skating.

Chicago may get cold in the winter, but the joy of ice skating almost makes you forget about the freezing temperatures. From November to March, the Maggie Daley Ice Skating Ribbon in Grant Park and the McCormick Tribune Ice Rink in Millennium Park are popular spots for Chicagoans and visitors.

Catch a Cubs game at Wrigley Field.

Wrigley Field is one of the most charming stadiums in baseball. It's home to the former World Champion Chicago Cubs, and if you don't happen to be traveling during baseball season, you can still take a tour.

Learn about the history of Soldier Field.

The nearly 100-year-old Soldier Field is home of the NFL's Chicago Bears. Even if you're not into football, you might recognize it from the Clint Eastwood movie "Flags of Our Fathers" or the television show Chicago Fire . The stadium offers behind-the-scenes tours that pass through the locker rooms, interview room, skyline suite, and other areas.

Ride the Ferris wheel at Navy Pier.

If you're looking for a day of family fun, head to Navy Pier in downtown Chicago. The long pier features rides, games, restaurants, public artwork, and other attractions. Be sure to ride the Centennial Wheel for a truly spectacular view of Lake Michigan.

Take a walk in Oz Park.

There may not be a yellow brick road leading to Oz in Chicago, but there is a park that pays homage to the "Wizard of Oz," which author Frank Baum wrote while living in Chicago. Oz Park on the city's north side features sculptures of all your favorites, including Dorothy, Toto, and the Tin Man.

Explore a Chicago neighborhood.

Chicago is a city of neighborhoods — 77 of them, to be exact. Wicker Park, Bucktown, and Logan Square are worth exploring on the city's north side. On the south side, consider Pilsen and Chinatown. Architecture buffs are sure to appreciate the historical gems they'll find in Old Town.

Visit the DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center.

This Smithsonian-affiliated museum celebrates Black culture and pays homage to Jean Baptiste Point du Sable, the first permanent settler of Chicago. The museum holds more than 15,000 works, including paintings, sculptures, and historical memorabilia, such as the former desk of investigative journalist Ida B. Wells.

Eat your heart out.

Chicago is a foodie paradise that offers something for every palate and every budget. You'll find everything from hot dog joints like Jimmy's Red Hots to Michelin-starred restaurants like Alinea to deep-dish pizza places like Pequod's . Be sure to pack your stretchy pants, and remember, Chicagoans don't ask for ketchup on their hot dogs.

Visit the National Museum of Mexican Art.

This museum in the Pilsen neighborhood is an ideal place to immerse yourself in Mexican art and culture within Chicago's city limits. It's one of few major museums in the U.S. dedicated to showcasing Mexican, Latino, and Chicano art and culture.

Kayak along the Chicago River.

If you're craving an active adventure in the city, you can't go wrong with kayaking on the Chicago River. Urban Kayaks organizes a range of guided excursions, including tours at sunset and during the weekly Navy Pier fireworks show.

Check out the Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago.

Chicago has no shortage of museums, but when it comes to boundary-pushing exhibitions, the Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago (MCA) is second to none. The MCA's permanent collection includes more than 2,000 artworks from the 1920s to the present day, while rotating exhibits, performances, and talks are held throughout the year.

Hop between breweries.

Home to more than 160 breweries, Chicago is often dubbed the craft beer capital of the U.S. From cozy brewpubs to bustling beer gardens, there's something for everyone. Several production facilities, including Goose Island , Revolution Brewing , Lagunitas Brewing Company , and Dovetail Brewing , are also open for tours and tastings.

Stargaze at the Adler Planetarium.

You don't need to leave Chicago to see the stars – just head to the Adler Planetarium on Northerly Island. America's oldest planetarium is a destination for sky shows, exhibits, and special events. As a bonus, it stays open until 10 p.m. on Wednesdays.

Bike along the Lakefront Trail.

Chicago’s Lakefront Trail is a scenic 18-mile paved path along Lake Michigan between Ardmore Street on the north side and 71st Street on the south side. For a fun outing, rent one of the Divvy Bikes and explore it from top to bottom — including a break at one of the beaches along the way.

Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day.

Chicago's Irish pride beams as bright as the green dye in the river every March. Highlights include the annual Chicago St. Patrick’s Day Parade , river cruises, and food and drink specials at neighborhood pubs. If you're lucky (or a good planner), your trip might coincide with some of the festivities.

Stroll along The 606.

The Bloomingdale Trail Park (The 606) is an elevated recreational trail built on an abandoned railway. Similar to New York's High Line, the 2.7-mile-long path is dotted with public art installations and scenic lookouts. Access points can be found in four of the city's trendiest neighborhoods – Wicker Park, Bucktown, Logan Square, and Humboldt Park – so you can easily hop on or off.

Marvel at art among trees at the Morton Arboretum.

The Morton Arboretum was established in 1922 as a "great outdoor museum" by Joy Morton, founder of the Morton Salt Company. And with more than 1,700 acres and 22,000 plants, it certainly lives up to its mission. The park features rotating large-scale sculpture exhibitions and wellness events like forest therapy and yoga classes, making it well worth the journey 25 miles west of Chicago.

Spend an evening at the American Writers Museum.

Located in the heart of downtown Chicago, the American Writers Museum celebrates the work of historical and present-day writers, from poets to comics to novelists. The museum regularly hosts concerts and special events, including Get Lit museum nights, which bring together bibliophiles for drinks, special tours, and activities on the second Tuesday of every month.

Stop and smell the flowers at the Garfield Park Conservatory.

Garfield Park Conservatory is one of the largest conservatories in the nation, with two acres of public greenhouse space and 10 acres of outdoor gardens. The West Side centerpiece opened in the early 1900s and continues to be a destination for lovers of landscape architecture. In addition to permanent display houses, the conservatory often hosts special exhibits and spring flower shows. 

Learn about the city's criminal history.

Joining a crime tour is a fascinating way to learn about the city's prohibition-era gangsters like Al Capone, Bugs Moran, and Hymie Weiss. Opt for the Gangsters and Ghosts Tour for a storytelling stroll around the Chicago Loop, or board a bus for the Untouchable Tours' Original Gangster Tour led by guides in character as 1920s mafia members.

Admire the skyline from a cruise on Lake Michigan.

While Chicago's river cruises get a lot of attention, sailing around Lake Michigan can be just as fun. Tall Ship Windy offers a variety of cruises aboard a 148-foot, traditional four-masted schooner, including pirate-themed tours and skyline sailings that make the most of the Windy City's namesake weather.

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47 Best Things To Do in Chicago You Can’t Miss

Pack your bags, it’s time to head to the most populous Midwestern city — Chicago, Illinois !

The Windy City is full of fun things to do. Whether you’re a first-timer, traveling during warm weather, looking for kid-friendly activities, or are all about the nightlife — Chicago has it all. With amazing museums, art galleries, parks, a zoo, theaters, and amazing restaurants, you’ll never run out of things to do in Chi-Town.

Ready to get planning? Grab a slice of deep-dish pizza, here are 47 things to do in Chicago that you’re not going to want to miss!

MUST-SEE CHICAGO ATTRACTIONS FOR FIRST-TIMERS

THE ART INSTITUTE OF CHICAGO

The Art Institute of Chicago is one of the top museums in the world. Located within the famous Grant Park, the Art Institute is known for housing a vast collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist art, as well as an impressive collection of 20th-century photography. I used to live across the street from the museum, and I have to say that it is continually mind-blowing.

There are so many paintings and sculptures to see at the Art Institute of Chicago that it’s impossible to take it all in during one visit. I highly recommend spending at least a full day here if you can. And if you’re a fan of art, you owe it to yourself to visit this museum at least once in your lifetime. Trust me, it’s worth it.

FIELD MUSEUM

If you’re looking for a museum that captures the essence of both natural history and cultural heritage, then the Field Museum in Chicago is your go-to destination. Here, you can learn all about the incredible diversity of our planet through wondrous displays and exhibits. Whether it’s dinosaurs or ancient cultures, this museum has it all.

Plus, it’s home to the beloved and incredibly well-preserved T-Rex, Sue. My personal favorite exhibit is the elaborate Egyptian collection. 

Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or just planning your first-ever trip, the Field Museum is definitely worth checking out.

MILLENNIUM PARK

Millennium Park is a world-famous tourist destination in downtown Chicago. The park features beautiful gardens, an iconic fountain, and some of the city’s most popular attractions. Visitors can enjoy stunning views of the skyline, take a stroll through the gardens, or explore the many shops and restaurants in the area. If you’re visiting in the summer, be sure to catch a free summer concert under the Pritzker Pavilion. 

Grab your camera, and get your picture in front of  one of the world’s largest permanent outdoor art installations — The Bean, officially named Cloud Gate. This cool sculpture has been here since 2004, and is now one of the most iconic sites in Chicago.

Millennium Park is a great place for both locals and tourists alike.

SHEDD AQUARIUM

The Shedd Aquarium is a world-renowned facility located in downtown Chicago. Visitors can view over 32,000 animals from all over the world, including sharks, penguins, and dolphins.

The Shedd also offers many educational opportunities, such as behind-the-scenes tours and animal encounters.

MUSEUM OF SCIENCE AND INDUSTRY

The Museum of Science and Industry is absolutely massive, featuring tons of exhibits and collections that are guaranteed to fascinate people of all ages. The museum has a strong focus on science and engineering, with many interactive displays that allow visitors to learn about everything from nanotechnology to astronomy, in a fun and engaging way.

Additionally, the museum highlights science that played an important role in history, such as the development of the assembly line during the Industrial Revolution.

One of my favorite things to do when visiting is to explore the full-size Boeing 727 and a WWII German U-Boat.

You’ll find the Museum of Science and Industry on the east side of the culturally-rich Hyde Park neighborhood, home to the 1893 World’s Fair.

360 CHICAGO OR SKYDECK CHICAGO

Located on the 103rd floor of the iconic Willis Tower, Skydeck Chicago offers some of the best views of the city from above. With sweeping panoramic vistas that allow you to take in all aspects of this bustling metropolis, this popular attraction is a must for any visitor seeking a bird’s eye view of Chicago. On a clear day, you can see up to 50 miles away in any direction, making for some genuinely breathtaking photo opportunities.

If you’re a thrill-seeker, you can visit the 94th floor of the John Hancock building and experience 360 Chicago’s adrenaline-rushing experience called TILT. Visitors will hold on as a panel of glass tilts them forward, over 1,000 feet in the air. Whichever option you choose, you’ll be rewarded with stellar Chicago views.

Looking for online tickets to attractions or cool tours offering insider info? Get Your Guide is our family’s go-to resource for online purchases. Find 360 Chicago Observation Deck Skip-the-Line tickets here.

PULLMAN FOUNDATION VISITOR CENTER

The Pullman Foundation Visitor Center is a starting point for your visit to the Pullman district. Visitors can enjoy a 15-minute video on the neighborhood’s history, and explore exhibits that feature historical photos, furniture, and artifacts from the Pullman mansion. 

The South Side of Chicago was originally a working-class neighborhood that was home to many African American residents and immigrants from Europe. In recent years, the South Side has undergone significant revitalization efforts, including the establishment of the Pullman Historic District in Chicago’s South Side.

Today, this vibrant district is a popular tourist destination, offering visitors a glimpse into the area’s history, as well as its thriving community of artists, entrepreneurs, and activists. Whether you are looking for a unique place to stay during your visit or simply want to learn more about South Side’s history and culture, the Pullman Foundation Visitor Center is an excellent resource.

THE MAGNIFICENT MILE

The Magnificent Mile boasts everything from world-class shopping to fine dining.

There are numerous shops along the mile, ranging from major department stores, like Nordstrom and Bloomingdale’s, to smaller local boutiques and specialty stores.

If you’re heading to the Magnificent Mile with family or friends, there are also several attractions to enjoy, including museums, parks, and world-class theaters.

THE CHICAGO THEATER

The Chicago Theater is a beautiful and historic theater located in downtown Chicago. I highly recommend stopping by this iconic landmark to experience its stunning architecture and enjoy a show or concert if you’re visiting the city. I’ve seen everyone from Carol Burnett to John Mulaney at this legendary theater.

You can also take a guided tour of the theater, where you will see a wall signed by every person who has ever performed there. This includes icons like Aretha Franklin and Duke Ellington.

GARFIELD PARK CONSERVATORY

The Garfield Park Conservatory is one of the most beautiful places in Chicago. It’s a vast, Victorian-style glass house filled with all kinds of plants from around the world. And it’s free to visit!

In addition, the Conservatory often hosts events, like concerts under the stars and yoga. 

CHICAGO CULTURAL CENTER

The Chicago Cultural Center is one of the most visited attractions in Chicago, drawing hundreds of thousands of visitors to its stunning landmark building each year.

Home to two magnificent stained-glass domes and featuring free music, dance, theater events, films, and lectures, as well as art exhibitions and family programs, there is always something exciting happening at this iconic Chicago landmark.

Whether you’re looking for inspiration in a gallery, to attend a public event, or simply to sit and relax in the magnificent Grand Staircase–Escalante room, there is always something new to discover at the Chicago Cultural Center!

MUSEUM OF CONTEMPORARY ART

If you’re looking for a place to experience the ideas and work of living artists, check out the Museum of Contemporary Art in Chicago. This world-class museum is dedicated to showcasing new and experimental works of art in all media, as well as presenting thought-provoking educational programs.

 Today, the MCA’s collection features more than 2,000 works by artists from around the world. One of the exhibit’s most popular shows was “David Bowie Is,” which focused on Bowie’s extraordinary career.

Whether you’re a longtime fan of contemporary art or just getting started, a visit to the MCA is sure to inspire, educate, and delight.

I had the opportunity to visit Intuit , a premier museum of self-taught and outsider art in Chicago. This fascinating museum is dedicated to showcasing work created by artists who faced marginalization, overcame personal odds to make their artwork, or who did not, or sometimes could not, follow a traditional path of art-making.

With its diverse collection of outsider artwork, ranging from paintings and sculptures to musical instruments and other unexpected creations, Intuit provides a unique glimpse into the creative minds of these artists.

Whether you are an avid art lover or simply interested in exploring the world of outsider art, a visit to this museum is sure to delight and inspire.

BEST OF CHICAGO IN WARM WEATHER

THE CHICAGO RIVERWALK

If you’re looking for a fun and unique way to see Chicago, then be sure to check out the Riverwalk . The Riverwalk is a 1.25-mile-long pedestrian path that runs along the bank of the Chicago River. It’s a great place to walk, run, or bike, and there are plenty of things to see and do along the way.

One of the best things about the Riverwalk is that it’s right in the heart of downtown Chicago. You’ll be able to see all of the city’s iconic skyscrapers up close, and you can even stop for a bite to eat or a drink at one of the many restaurants and cafes along the river.

SEE THE CHERRY BLOSSOMS

Chicago is known for its beautiful parks and abundance of green space, and one of the most popular spots to see springtime blooms is the Garden of the Phoenix in Jackson Park.

Located just a few miles south of downtown Chicago, this lush garden is home to vibrant cherry blossom trees that are a sight to behold.

GRANT PARK AND BUCKINGHAM FOUNTAIN

There’s something for everyone in Chicago’s Grant Park , from the world-famous Buckingham Fountain to the Museum Campus, home to three of the city’s most famous museums.

Visitors can tour Grant Park and see Buckingham Fountain, take a stroll through the beautiful gardens, or explore the many sculptures and monuments. The park also hosts a variety of events and festivals throughout the year, so there’s always something new to see. 

NORTH AVENUE BEACH

When relaxing at North Avenue Beach , you’ll quickly feel like you’ve been transported to the ocean.

There is always something happening at North Ave. Join a volleyball game, rent a paddleboard, or party at a beach club while taking in the stunning view of the Chicago skyline. The Lakefront Trail passes right through this area, so it’s a great stop to add to your biking itinerary!

PING TOM MEMORIAL PARK

Ping Tom Memorial Park is a beautiful park located in Chicago’s Chinatown neighborhood. The park honors the late Chinese-American entrepreneur and community leader, Ping Tom.

Visitors to the park can enjoy stunning views of the Chicago skyline, take a stroll through the tranquil gardens, or attend one of the many cultural events held here throughout the year.

Whether you’re looking for a place to relax and unwind or you want to experience the vibrant culture of Chicago’s Chinatown, Ping Tom Memorial Park is the perfect destination.

BLOOMINGDALE TRAIL

The Bloomingdale Trail is a must-do if you’re looking for a fun and relaxing way to explore Chicago. Affectionately known as the 606 (due to the Chicago zip code), this iconic walking and biking trail runs through some of the city’s most picturesque neighborhoods.

Whether you’re looking for a leisurely stroll or want to put your bike skills to the test, the 606 has something for everyone. Plus, there are many fantastic cafes just off the trail that are worth visiting. 

CHICAGO TOURS WORTH THE PRICE

WRIGLEY FIELD

Wrigley Field is the home of the Chicago Cubs, one of the city’s two Major League Baseball (MLB) franchises.

Wrigley Field Tours takes you through the iconic ballpark, providing an insider’s look at all the features that make it one of the most beloved stadiums in baseball. You’ll learn about the history of the team and the stadium, see the locker rooms and dugouts, and even get a chance to go onto the field itself.

Whether you’re a diehard Cubs fan or just interested in exploring one of Chicago’s most famous landmarks, a Wrigley Field Tour is a must-do activity.

CHICAGO ARCHITECTURE RIVER CRUISE

Chicago is home to some of the most iconic architecture in the world. A boat tour offers the best way to see it all, with a leisurely architectural tour down the Chicago River.

Your expert guide will provide commentary on more than 40 famous buildings along the way, including Navy Pier, the Wrigley Building, and the John Hancock Center.

Looking for online tickets to attractions or cool tours offering insider info? Get Your Guide is our family’s go-to resource for online purchases. Find Guided Architecture Cruise tickets here … and if you’ve got the kids, this family-friendly version is awesome .

CHICAGO PIZZA TOUR

The Chicago Pizza Tour is the perfect way to experience the Windy City’s diverse pizza scene! Their knowledgeable guides will take you on a delicious journey through some of Chicago’s most iconic neighborhoods, while sharing stories and history about this beloved food.

You’ll sample mouth-watering slices from several different pizzerias, each with its own unique style and flavor. You’ll also learn if locals really eat that much deep-dish pizza! 

So whether you’re a local looking to try some new places or a visitor wanting to explore the best of what Chicago has to offer, the Chicago Pizza Tour is an experience you won’t want to miss!

THE ROBIE HOUSE

The Robie House is a Frank Lloyd Wright-designed building that is now on the campus of the University of Chicago. The building was designed as a single-family home, and was completed in 1910. It is considered to be one of Wright’s most important works, and is designated as a U.S. National Historic Landmark.

The Robie House is open for tours, and visitors can explore the building and learn about its history. The Frank Lloyd Wright Trust also offers educational programs and events at the Robie House.

CHICAGO GANGSTER TOUR

Suppose you are interested in experiencing the history and culture of Chicago’s gangster past. In that case, a Chicago Gangster Tour of some of the most famous sites associated with notorious criminals, like Al Capone, John Dillinger, Bugsy Moran, and others, is definitely for you. There are numerous Chicago gangster tours that take you to many of the most famous sites associated with this city’s infamous criminal past.

Some of the most popular include visiting the sites of famous gangster crimes, like the Biograph Theater where John Dillinger was shot by FBI agents, or the site of St Valentine’s Day Massacre on Clark Street. You can also visit breweries that were once used as speakeasies during Prohibition, check out gangster hideouts and stomping grounds, or learn all about the history of gangsters in Chicago.

THINGS TO DO IN CHICAGO WITH KIDS

Navy Pier is a great place to take your kids during the summertime. There are so many things for them to do, and it’s a great way to beat the heat.

At Navy Pier, you’ll find carnival rides and games, museums and attractions, boat cruises and tours, shopping, dining, and much more. Not only will your kids have a blast, but you will too.

When visiting Navy Pier, you must take a ride on the Centennial Wheel and enjoy breathtaking views of the Chicago skyline and Lake Michigan. Did you know Chicago is where the Ferris wheel was invented? Kids will also love taking a spin on the historic carousel found here.

Looking for online tickets to attractions or cool tours offering insider info? Get Your Guide is our family’s go-to resource for online purchases. Find Navy Pier Centennial Wheel Regular or Express tickets here.

LINCOLN PARK ZOO

If you are looking for a fun and affordable day out in the city, check out the Lincoln Park Zoo . Located in the heart of Chicago, this is one of the last free zoos in the country, making it a popular attraction for families and animal lovers alike.

At the Lincoln Park Zoo, you will find a wide variety of animals from all over the world, including lions, polar bears, and monkeys. There is also a children’s zoo area where kids can get up close to smaller animals, like goats and sheep.

Whether you are interested in seeing the magnificent animals or just want to spend a day outdoors with your family and friends, the Lincoln Park Zoo is sure to be a fun and memorable experience.

MAGGIE DALEY PARK

If you’re looking for a great place to take your kids to in Chicago, then you need to check out Maggie Daley Park . This beautiful park is the perfect spot for a family day of fun, with plenty of activities and attractions to keep your little ones entertained all day long.

Whether you want to go ice skating or play on the climbing wall, there’s something for everyone at Maggie Daley Park. And best of all, it’s completely free to enter!

CHICAGO CHILDREN’S MUSEUM

If you’re looking for a fun family day out in Chicago, there’s no better place than the Chicago Children’s Museum . Nestled right on Navy Pier, this museum is packed with all kinds of fun activities that will keep your kids entertained for hours.

There’s something for everyone at this fantastic museum, from hands-on science exhibits to immersive artistic workshops. They have exhibits for all ages — from babies and toddlers to big kids.

OZ PARK STATUE “SCAVENGER HUNT”

Oz Park is one of the most charming parks in Chicago, and it has one special attraction that makes it even more special: a scavenger hunt for kids and families. This Oz Park statue “scavenger hunt” is the perfect way to explore the park and find all of the hidden treasures.

The scavenger hunt takes you on a tour of the park, starting at the north end near Diversey Parkway. You’ll wind your way through the park, following clues that will lead you to different statues. Each statue has a different Oz-themed character, and you’ll need to find all of them in order to complete the scavenger hunt.

RELATED: 32 AWESOME & FUN WEEKEND GETAWAYS FROM CHICAGO

ADLER PLANETARIUM

The Adler Planetarium is a world-renowned leader in astronomy education and public outreach.

Each year, the museum welcomes more than half a million visitors from around the world, reaching millions more through youth STEAM programs, neighborhood skywatching events, online citizen science, and other outreach efforts.

It’s a great place to introduce kiddos to space and get them excited about learning!

MIDWAY PLAISANCE

The Midway Plaisance is a stunning public park in Chicago that offers visitors the opportunity to enjoy a variety of beautiful gardens, as well as interesting artwork. One of my favorite things about the Midway is its tranquil atmosphere, which makes it an ideal place for a relaxing stroll or quiet picnic with friends and family.

I would highly recommend a visit to the Midway Plaisance for anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of downtown Chicago.

THE PEGGY NOTEBAERT NATURE MUSEUM

The Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum is a great place to visit if you’re interested in nature and the environment. The museum has exhibits on a variety of topics, including plants, animals, and the history of the area. There are also interactive displays that allow you to learn more about the natural world.

The museum also offers a variety of educational programs and events, so there is something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a fun day out with the family or educational activity for school kids, the Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum is definitely worth checking out.

GOMPERS PARK

Located in the North Park neighborhood of Chicago, Gompers Park is a lovely place to visit for families and outdoor enthusiasts. With its beautiful natural landscape and recreational facilities, Gompers Park offers something for everyone. Whether you are looking for a spot to play sports, enjoy the outdoors with your family, or simply relax by the river, Gompers Park is the perfect place to be.

One of the best things about Gompers Park is its convenient location. Situated at the corner of Foster and Pulaski Avenues, the park is easily accessible by public transportation or car. There is also ample parking available, so you won’t have to worry about finding a spot.

When you visit Gompers Park, be sure to take advantage of all the great activities it has to offer. The park is home to a fantastic outdoor swimming pool, complete with diving boards and a separate wading pool for younger children.

Suppose you prefer more active pursuits, head over to one of the many baseball fields or tennis courts. And if you’re looking to relax, take a stroll by the river or simply enjoy the views from one of the park’s many scenic walking paths.

FREE THINGS TO DO IN CHICAGO

RELATED: 39 PHENOMENAL AND FREE THINGS TO DO IN CHICAGO

16TH STREET MURALS

Located just south of downtown Chicago, the vibrant Pilsen neighborhood is home to some of the city’s most striking street art murals . Spanning from the Chicago River to Western Avenue, these dynamic works can be found adorning buildings and other structures throughout the neighborhood, painting its streets with color and vibrancy.

The 16th Street railroad embankment is particularly well-known for its street art, with dozens of murals from both local and international artists adorning its walls. Visitors can enjoy a self-guided tour of the murals, which range from intricate portraits to bold geometric patterns. The Art in Public Places Initiative , a local organization that supports street art in Pilsen, has also played a key role in bringing these beautiful murals to life.

Whether you’re an aspiring artist looking for inspiration or simply someone who appreciates the beauty of street art, a visit to Pilsen’s 16th Street Murals is sure to delight. So if you find yourself in Chicago, be sure to add this vibrant neighborhood to your itinerary (it also has an incredible food scene!).

ART ON THE MART

Looking for something truly unique and spectacular? Art on theMart , the world’s largest permanent digital art exhibition, is just the thing. Located in the River North neighborhood, this stunning light show features incredible projections onto a 2.5-acre building known as theMART.

With both local and international artists showcasing their work, Art on theMart is a must-see for any art lover. And with over 30,000 visitors each year, it’s also one of the most popular attractions along Chicago’s Riverwalk.

Art on theMart is performed every evening, with showtimes varying depending on the season. So whether you’re in town for a quick weekend getaway or planning a longer stay in the Windy City, be sure to make time to see this spectacular light show and experience all that River North has to offer.

THINGS TO DO IN CHICAGO AT NIGHT

THE SECOND CITY

The Second City is one of the most well-known comedy clubs in the country, and for good reason. Located in Chicago, this club has been the launchpad for some of the biggest names in comedy, including Steve Carell, Tina Fey, and Bill Murray.

There’s something exceptional about seeing a show at The Second City. The club has a long history of cultivating some of the best comedic talents in the world, and that tradition continues to this day.

The Second City is beloved by tourists and locals alike. If you’re looking for a laugh and decent drinks, there’s no better place to go than The Second City. 

NIGHT TOUR WITH URBAN KAYAKS

Kayaking at night is a sensory experience like no other. The water is calm, and the city skyline is illuminated against the dark sky. It’s the perfect way to see Chicago from a different perspective.

Urban Kayaks offers night tours that are led by experienced guides who know the waters of Lake Michigan well. They’ll take you on a journey through the city, showing you all the best spots for getting a great view of Chicago’s skyline and architecture.

Whether you’re an experienced kayaker or a beginner, a night tour with Urban Kayaks is an experience you won’t want to miss. I try to take a tour at least once every summer!

The Green Mill is a beloved jazz club and local favorite in Chicago’s Uptown neighborhood. It was a popular haunt of the notorious mobster Al Capone.

Today, visitors will enjoy nightly jazz performances and cocktails. If you’re looking for a piece of true Chicago history with prohibition vibes, this is the spot!

EMPTY BOTTLE

The Empty Bottle is one of Chicago’s most beloved music venues, and for a good reason. Located in the heart of the city’s hipster-friendly Wicker Park neighborhood, the Bottle has been hosting killer shows since 1992.

The intimate setting (it only holds about 350 people) and top-notch sound system make it the perfect place to see up-and-coming bands or your favorite indie artists.

KINGSTON MINES

If you’re looking for the best blues club in Chicago, you’ve got to visit Kingston Mines . This historic venue has been a fixture of the local music scene since 1968, and it draws crowds of music lovers every night. Whether you’re a fan of traditional blues or more modern takes on the genre, you’ll find something to love at Kingston Mines.

The club has two stages, so there’s always something going on, and the lineup of performers is always impressive. So if you’re visiting Chicago, be sure to catch a show at Kingston Mines – you won’t be disappointed!

RAINBO CLUB

Rainbo Club (yes, that is how it is spelled), is one of the most popular clubs in the city. The Club is known for its great music, fantastic atmosphere, and friendly staff.

Rainbo Club is the perfect place to go if you want to have a good time and stand side by side with locals!

CHICAGO FOR FOODIES

88 MARKETPLACE

At 88 Marketplace , you can experience the vibrant food and drink culture of Chicago’s Chinatown in one convenient location. Featuring a wide selection of authentic Asian cuisine, from savory noodle dishes to sweet boba teas, this bustling food hall and grocery store is sure to delight any foodie looking to try something new and exciting.

Whether you’re in the mood for a steaming bowl of ramen, a mouthwatering banh mi sandwich, or some refreshing boba tea on a hot summer day, 88 Marketplace has something to satisfy your cravings. The food hall is packed with food stalls serving up everything from Japanese-style karaoke to Chinese dumplings, so you’re sure to find something to your taste.

CINDY’S 

Cindy’s Rooftop offers sweeping views of Lake Michigan and downtown Chicago. This rooftop is the perfect spot for grabbing your Instagram-perfect shots of the city. Plus, they offer creative and top-notch cocktails in the beautiful atrium space.

There is also a heated balcony, so you can enjoy incomparable views all year long. 

AU CHEVAL 

Locals say the wait is always worth it, when it comes to the famous burgers at Au Cheval . There are a few locations, but the iconic West Loop burger spot is the most well-known.

The menu is limited to essentially only burgers and fries (with a few other dishes here and there). So come hungry – these massive hunks of meat will leave you full and satisfied. 

HUMBOLDT PARK BITES

If you’re looking for a unique dining experience in Chicago, then be sure to check out the many restaurants in Humboldt Park . Known for its Puerto Rican restaurants and culture, this neighborhood is home to some of the most authentic and delicious Puerto Rican restaurants in the city. Some popular options include Cafe Colao, ArePa George, and Nellie’s, all of which serve up classic Arepas and other tasty dishes.

Other notable restaurants in Humboldt Park include the recently reopened California Clipper, an upscale bar and lounge that serves up delicious cocktails. No matter what your taste, you’re sure to find something to love in Humboldt Park.

2D RESTAURANT

I recently visited the 2D Restaurant in Chicago, and it was a truly unique experience. The restaurant is known for its hand-brewed, made-to-order coffee, using the finest fair-trade coffee beans from Metropolis Coffee Company.

I ordered a cup of Phin coffee, which is brewed using a combination of pour-over and French press methods. The coffee was exceptional, with rich and complex flavors that were extremely enjoyable.

The real kick is that the cafe is covered in artwork that makes it appear to be 2D. You truly feel like you’re sitting in a comic book!

LONDONHOUSE

The LondonHouse is one of the most popular rooftop bars in the city. Its huge rooftop space offers panoramic views of downtown Chicago. This place is always hopping.

With different alcoves and spaces, you can find a section to hang out in that will match everyone’s vibe for the night. 

CHICAGO FAQS

WHAT IS CHICAGO MOST KNOWN FOR?

Chicago is one of the largest cities in the United States. It has also been called by different nicknames over time, such as The Windy City and Chi-Town. There are many things that Chicago is known for, but here are some of the most popular.

• The Skyline. Chicago has a very recognizable skyline, and is home to some of the tallest buildings in the United States.
• The Food. Chicago is well-known for its deep-dish pizzas and delicious hot dogs.
• Their Sports Teams. Chicago has two baseball teams — the Cubs and the White Sox!
• The Museums. Chicago is home to many world-class museums, including the Art Institute of Chicago and the Field Museum.

Overall, there are many things that make Chicago such a special city. Whether you’re visiting or living here, there is always something new to discover in this vibrant city.

WHAT CAN WE DO FOR FREE IN CHICAGO?

Chicago is one of the most exciting cities in the country, with a vibrant arts scene and tons of activities to keep visitors occupied. However, there are plenty of things to do for free. 

You can experience the city through its parks and green spaces. Chicago has just under 600 parks and several miles of lakefront, providing visitors with beautiful views and lots of outdoor space to explore.

You can also hit up one of the many free beaches around the city. Wherever you’re swimming or sunbathing, you will enjoy unbeatable views of the skyline.

WHAT TO DO IN CHICAGO FOR FAMILIES?

One of the most popular family attractions in Chicago is the Shedd Aquarium. Home to over 32,000 aquatic animals, the aquarium is a must-visit. Kids will love learning about sea life and getting up close with the penguins and sea otters.

If you are looking for outdoor activities, Chicago has plenty of options. Visit one of the city’s beautiful parks, such as Millennium Park or Lincoln Park Zoo, for a day of fun in the sun. You can also head to the Lake Michigan shoreline and explore some of the city’s beaches.

And, if you want to sample some of Chicago’s famous food, there are plenty of kid-friendly restaurants in every neighborhood. Check out one of the local diners for a classic Chicago meal or try one of the city’s famous pizzerias for a slice of delicious deep-dish pizza.

MORE INFORMATION FOR YOUR TRIP TO ILLINOIS

• GALENA:  19 Awesome Things To Do In Galena, Illinois You’ll Love
• FREE CHICAGO:  39 Phenomenal and Free Things To Do In Chicago
• BEST OF ILLINOIS: 23 Best Things To Do In Illinois You Can’t Miss

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Must-see attractions in Chicago

Wrigley Field

Built in 1914, Wrigley Field – aka the Friendly Confines – is the second-oldest baseball park in the major leagues. It’s home to the Chicago Cubs and…

Museum of Science & Industry

The MSI is the largest science museum in the Western hemisphere and a place to completely geek out. Highlights include a WWII German U-boat nestled in an…

Art Institute of Chicago

The second-largest art museum in the country, the Art Institute houses a treasure trove from around the globe. The collection of impressionist and…

Millennium Park

There's free admission to Millennium Park, the playful heart of the city. It shines with whimsical public art, both permanent and temporary exhibits, and…

Willis Tower

Willis Tower is Chicago's tallest building (and one of the world's loftiest). Breathe deeply during the ear-popping, 70-second elevator ride to the 103rd…

Field Museum of Natural History

The Field Museum houses some 30 million artifacts and includes everything but the kitchen sink – beetles, mummies, gemstones, Bushman the stuffed ape –…

Half-mile-long Navy Pier is one of Chicago's most-visited attractions, sporting a 196ft Ferris wheel and other carnival rides ($9 to $18 each), an IMAX…

National Museum of Mexican Art

Founded in 1982, this vibrant museum – the largest Latinx arts institution in the US – has become one of the city’s best. The vivid permanent collection…

Robie House

Of the numerous buildings that Frank Lloyd Wright designed around Chicago, none is more famous or influential than Robie House. Because its horizontal…

360° Chicago

The views from the 94th-floor observatory of this iconic building (formerly known as the John Hancock Center) in many ways surpass those at the Willis…

Lincoln Park

The park that gave the neighborhood its name is Chicago’s largest. Its 1200 acres stretch for 6 miles from North Ave north to Diversey Pkwy, where it…

Museum of Contemporary Art

Consider it the Art Institute’s brash, rebellious sibling, with especially strong minimalist, surrealist and conceptual photography collections, and…

Stony Island Arts Bank

Artist-activist Theaster Gates bought a tumbledown bank building for $1 in Chicago's neglected South Shore neighborhood, and transformed it into a…

Driehaus Museum

Set in the exquisite Nickerson Mansion, the Driehaus immerses visitors in Gilded Age decorative arts and architecture. You'll feel like a Great Gatsby…

Busy Beaver Button Museum

Even George Washington gave out campaign buttons, though in his era they were the sew-on kind. Pin-back buttons came along in 1896. Badge-making company…

Galerie F is exactly the type of laid-back, ubercool gallery you'd expect to find in Logan Square. It specializes in rock-and-roll gig posters,…

Northerly Island

This hilly, prairie-grassed park has a walking and cycling trail, bird-watching, fishing and an outdoor venue for big-name concerts. It's actually a…

The famed firm of Burnham and Root built the Rookery – named for the site's previous building, a temporary city hall that was popular with roosting…

Buckingham Fountain

Grant Park's centerpiece is one of the world's largest fountains, with a 1.5-million-gallon capacity and a 15-story-high spray. It lets loose on the hour…

Green City Market

Stands of purple cabbages, red radishes, green asparagus and other bright-hued produce sprawl through Lincoln Park at Chicago's biggest farmers market…

Route 66 Sign

Attention Route 66 buffs: the Mother Road begins in downtown Chicago. Look for the 'Historic 66 Begin' sign at the northwestern corner of Adams St and…

Chicago Cultural Center

This exquisite, beaux-arts building began its life as the Chicago Public Library in 1897. Today the block-long structure houses terrific art exhibitions …

Newberry Library

The Newberry's public galleries are a treat for bibliophiles: those who swoon over original Thomas Paine pamphlets about the French Revolution, or get…

Chicago Architecture Center

The CAC is the premier keeper of Chicago’s architectural flame. Pop in to explore its excellent galleries, which feature an interactive 3-D model of…

Tribune Tower

Take a close look when passing by this 1925 neo-Gothic edifice. Colonel Robert McCormick, eccentric owner of the Chicago Tribune in the early 1900s,…

Money Museum

This small museum in the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago is fun for a quick browse. The best exhibits include a giant glass cube stuffed with one million …

Chicago Children's Museum

Designed to challenge the imaginations of toddlers to 10-year-olds, this colorful museum near Navy Pier's main entrance gives young visitors enough hands…

Picasso's Untitled

Pablo Picasso's abstract work, which everyone just calls 'the Picasso,' is the granddaddy of Chicago's public art. The artist was 82 when the work was…

Daley Plaza

Picasso's eye-popping untitled sculpture marks the heart of Daley Plaza, which is the place to be come lunchtime, particularly when the weather warms up…

North Avenue Beach

Chicago's most popular strand of sand gives off a bit of a Southern California vibe in summer. Buff teams spike volleyballs, kids build sandcastles and…

Intuit: The Center for Intuitive & Outsider Art

Wicker Park, Bucktown & Ukrainian Village

Behold this small museum's collection of naive and outsider art from Chicago artists, including rotating mixed-media exhibits and watercolors by famed…

Lurie Garden

If the crowds at the Bean, Crown Fountain and Pritzker Pavilion are too much, seek out the peaceful Lurie Garden, which uses native plants to form a…

Maggie Daley Park

Families love this park’s fanciful, free playgrounds in all their enchanted-forest and pirate-themed glory. There’s also a rock-climbing wall, an 18-hole…

Aqua made waves when it appeared in 2009. Local architect Jeanne Gang designed the 86-story tower (set to be surpassed in 2020, when her 93-story Vista…

Museum of Contemporary Photography

This small museum focuses on American and international photography from the early 20th century onward, and is the only institution of its kind between…

Crown Fountain

Jaume Plensa’s two 50ft-high glass-block towers contain video displays that flash a thousand different faces of locals. Each mug puckers up and spurts…

Four Seasons

Russian-born artist Marc Chagall loved Chicago, and in 1974 he donated this grand mosaic to the city. Using thousands of bits of glass and stone, the…

Marina City

The twin corncob towers of Marina City are an Instagram favorite for their futuristic, cartoony look. Bertrand Goldberg designed the 1964 high-rise, and…

Anish Kapoor's beloved silver sculpture in Millennium Park is known informally as 'the Bean.' It reflects both the sky and the skyline, and everyone…

Pritzker Pavilion

Pritzker Pavilion is Millennium Park's acoustically awesome band shell. Architect Frank Gehry designed it and gave it his trademark swooping silver…

• United States

50 Best Places to Visit in Chicago

• 1 Pinterest

A melting pot of eccentric culture, world-class sport, an enviable food scene (did someone say deep-dish pizza?), and a rich and vibrant history, Chicago is a quintessential Midwest destination for anyone in search of an action-packed vacation.

Straddling the shimmering shoreline of Lake Michigan and packed with top-notch attractions, Chicago is a city that has a little splash of something for everyone. With world-renowned museums, diverse art galleries, thrilling amusement rides, awe-inspiring architecture (and the home of Frank Lloyd Wright), and legendary sports teams (shout out to the Cubs finally breaking their drought), it’s easy to see why millions of people flock to this urban metropolis year after year.

And with so many options to choose from when it comes to places to visit in Chicago , you’ll never be short of ways to fill your itinerary. So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip to Chicago – the Windy City is waiting for you!

1 – 360 Chicago Observation Deck

Towering more than 1,000 feet above The Windy city, on the 94th floor of what was once the tallest building outside of New York City, 360 Chicago atop the former John Hancock Center dishes up spellbinding views in every direction.

Take in the busy streets of the Magnificent Mile below, the shimmering waters of Lake Michigan to the north and east, and the postcard-worthy array of skyscrapers (including the 1,451-foot Willis Tower to the south, then cap off your visit with a drink at the bar or snack at the cafe.

For a different perspective and mad adrenaline rush, test out TILT — a mechanized room full of floor-to-ceiling glass windows that angle 30 degrees over the building’s edge.

Hot tip: to experience three different, truly spectacular views – daytime, twilight, and twinkling nighttime — arrive about an hour before sunset.

• 360 Chicago Observation Deck tickets

2 – Shedd Aquarium

Straddling Lake Michigan’s shoreline of the southern end of the sprawling, elongated Grant Park, the Shedd Aquarium is a Chicago family favorite, and one of the most popular aquariums in the world.

Home to no less than 32,000 animals of all shapes, sizes, and colors (and fear factors) – from sea otters and seahorses, to beluga whales, reef sharks, and aptly-named Giant Pacific octopus — The Shedd’s galleries showcase diverse aquatic creatures from all corners of the planet, with a focus on education, conservation, and curiosity!

A surefire hit for kids and adults alike, this enormous facility (it was once the largest indoor attraction in the world) boasts highlights including a 360-degree walk-around Caribbean reef, a stingray touch pool where you can meet the ominous critters up close, a beluga whale habitat complete with underwater viewing tunnels, and a range of VIP meet-and-greet opportunities!

Don’t miss the 4D theater, and consider opting for the Beluga Encounter or Shark Feeding Experience!

Hot tip: Discover the underwater world, a family-friendly option that’s touted as one of the best indoor activities in Chicago for exploring marine life.

3 – Navy Pier

Kick-off your visit with a ride on the Centennial Wheel then wander down the 50 acres worth of parks, restaurants, docks, shops, and the tropical Crystal Gardens.

Traveling with kids in tow? Both the Chicago Children’s Museum (always free for kids) and the IMAX theater and sure to keep them entertained for at least a couple of hours. Fancy a feed? Follow the locals with a food tasting and cultural walking tour or dig into a hefty slice of  Chicago deep-dish pizza at Giordano’s!

While the area thrives year-round, during the summer months the atmosphere is electric with live music concerts, food trucks, and street performers; around the holidays it transforms into a winter wonderland of ice skating, mulled wine, and special events

• Navy Pier Centennial Wheel tickets

4 – Michigan Avenue’s Magnificent Mile

The city’s focal point for food, fashion, and fun is the world-famous Magnificent Mile – AKA Michigan Avenue.

The 13-block stretch of street runs for about a mile (hence the name) along Chicago’s northern waterfront district from the banks of Lake Michigan to Oak Street, passing dozens of department stores, chic hotels, famous museums, and picturesque landmarks en route.

Stroll down this iconic thoroughfare and you’ll uncover some of Chicago’s most renowned buildings such as The Wrigley Building, the John Hancock Center, and Tribune Tower (with its unusual facade made up of more than 150 rocks from sites around the globe) — all interspersed with high-end boutiques like Louis Vuitton and Cartier, speakeasy pubs, and revered underground eateries.

Be sure to wander over the DuSable Bridge, and, if you’re keen to learn a thing or two about the area’s history, culture, and hidden gems, consider signing up for a locally-led walking tour.

• walking tours in Chicago

5 – Zoos

Welcoming locals and visitors alike, Chicago’s two most renowned zoos — Lincoln Park Zoo in the North Side neighborhood and Brookfield Zoo over in Brooklyn — collective house hundreds of species and thousands of animals, with live educational shows, behind-the-scenes tours, reptile houses, and up-close encounters aplenty.

Easily accessed from Downtown by transport or car, the Lincoln Park Zoo is one of the last free zoos in the USA, with has a diverse array of wildlife across its 35 acres – its roughly-1,100‎ animals includes lions, gorillas, hyenas, and giraffes! Beloved by kids, the Lincoln Park Zoo also offers a children’s farm as well as some lush gardens ideal for a picnic.

Meanwhile, further inland (but worth the drive) Brookfield Zoo has more friendly creatures to check out (close to 2,300 comprised of 450 species) and is sandwiched in between the Brookfield and McCormick Woods, meaning that there’s no shortage of beautiful open space to relax in after a day of wonderful animal experiences.

6 – The Field Museum of Natural History

One for the history buffs and culture vultures, Chicago’s Field Museum of Natural History is a must-see for those interested in Earth science.

Home to more than 40 million fascinating specimens and artifacts — from fingernail-sized fossils to towering dinosaur skeletons — the museum’s exciting yet educational exhibits span everything from ancient Egyptology to geology, botany, and prehistoric evolution – so you can expect plenty of mummies, dinosaurs fossils and detailed dioramas that cover nearly 4.5 billion years worth of history!

A great spot for traveling families too, the museum is particularly interactive, with plenty of hands-on activities to keep kiddos (and kids at heart) entertained.

You’ll find the Museum tucked away at the southern end of Grant Park, around the corner from the Adler Planetarium and Shedd Aquarium — so why not check out a couple of them on the same day?

• Field Museum of Natural History tickets

7 – Millennium Park

Where the action happens and never a moment is dull, Millennium Park is one of Chicago’s best-known urban green spaces.

Located in the heart of Downtown and bordered by Grant Park, this 24.53-acre wonderland was designed as a modern public space for locals and visitors alike, with its many attractions including an outdoor concert venue (Pritzker Pavilion), Insta-worthy fountain (Crown Fountain), sculptures (Cloud Gate – nicknamed “The Bean” for obvious reasons — among others) gardens, an ice rink and plenty more to discover!

This vibrant spot is also home to some fun seasonal activities like open-air movies during summer months and winter ice rinks to boot; so whatever time of year you visit, bet your bottom dollar that long-lasting memories will be made!

Directions in Google Maps

8 – Willis Tower SkyDeck

Located on the 103rd floor of Willis Tower (formerly Sears Tower), this popular tourist attraction offers visitors sweeping panoramic views of Chicago and its surrounds in all their glory, making it one of the most elevated spots in not just the city but all of America too.

On a clear day, you can see for around 40 miles in every direction – from neighboring states like Wisconsin and Indiana to the vast expanse of Lake Michigan and far beyond!

Tickets are relatively affordable (especially when bought online) and timed entry means that there’s never too long a wait; so whether you want to snap some selfies against the iconic skyline, grab a drink at the bar, or take in an incredible sunset over the Midwest plains, make sure to add this spot to the top of your list of places to visit in Chicago.

• SkyDeck tickets

See also: Cheap Skydeck Chicago Tickets – How to Save up to 20%

9 – Six Flags Great America

A quintessential stop for anyone who even remotely deems themselves a thrill-seeker, Six Flags Great America up in Gurnee, about 50 minutes drive north of Chicago, is a theme park that has it all.

Expect riveting roller coasters, heart-in-your-mouth thrill rides, and refreshing water slides galore in this amusement park that spans over 300 acres of land — plus plenty of kid-friendly activities too!

A great spot for adrenaline junkies, the park is known for its many world-class rides and rollercoasters, including the iconic American Eagle (the world’s tallest and fastest racing wooden coaster), Goliath (which boasts a gut-wrenching 180-foot feet drop), and Raging Bull, the tallest, longest, and fastest coaster at the park.

If you’re looking for something a little tamer, there’s also a charming riverboat ride, Buccaneer Battle, Columbian Carousel, live theater and dance shows, and plenty of restaurants and food trucks; so no matter what your age or thrill-seeking level, you’re sure to have a blast at Six Flags Great America!

10 – Art Institute of Chicago

One for the culture vultures, the world-famous Art Institute of Chicago, located in Downtown’s Grant Park, is one of America’s oldest and largest art museums (operating since the late 1800s and covering a whopping one million square feet).

Here you can explore a mammoth collection of over 300,000 works spanning more than 5000 years – from ancient Egyptian artifacts to over 25,000 pieces of European Decorative Arts, to one of the world’s most significant Impressionist and Post-Impressionist collections outside of France. paintings. Throw in sections dedicated to modern masterpieces by the likes of Picasso, Warhol, and Pollock, and you’ve got to accommodate every artistic fancy!

A true highlight for anyone who has even a passing interest in art (and let’s face it: that’s pretty much everyone), this famous museum also boasts an incredible school where budding artists are given the opportunity to hone their skills in areas like architecture design; so if it tickles your fancy why not check out some classes too?

• Art Institute of Chicago tickets

11 – Chicago Riverwalk

Dedicated to pedestrians and teeming with shopping, dining, entertainment and recreational activities, the Chicago Riverwalk stretches 1.25 miles from Lake Michigan to Lake Street through the heart of Downtown, dishing up cozy cafes, hidden wineries, rowdy bars, and quirky boutiques to boot.

Besides the chance to pop into the shops en route, this charming spot along the city’s scenic waterfront also offers visitors a unique vantage point from which to admire the city’s skyline and, with a walking tour, explore Chicago’s rich history and cultural landscape.

So whether you’re looking for a romantic stroll, an hour or two of people-watching, a spot of afternoon tea, or a day of impromptu walkabout, this waterfront promenade is not to be missed!

12 – North Avenue Beach

Perfect for those toasty summer days, North Avenue Beach is one of the city’s most popular and iconic spots to soak up some sun.

Here you can expect clear views of Chicago’s skyline, a plethora of beach activities (think kayaking, paddleboarding and volleyball), as well as plenty of waterside restaurants where you can kick back with an ice-cold drink and some hearty seafood.

Though it can get a little crowded during the summer months, there’s plenty more sand than people in this shoreline stretch so it seldom feels overwhelming; so grab your sunscreen, your favorite book and prepare for a day of fun in the sun!

Located in Lincoln Park directly on Lake Michigan, it’s also a stone’s throw from myriad hiking and biking trails, as well as the free-to-enter Lincoln Park zoo.

13 – Buckingham Fountain

Set in Chicago’s Grant Park, this iconic landmark was constructed in 1927 to commemorate Clarence Buckingham (a philanthropist who gave his name to the fountain) and has been wowing locals and visitors alike with its impressive 20-minute long water shows ever since, which take place every hour on the hour. So whatever you do, don’t forget your camera!

The basin itself measures an incredible 280 feet in diameter while its central jet shoots a whopping 15,000 gallons of water per minute 150 feet into the air – making it an eye-popping spectacle that couldn’t be missed if you tried.

Hot tip: stroll past the landmark at night for a different perspective – the post-dusk shows are choreographed with brilliant light and music performance!

14 – Lake Michigan

Offering everything from quick one-hour trips focused purely on checking off the main landmarks to longer excursions with buffet-style food and strong drinks included, and even VIP romantic cruises, there’s a boat tour for everyone – no matter your budget or timeframe.

What’s more, many of the cruises offer unbeatable perspectives of iconic landmarks you won’t find from land, like Navy Pier, Willis Tower (formerly known as Sears Tower), and the Hancock Building; so whether you’re looking to snap some postcard-perfect shots or just take in the amazing architecture and natural beauty of Chicago from a different perspective, this is definitely the way to do it.

Seel also: best architecture boat tours in Chicago

Choose from luxury yachts, family-friendly ferries, or heart-racing speedboat rides; book your ticket in advance to save a few bucks, and enjoy the sail!

• boat tours in Chicago

15 – Garfield Park Conservatory

An enchanting slice of nature in an otherwise chaotic metropolis, the Garfield Park Conservatory is a haven of tranquility in the heart of Chicago.

Boasting thousands of species of plants from all around the world, this award-winning conservatory is one of the largest indoor gardens in North America and makes for a peaceful and educational day out for visitors of all ages.

What’s more, entry is free 365 days per year so you can come as often as you like; just be sure to check the opening hours as they do vary depending on the season.

Hot tip: don’t miss the marvelous permanent glasswork by artist Dale Chihuly.

16 – Maggie Daley Park

Sandwiched in between Millennium Park (home of The Bean) and the Lake Michigan shoreline, Maggie Daley Park is a relatively recent addition to the Chicago tourist scene — but it hasn’t taken long for it to become a magnet for locals and visitors alike.

Opened in 2014, gentrifying the old three-level East Monroe Street Parking Garage, the park is all about fun for the whole family, with a whimsical play garden full of climbing towers, slides, swings, and splash zones, as well as the ice skating ribbon, sports fields, and plenty of picnic areas – not to mention some amazing views!

Whether you’re bringing your kids along or just want an excuse to act like one yourself, this sprawling 25-acre green space offers plenty of entertainment options no matter what time of year it is. And, best of all, admission is always free.

17 – Adler Planetarium

The first planetarium in the Western Hemisphere (opening back in 1930) and one of Chicago’s most famous sights, this incredible museum is home to three full-size theaters where visitors can get a glimpse of what life would be like on Mars or learn about Jupiter, the moon and more through amazing high-tech displays and interactive exhibits.

There are also fascinating rotating exhibitions focusing on everything from telescopes to space travel (including the actual Gemini 12 space capsule); plus an observatory deck with beautiful views over Lake Michigan – all set within a striking Art Deco building designed by Ernest Grunsfeld Jr., which was declared an official National Historic Landmark back in 1987.

With so much going for it, as well as regular neighborhood skywatching events (check the events calendar), this interstellar attraction is one of the best places to visit in Chicago.

• Adler Planetarium tickets

18 – Soldier Field

The locally beloved stomping ground of the Chicago Bears NFL team, Soldier Field delivers a roar and energy matched by few stadiums in the Midwest, regularly packing every seat in the house for home games.

But even when the Bears are on the road, this massive structure (the third-largest in the NFL) is worth a visit for its impressive architecture and unique history – after all, it’s been around for the better part of a century. Tours are available on non-game days, while a range of concerts dots the calendar too — or you can simply enjoy a walk around the perimeter and (thanks to its location at the southern end of Grant Park) take in some amazing views of downtown Chicago.

19 – Chicago Children’s Museum

A Navy Pier crowd favorite, the Chicago Children’s Museum is the perfect place to take your little ones for a day of fun peppered with a whole lot of learning.

With three floors of interactive exhibits designed specifically for children, this colorful museum provides hours of entertainment with a wide variety of hands-on exhibits that dive into the wonderful worlds of science, culture, construction, art, and more.

Best of all, admission is free for children under 17 (and affordable for everyone else), and free to Illinois residents every Tuesday from 2 pm onwards, so it’s a great place to take the whole family for a day of immersive creativity and learning without breaking the bank.

20 – Glessner House

Standing since 1887, the Glessner House is one of Chicago’s oldest and most beautiful homes, attracting visitors from all over the world with its exquisite architecture and fascinating history.

Designed by architect Henry Hobson Richardson (one of America’s first masters of the Romanesque Revival style) this iconic structure was once at the forefront of innovative home design, incorporating features like central heating and indoor plumbing (which were still pretty new ideas back in the day).

These days it serves as a museum open to the public, housing rotating exhibitions on everything from furniture design to decorative arts. DIfferent tours (focused on topics like architecture, history, or arts and crafts) are available daily, or you can simply admire it from the outside while enjoying a stroll around the Prairie Avenue Historic District.

21 – Loop district

In the heart of downtown Chicago, you will find The Loop – an area that was once a tangled maze of train tracks and elevated trains. Nowadays it’s a vibrant commercial district where many locals work, shop, dine out and hang out.

Its name comes from its circular shape – created by the “loop” made when trolleys traveled around the street block that encircled this central business district (the tracks have since been removed).

Attracting tourists like fish to water, The Loop is home to some of Chicago’s most famous buildings (including Willis Tower and the Chicago Board of Trade Building) as well as numerous theaters and museums (including the Chicago Cultural Center).

Take a stroll — or a guided walking or biking tour — around and you’ll uncover dozens of iconic sculptures on display along its streets, as well as some of the best donuts, pizza, architecture interiors, and shopping and dining in the city.

• The Loop tours in Chicago

22 – Oz Park

Made famous for its whimsical statues of Scarecrow, Lion, Tinman, and Dorothy and Toto, Oz Park is a small (but charming) public park over in the Lincoln Park neighborhood on Chicago’s north side that blends the peace and quiet of nature with the childish wonder of one of the world’s most beloved stories.

Named for L. Frank Baum’s classic book The Wonderful Wizard of Oz, the underrated park features a range of fun attractions like a playground (called Dorothy’s Playlot), a lush Emerald Garden, tennis courts, basketball courts, and more. Best of all, it’s free to enter and explore!

And, during the balmy summer nights, grab a lawn chair for Movies in the Park!

23 – Baháʼí House of Worship

An architectural masterpiece, the Baháʼí House of Worship (also known as a “Lotus Temple”) is one of only seven Baha’i temples in the world and the only one located in North America.

The beautiful, lotus-shaped, nine-sided building dates back to the mid-1900s and has become iconic in its beauty, combining neoclassical symmetry, with Gothic, Renaissance dome, Romanesque and Islamic elements — all combining to make a structure that is both spiritual and stunning.

The temple is open to all, regardless of religious affiliation (or none), and visitors are welcome to come to explore the interior prayer hall, which features marble floors, fine woodwork, and beautiful stained-glass windows, as well as the large garden that offers plenty of space for visitors to stroll around, relax or meditate on life’s big questions.

24 – Congress Plaza Hotel

One of Chicago’s most iconic hotels and a piece of living history, The Congress Plaza Hotel on Michigan Avenue is a grand Beaux-Arts building dating back to 1893.

Over its near-130-year timeline, it’s hosted visitors, heads of state, and celebrities from near and far, dishing up wondrous views over both Downtown and Lake Michigan, with a prime spot opposite the Art Institute of Chicago, just minutes from Millennium Park.

Its history goes way beyond that though — the hotel has been labeled one of America’s most haunted hotels with ghost stories galore, including that of gangster Al Capone and his men who stayed here in the 1920s!

Learn all about the topsy-turvy tales of this longstanding landmark on a spine-tingling ghost and gangsters tour that dives into the dark side of Chicago’s history.

• Gangsters and Crime tours in Chicago

25 – Music Box Theatre

One of Chicago’s oldest and most beloved movie theaters, The Music Box Theatre on Southport Avenue in Chicago’s Lakeview district has been screening all kinds of indie and art-house films since 1929.

What began as a single-screen theater showing silent movies (and later “talkies”) quickly became known as one of the city’s most unique venues, thanks to its charming art deco facade and intimate seating that always guarantees a great view from any seat in the house.

These days, it’s still going strong with a busy schedule of new releases and cult classics, plus occasional live stage shows and events.

Check out what’s playing during your next visit to see if you can snag tickets to an old-school flick at this classic Chicago cinema!

26 – LEGOLAND Discovery Center

Inside visitors will find everything from an awesome Miniland featuring replicas of some of America’s most famous landmarks made entirely out of Lego bricks (including a replica of the entire Windy City!), a 4D cinema, no less than 10 different hands-on play zones, a couple of rides, and a store chock-full of over 900 unique builds and souvenirs.

The center also hosts regular events like Master Builder Workshops and holiday celebrations, so be sure to check what’s happening during your visit before you go! And, since it’s located over in Schaumburg, it’s a good excuse to check out the nearly Ned Brown Preserve (Busse Woods) on the same day.

• LEGOLAND Discovery Center tickets

27 – Indiana Dunes National Park

For when you want to get out of the city and experience a little bit of nature, Indiana Dunes National Park is only an hour away from Chicago via car or train, straddling the southern shores of Lake Michigan in neighboring Indiana.

An adventurer’s heaven on earth, the sprawling park encompasses over 15,000 acres of dunes, beaches, grasslands, wetlands, prairies, and meandering rivers, and a whopping 50 miles worth of hiking trails — the most picturesque of which tackles dune formations that rise as high as 200 feet above sea level!

Hiking aside, visitors can swim at its many beaches (including some dog-friendly beaches), try horseback riding, cycle down the Calumet Trail, camp overnight, or just enjoy soaking up the immense beauty on offer here — it’s all about getting back to nature for a day and letting Mother Nature work her magic.

28 – Promontory Point at Burnham Park

One of the most iconic spots on Chicago’s South Side for a leisurely stroll, Promontory Point at Burnham Park is a narrow peninsula that juts out into Lake Michigan between 53rd and 57th Streets and offers sensational views of Downtown and the city’s famed skyline.

The 40-acre point has been popular with locals and visitors alike since it first opened in the 1930s and these days is home to lovely gardens, a couple of sculptures, plenty of local birds and wildlife, and a handful of benches where you can sit back and take in all the beauty on show.

29 – Museum of Science and Industry

One of the largest science museums in the world, Chicago’s Museum of Science and Industry is a sprawling complex that takes up the equivalent of an entire city block in the middle of Jackson Park, diving into fascinating exhibits on everything from aviation and outer space to WWII, natural disasters, dinosaurs, chemistry, and energy.

In addition to its over 35 permanent exhibits, the museum also hosts regular temporary exhibitions (just check the website to find out the flavor of the month), features an Omnimax theater, a carousel, and plenty of hands-on activities for kids (and adults

With myriad interactive elements, curious visitors can climb aboard a WWII German submarine, take a spin in a human-sized hamster wheel, navigate through a mirror maze

• Museum of Science and Industry tickets

30 – United Center

Sports fans, listen up! Exuding a roar and an energy that can send shivers down your spine, Chicago is home to one of the most iconic and renowned sports arenas in the world: the United Center .

Home to not just the Chicago Bulls (of Michael Jordan fame) and Chicago Blackhawks (of the NHL), but also a whole range of other top-level events like concerts (think Iron Maiden; Elton John; Tyler, The Creator, and everyone in between) family shows, and more, United Center welcomes millions of guests through its doors every year.

With a capacity of close to 20,000 spectators, this arena — which, mind you, is officially the largest indoor arena in the country — really knows how to pack in the crowds for some unforgettable live action.

31 – Alfred Caldwell Lily Pool at Lincoln Park

A tranquil oasis in the heart of bustling Lincoln Park, Alfred Caldwell Lily Pool is a historic slice of nature and one of the most picturesque — and underrated — attractions in the city.

Designed by celebrated Prairie School architect Alfred Caldwell with roots going all the way back to 1889, the lily pool pays homage to the Midwest’s natural prairie landscape with its flowing curves and earthy hues, while offering visitors a chance to take a break from the go-go-go mentality of city life.

Open from early May until mid-November each year, this little slice of paradise welcomes locals and tourists alike for a relaxing stroll, a guided tour, or an enchanting and educational wildflower walk.

32 – Great Wolf Lodge Water Park Illinois

Perfect for energetic kids (and kids at heart); if you’re in the mood for some serious water park action, look no further than the Great Wolf Lodge .

Located over in Gurnee, Illinois (just a short drive from downtown Chicago), this massive water park resort is home to an impressive dozen towering slides (thrillseekers, make a beeline for the Double Whirlwind), a wave pool, lazy river, kiddie splash zones, and a whole lot more.

Not only will you find something for everyone here, but with its on-site restaurants, arcade games, live shows, mini-golf course, climbing walls, ropes course, pint-sized bowling alley, ever-popular Build-A-Bear workshop, and themed suites (we’re talking everything from log cabin-themed to cave-themed), there’s bounds of entertainment around every corner!

33 – Museum Of Contemporary Art

If you’re in the mood for some cutting-edge contemporary art, the Museum of Contemporary Art sells itself as one of the more intriguing places to visit in Chicago. Located in the trendy and vibrant neighborhood of River North, this museum has been showcasing boundary-pushing artwork since it opened its doors back in 1967.

Boasting an ever-changing roster of exhibitions (some permanent, others rotating), that cover paintings, sculptures, film, and photography, as well as a busy schedule of talks, performances, and educational programming geared towards all ages, MCA is always worth a visit if you want to see what’s new and exciting in the world of contemporary art (it is, after all, one of the biggest contemporary art venues on the planet).

Traveling in July or August? You’re in luck! Admission is free for everyone during the summer.

• Museum Of Contemporary Art tickets

34 – Wrigley Field

A beloved American pastime, baseball is taken to a whole new level at Wrigley Field . Home of the Chicago Cubs (who recently overcame a 70+ year World Series drought), this stadium is one of the most iconic and hallowed venues in all of sport, not just baseball.

From its ivy-covered walls to the hand-turned scoreboard, there’s plenty of charm and character to be found at Wrigley. And, of course, there’s the history. Opened all the way back in 1914, this is one of America’s oldest ballparks still in use today.

If you’re a fan of baseball (or just want to experience some truly iconic Americana), be sure to plan a visit to Wrigley Field during your time in Chicago — or, take your experience to the next level with a 90-minute behind-the-scenes stadium tour that takes you into the Cubs’ dugout, the Bleachers, and the Press Box!

35 – Chicago Cultural Center

Home to a staggering variety of free art exhibits, performances, and educational programs (not to mention the occasional blockbuster traveling exhibition), the Chicago Cultural Center is one of the city’s most beloved and well-used attractions.

Located in the heart of downtown Chicago, this Beaux-Arts beauty was originally built back in 1897 as the city’s central library. However, fast forward to 1976 and it reopened as the Chicago Cultural Center we know and love today, with grand staircases, foreboding entrancement ways, coffered ceilings, and bronze-framed doors that make the building a piece of art in its own right — the Preston Bradley Hall and Tiffany glass dome, which contains some 30,000 pieces of glass, are shining examples.

Boasting an impressive five floors of exhibition space, there’s always something new to see at the Chicago Cultural Center — from contemporary art to historical artifacts, and several educational workshops to boot.

36 – Robie House

Tucked away off the beaten track in Hyde Park, on the University of Chicago campus, architecture buffs will drool over one of the most important examples of Prairie School architecture in the world; Frank Lloyd Wright’s Robie House is a must-see for fans of 20th-century design.

Commissioned by wealthy University of Chicago trustee and businessman Frederick C. Robie, this stunning home was designed by Wright in 1908 and completed in 1910.

Its clean lines and geometric shapes are an early example of Wright’s signature “Prairie Style” that would come to define his career — and it continues to be known today as the first uniquely American architectural style.

Now a National Historic Landmark, the Robie House is open to the public for tours (check out their website for more information on guided or self-guided tours). If you’re lucky, you might even catch one of their special events held throughout the year.

• Robie House tickets

37 – DuSable Museum of African American History

Named after Jean Baptiste Point du Sable, widely considered to be the first non-indigenous settler to explore the area and as such the ‘Founder of Chicago’, this museum tells the story of Africans and African Americans from pre-colonial times to the present day.

The DuSable Museum is home to a wide variety of exhibits on everything from art and music to politics and civil rights, as well as an impressive research library containing tens of thousands of volumes, and a regular even calendar that features concerts, films, kid-friendly events, and debates.

Take a stroll around the peaceful outdoor sculpture garden which displays works by some of today’s leading African American artists, and make sure to visit the museum’s gift shop for some unique souvenirs and books to further your learning.

38 – Chicago Architecture Center

If you’re at all interested in architecture, or in just taking a stroll around one of the most beautiful cities on Earth, then the Chicago Architecture Center is a must-visit. Located in the heart of Downtown Chicago, this center offers free tours (both guided and self-guided) of some of the city’s most iconic buildings, as well as lectures, exhibitions, and family activities.

The CAC’s main attraction is their 90-minute walking tour that takes visitors through downtown Chicago’s Loop district to see some of the city’s best-known (and sometimes controversial) buildings up close. From grandiose skyscrapers like The Willis Tower and John Hancock Center to classical masterpieces like Louis Sullivan’s Carson Pirie Scott store, there’s something for everyone to marvel at.

All up, the CAC offers some 85 tours of the city’s neighborhoods, including boat tours along the Chicago River (which come highly recommended!), and even a tour of Frank Lloyd Wright’s home and studio in Oak Park. Simply check out their website for more information on what’s on offer.

39 – Tribune Tower

No trip to Chicago is complete without a visit to the Tribune Tower, one of the city’s most iconic and best-loved buildings. Located on Michigan Avenue, smack-bang in the center of the Loop district, this neo-gothic tower was completed in 1925 and has been home to the Chicago Tribune newspaper ever since.

Besides boasting a fascinating century’s worth of history, it’s the building’s facade that gleans the most interest: the exterior of the building is covered in over 150 different types of famous marble, limestone, and granite building fragments from all over the world — we’re talkin’ pieces of the Parthenon, the Notre Dame cathedral, the White House, and even the Berlin Wall.

40 – Illinois Beach State Park

Located in northern Lake County (about an hour’s drive north of Chicago, halfway to Milwaukee), the Illinois Beach State Park is a nature lover’s paradise.

With its sprawling grassy dunes, lakeside forests, and stunning sandy beaches, it’s no wonder over 2.5 million people flock to this park every year — although, at a whopping 4,160 acres, it never feels even remotely crowded.

Full of family-friendly activities to escape the city and soak in the best of Mother Nature, the park offers plenty to keep you occupied during your stay: go hiking along dozens of miles worth of trails and enjoy the 650+ species of plants that cover the area;

Keep your eyes peeled for rare and majestic birds flying above the North Unit (the park is split into two units); fish for salmon or trout in Sand Lake; take a dip in Lake Michigan — swimming and sunbathing are popular pastimes here — or simply grab yourself a picnic table and soak up all that fresh air!

41 – Chicago Theatre

This grand old movie palace, located on North State Street in the Loop district and able to seat 3,600‎ people, has been entertaining theater-goers since 1921 — it was the first lavish movie palace in the nation, setting the standard for all that followed, and today remains one of the most popular venues in the city for live performances.

The theatre’s facade is an impressive sight, towering seven stories tall with a postcard-worthy neon sign juxtaposing Romanesque Revival details, and inside you’ll find a beautifully restored auditorium with gilded ceilings, marble flooring, and luxury touches galore.

Check the calendar, choose from comedy nights, live music shows, film screenings, or Broadway shows (or even a behind-the-scenes theater tour), and get ready to be entertained!

• Chicago Theatre tours

42 – National Museum of Mexican Art

Portraying the rich culture, history, and artistry of Mexican heritage in America (and beyond), the National Museum of Mexican Art is definitely worth a visit while you’re in Chicago if you’re looking to expand your cultural horizons.

The museum’s collection spans over 35 centuries — with archeological finds dating back to ancient Mesoamerica covering everything from traditional crafts and jewelry to fine art painted by some of Mexico’s most renowned artists and modern takes on photography and pop-art — making it one of the largest collections of its kind in the US.

You can also get more out of your visit by checking out their calendar for upcoming events: workshops are regularly available (think writing classes or guest speakers), as well as performances and expert-led tours.

Plus, thanks to its location in Harrison Park in the Pilsen neighborhood, there’s plenty of space to take a stroll and stretch the legs afterward.

43 – Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio

When it comes to architectural wonders, Frank Lloyd Wright is a name you can’t ignore. And here in Chicago, you can visit his original home and office — now officially known as The Home & Studio of Frank Lloyd Wright — which was built in 1889 by the famed architect himself, serving as the place where he’d pen over 150 different designs that would eventually manifest into a legacy of world-famous buildings.

The studio has been meticulously restored to its 1890s appearance and today offers guided tours that highlight pieces of furniture and dive into the life and works of the iconic architect.

Craving more Frank Lloyd Wright? See inside the architectural gem that is the Robie House in Hyde Park, or visit the Unity Temple in Oak Park to see another of his works — both spots are listed on many a list of the quintessential places to visit in Chicago.

44 – Waterfall Glen Forest Preserve

Located just southwest of the city limits in Darien, about 25 minutes inland from Chicago, Waterfall Glen Forest Preserve is a vast tract of land covering over 2000 acres (and featuring 11 miles of trails) that’s ideal for hiking, biking, horseback riding, and cross-country skiing, or simply basking in the fresh and quiet air.

Families and adventurers alike can easily spend an entire day out here exploring all it has to offer: there are wooded areas and open meadows, wildflower fields to roam through, rock formations, and over 300 species of wildlife roaming around to admire — along with the main attraction that is the waterfall (read: a dam), of course.

For a wonderful viewpoint, check out the Sawmill Creek bluff overlook, and for something unexpected, make your way to the model-airplane field at Mile 3 on the loop trail.

45 – Orchestra Hall

Home to the highly esteemed Chicago Symphony Orchestra , Orchestra Hall is an architectural gem in itself. Built in 1904 and designed with the help of architect Daniel Burnham (who was also responsible for Manhattan’s Flatiron Building), it’s one of those buildings that feels like you’re stepping into a movie set.

Curious travelers can take a guided tour to learn more about its history — from construction back when Symphony Center first opened up as Orchestra Hall through to modern times where it now hosts over 300 concerts each year — or simply sit down and enjoy some world-class music within the walls of a National Historic Landmark; tickets are available online and at the box office, just be sure to book in advance to avoid missing out).

46 – Cantigny Park

Calm and green and always free to visit, Cantigny Park is a 500-acre oasis located in Wheaton, about 40 minutes island from downtown Chicago, that’s perfect for a relaxing day out of the city.

The park was once the estate of Colonel Robert R. McCormick (the founder and publisher of the Chicago Tribune), and it’s now open to the public with plenty to keep visitors entertained: from gardens and nature trails to picnic areas and playgrounds, there’s something for everyone here.

Culture vultures and history buffs flock here too, for good reason. Cantigny is home to The Robert R. McCormick Museum, which dives into the life and work of the media mogul; and The First Division Museum, which immerses visitors in the sights, sounds, and stories of the military unit.

47 – Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum

Charming locals and tourists alike with its interactive exhibits that explore all aspects of nature — from animals and plants to insects (the Judy Istock Butterfly Haven is by far one of Chicago’s cutest attractions) — since 1999, the Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum is a must-visit for anyone with an appreciation for the natural world.

The museum also offers up educational programs and events, like animal feedings, the regular Critter Connection where you can meet and greet snakes and turtles, yoga in the Butterfly Haven, birdwatching excursions, and a host more, so keep an eye out on their website to see what’s happening during your visit.

Make sure to take a stroll on the outdoor walkways to observe the local wildlife doing its thing, and learn about the importance of climate change at the fascinating Weather to Climate exhibit.

48 – The Green Mill

A hidden gem beloved by locals and jazz aficionados the world over (and frequented by Al Capone and his goonies way back yonder), The Green Mill is a Chicago institution that’s managed to keep its Prohibition-era speakeasy charm intact over a century later.

First opened all the way back in 1907, it was originally a venue for vaudeville and variety shows (Green Mill is actually a nod to the famous Moulin Rouge in Paris, which translates to the ‘Red Mill’) before becoming one of the most popular jazz clubs in America, even hosting performances by legends like Louis Armstrong, Billie Holiday and Charlie Parker along the way.

While nowadays it’s not quite as rowdy as it once was in the Capone era, the club still offers up toe-tapping live music every night of the week and some of the best cocktails around; just be sure to arrive early It gets busy so get there early as there are no reservations.

With plenty to see in do in the neighboring Uptown streets, including restaurants and shopping galore, The Green Mill is a great spot to end an evening after exploring the neighborhood.

49 – Illinois Holocaust Museum & Education Center

A somber and eye-opening look at one of the darkest moments in human history, the Illinois Holocaust Museum & Education Center is a confronting but important experience for anyone making a trip to the Chicago area.

Dedicated to Holocaust remembrance and education, the Museum features exhibits that tell the personal stories of survivors, provides reflecting rooms and powerful tributes, and showcases a range of artifacts from WWII, concentration camps, and ghettos.

The museum also offers educational programs on genocide awareness, and historian-led tours to get the most out of your trip.

What sets this museum apart from other Holocaust museums is its new virtual reality exhibition, The Journey Back. Using VR technology, visitors are taken on walks through concentration camps alongside Holocaust Survivors, hearing their captivating memories and stories first-hand.

50 – Morton Arboretum

An outdoor wonderland full of the most beautiful trees and flowers, the Morton Arboretum is undeniably one of the best places to visit in Chicago not just for nature-lovers, but for every type of visitor, entertaining locals and tourists alike for over 100 years.

With 16 miles of hiking trails that twist and turn their way through more than 1,700 acres, plus stunning sculpture-filled gardens, a maze garden, tourist trolley, library, and a herbarium, there’s plenty of fun to be had at this lush oasis just outside Chicago (about 25 minutes outside, to be exact).

Hot tip: if visiting during the winter, be sure to check out the magical illumination show, where towering trees are lit up with 150 colorful lanterns and colorful projections, providing a beautiful splash of color on the usually snowy-white backdrop, made all the more memorable by roasting marshmallows and crackling fires along the way.

Want a travel hack? Grab a city tourist pass!

We are undoubtedly spoiled for choice in this midwestern metropolis. Thankfully, to take the confusion and hassle out of selecting and choosing where to start, how to get around, and which destinations to prioritize, the folks behind the City Pass and Go City Chicago Explorer Pass have already done all the hard work for us.

Tailored specifically to those excited tourists who visit Chicago every year in search of hearty deep-dish pizza and brilliant museums (and all the other goodies we’ve mentioned) these passes offer great value-for-money deals and allow you to see and experience as much, or as little of the city as you please.

With a bounty of options to choose from for every budget, interest, and timeframe, these passes are a great way to see the best of Chicago’s attractions — like the Field Museum, Skydeck Chicago, and Hop-on-Hop-off bus – and save a few bucks along the way. In fact, you can save up to 44% of the regular costs if you were exploring solo!

Looking for a hotel?

Hundreds of hotels of all shapes, sizes, and price tags line the streets of Chicago, so rest assured that there’s something for every style (luxury VS basic) and every location (right in the city center, or a bit further out).

Craving a little luxury? The Waldorf Astoria oozes elegance, the Gwen on the Magnificent Miles comes with complimentary shoe shines and clothes pressing (which should say just enough about the opulence of this place); the Ritz-Carlton and the Langham boast fine reputations that precede them, and the 5-star Peninsula Hotel , which welcomes celebrities on the regular, is often voted the #1 Hotel in Chicago.

For excellent yet slightly more affordable options, any of the Sofitel, Marriott, or Radisson are popular choices, while if you can snag it at a bargain rate, the Drake dishes up splendid lakeside views.

Pinching pennies? You’ll find myriad hostels and budget options too, like the HI Chicago Hostel and the Wrigley Hostel .

Hot tip: check online to find the best deals on hotels all around Chicago — from budget-friendly motels to luxurious five-star resorts. With so many options to choose from, it’s easy to find something that suits your travel needs and budget. And, compared to walk-in prices, you could save hundreds.

Save yourself hassle: book an airport transfer

Is there anything worse than arriving at an airport and having to wait in lengthy queues for a taxi or public transport? Especially when you’re tired after your flight, not sure where you’re going, and don’t know the local lay of the land.

Thankfully, with so many tourists flocking to Chicago every year, there are lots of companies who offer pre-booked transfers from both of the city’s airports – O’Hare and Midway – to your hotel or accommodation. This way, you can avoid long queues, get straight to your destination without any fuss, and start exploring as soon as possible. Plus, if traveling as a group, it’s often cheaper than the total cost of transport tickets (and far more comfortable)!

Final thoughts

And that’s a wrap! We hope this article has given you a little taste of the best places to visit in Chicago! So whether you’re visiting in the summer, winter, or any time at all, you can expect a warm welcome from locals and tourists alike.

Have any questions about the different attractions? Want more recommendations on where to eat, drink, or stay? Or perhaps you’re looking for some tips on how to get around the city (and which neighborhoods are worth exploring)? Let us know in the comments below! As always, happy travels!

Home » Travel Guides » United States » Illinois (IL) » 50 Best Things to Do in Chicago (IL) in 2023 by a Local

50 Best Things to Do in Chicago (IL) in 2023 by a Local

The Windy City has awe-inspiring skyscrapers, hunger-stomping food and culture to match almost any city in the world. But what never ceases to amaze me is just how much you can do for free in Chicago. Donations by philanthropists have bestowed the city with superlative museums and more than 700 works of public art, by Picasso, Chagall, Miró – the list is huge. These have turned the skyscraper forest of the Loop and the Millennium Park into one big outdoor gallery.

There are free events too, like Taste of Chicago , the largest food festival in the world, and music festivals to honor the city’s enviable music heritage. Chicago is also great to get around on foot, along the Lakefront Trail or the new Riverwalk, or even underground in the sophisticated Pedway system.

I’m a Chicago local and an avid traveler of my home state Illinois. I’ll guide you through some of the finest attractions the city has to offer, and there’s a lot so I made sure I included something for everyone. Let’s have a look at my list of the best things to do in Chicago :

1. River and Lake Cruises

Out on Lake Michigan and along the Chicago River you can sit back and give Chicago’s cityscape the attention it deserves. There’s a selection of cruises , from gentle lake tours to exhilarating speedboat rides. I took The Classic Lake Tour which is a 40-minute sightseeing trip giving you plenty of time to soak up the sights, and with a recorded commentary for interesting titbits. For the architecture admirers, I’d recommend the guided architecture tour .

At the old Navy Training Center on Navy Pier you can jet off on a speedboat for a 75-Minute Architecture Cruise, starting on the lake and heading upriver as far as the Willis Tower. The Chicago River Architecture Cruise has a more sedate pace, and gives you a clear view of more than 40 listed landmarks, accompanied by live commentary from an expert guide. I’ve done several cruises and think it’s one of the best ways to admire city.

The 442-metre Willis Tower was the tallest building in the world for 25 years, and is is still among the top 25. In my experience the Chicago Skydeck Experience Ticket  is great value for money, you can waste no time, skipping the line and speeding up to the Skydeck 412.4 metres above the west side of the Loop.

On the meandering route to the elevator, there’s a movie detailing the 45-year history of the Willis Tower and Chicago’s other architectural wonders. After a swift ride you’ll be struck by a view extending over 50 miles and four states. The Ledge at the Skydeck will either give you a buzz or make your stomach flutter: This is a set of four all-glass boxes projecting over a sheer drop of more than 100 storeys. While this was an amazing experience I realized I didn’t like heights as much as I thought.

3. Food Tours

If it’s big portions and bold flavors you’re after, Chicago is the town for you. Chicago may be America’s top food city, and you would be brave to disagree. The staples are deep-dish pizza, hot dogs piled with seven toppings, Italian beef sandwiches, brownies and beer. Lou Mitchell’s and Twin Anchors have nationwide fame, but if you want local spots that might escape the attention of out-of-towners, there are a range of tours for hungry visitors.

The Secret Food Tour lets you in on these undisclosed locations. You can also take a Tasting Tour of Chinatown on foot. A nice alternative is filling up up on Mexican tortas and Polish pierogis on a Bike Tour .

4. Art Institute of Chicago

Three of the most studied and celebrated paintings of the past 150 years await at an art museum to match the best in the world. These works are Nighthawks by Edward Hopper, American Gothic by Grant Wood and Seurat’s A Sunday Afternoon on the Island of La Grande Jatte. They are all obligatory, as is Picasso’s Old Guitarist, but are only a gateway to a whole feast of art.

The Art Institute of Chicago has the largest collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist painting outside Paris, with more than 30 paintings by Monet, as well as works by Cézanne, Renoir, van Gogh and Toulouse-Lautrec.

For modern art there’s Jackson Pollock, Warhol, Jasper Johns and Matisse, while the modern architecture and design collection has drawings and models by Frank Lloyd Wright, Le Corbusier and more.

You can also delight in ancient Greek, Egyptian, Etruscan and Roman artifacts, from mosaics, to pottery, glass, coins, bronze and jewelry. If you don’t want to stand in line for tickets I suggest booking a ticket online. I recommended planning to spend at least a few hours at the museum as there’s a lot to see.

Related article : You may also like my guide on the most beautiful places to visit in Illinois .

5. Grant Park

Affectionately known as “Chicago’s front yard”, Grant Park fronts the Loop on Lake Michigan and is the city’s prime open space. These 319 acres contain lots of Chicago’s top attractions like Millennium Park, the Museum Campus Chicago, the Art Institute of Chicago, Maggie Daley Park and the epic Soldier Field, home of the Chicago Bears NFL team.

You could write a whole article on Grant Park and the layers of things to do in its boundaries. But it’s also worth remembering that the park is a lively place for Chicagoans just to unwind and be active, with baseball diamonds, tennis courts and lush boulevards to wander down.

In July Grant Park hosts the Taste of Chicago Festival, the biggest food event anywhere, and in October is the start and finish line for the Chicago Marathon.

6. Millennium Park

Created to herald the new millennium, this award-winning space in Grant Park is the most popular visitor attraction in the Midwest. Free to enter, the Millennium Park has bold public art, spellbinding architecture and some forward-thinking initiatives.

For a taste, the 2.5-acre Lurie Garden is part of the world’s largest green roof, while the McDonald’s Cycle Center is a sleek indoor bike station offering rental, repair and an array of services for Chicago’s cyclists. I’ll bring up a few of the showpiece sights in Millennium Park later, but you can’t miss the Jay Pritzker Pavilion.

This 11,000-capacity band-shell was conceived by Frank Gehry, and from spring to autumn has a packed calendar of concerts by major recording artists and the likes of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra and the Lyric Opera of Chicago.

7. Riverwalk

Chicago is a city that knows how to treat pedestrians, as you’ll see along the main branch of the Chicago River as it cuts through the downtown . A feat of urban planning, the Riverwalk is 1.25 miles long, made up of six coves or “rooms” up to Wolf Point. The route will take you past photo opportunities like the Wrigley Building and a whole of host of head-turning works of public art.

These might be bright graffiti panels or large-scale installations like Ellen Lanyon’s Gateway, recording Chicago’s story through 28 ceramic tile murals. You can board a cruise boat or water taxi of course, or take matters into your own hands on an urban kayak or “cycleboat” tour. With dramatic urban scenery, terraces stepping down to the water and bars grills and cafes, it’s no shock that the Riverwalk has become a go-to on date night.

8. Navy Pier

Set where the Chicago Portage enters Lake Michigan, the Navy Pier is a multifaceted visitor attraction extending over the water for six city blocks. As one of the top days out in the Midwest, an attraction of this magnitude is hard to sum up in one paragraph. But in 50 acres you’ll come across the vast multisensory Funhouse Maze and, my personal favorite, the nearly 200 feet Centennial Wheel, footed by fairground rides and amusements.

There’s also weekly fireworks in summer, an IMAX Theatre, the Chicago Children’s Museum and the Crystal Gardens botanical garden with more than 80 palms. You can use the pier as the jumping off point for cruises on the lake or river, take in some live music at the Miller Lite Beer Garden and watch the drama unfold at the non-profit Chicago Shakespeare Theater.

9. Cloud Gate

The anchor for the AT&T Plaza in Millennium Park is an enchanting piece of public sculpture by Anish Kapoor. Installed in 2006 and affectionately dubbed “The Bean”, Cloud Gate is a rounded arch, clad with 168 highly reflective stainless steel plates. After a few teething problems due to its complicated design, Cloud Gate has quickly become an emblem for 21st-century Chicago.

The monument was designed to bring to mind a blob of liquid mercury, and its value lies in how interactive it is. You can take photos of your own reflection against the distorted Chicago skyline, and while passing under the 12 foot, look up into the “omphalos”, a concave chamber that twists and multiplies reflections. I’ve seen countless tourists take a selfie here, it’s quickly become one of the most iconic sculptures in Chicago. Fun fact: it’s nicknamed ‘The Bean’ because of its shape.

10. John Hancock Center

A mainstay of Chicago’s silhouette, 875 North Michigan Avenue (formerly the John Hancock Center) is a 1,500 feet skyscraper on the Magnificent Mile. Tapering as it rises, the tower was topped off in 1969 and appears in pretty much any movie that needs an establishing shot for Chicago. Up close you can watch its characteristic X-shaped bracing zigzag up the facades.

The view from 360 Chicago on the 94th floor has been rated as one of the best in the country, and the ride up there takes less than 40 seconds. There’s a cafe and bar up, as well as interactive displays labeling the landmarks on the horizon in each direction. If you have a steely disposition try “Tilt”, a glass capsule that tilts forward at 15°, 25° and 40° for a bird’s eye view of the city streets 1,500 feet below. Might seem obvious but I recommend visiting on a clear day so you have a great view of the city.

Also see :  Amazing Hidden Gems in Illinois

11. Chicago Cultural Center

Formerly the home of the Chicago Public Library, in 1991 this striking Neoclassical building in The Loop became the first free municipal cultural center in the United States. There are more than 1,000 exhibitions and  here every year and they’re as diverse as you’d expect from a city like Chicago.

All for free, you can catch theater, dance, music, lectures, film screenings and family-oriented events.

No matter what’s on, you have to take the opportunity to look inside this building from 1897. The nation’s top craftsmen were hired for the interiors, working with valuable materials like fine hardwood, rare imported marble, polished brass and mother-of-pearl.

The two domes are not to be missed: The south is the largest stained glass Tiffany dome in the world, while the larger Renaissance-style dome on the north side is 12 meters in diameter and has 50,000 glass panels. I recommend visiting their website for more info on exhibits and tours.

12. Wrigley Field

The Chicago Cubs play at the second-oldest ballpark in the Major League. Wrigley Field (1914), nicknamed “The Friendly Confines” by the legendary Ernie Banks, is noted for its ivy-clad outfield walls and has an iconic manual scoreboard.

The stadium may catch you off-guard, as it sits in the middle of a residential neighborhood and has no car park, now a rarity for US sports venues. The wind blowing towards or away from Lake Michigan (out or in) can turn potential home runs into outs, or send balls out of the stadium altogether.

Come to see the 2016 World Champions at one of 66 regular season games, checking out the famous red entrance marquee from 1934 and to treat yourself to a Chicago hot dog .

As parking can be a nightmare I suggest to either to take a cab or to take the Red Line to get there.

13. Maggie Daley Park

In Chicago with kids? Visit Maggie Daley Park! Named for a former first lady of the city who passed away in 2011, Maggie Daley Park is one of Grant Park’s newest treasures.

Laid out by landscape architect Michael Van Valkenburgh, the park opened in the northeast corner of Grant Park 2014 and shines for its recreation and family facilities.

The whimsical Play Garden, for kids up to 12, is a playground like you’ve never seen, with six different zones like the Watering Hole which has a giant breaching whale, and the Enchanted Forest where you’ll walk under upside down trees . There’s also an ice skating ribbon, a quarter of a mile in length, picnic groves, an 18-hole mini golf course and rock-climbing walls.

14. Richard H. Driehaus Museum

In the Driehaus Museum you’ll step back into America’s Gilded Age at the refined Nickerson House, built in 1883 for the banker Samuel M. Nickerson. Close to the Magnificent Mile, on the Near North Side, the house looks a little out of place, dwarfed by the city’s bold Neoclassical monuments and glass-clad skyscrapers.

In 2003 the Chicago fund manager and philanthropist turned the Nickerson house into a museum, blending the original furnishings with luxurious Art Nouveau glazed tiles, stained glass, onyx, carvings and marble all sourced from other places.

The museum is heaven if you like decorative arts. You’ll find some lovely pieces by Louis Comfort Tiffany, like a large fire screen, a set of vibrant stemware, a blown-glass humidor and a peculiar centerpiece lamp.

The ballroom has Edward Colonna furniture you can sit in, while some other exceptional pieces include Sèvres vases, a suite of George A. Schastey neo-Empire chairs, pre-Raphaelite paintings and a rare Chickering and Sons grand piano. In case you’re looking for a bite I had a great pizza at nearby Giordano’s.

15. Buckingham Fountain

At the center of Grant Park, between the ornamental North and South Rose Gardens is a sight that needs a double take. Hewn from Georgia pink marble, the Buckingham Fountain (1927) is one of the largest in the world, nearly 280 feet in diameter, with nearly 200 jets and a pool.

The Rococo design is borrowed from the Latona Fountain at Versailles, and is an allegory for Lake Michigan, with four pairs of sea horses representing the states of Illinois, Wisconsin, Michigan and Indiana.

At any one time there’s 1.5 million gallons of water in the Buckingham Fountain. Stop by for the 20-minute water display on the hour, shooting jets up to high into the air.

16. Lakefront Trail

Eighteen miles of Chicago’s shoreline can be accessed on a waterfront path, threading through all four of the city’s lakeside parks. The Lakefront Trail is shared by cyclists, joggers and families.

People use the trail to get to work, and to stroll next to Lake Michigan and savor Chicago’s skyline. You can use the path to get to a whole catalog of interesting places, from the South Shore Cultural Center to Navy Pier and the Shedd Aquarium.

In summer you can hop from beach to beach and to get a dose of greenery at Grant Park or Lincoln Park. There are bike rental companies all along the trail, or you could buy a day pass for Divvy, Chicago’s bike sharing system. This is actually one of my favorite places to go jogging with my dog.

17. Museum of Science and Industry

Limitless inspiration for kids, the Museum of Science and Industry has show-stopping exhibits on an amazing scale. The venue is the old Palace of Fine Arts, built in 1933 in Jackson Park for the World’s Columbian Exposition.

Some of the jaw-dropping sights here are a full-size German U-505 submarine captured during the Second World War, the Pioneer Zephyr, a glorious stainless steel diesel locomotive from 1934 and the first Boeing 727 to enter commercial service.

Young scientists can wrap their heads around big concepts at the Science Storms exhibit, which has a Tesla coil, Foucault pendulum and Wimshurst machine.

There are relics from the Apollo missions at the Henry Crown Space Center , while the central pavilion has a replica of a deep-shaft bituminous coal mine, in which you’ll take a mine train and see historic equipment from the 1930s.

18. Magnificent Mile

Squeezed into eight blocks on the arterial Michigan Avenue is a whole world of shopping, entertainment, dining, dazzling architecture and more things to do than you could manage in a whole holiday. Many of the sights or attractions on my list are on this street, or a stone’s throw from it.

There are 275 restaurants and more than 460 retailers here, from flagship stores for Zara, Disney and Nike to scores of boutiques and ritzy emporia for Rolex, Boss, Burberry and any other high end brand you can think of.

Soaring overhead are icons of the Chicago skyline like the Tribune Tower (1925) and the Wrigley Building (1924) in the south and 875 N Michigan (1969) towards the north end.

For a more unassuming sight, stop for a snap of the castle-like Chicago Water Tower, dating to 1869 and the second oldest surviving water tower in the United States.

19. Garfield Park Conservatory

Well west of the Chicago Loop, Garfield Park warrants the 15-minute cab ride into a slightly down-at-heel neighborhood. The trip is for the world’s third largest garden under glass, an astounding botanical conservatory with eight indoor display gardens. The conservatory was completed in 1908 and designed to resemble the haystacks of the Midwest. As it’s indoors I’d recommend this activity if there’s a rainy day forecast during your trip.

The moment you step inside you’ll be in the Palm House with more than 80 varieties of palm tree. Also see the incredible ferns and cycads against the waterfall in the Fen Room, and one of the nation’s most varied collections of cactuses and succulents in the Desert House.

Come by any day in summer and there will be something going on, like free yoga, gardening demonstrations and a chance for kids to get up close to animals like harmless snakes and goats.

20. Mob and Crime Bus Tour

Now their misdeeds are in the distant past, there’s no denying the fascination evoked by Chicago’s prohibition-era mobsters. Names like Al Capone, Bugs Moran and Dion Johnny Torrio remain household names.

The city has changed so much in the last century that you’d never guess that benign looking neighborhoods witnessed a bitter war that claimed scores of lives in the 1920s and 30s. So you have to turn to local historians, and I found that GetYourGuide.com offers a 90-minute Mob and Crime Bus Tour . A similar tour is available on Viator as well.

This uncovers the dark past of the Windy City, profiling notorious men like Capone and John Dillinger. You’ll visit the site of the Valentine’s Day Massacre and the Biograph Theatre, where Dillinger was gunned down by FBI agents.

21. Shedd Aquarium

Sharing the Museum Campus Chicago with the Field Museum and the Adler Planetarium, the Shedd Aquarium (1930) was for some time the largest indoor aquarium in the world. Donated by the philanthropist John G. Shedd, the attraction has an incredible 32,500 aquatic creatures from across the planet.

These are in immersive zones like Amazon Rising, which has caimans, anacondas, piranhas and freshwater stingrays in tanks among the roots of rain-forest trees. Also mandatory are the Caribbean Reef, housing a rescued green sea turtle, the Wild Reef with four varieties of sharks and the historic Waters of the World gallery home to colorful starfish and seahorses.

Stingray Touch lets you find out what a cownose ray or yellow spotted ray feels like, while marine mammals like sea lions, penguins and sea otters can be found in the Oceanarium.

22. Field Museum of Natural History

One of the best and largest natural history museums in the world, the Field Museum’s museum collection has swelled to more than 24 million objects since it opened in 1893. This a place to feed your fascination for the natural world, with grand Neoclassical halls housing fossils, priceless gemstones and animal and plant specimens.

There’s also compelling anthropology for the Ancient Americas and Ancient Egypt, as well as Tibet, China, Africa and cultures in the Pacific Islands. The Geology Halls meanwhile have an exquisite collection of Chinese jade, and a stained glass window by Louis Comfort Tiffany.

The star of the show is the 28 feet tall Titanosaur in the Stanley Field Hall. In 2018, this herbivore from Argentina replaced SUE, a T-Rex specimen, which will reappear at the Evolving Planet Gallery in 2019. It took me a few hours to explore the entire museum so great value for money.

23. United Center

There was a time in the 90s when a seat at the United Center was the hottest ticket in town.

The Chicago Bulls moved to this arena in 1994 when Michael Jordan was on his strange hiatus in Minor League Baseball, and he’d return to lead them to three straight titles between 1996 and 1998. Out on the east side of the building is a statue in his honor, named The Spirit and showing him mid-dunk.

Fair to say that the 2010s aren’t a golden age for the Chicago Bulls, but if you are a fan or want to make a pilgrimage to this hallowed ground you can watch a game in the regular season from October to April.

At roughly the same time of year, the Bulls share the United Center with the Chicago Blackhawks NHL team, which has had a much more successful decade, winning the Stanley Cup in 2010, 2013 and 2015.

24. Chicago History Museum

In Lincoln Park you can lift the lid on Chicago’s rich history, perusing fascinating thematic exhibitions. Facing Freedom goes into depth on the various struggles for freedom to beset Chicago from the 1850s to the 1970s, covering the Civil War, Women’s Suffrage, the formation of labor unions and Japanese internment.

At Crossroads of America you can step into a jazz club or climb aboard Chicago’s very first L train, while the Chicago dioramas tracks Chicago’s breakneck rise from a lonely frontier outpost to an immense metropolis.

Sensing Chicago lets kids jump into a gigantic Chicago-style hot dog, ride a vintage high wheel bike and hear the roar of the Great Chicago Fire.

25. Lincoln Park Zoo

In 37 acres and dating back to 1868, this zoo deserves extra credit as one of the last remaining free admission animal parks in the United States. There are more than 1,100 animals here, in habitats that are constantly being revamped.

The polar bear and African penguin enclosures for instance have just been reopened, while a recent arrival in 2014 is the Regenstein Macaque Forest where you can see Japanese macaques bathing in a hot spring as they do in the wild.

There’s a hint of the great age of the zoo at the Kovler Lion House, constructed in 1912, while some other family favorites to tick off are the Helen Brach Primate House (1927), seal pool, family petting zoo, the superb Regenstein Center for African Apes and the Regenstein African Journey. This has indoor and outdoor habitats for giraffes, pygmy hippos, ostriches, gazelles and many more.

Best of all might be that entrance is free. However parking costs can be quite expensive so I’d recommend going there by public transportation, or foot if you’re located close by.

26. Chicago Picasso

Pablo Picasso produced this monumental piece of public art for Chicago in the mid-1960s. Standing in Daley Plaza, the Chicago Picasso weighs almost 147 metric tons and stands over 50 feet tall.

Since it was unveiled in 1967, the work, rumored to depict French model Lydia Corbett who sat for a series of drawings for Picasso in the 1950s, is a landmark for the city and something for kids to clamber on.

Early on, in a city that previously only dedicated statues to historical figures, the Chicago Picasso was a source of controversy, but now inspires affection as a famous meeting point and backdrop to public events on Daley Plaza like the Christkindlmarkt at Christmas.

27. Holy Name Cathedral

Chicago’s Gothic Revival Catholic cathedral, by Chicago Station on the Red Line, was completed in 1875 after its predecessor burnt down in the Great Chicago Fire of 1871. Eagle-eyed visitors will be able to spot an overarching Tree of Life Theme in the building’s fittings.

On arrival you’ll be confronted by the cathedral’s immense bronze doors, each weighing more than 500 kilos and cast to resemble planks of wood.

Inside, a few of the fixtures worth closer inspection are the Stations of the Cross in red Rocco Alicante marble, bronze sculptures depicting the Evangelists and the cathedra (bishop’s throne) for the Chicago Diocese.

There’s also a slice of Chicago gangland history outside, where a cornerstone inscription is still chipped from the 1926 murder of mob boss and Al Capone rival Hymie Weiss.

28. North Avenue Beach

Another of the many things to love about Chicago is the way the city has been planned to grant access to the lakeshore. In hot weather this means you can slip off your shoes and set foot in Lake Michigan, or plan a whole day at the beach. Being slightly removed from the fabric of the city, Lincoln Park has what many people agree to be the best beach in the city.

North Avenue Beach runs for a few hundred yards up to Diversey Harbor, with piers at short intervals to stop the sand being washed away. There’s a bar on the beachfront, as well as companies offering rentals and tuition for kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding.

International competitions take place at the South Volleyball Courts here, while in August North Avenue Beach is the place to catch the Chicago Air & Water Show.

29. Crown Fountain

The wonders keep coming in the Millennium Park, because we haven’t even mentioned the Crown Fountain (2004) yet. Here the Catalan artist Jaume Plensa designed two glass brick towers, 15 meters in height. They face each other across a black granite reflecting pool.

Those glass bricks are installed with LEDs displaying changing photographic facial images of citizens’ faces, filling the towers. For a playful touch, water spouts from the a nozzle between their lips from May to October.

Like most of the works in the Millennium Park the Crown Fountain is interactive, and on hot summer days you’ll see children paddling in the reflecting pools and cooling off under the waterfalls that cascade down the sides of the towers.

30. Michigan Avenue Bridge

The Burnham Plan of 1909 helped shape Chicago’s cityscape, and brought about this trunnion bascule bridge conducting Michigan Avenue over the main branch of the Chicago River. An official Chicago Landmark, the bridge opened in 1920 and once completed helped spur the flurry of development that gave rise to the Magnificent Mile.

Be sure to go in for a closer look at the north and south pylons, which have bold reliefs depicting scenes from Chicago’s past, carved by Henry Hering and James Earle Frasier respectively. The south pylons depict Defence and Regeneration, while the north pylons show the Discovers and Pioneers.

The southwest bridgehouse holds the McCormick Bridgehouse & Chicago River Museum, chronicling the history of the bridge and the Chicago River. If you’re in for a burger I recommend the nearby Billy Goat Tavern which has a delicious cheeseburger.

31. Robie House

To look at this house on the University of Chicago campus and know nothing about its origins, you’d never guess that it was built in 1910. Residential architecture would never be the same after the great Frank Lloyd Wright designed this home for Frederick C. Robie, the assistant manager of a company on the South Side.

The Robie House is considered the pinnacle of the early-20th-century Prairie style, and you can go in for tours Thursday to Monday.

The Prairie style expresses the sense of space in the prairie landscape of the Midwest, and this is captured by the low profile, long cantilevered eaves, broad balconies and even the use of narrow red bricks.

The Robie House has marvelous art-glass throughout, personally designed by Wright, along with the house’s curtains, rugs, furniture, bathroom fittings, fireplaces and lighting.

32. Museum of Contemporary Art

Dedicated to art from 1945 to the present, the Museum of Contemporary art is endowed with a serious collection, spanning surrealism, conceptual art, pop art and minimalism. You’ll get to see works by Chuck Close, Andy Warhol, Jasper Johns, Francis Bacon, René Magritte, Alexander Calder, Ann Hamilton and Richard Serra.

From June to September, Tuesdays on the Terrace is a programme of summer performances by members of Chicago’s dynamic jazz community.

33. Symphony Center

As one of America’s “Big Five”, the Chicago Symphony Orchestra is among the most prestigious classical ensembles on the planet. You can see them at the Symphony Center, a National Historic Landmark on South Michigan Avenue.

This venue is a complex made up of the Grainger Ballroom, Buntrock Hall and the 2,522-seater Orchestra Hall. On the frieze above the facade’s arches windows you’ll read the names “Bach, Mozart, Beethoven, Schubert and Wagner”. By 2018 Riccardo Muti had been the conductor for eight years.

34. Second City Chicago

An absurd amount of comic talent has come out of Chicago over the last 60 years, and one of the reasons for that is Second City. This fabled comedy club and improv company on Wells Street counts Steve Carell, Billy Murray, Tina Fey, Amy Poehler, Stephen Colbert, Dan Aykroyd, John Belushi and John Candy among its alumni.

There are three stages at Second City, “Mainstage” and “e.t.c. Stage” for sketch comedy and improv acts, and the UP Comedy Club for stand-up. Chances are you’ll get see a future TV or film star honing their comedic powers here.

35. Chicago Theater

One of five Tony award-winning venues in Chicago, the Chicago Theater warrants a photo, even if you’re not planning to see a show. That’s partly because of the marquee and vertical sign, which often appear in movies set in the city.

The venue opened in 1921 as an opulent motion picture house, and if you step back across State Street you can get a good look at the facade. This has a beautiful central arch that mirrors the false-perspective effect of the Palazzo Barberini in Rome, and is glazed with Tiffany stained glass.

Now one of Chicago’s best spots for performing arts, the theater is owned by the Madison Square Garden Company and puts on a varied program of comedians, world-famous musicians, dance companies and lectures by renowned cultural figures. Madonna, Hamilton, Trevor Noah and more are all in store for this year. I recommend checking their event calendar.

36. Oriental Institute Museum

While you’re down at the Robie House, head to this awesome museum at the University of Chicago’s Oriental Institute. Opened with funding from John D. Rockefeller Jr., the ivy-clad museum is a treasure chest of ancient artifacts discovered during digs in Turkey, Israel, Egypt, Iran, Iraq and Syria.

A couple of the most remarkable exhibits are an imposing statue of King Tutankhamen and a giant human-headed winged bull from the Assyrian city of Khorsabad.

From around the same period there’s a set of ornate Luristan Bronzes produced in western Iran in the early Iron Age, and a stunning array of paper-thin ivories carved in the ancient city of Tel Megiddo, now northern Israel.

Like so many places on this list, I really like that the museum is free (it does encourage donations).

37. Tribune Tower

Built in the mid-1920s for the Chicago Tribune, this iconic Gothic Revival skyscraper on the Magnificent Mile is now being turned into condominiums. The Tribune Tower is clad with Indiana limestone, and came about after a design competition to mark the paper’s 75th anniversary.

At night you’ll get a clear view of the buttresses and tracery at the very top, while there are lots of details to discover on the lower storys. In the years before the tower went up, the Tribune’s publisher Robert R. McCormick had asked his correspondents to bring him fragments of famous monuments from around the world.

So, embedded in the stonework are pieces from the Hagia Sophia, Taj Mahal, the Butter Tower of Rouen Cathedral, the Alamo, the Great Pyramid and the Great Wall of China, to name a few.

38. Adler Planetarium

In Grant Park, the Adler Planetarium (1930) is both a respected institution at the Museum Campus and a noble landmark in its own right. The planetarium occupies a nub of land sticking out over the lake on Northerly Island. By the water to the north is the Adler Planetarium Skyline Walk, blessed with the ultimate view of Chicago’s skyline.

Inside, kids can interact with exhibits dealing with topics like the Solar System, the composition of planets and the Moon missions. You can also find more fact-heavy exhibitions about the history of telescopy and the origins of the universe.

Projected shows are the cornerstone of any planetarium, and the Adler has a big choice, showing the sky above Chicago with light pollution filtered out, and sparkling presentations about the mysterious Planet Nine and nebulae.

39. Chicago Children’s Museum

The Chicago Children’s Museum, which I first visited in my younger years on a school trip, promises a few hours of active, engaging fun for youngsters. On Navy Pier the museum has 15 interactive exhibits over three storys, each mixing play with learning.

In that spirit, the Tinkering Lab for instance features genuine tools and materials giving kids the freedom to create whatever comes to mind, while Skyline is a crash course in architectural engineering, letting children experiment with skyscraper designs.

Play It Safe is a fun indoor play zone in partnership with the city’s Fire Department, teaching little ones about fire safety as they escape from a room filled with pretend smoke and shoot down a fire station pole.

There’s a whole calendar of special activities and workshops, and something different happening on a every visit.

40. Chicago Shakespeare Theater (CST)

Based on Navy Pier, this adored non-profit theater company has done as much as anyone to help keep Chicago on the cultural map over the last 30 years.

In short order the theater has earned three Laurence Olivier Awards, as well as a regional Tony in 2008. Its main aim is to introduce people to the works of William Shakespeare, through school tours, summer plays in parks and productions at its own majestic venue, adding up to 600 performances a year.

The Chicago Shakespeare Theater has been at Navy Pier since 1999, in a complex with two auditoriums: The 510-seater Courtyard Theater and the more intimate Upstairs theater.

The program is crafted for everyone, and has meaty productions of Macbeth and Hamlet, and light family musicals like Peter Pan and Bedknobs and Broomsticks.

41. Alfred Caldwell Lily Pool

People go out of their way to visit a masterpiece of landscape architecture in Lincoln Park. This pond is named after its designer, Alfred Caldwell who worked on it in the second half of the 1930s.

In the same vein as the Robie House, the environment is laid out in the Prairie style. You’ll definitely sense the Prairie school’s love for low horizontal forms and the natural landscapes of the Midwest.

A National Historic Landmark since 2006, the pool is traced by winding stepping-stone paths, wide stratified slabs of limestone, circular benches, plants native to the Midwest, a waterfall and waterside pavilion.

42. Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum

This child-friendly museum in Lincoln Park presents the natural history of the Chicago region in smart and interactive ways.

As an institution the museum was founded back in 1857 and moved into a new home in the park in 1999. The old museum, now used by the zoo, was known for its detailed static dioramas, and while these are still here, they’re joined by spellbinding living environments like the astonishing Judy Istock Butterfly house, where 1,000 butterflies flutter in a 250-square-meter greenhouse.

During the “Critter Connection” every day at 11:30 kids can get an up close look at more than a dozen different amphibian species at the Animal House.

There’s also a bird walk, leading to a platform over Lincoln Park’s North Pond, as well as hands-on stations where kids can learn about rivers, solve nature-inspired puzzles and explore a beaver lodge.

43. Chicago Pedway

Under the city streets and spanning more than 40 blocks north to south, Chicago has a vast network of pedestrian tunnels, as an answer the vicious winter weather and to provide easy links between “L” stations.

The oldest sections, between State and Dearborn streets date back to before the Second World War. The rest of the network was begun in the 1950s and expanded in the 60s and 70s. Not all of the Pedway is subterranean, as there are enclosed raised footbridges.

As ever, there are works of public art adorning the tunnels, along with restaurants and shops. In the Pedway by Macy’s check out the beautiful display of 22 stained glass panels, a holdover from the defunct Smith Museum of Stained Glass. There are free walking tours available but in my experience the free tours cost you just as much, because at the end of the tour they do ask to contribute whatever price you think the tour is worth and most people will feel obligated to pay a decent price.

44. Chinatown

Strolling along the Chicago River you’re sure to see the yellow Chicago Water Taxi zipping past. In this part of the city, these boats stop at Michigan Avenue and further west along the Riverwalk. One idea for a trip is to catch the taxi down to Chinatown.

The scenic journey through the Loop and South Loop will take about 40 minutes and there are services all day in summer, but especially around lunchtime. And that’s because one Chinatown is a Dim Sum paradise.

Head for Dolo Restaurant and Bar and MingHin Cuisine where there are so many options you won’t know where to start. But people come a long way for MingHin’s Macau pork belly at deep fried taro puffs. I started exploring from Chinatown Square which is a great place to start.

45. Chagall’s Four Seasons

Under a glass canopy at the Chase Tower Plaza in the Loop is another exceptional piece of public art ready to enchant passers-by. This figurative mosaic is by Marc Chagall and was donated by the stockbroker Frederick H. Prince. The Four Seasons is big by any measure. I’ve walked by countless times and each time I take a sec to admire it.

It is made up tens of thousands of inland chips in more than 250 colors, and has hints of the Chicago skyline, suns, flowers, birds, fish , lovers and musicians. While we’re talking about Chagall – when the artist came to install the mosaic in the 70s he produced a set of stained glass windows for the Art Institute of Chicago to celebrate America’s Bicentennial.

They are among the most treasured works in the collection, and you may recognize them if you’ve seen Ferris Bueller’s Day Off!

46. Brookfield Zoo

A Metra train ride out to the suburb of Brookfield, this zoo is in 216 acres of green parkland and boasts more than 450 species. The Brookfield Zoo made waves when it opened in 1934 as it pioneered the use of moats and ditches instead of cages, and was also the first in America to have giant pandas. I loved wandering around and enjoyed spotting all the different animals.

One of the most recent additions is the Great Bear Wilderness, letting you get within inches of North Americas mightiest carnivores. Also new is Wild Encounters, where you can pet tame goats, walk through a wallaby enclosure and enter one of the largest free-flight parakeet aviaries in the world.

Naturally, kids’ favorites (and mine too) like big cats, rhinos, giraffes are all at Brookfield Zoo, while Humboldt penguins are the stars at the Living Coast habitat.

47. Live Music

In a city that gave its name to whole genres of blues and house music, you can bet that Chicago is a big live music town. To tap into the city’s jazz and blues heritage, look for a few spots that have achieved legendary status.

This an apt time to bring up Buddy Guy’s Legends, founded by the blues veteran on South Wabash in 1989, and where he still plays a series of shows every January.

Kingston Mines in Lincoln Park dates back to 1969 and has two live shows a night without fail, while the venerable Green Mill Cocktail Lounge (1907) was run by mobsters in the Prohibition era, and Al Capone’s favourite booth is still here.

On a wider scale, there are 225 live music venues in all, as well as some of the nation’s most exciting festivals, both free and ticketed, from the Chicago Jazz Festival to Lollapalooza and Pitchfork.

48. Taste of Chicago Festival

In mid-July Grant Park puts on the world’s largest food festival. The Taste of Chicago Festival drives home the full diversity of Chicago’s dining options.

Bring an appetite and you can take a culinary trip around the world, discover the creativity of Chicago’s contemporary restaurants or renew your love affair with Chicago classics like Italian beef, cheesecake, pizza and hot dogs.

There are pop-up restaurants, a whole armada of streetfood trucks and stands representing Chicago’s top eateries. You can go sample crazy, or see highly skilled chefs doing their thing at live demonstrations. And as the perfect accompaniment the festival organizes live music by famous acts and the best of Chicago’s music scene.

49. Chicago Jazz Festival

This totally free four-day music extravaganza takes place across the Labor Day weekend in Millennium Park. The event is now in its fifth decade, and dates back to 1974, when a festival was organised in Grant Park to honor Duke Ellington who had just passed away.

The list of performers who have taken the stage at the Chicago Jazz Festival is a who’s who of jazz, gilded with names like Dizzy Gillespie, Ella Fitzgerald, Miles Davis and Sun Ra. Each year there’s a helping of Jazz royalty sharing the bill with stars of contemporary jazz and some undiscovered talent.

Shows take place at the pavilions in Millennium Park (headliners play at the Jay Pritzker Pavilion), as well as Chicago Cultural Center.

50. Chicago Air & Water Show

To round the whole thing off, here’s another big event that the city lays on for free. The Chicago Air & Water Show goes back to 1959 and remains the city’s second favorite festival, as well as the largest free show of its kind in the United States.

Across a weekend in mid-August more than two million people line Lake Michigan, particularly the North Avenue Beach, for an exhibition of supersonic jets, formation flying, sky-diving and skywriting.

These are normally Army and Air Force groups, like the Golden Knights parachute team and the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds.

Tip: There’s no better time to visit 360 Chicago, the Skydeck or take a cruise on the lake, while shore-side restaurants and bars put on viewing parties, though tickets will sell out months in advance.

I truly hope you enjoyed my picks for Chicago, if you have any comments or tips feel free to contact us !

50 Best Things to Do in Chicago (IL) in 2023 by a Local:

• River and Lake Cruises
• Art Institute of Chicago
• Millennium Park
• John Hancock Center
• Chicago Cultural Center
• Wrigley Field
• Maggie Daley Park
• Richard H. Driehaus Museum
• Buckingham Fountain
• Lakefront Trail
• Museum of Science and Industry
• Magnificent Mile
• Garfield Park Conservatory
• Mob and Crime Bus Tour
• Shedd Aquarium
• Field Museum of Natural History
• United Center
• Chicago History Museum
• Lincoln Park Zoo
• Chicago Picasso
• Holy Name Cathedral
• North Avenue Beach
• Crown Fountain
• Michigan Avenue Bridge
• Robie House
• Museum of Contemporary Art
• Symphony Center
• Second City Chicago
• Chicago Theater
• Oriental Institute Museum
• Tribune Tower
• Adler Planetarium
• Chicago Children's Museum
• Chicago Shakespeare Theater (CST)
• Alfred Caldwell Lily Pool
• Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum
• Chicago Pedway
• Chagall's Four Seasons
• Brookfield Zoo
• Taste of Chicago Festival
• Chicago Jazz Festival
• Chicago Air & Water Show

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The 12 Best Things to Do in Chicago

Famously known as “the Second City” (meaning second in population to New York), I feel like Chicago is often overlooked by travelers. It sees a fraction of the visitors LA and NYC receive, which is a shame, as it’s one of my favorite cities in the world .

Chicago is chock-full of world-class institutions, Michelin-starred restaurants, awe-inducing architecture, and verdant parks. There is a lot to do here and the city has a really rich history. I think more people should visit.

Sure, the winters are brutal. But, come spring, Chicago blossoms into a dynamic urban landscape of street life, outdoor cafés, and sunny parks when locals take over the outdoors to enjoy the few months of nice weather. (I don’t think you can really beat Chicago in the summer.)

To help you plan your visit, here’s my list of the best things to do in Chicago:

Table of Contents

1. Take a Walking Tour

2. relax in grant and millennium parks, 3. take in some art at the art institute of chicago, 4. admire amazing architecture on a river cruise, 5. stroll down the magnificent mile, 6. visit the shedd aquarium, 7. take in some natural history at the field museum, 8. get a stunning view at 360 chicago observation deck, 9. feast on deep-dish pizza, 10. stroll the chicago riverwalk, 11. eat your way through the mexican eateries in pilsen, 12. watch an improv show, 13. have fun at navy pier, 14. catch a game at wrigley field, 15. feast in chinatown, 16. experience st. patrick’s day, 17. explore oz park.

One of the first things I do when I arrive in a city is take a walking tour. They’re a great way to see the main sights, get the lay of the land, and connect with an expert local guide who can answer all my questions. Free Chicago Walking Tours hosts regular free tours that can introduce you to the city. You’ll get to see many of the coolest buildings in the city while also learning about the history of Chicago. The tour lasts a few hours. Be sure to tip the guide at the end!

For a more unique tour, try the Gangsters and Ghosts Tour . You’ll learn all about Chicago’s dark side and creepy past as you explore the Chicago Loop. The tour lasts two hours and really talks about one of the pivotal times in Chicago’s history. Even if you’re not a history buff like me, you’ll get a lot out of it.  

Located downtown, these gigantic parks provide a great place to hang out, have a picnic, or go for a run. People play chess here when the weather is nice and, during the summer, there are a lot of free concerts and events here. The larger Grant Park stretches along Chicago’s waterfront, while Millennium Park is the subsection where the famous “Chicago Bean” sculpture is located. This iconic work of public art is a must-see. And, starting at noon on the first and third Saturdays from April through November, the Chicago Cultural Center hosts walking tours focusing on the art of Millennium Park. It’s really interesting. I love strolling through the park or just chilling here with a good book on a nice day.  

To beat the crowds, skip a weekend visit as the place gets packed. Instead, go on a Monday or Thursday evening (they’re open late on Thursdays). You’ll have the place virtually to yourself.

111 S Michigan Ave, (312) 443-3600, artic.edu. Open Thursday-Monday 11am-5pm (8pm on Thursdays). Admission is $32 USD ( $40 USD for advance skip-the-line entry ). Daily tours (included in the price of your ticket) are offered at 1pm and 3pm.  

Chicago is an architecture lover’s dream. The very best way to take in its famed buildings is via a river cruise . This way, you can sit back and cruise down the canals while an expert guide provides context for what you’re looking at. The guides will give you a detailed history of the architecture. Some of the buildings you’ll see on the boat ride include the Tribune Tower, 333 West Wacker, Navy Pier, the Willis Tower, the Wrigley Building, and Marina City, among others. All in all, there are about 50 structures to see on this fascinating tour, and I promise, it’s much more interesting than it sounds!  

Often nicknamed “Mag Mile,” this stretch along Michigan Avenue from the Chicago River to Oak Street is known for its upscale designer boutiques. In fact, rent here is the third highest in the US (after Fifth Avenue in New York City and Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills). Even if you don’t want to blow your budget shopping, it’s still an experience to stroll along the avenue and take in the sights and the people, and enjoy the view of the Chicago River. There are several landmarks and attractions along the way too, including the 360 Chicago Observation Deck for expansive views over the city (more on this below).  

If you’re visiting the city with kids (or you’re a kid at heart), head to the massive Shedd Aquarium. It’s the third-largest aquarium in the Western hemisphere and home to over 32,000 animals. They have turtles, penguins, sea otters, snakes, sharks, and more. They really emphasize education here so you’ll learn a ton while you roam the different exhibitions. You can even pay extra to do things like feed penguins and sharks, and they also host all kinds of fun evening events (such as live music after hours). I absolutely love coming here. Just make sure to book your ticket in advance as they do get busy and sell out!

To beat the crowds, skip the weekend and visit during the week instead. Also, try and visit right when it opens (especially Wednesday-Friday). It’s usually quieter then.

1200 S DuSable Lake Shore Dr, (312) 939-2438, sheddaquarium.org. Open 9am-5pm Monday-Friday (9pm on Tuesdays), 9am-6pm Saturday, and 11am-6pm on Sundays. Tickets start at $37 USD. Admission can also be included with the Chicago CityPASS .  

One of the biggest museums in the world, the Field houses extensive collections spanning anthropology, geology, botany, and zoology. Some important collections include the displays of taxidermied animals, a wing dedicated to astronomy, and fascinating artifacts from ancient Egypt. I recommend planning to spend at least 3-4 hours to really take it all in.

1400 S. Dusable Lake Shore Drive, (312) 922-9410, fieldmuseum.org. Open daily 9am-5pm (last admission is at 4pm). Basic admission is $30 USD . Special exhibitions are an additional charge (which varies), though you can get an all-access pass for $43 USD.  

Chicago is a skyscraper city, including a few rather iconic towers. Located atop what was formerly known as the John Hancock Building and now (uninspiringly) called 875 N. Michigan, the 360-degree viewing deck a thousand feet up and allows visitors to get the best view of the Windy City and Lake Michigan. You can even grab a pint at the Cloud Bar, which serves beer from Moody Tongue, a local brewery.

If you’re a thrill seeker and want more than just the view, sign up for Tilt. This part of the observation deck is where you can stand in front of a glass window, which then tilts forward, until it appears you’re looking directly down at the street, 94 floors below.

Just make sure to check the weather before you go so you will actually have a view to enjoy. Additionally, if you want to beat the crowds, come early (before 10am).

875 N Michigan Ave, (888) 875-8439, 360chicago.com. Open daily 9am-11pm (the last entry is at 10pm). Admission starts at $30 USD ( get your tickets in advance for skip-the-line access ).

If you really want to indulge, hop on a Chicago Pizza Tour , on which you’ll get to sample all the varieties on offer in town. Tours start at $49 USD.  

Stretching from Lake Michigan to Lake Street, the 1.25-mile Riverwalk along the Chicago River makes for a fun stroll. Along the way, you’ll not only get fantastic views of the river and city, but you’ll encounter a legion of waterfront restaurants, cafés, and bars. There’s a ton of public art and green space too (great for picnicking and people-watching). It’s the perfect place to slow down and enjoy the moment in this Midwestern metropolis, but if you prefer a more active experience, there are also lots of aquatic activities here too (such as kayaking or taking a river cruise).  

The neighborhood of Pilsen was founded in 1878 by Czech immigrants, who named the area after the fourth-largest city in the Czech Republic, where pilsner beer was born. The Czechs may be gone now, but today Pilsen is Chicago’s main Latino neighborhood, particularly Mexicans from the Michoacán region. Today you can wander the area, eating some of the best tacos while taking in the vibrant street art.  

The Second City is one of the most popular and well-known improv troupes in the country. It’s where greats like Bill Murray, John Candy, Catherine O’Hara, Steve Carell, Tina Fey, and Amy Poehler all cut their teeth. They put on regular performances and also host all kinds of special events. They even host workshops and classes if you want to give improv a try yourself. Just be sure to get your tickets in advance as the most popular shows sell out fast.

230 W North Ave, (312) 337-3992, secondcity.com. Performances are held daily so check the website for what’s on. Tickets start at $35 USD.  

600 E Grand Ave, (312) 595-7437, navypier.org. Open Sunday-Thursday 11am-8pm and Friday-Saturday 11am-9pm (individual attractions and restaurants may have separate hours). Admission to the pier is free, though attractions charge their own fees ( the Centennial wheel is $21.30 USD , for example).  

Home of the Cubs, Wrigley Field, on Chicago’s North Side, is smack in the middle of town. It also happens to be one of the oldest baseball stadiums in the United States (it opened in 1914). If you’re in Chicago during the baseball seasons (April to October) and the Cubs are in town, do yourself a favor and go to a game. It’s one of the most intimate and atmospheric baseball stadiums in the country. If the Cubs are not in town, you can also take a 90-minute behind-the-scenes tour of the stadium.

1060 W Addison St, (773) 404-2827, mlb.com/cubs/ballpark. Tour dates and times vary depending on the season (check the website for availability). Tour admission is $30 USD. Tickets to see a game vary greatly but start at just $10 USD (for better seats at a popular game, expect to spend closer to $80-125 USD).  

Bring your appetite to Chinatown, where you can feast on cheap dim dum, do karaoke, or relax at one of the many tea houses. One of the oldest Chinatown’s in the country, over a third of Chicago’s Chinese population lives in Chinatown, making it one of the largest concentrations of Chinese-Americans in the USA. Don’t miss Ping Tom Memorial Park, and keep an eye out for colorful murals around the neighborhood. Some of my favorite places here are Hing Kee, MCCB Chicago, and Phoenix. &nbsp

The tradition began in 1843, when Chicago’s first Irish parade was held, but it wasn’t until 1962 that the dyeing of the river started, at the suggestion of a plumber’s union, which is still responsible for the green river each year, though it won’t divulge its secrets about what’s used (it’s environmentally friendly, though). Take a river cruise on the emerald waters or snap a pic from the sidelines and enjoy. This is one of the biggest days of the year here!  

This whimsical little park, located in the Lincoln Park area, was created to honor L. Frank Baum, the author of The Wizard of Oz . He lived in the area at the end of the 19th century, and when the city wanted to renovate the park they decided to do so in a way that honored Baum’s popular book.

There’s a playground named after Dorothy, a green space called the “Emerald Gardens,” and numerous life-size statues of popular characters from the musical adaptation, including the Dorothy, Toto, the Tin Man, the Cowardly Lion, and the Scarecrow.

Open daily 6am-11pm. Admission to the park is free.

Chicago doesn’t get the attention it deserves. I think it’s fun and perfect for a weekend getaway. And you really can’t beat the summers here either. With lots of interesting museums, plenty of green space, and some great eats, Chicago should be on every traveler’s list!

Book Your Trip to Chicago: Logistical Tips and Tricks

Book Your Flight Use Skyscanner to find a cheap flight. They are my favorite search engine because they search websites and airlines around the globe so you always know no stone is left unturned.

Book Your Accommodation You can book your hostel with Hostelworld as they have the biggest inventory and best deals. If you want to stay somewhere other than a hostel, use Booking.com as they consistently return the cheapest rates for guesthouses and cheap hotels.

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance Travel insurance will protect you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. My favorite companies that offer the best service and value are:

• Safety Wing (best for everyone)
• Insure My Trip (for those over 70)
• Medjet (for additional evacuation coverage)

Looking for the Best Companies to Save Money With? Check out my resource page for the best companies to use when you travel. I list all the ones I use to save money when I’m on the road. They will save you money when you travel too.

Want More Information on Chicago? Be sure to visit our robust destination guide on Chicago for even more planning tips!

Got a comment on this article? Join the conversation on Facebook , Instagram , or Twitter and share your thoughts!

Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you, I earn a commission if you make a purchase. I recommend only products and companies I use and the income goes to keeping the site community supported and ad free.

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Things to do in Chicago in the summer

There’s nothing quite like summer in Chicago. All season long, you can play beach volleyball on the sandy shores of Lake Michigan, kayak through a skyscraper canyon, sip cocktails from rooftop bars with skyline views — the list goes on and on. Here’s your guide to making the most out of summer in Chicago.

Enjoy the lakefront

Chicago is blessed with miles and miles of stunning lakefront beaches . Let the kids run and play at Foster Beach , rent a beachfront cabana at North Avenue Beach , or enjoy the skyline views at Rainbow Beach .

If you’re looking to get active on the water, you can rent a jet ski, kayak, paddleboard, or fly board at Chicago Water Sport Rentals at 31st Street Harbor. Or embark on a kayak tour or paddleboard class with Urban Kayaks at Monroe Harbor .

Check out our guide to Chicago beaches for more.

Dine outside

Chicago is home to a wealth of outdoor dining options, whether you want to sip wine on a riverfront patio or enjoy a pina colada with your toes in the sand.

• Check our outdoor dining guide for some of the best local patios and rooftops
• Want to dine with a lakefront view? Explore beachfront restaurants
• Or discover all the restaurants and bars on the Chicago Riverwalk

Or just stroll through any neighborhood in Chicago , and you’ll have plenty of stellar alfresco spots to choose from.

Take a boat cruise

Each summer, Chicago’s many boat cruises set sail on Lake Michigan and the Chicago River. There are tons of different Chicago cruise options for a variety of interests, from leisurely dinner cruises to fascinating architecture tours to high-speed thrill rides.

Hop on a Chicago Architecture Center River Cruise to hear the stories behind the city’s iconic architecture and historic buildings from expert tour guides. Seadog Thrill Rides bring fast-paced thrills, Wendella offers a classic family-friendly cruise, and City Experiences has elegant dinner cruise options for an unforgettable evening.

Explore all your options with our guide to Chicago boat cruises and tours .

Attend a summer festival

Festival season is back in Chicago. And it’s not really summer until you check out one of our legendary summer events, ranging from neighborhood block parties showcasing local acts to sprawling outdoor fests with major headlining acts. Here are a few of the top festivals to check out in Chicago this summer:

• Lollapalooza
• Chicago Gospel Music Festival
• Windy City Smokeout
• Chicago Blues Festival
• Sundance Institute x Chicago
• Old Town Art Fair
• Summer Smash Festival
• Pitchfork Music Festival
• Chosen Few Picnic
• African/Caribbean International Festival Of Life

Check out our full summer festival guide for more.

Get out on the water

Chicago is home to two stunning waterfronts — Lake Michigan, with miles of sandy shoreline, and the Chicago River, a skyscraper canyon through the heart of the city. And both offer plenty of opportunities to get out on the water. You can rent jet skis and paddleboards on the lakefront and kayaks on the river and lake. You can also rent all types of boats, from small electric vessels to pontoon party boats , on the lake and river.

Explore Navy Pier

Navy Pier is one of the city’s most popular attractions — and for good reason. There’s something for everyone to enjoy at this historic lakefront spot. Here’s just a few of the many things to see and do there during the summer:

• Hop on a  lakefront cruise
• See the summer fireworks
• Take a spin on the Centennial Wheel
• Check out free live music, movies, dance, and more
• Enjoy the  waterfront beer garden
• Check out the country’s  largest rooftop bar

Head to a rooftop

Chicago’s skyline is filled with rooftop bars and restaurants , perfect for cocktails and bites on a sunny afternoon or warm summer evening. One local favorite is LH Rooftop , which wows with some of the city’s best views overlooking the Chicago River. Cindy’s is an iconic spot to admire Millennium Park from above, VU Rooftop offers firepits and skyline vistas, and Cabana Club in Wicker Park is a hip spot to hang out poolside.

Find even more sky-high options with our guide to rooftop bars .

Catch a neighborhood fest

Summer is the perfect time to experience Chicago’s vibrant neighborhoods . You’ll find bustling sidewalk cafes, tucked-away parks, and a full calendar of unique events. Here are just a few neighborhood festivals not to miss this summer.

• Chicago Pride Fest and Parade : Celebrate Pride in the country’s oldest official LGBTQ+ neighborhood at this lively fest, featuring live music, dance queens, local food, and more.
• Puerto Rican People’s Parade : This annual parade celebrates Puerto Rican culture and heritage in the Paseo Boricua area of Humboldt Park.
• Chinatown Summer Fair : Immerse yourself in Chinese culture with traditional performances, music, food, art, and more.
• Ravenswood On Tap : Sip your way through Ravenswood, one of Chicago’s top craft beer neighborhoods and home to many small craft producers.
• Old Town Art Fair : A long-standing Old Town staple, this open-air market has been showcasing artists from all mediums for more than 70 years.
• Hyde Park Summer Fest : Enjoy local beers, food, music, and more at this popular neighborhood festival featuring major headlining acts.

Watch a movie under the stars

The Millennium Park free summer film series is held at the soaring Jay Pritzker Pavilion on Tuesdays from July through August. Guests take a seat at the Pavilion or lounge in the grass on the Great Lawn while both old favorites and new blockbusters are presented on a state-of-the-art, 40-foot LED screen. Bring a blanket, a picnic, and enjoy the show!

You’ll find free events at Millennium Park all summer long, including the popular Grant Park Music Festival , Millennium Park Music Series , morning fitness classes, and more.

Catch a baseball game

There’s no better place to spend a summer afternoon than one of Chicago’s iconic ballparks. The city is home to two MLB teams — the Chicago White Sox and the Chicago Cubs — that play their regular season from April through September. The Chicago Cubs play their home games at Wrigley Field, one of the oldest and most iconic stadiums in the country. And the Chicago White Sox take the field at Guaranteed Rate in Bridgeport, where you’ll find tailgating and fireworks displays.

Explore a city park

The Chicago Park District oversees more than 600 parks, with open space in just about every corner of the city. Millennium Park’s  Lurie Garden is an urban oasis in the heart of the Loop . Also nearby, you can let the kids climb, skate, and play at the sprawling Maggie Daley Park . Head to our neighborhoods for even more green space — work up a sweat with a bike ride or jog along The 606 , admire the Japanese garden at Jackson Park , and meander down the boardwalk at Lincoln Park’s South Pond.

Join a tour

A tour is one of the best ways to make the most of your Chicago visit. Learn about the city’s iconic architecture with Free Tours by Foot , Inside Chicago Walking Tours , and Chicago Architecture Center walking tours. Or see the city on two wheels via a bike or Segway tour with Bike and Roll Chicago or Bobby’s Bike Hike . You can also explore Chicago’s unique neighborhoods with a friendly local for free through Chicago Greeter .

Fall in love with public art

Public art in Chicago is splashed on surfaces all around the city: it covers train stations, rises tall on downtown skyscrapers, and pops up on sidewalks, in office lobbies, and along the lakefront. Discover works of public art in the Loop by masters such as Picasso and Chagall, check out neighborhood street art , or see international street artists make their mark on districts like the Wabash Arts Corridor . Take a public art tour, or create your own. Either way, get your camera ready, and start Instagramming!

Hear music at a museum

Head to the Shedd Aquarium for Jazzin’ at the Shedd . The evening features live tunes from a top Chicago jazz ensemble, sweeping views of the city skyline, and open access to the Shedd’s many immersive exhibits. End the night with the perfect view of the Navy Pier summer fireworks over the water.

Also held throughout the summer, Tuesdays on the Terrace at the Museum of Contemporary Art offers free live music on the MCA’s scenic terrace. This annual performance series highlights artists from Chicago’s internationally renowned jazz community.

See the best attractions in Chicago at up to 48% savings with CityPASS.

Explore the famous Shedd Aquarium, see scientific discoveries at the Field Museum, take in spectacular views from the Skydeck and more! With two options to choose from and up to 9 days to enjoy, you can't go wrong.

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Tours & Attractions

North avenue beach.

Lincoln Park

Millennium Park

Theater & Performing Arts

Chicago shakespeare theater.

Streeterville

Accommodations

Eurostars magnificent mile.

River North

LondonHouse Chicago, Curio Collection by Hilton

Hyatt Centric The Loop Chicago

Renaissance Chicago Downtown Hotel

Food & Beverage

Raised an urban rooftop bar.

Chicago’s First Lady Cruises

Sports & Recreation

Bike and roll chicago.

City Winery Chicago

Chicago Riverwalk

Piccolo Sogno

Special Event Venues

River roast.

Smith & Wollensky

Museum of Contemporary Art

Shedd Aquarium

Wabash Arts Corridor

Maggie Daley Park

Wicker Park / Bucktown

Art Institute of Chicago

Bobby’s Bike Hike Chicago – Bike, Walking, Food Tours & Rentals

Foster Avenue Beach

City Cruises Chicago

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Fun Places to Eat in Chicago: A Guide to the Best

I f you’re looking for fun places to eat in Chicago, you’re in luck. The city is known for its diverse and vibrant food scene, with something for everyone. From quirky and unique dining experiences to classic Chicago-style deep-dish pizza, there’s no shortage of delicious options.

Whether you’re in the mood for something quirky or upscale, Chicago has plenty of fun places to eat that are sure to satisfy your cravings.

Iconic Chicago Eateries

If you’re looking for a taste of Chicago, you can’t miss out on these iconic eateries. From deep-dish pizza to Chicago-style hot dogs, these spots are a must-visit for any foodie.

Deep Dish Pizza Spots

Chicago is famous for its deep-dish pizza, and for good reason. These spots serve up some of the best pies in town:

• Lou Malnati’s : With locations all over the city, Lou Malnati’s is a Chicago staple. Their deep-dish pizza is a must-try, with a buttery crust and plenty of cheese and toppings.
• Giordano’s : Another classic Chicago pizza joint, Giordano’s is known for its stuffed pizza. The pizza is so thick and filling that one slice is often enough to satisfy even the hungriest of diners.
• Pequod’s Pizza : If you’re looking for a unique take on deep-dish pizza, check out Pequod’s. Their pizza has a caramelized crust that adds a delicious sweetness to every bite.

Ethnic Cuisine in Chicago

If you’re looking for a taste of the world, Chicago is the place to be. With a diverse population, you can find a wide range of ethnic cuisines here. Here are a few neighborhoods and restaurants to check out:

Chinatown Dining

Chicago’s Chinatown is a vibrant neighborhood that’s home to some of the best Chinese food in the city. Here are a few restaurants to try:

• MingHin Cuisine : This popular restaurant is known for its dim sum. They have a huge selection of steamed and fried dumplings, as well as other traditional Chinese dishes.
• Cai : If you’re looking for something a little more upscale, check out Cai. This restaurant serves modern Chinese cuisine in a sleek, contemporary setting.
• Lao Sze Chuan : This restaurant is famous for its spicy Szechuan cuisine. If you’re a fan of heat, you won’t be disappointed.

Little Italy Favorites

Chicago’s Little Italy neighborhood is home to some of the best Italian food in the city. Here are a few restaurants to check out:

• Tuscany : This cozy restaurant serves classic Italian dishes like lasagna, spaghetti carbonara, and chicken parmesan. They also have an extensive wine list.
• Rosebud : This popular chain has several locations throughout the city, but the Little Italy restaurant is the original. They serve classic Italian-American dishes like meatballs and spaghetti, as well as steaks and seafood.

Mexican Food in Pilsen

Pilsen is a predominantly Mexican neighborhood that’s home to some of the best Mexican food in the city. Here are a few restaurants to try:

• Carnitas Uruapan : This casual restaurant is known for its carnitas, which are slow-cooked pork that’s crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. They also serve other traditional Mexican dishes like tacos and tamales.
• Nuevo Leon : This family-owned restaurant has been serving Mexican cuisine for over 40 years. They’re known for their homemade tortillas and mole sauce.
• La Casa Del Pueblo : This grocery store has a small restaurant inside that serves delicious Mexican food. They’re known for their tacos al pastor, which are made with marinated pork that’s cooked on a spit.

Upscale Dining

If you’re looking for a fancy dining experience in Chicago, you won’t be disappointed. The city is home to some of the best upscale restaurants in the world, with Michelin star ratings and stunning rooftop views.

Want a Michelin-Starred Restaurant?

Chicago has a total of 25 Michelin-starred restaurants, making it one of the top cities for fine dining in the world. Here are a few of the most notable ones:

• Alinea : This three-star restaurant is one of the most famous in the city. The 15-course tasting menu is a culinary journey that combines flavors from around the world.
• Oriole : This two-star restaurant is known for its contemporary American cuisine. The tasting menu changes frequently to reflect the seasons and the chef’s inspiration.
• Next : This two-star restaurant offers a unique dining experience with a constantly changing theme. Past themes have included Paris 1906, The Hunt, and Hollywood.

Rooftop Dining

Chicago’s skyline is one of the most iconic in the world, and there’s no better way to enjoy it than from a rooftop restaurant. Here are a few of the best options:

• Cindy’s : Located on the rooftop of the Chicago Athletic Association Hotel, Cindy’s offers stunning views of Millennium Park and Lake Michigan. The menu is a mix of classic American dishes and creative cocktails.
• The J. Parker : This rooftop bar and restaurant is located on top of the Hotel Lincoln in Lincoln Park. The views of the city skyline are breathtaking, and the menu features small plates and craft cocktails.
• The Terrace at Trump : This upscale restaurant is located on the 16th floor of the Trump International Hotel and Tower. The views of the Chicago River and the Magnificent Mile are unparalleled, and the menu features classic American cuisine with a modern twist.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want to treat yourself to a fancy meal, Chicago’s upscale dining scene has something for everyone.

Unique Dining Experiences

Chicago is known for its food scene, and there are plenty of unique dining experiences to be had in the city. From themed restaurants to waterfront dining, there’s something for everyone. Here are some of the best unique dining experiences in Chicago.

Themed Restaurants

If you’re looking for a dining experience that’s a little out of the ordinary, Chicago has plenty of themed restaurants to choose from. Here are a few of the most popular:

Waterfront Dining

Chicago is located on Lake Michigan, and there are plenty of restaurants that take advantage of the city’s waterfront location. Here are a few of the best:

Whether you’re looking for a themed dining experience or a meal with a view, Chicago has plenty of unique options to choose from.

Late Night Eats

Chicago is a city that never sleeps, and that means you can get a great meal at any time of the day or night. Whether you’re craving a hearty burger, a slice of pizza, or something a little more exotic, there’s always somewhere to satisfy your hunger. Here are some of the best late-night eats in Chicago.

Location: 2833 W Armitage Ave Chicago

Gretel is a Logan Square restaurant that’s open until midnight on weekdays and 1 a.m. on weekends. The food is a mix of German and Scandinavian cuisine, with dishes like schnitzel, spaetzle, and gravlax on the menu. The atmosphere is cozy and intimate, with wood-paneled walls and dim lighting. The cocktails are also excellent, with creative twists on classic drinks like the Old Fashioned.

Location: 2521 N Milwaukee Ave Chicago

The Owl is a 4 a.m. bar and restaurant in Logan Square that’s been a favorite of Chicagoans for years. The menu is simple but satisfying, with classic bar food like burgers, fries, and wings. The drinks are also excellent, with a wide selection of beers on tap and creative cocktails like the Spicy Margarita. The atmosphere is laid-back and welcoming, with a mix of locals and tourists hanging out until the early hours of the morning.

Furious Spoon

Location: 2410 N Milwaukee Ave Chicago

Furious Spoon is a ramen restaurant with locations all over Chicago, including one in Wicker Park that’s open until 2 am on weekends. The menu is simple but delicious, with a variety of ramen bowls to choose from, including vegetarian options. The atmosphere is casual and fun, with a hip-hop soundtrack and graffiti-covered walls. The cocktails are also worth trying, with creative twists on classic drinks like the Moscow Mule.

The Chicago Diner

Location: 2333 N Milwaukee Ave Chicago

The Chicago Diner is a vegetarian and vegan restaurant that’s been a staple of the city since 1983. The Logan Square location is open until midnight on weekdays and 1 am on weekends, making it a great spot for a late-night meal. The menu is extensive, with everything from burgers and sandwiches to salads and smoothies. The atmosphere is cozy and welcoming, with a retro diner vibe that’s perfect for a late-night hangout.

The Wiener’s Circle

Location: 2622 N Clark St Chicago

The Wiener’s Circle is a late-night hot dog stand in Lincoln Park that’s been around since 1983. The menu is simple but satisfying, with classic Chicago-style hot dogs, burgers, and fries. The real draw, though, is the atmosphere, which is loud, raucous, and often profane. The staff is known for their insults and banter, which can be both hilarious and offensive. If you’re looking for a true Chicago experience, The Wiener’s Circle is a must-visit.

Family-Friendly Restaurants

Chicago is a great place to take your family out for a meal. There are a variety of restaurants that cater to families with children of all ages. Here are some of the best family-friendly restaurants in Chicago.

Wildberry Pancakes & Cafe

Location: 130 E Randolph St Chicago

Wildberry Pancakes & Cafe is a great place to take your family for breakfast or brunch. This restaurant is located across from the iconic Millennium Park and offers a variety of delicious pancakes, waffles, and other breakfast items. They also have a kids’ menu with options like chocolate chip pancakes and French toast sticks.

Do-Rite Donuts & Chicken

Location: 233 E Erie St Chicago

Do-Rite Donuts & Chicken is a casual restaurant that serves up some of the best-fried chicken and donuts in Chicago. They have a kids’ menu with options like chicken tenders and grilled cheese sandwiches. Plus, their donuts are a hit with kids and adults alike.

The Polo Inn Bridgeport U.S.A.

Location: 3322 S Morgan St Chicago

The Polo Inn Bridgeport U.S.A. is a family-owned restaurant that has been serving up classic American dishes for over 60 years. They have a kids’ menu with options like mac and cheese and chicken tenders. Plus, their friendly staff will make you and your family feel right at home.

Revival Food Hall

Location: 125 S Clark St Chicago

Revival Food Hall is a great place to take your family if you’re looking for a variety of options. This food hall features a little bit of everything from some of Chicago’s best restaurants. They have options like tacos, pizza, sushi, and more. Plus, there’s plenty of seating so you can enjoy your meal with your family.

Overall, Chicago has plenty of family-friendly restaurants that will make your dining experience enjoyable for both you and your children.

Chicago is known for its hot dogs, and for good reason. The city has a long history of unique and delicious hot dog stands, each with their own take on the classic Chicago-style dog. Here are a few of the best places to grab a hot dog in the Windy City:

Gene & Jude’s Red Hot Stand

Location: 2720 N River Rd River Grove

Located in the suburbs, Gene & Jude’s Red Hot Stand is a must-visit for hot dog enthusiasts. The stand has been around since 1946 and is known for its simple, no-frills approach to the classic Chicago-style dog. Don’t ask for ketchup here – they don’t have it.

Instead, enjoy your hot dog topped with mustard, relish, onions, and sport peppers. Don’t forget to order a side of their famous fries, which are served on top of the hot dog for a truly unique experience.

Location: 3343 W. Addison Street Chicago

Portillo’s is a Chicago institution and a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. Their hot dogs are made with Vienna Beef and topped with mustard, relish, onions, tomatoes, pickles, and sport peppers. They also offer a variety of specialty hot dogs, such as the Jumbo Chili Cheese Dog and the Bacon Chili Cheese Dog. Be sure to save room for one of their famous chocolate cake shakes!

Tip: Be sure to join their app and get a free dessert with your birthday dinner.

Location: 6363 N Milwaukee Ave Chicago

Superdawg is a classic drive-in hot dog stand that has been around since 1948. The stand is known for its signature “Superdawg,” which is a hot dog topped with mustard, piccalilli, a dill pickle spear, chopped onions, and a hot pepper. The stand is also known for its unique decor, which includes two giant hot dogs on the roof.

Fatso’s Last Stand

Location: 2258 W Chicago Ave Chicago

Fatso’s Last Stand is a popular spot in Ukrainian Village for late-night eats. Their hot dogs are made with Vienna Beef and topped with a variety of creative toppings, such as giardiniera, bacon, and mac and cheese. They also offer vegetarian and vegan options, including a vegan hot dog topped with vegan chili and vegan cheese.

Whether you’re a Chicago native or just visiting, be sure to check out one of these hot dog stands for a true taste of the city.

Best Burgers

Chicago is famous for its deep-dish pizza, but it’s also home to some of the best burgers in the country. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic cheeseburger or something more creative, Chicago has got you covered. Here are some of the best places to grab a burger in the Windy City.

Location: 800 W Randolph St Chicago

Au Cheval is a must-visit for any burger lover. This West Loop spot has been named the best burger in America by numerous publications, and for good reason. The burger is made with two thin patties, American cheese, dijonaise, and house-made pickles, all served on a toasted bun. It’s simple, but it’s executed perfectly. Be prepared to wait, though – Au Cheval is always packed.

The Loyalist

Location: 177 N Ada St Ste 001 Chicago

The Loyalist is a cozy basement bar in the West Loop that serves up one of the best burgers in the city. The Loyalist Original Cheeseburger is a double patty burger topped with American cheese, lettuce, onion, and a special sauce. It’s juicy, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying. The Loyalist also has a great cocktail menu, so be sure to grab a drink while you’re there.

Kuma’s Corner

Location: 852 W Fulton Market Chicago

Kuma’s Corner is a heavy metal-themed burger joint with several locations throughout the city. The burgers are named after metal bands and are piled high with toppings. The Slayer, for example, is a burger topped with chili, cherry peppers, andouille sausage, andouille aioli, and jack cheese. The burgers are big and messy, but oh so delicious.

Edzo’s Burger Shop

Location: 1571 Sherman Ave Evanston

Edzo’s Burger Shop is a casual spot with locations in Evanston and Lincoln Park. The burgers are made with fresh, never frozen beef and are smashed on the griddle for maximum flavor. The menu is simple, with classic burgers, cheeseburgers, and a few specialty burgers. The truffle aioli burger is a standout – it’s topped with truffle aioli, gruyere cheese, and crispy onions.

Small Cheval

Location: 1732 N Milwaukee Ave Chicago

Small Cheval is the more casual offshoot of Au Cheval, located in Wicker Park and Old Town . The burger is similar to the one at Au Cheval – two thin patties, American cheese, dijonaise, and pickles – but it’s served on a sesame seed bun instead of a toasted bun. The fries are also a standout – they’re crispy and perfectly seasoned.

Chicago has no shortage of great burgers, but these five spots are some of the best in the city. Whether you’re a die-hard burger fan or just looking for a tasty meal, you can’t go wrong with any of these options.

Navy Pier Nibbles

If you’re looking for a fun place to eat in Chicago, Navy Pier is a must-visit destination. This iconic landmark offers a variety of dining options that cater to different tastes and budgets.

Savor the Flavors

One of the best things about Navy Pier is that it offers a diverse selection of cuisines. Whether you’re in the mood for American, Italian, Mexican, or Asian food, you’re sure to find something that satisfies your cravings.

For a taste of Chicago’s deep-dish pizza, head to Giordano’s, which is known for its delicious stuffed pizza. If you’re looking for something more upscale, Riva Crab House offers fresh seafood dishes and stunning views of Lake Michigan.

Grab-and-Go

If you’re short on time or want to eat on the go, Navy Pier has plenty of options for quick bites. From classic Chicago-style hot dogs at America’s Dog to sweet treats at Garrett Popcorn Shops , there’s something for everyone.

Iconic Eats

No visit to Navy Pier is complete without trying some of its iconic eats. The famous Navy Pier Funnel Cake is a must-try, with its crispy fried dough and a generous dusting of powdered sugar.

For a unique twist on a classic dish, head to Lirica , which offers Latin-inspired cuisine with a modern twist. Don’t miss their signature dish, the paella, which is bursting with flavor and served in a traditional cast-iron pan.

Overall, Navy Pier is a great place to grab a bite to eat while enjoying the sights and sounds of Chicago. With so many options to choose from, you’re sure to find something that satisfies your taste buds.

Great Outdoor Patio

When it comes to dining in Chicago, nothing beats the experience of eating outdoors on a beautiful day. Granted, this is only during the summer months, but only the people in the Midwest know how to make the most of downtown Chicago.

Luckily, the city is full of great restaurants with outdoor patios that offer stunning views and delicious food. Here are some of the best outdoor patios in Chicago that you should definitely check out:

Piccolo Sogno

Location: 464 N Halsted St, Chicago

Piccolo Sogno , located in River West/West Town, is a charming Italian restaurant with a beautiful outdoor patio. The patio is surrounded by ivy-covered walls, creating a lush and romantic atmosphere that is perfect for a date night or a special occasion. The menu features classic Italian dishes like pasta, pizza, and seafood, all made with fresh and high-quality ingredients.

Las Fuentes

Location: 2558 N Halsted St Chicago

Las Fuentes is a popular Mexican restaurant with a secret weapon: a beautiful private patio that is perfect for private events, including weddings. The patio is located near the restaurant’s main entrance and is surrounded by lush greenery, creating a peaceful and relaxing atmosphere. The menu features traditional Mexican dishes like tacos, burritos, and enchiladas, as well as a wide selection of margaritas and other cocktails.

Porter Kitchen & Deck

Location: 150 N Riverside Plz Chicago

Porter Kitchen & Deck is a riverside spot with two outdoor seating areas, including a waterfront patio and an elevated deck with city views. The patio is the perfect place to enjoy a delicious meal and a refreshing drink while taking in the stunning views of the Chicago River. The menu features American comfort food like burgers, sandwiches, and salads, as well as a variety of craft beers and cocktails.

Location: 1402 W Randolph St Chicago

Bambola is a recently opened spot in the West Loop that is quickly becoming a favorite among locals. The restaurant features an intimate, sun-drenched patio that is the perfect place to enjoy the new happy hour menu.

The patio is surrounded by greenery and features comfortable seating and a relaxed atmosphere. The menu features modern Italian dishes like pasta, pizza, and seafood, as well as a selection of craft cocktails and wines.

No matter what type of cuisine you’re in the mood for, Chicago has plenty of great outdoor patios to choose from. Whether you’re looking for a romantic date night spot or a casual place to grab a drink with friends, these restaurants are sure to impress.

Final Thoughts

Chicago is a city that has it all, from world-class museums to stunning architecture, and of course, fantastic food. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, there’s no shortage of fun and exciting places to eat in the Windy City.

From the quirky and unusual to the sophisticated and stylish, Chicago’s dining scene has something for everyone. Whether you’re in the mood for pizza, steak, seafood, or something more exotic, you’re sure to find a restaurant that fits the bill.

One thing to keep in mind when exploring the city’s dining options is that many of the most popular restaurants can get quite busy, especially on weekends or during peak tourist season. It’s always a good idea to make a reservation in advance, or consider visiting during off-peak hours if you want to avoid the crowds.

Another tip for dining out in Chicago is to be prepared for a wide range of prices. While there are plenty of affordable options available, some of the city’s most famous restaurants can be quite expensive. If you’re on a budget, consider exploring some of the city’s lesser-known neighborhoods, where you’re more likely to find affordable eats.

Overall, Chicago is a food lover’s paradise, with an incredible range of dining options to suit every taste and budget. Whether you’re looking for a fun night out with friends or a romantic dinner for two with great food, you’re sure to find a restaurant that fits the bill. So why not start exploring the city’s culinary scene today?

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some popular restaurants in chicago that don’t require reservations.

Chicago has plenty of popular restaurants that don’t require reservations. Some of the best include Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria , Portillo’s , and The Purple Pig . These restaurants are known for their delicious food and casual atmosphere, making them perfect for a spontaneous night out.

What are some of the hottest new restaurants in Chicago?

Chicago is always buzzing with new restaurants to try. Some of the hottest new spots include Aviary , Kumiko , and Pacific Standard Time. These restaurants offer unique menus and trendy atmospheres that are sure to impress.

What are some of the best restaurants to try during Restaurant Week in Chicago?

Chicago Restaurant Week is a great opportunity to try some of the city’s best restaurants at a discounted price. Some of the top picks include Girl & the Goat , The Capital Grille , and RPM Steak . These restaurants offer delicious prix-fixe menus that showcase their signature dishes.

What are some fun kid-themed restaurants in the Chicago suburbs?

If you’re looking for a fun dining experience for the whole family, check out Rainforest Cafe , Medieval Times , or Chuck E. Cheese’s . These restaurants offer interactive experiences that kids will love, from animatronic animals to jousting knights.

What are some interactive restaurants to try in Chicago?

Chicago has no shortage of interactive dining experiences. Check out The Melting Pot for a fondue feast, or Korean BBQ restaurant Gogi for a DIY grilling experience. For a truly unique meal, head to Alinea , where the chefs create stunning dishes right in front of your eyes.

What are some cool and fun restaurants to check out in the Chicago suburbs?

If you’re willing to venture outside the city, there are plenty of cool and fun restaurants to check out in the suburbs. Some top picks include The Lucky Monk in South Barrington, which offers craft beer and delicious burgers, and The Bavarian Lodge in Lisle, which serves up authentic German cuisine and a wide selection of beers.

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