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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.

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.

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.

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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.

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.

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.

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).

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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.

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 .

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.

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.

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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 71 best things to do in Chicago right now

Discover the best things to do in Chicago, from iconic venues and views to cultural musts and late-night shenanigans.

September 2024 :  The transition from summer to fall is here, but there's still time to take advantage of the weather! There's no shortage of great things to do, from  apple picking and pumpkin patches to celebrating Oktoberfest. And don't forget about the street fests and alfreso dining season, either. There are plenty of other options, too, so stay satisfied and busy with these fun activities in September.

No matter where your interests lie, you can always find something to get excited about in this no-nonsense Midwestern metropolis. The best things to do in Chicago run the gamut—from seriously fun to awesomely educational. Looking for culture? Spend a day exploring Chicago museums . Hungry? You've come to the right place, because Chicago is famous for its delicious cuisine. There are tons of amazing restaurants in Chicago that highlight the city's rich and diverse culinary landscape. (And plenty of uniquely Chicago bars that do the trick, too.) We've searched all across the city to assemble this list of the best things to do in Chicago. Follow it and never get bored here again.

You can also find out more about how Time Out selects the very best things to do all over the world , or take a look at our list of the  best things to do in the world right now .

Been there, done that? Think again, my friend.

Time Out Market Chicago

We've rounded up the best chefs in the city to join us at Time Out Market Chicago, a culinary and cultural destination in the heart of Fulton Market featuring more than  15 kitchens, three bars and one drop-dead gorgeous rooftop terrace—all spread across three floors.

Best things to do in Chicago

1.  go apple picking at orchards near chicago.

• Things to do

What is it?  Plucking fruit straight from the source.

Why go? With a crisp chill in the air, fall is for picking pounds and pounds of apples to take home. The surrounding suburbs offer plenty of opportunities to do so, plus family-friendly activities and other delights like apple cider and apple cider donuts.

Don’t miss: A one-of-a-kind apple tree maze at Royal Oak Farm Orchard.

2.  Admire autumn colors in city parks

What is it?   Every year, Chicago's trees burst into stunning shades of yellow, orange and crimson as fall descends upon the city for a few short weeks. 

Why go?  You'll see fall foliage whether you're looking for it or not—with trees scattered throughout the city, it's pretty hard to miss—but we prefer checking out some tried-and-true spots for maximizing gorgeous views. And between graceful weeping willows in Graceland Cemetery's arboretum, dense forest preserves and fiery red Japanese maples at the Chicago Botanic Garden, you're not short on options. 

Don't miss:   Peak fall color, thanks to this useful map that predicts when local foliage will achieve maximum splendor. 

3.  Visit a pumpkin patch

What is it? Nearby destinations full of autumn festivities.

Why go? Nothing says fall like a pumpkin patch, where you pick out your own gourd, go on a hayride and play with animals in a petting zoo. Bring the whole family for an afternoon of fun; if you’re looking for even more seasonal activities, make a whole day out of it by going to the best places to see fall foliage outside of Chicago .

4.  Get lost in a corn maze

What is it? Intricately designed labyrinths set in large fields.

Why go? Whether it’s themed after Jurassic Park or Super Mario Bros., a corn maze offers excitement for both children and adults alike. Wander through acres of corn stalks, with mystery awaiting around every turn. Want to dial up the spookiness? One farm features a haunted corn maze that’s only open after dark.

5.  Catch a football game

What is it? Football season in Chicago.

Why go? With only a handful of home games each year, the opportunity to watch football live and in person is limited. That’s why weekends in the fall are often earmarked for gameday. Head to Soldier Field this season to tailgate and catch the Chicago Bears in action. For a unique experience, drive up to Evanston for a Northwestern Wildcats game in the team's temporary football stadium next to the lake.

Don’t miss: If you can’t make it to the stadium, the best sports bars in Chicago provide some pretty good seats and fan-filled atmospheres, too.

6.  Go pick sunflowers at fields near Chicago

What is it?  Getting beautiful yellow blooms straight from the source.

Why go?   It's the perfect summer daytrip . The surrounding suburbs offer plenty of opportunities to cut your own flowers and engage in family-friendly activities like mazes, butterfly gardens and train rides.

7.  Celebrate Oktoberfest in Chicago

What is it? Chicago celebrations in honor of the famous German beer festival.

Why go? Chicagoans don’t need a reason to drink but will gladly raise a stein to Oktoberfest. There are events throughout the month of September and October all over the city, so ‘tis the season to get your fill of suds, brats and pretzels. Prost!

Don’t miss: The biggest Oktoberfest party every year at Lakeview’s St. Alphonsus church, which takes place this year on September 27-29.

8.  Enjoy fall fun at Jack's Pumpkin Pop-Up

• River West/West Town Sep 19 Oct 31, 2024

What is it? A pumpkin patch pop-up in the middle of the city.

Why go? If you don’t have a car or simply don’t want to drive out to the suburbs, Jack’s Pumpkin Pop-Up is here to alleviate your FOMO by bringing fall fun to the city. Spread across a two-acre plot of land just west of Goose Island, the annual experience offers more than 10,000 pumpkins, a corn maze, axe throwing, carnival games, food trucks and much more.

9.  Find a street fest near your neighborhood

What is it?  The annual slate of summer festivals that take over Chicago streets and parks every year. 

Why go?  Shop artisan goods made by local vendors, enjoy delicious bites and watch live performances at beloved neighborhood bashes like Wicker Park Fest and Taste of Randolph from May through September.

Don't miss:  Bored of the cover bands and DJs that normally perform at Chicago’s street fests? Head to Ravenswood on September 7-8 for Thirsty Ears Festival, the city's only classical music festival.

10.  Sip a drink on a gorgeous rooftop bar

What is it?  Refreshing libations atop some of Chicago's tallest buildings.

Why go?  Summer in the city calls for rooftop drinking, and there are plenty of places to do it. Whether it's a stunning hotel terrace overlooking Michigan Avenue or a lush garden oasis, you'll enjoy sweeping views of the skyline with a beverage in your hand and the breeze at your back.

11.  Eat outside

What is it?  Al fresco dining season.

Why go?  We only get a few precious months of outdoor dining in Chicago, so make the most of it while you can. Live your best life at the city's top patios, terraces and rooftops, which afford great food and drinks, fun vibes and plenty of sun and breeze.

12.  Stroll along the Chicago Riverwalk

What is it? Expanded and updated in 2015, this riverside walkway hosts restaurants, bars, boating docks and plenty of spots to sit and admire the views.

Why go?  Like everything else downtown, the Riverwalk can be pricey, but you can't beat the views when you snag a glass of vino at City Winery or enjoy some local grub at Chicago Brewhouse. Several boat tour also have launch points along the Riverwalk, if you prefer to get out on the water.

Don't miss:  Post up at the Riverwalk nightly at 8:30pm and 9pm to catch Art on theMART, the 25-story light projection show across the water.

13.  Grab a paddle and glide along the Chicago River

• Sports and fitness
• Kayaking & canoeing
• River North
• price 2 of 4

What is it? Kayak Chicago sends you paddling along the Chicago River from a dock located just north of Goose Island.

Why go? After a few quick lessons, you'll be ready to set out on a self-guided river tour in a kayak. You can rent your boat by the hour or pay a flat fee to take it out for the entire day and check out changing leaves along the water.

Don't miss: A handful of guided excursions that highlight Chicago architecture or simply allow you to navigate the river at night.

14.  Have a picnic in a park

What is it?  A lovely meal outside in a public park.

Why go?  Make the most of summer by packing a basket full of food and beverages and heading to a nearby park. Chicago's motto is "City in a Garden," and our public green spaces live up to such a lofty name. With more than 600 facilities throughout the city, you won't have to wander very far to find a spot for a picnic.

15.  Watch free outdoor movies in parks

What is it?  Free outdoor movie screenings at public parks across the city all summer long.

Why go?  There's something for everyone, from animated films ( Trolls Band Together ) to blockbusters ( Barbie ) to cult classics ( School of Rock ). And who doesn't love a free movie? 

16.  Watch a movie at a rooftop theater

What is it?  Rooftop Cinema Club, an outdoor movie theater on the fifth floor terrace of the Emily Hotel.

Why go?  No other theater in Chicago can match the gorgeous cityscape views that accompany each screening here. The experience boasts state-of-the-art LED screens, wireless headphones for all guests, a range of seating options and a curated lineup of snacks and cocktails.

17.  Attend a concert at Ravinia Festival

• Music festivals

What is it? The oldest music festival in the country, featuring a variety of acts all throughout summer.

Why go?  There's something for every musical taste at Ravinia, which hosts artists like James Taylor, the Beach Boys, Ben Platt, Samara Joy, the Roots, Norah Jones, TLC, ZZ Top and much more this year. Snag a seat in the pavilion or pack a picnic and listen to the tunes from the lawn.

18.  Shop local at a farmers market

• Markets and fairs

What is it?  Weekly markets around town highlighting Midwest ingredients and products.

Why go?  You'll find the freshest, highest quality fruits, veggies, meats and more from local farms and businesses. There's also plenty of programming—from yoga to live music—and food vendors serving delicious bites for when you need to refuel.

19.  Travel across an elevated trail on the 606

• Parks and gardens
• Humboldt Park

What is it?  A formerly abandoned stretch of elevated railway track named after the first three digits in every Chicago zip code.  

Why go? Looking for a convenient way to get between Logan Square, Humboldt Park, Wicker Park and Bucktown? This is it. The 2.7-mile path was spruced up by the city and turned into a functional attraction that delights locals and visitors.

Don’t miss:  Local artist Jeff Zimmermann's colorful Conagra Mural (Urbs in Horto) just across the Milwaukee Avenue bridge, which acknowledges Chicago's agricultural legacy.

20.  Walk through a beautiful garden

What is it? The city’s lush green spaces, from Chicago parks to sprawling botanical gardens.

Why go? Get away from the bustle of the city and reconnect with nature by visiting one of these (mostly) free gardens. You’ll find stunning Japanese gardens, serene lily ponds, rose gardens, conservatories filled with thousands of plants, and much more.

21.  Go for a long run

What is it?  The best trails in the city and suburbs for runners.

Why go? Whether you're training for a marathon or just trying to get some excercise in, running outside sure beats the treadmill. From the 18-mile-long Lakefront Trail to the extensive North Branch Trail, there a host of places perfect for logging some serious miles.

22.  Bike to the ’burbs on the North Branch Trail

What is it?  A 16-mile paved trail beginning in Gompers Park that takes riders all the way to the Chicago Botanic Garden.

Why go?  If you're craving a quick escape from the city on your bike, you can take the North Branch Trail to attractions throughout the northern suburbs. Have a beer at Hubbard's Cave, get a pie at the Pequod's in Morton Grove or relax in the Erickson Woods in Winnetka.

Don't miss:  The four-mile loop trail through the Skokie Lagoons (which can also be used to get to the Chicago Botanic Garden).

23.  Root, root, root for the home team at Wrigley Field

• Baseball & softball
• Wrigleyville
• price 1 of 4

What is it? Arguably the city’s most famous and beautiful place to see a ball game.  

Why go? Synonymous with the North Side for more than 100 years, the Friendly Confines has updated ever-so-slightly over the years. It eventually gave in and added lights in 1988; a jumbotron was erected in left field a few years back. But it’s the ivy that the lines the outfield walls, the manual scoreboard and general old-timey awesomeness that will keep the stands here filled whether the Cubbies are winning or losing. 

Don’t miss:  For a true Wrigley Field experience, grab cheap(ish) tickets to the general admission bleachers section.  

24.  Catch a foul ball at Guaranteed Rate Field

• Armour Square

What is it? Home of the Chicago White Sox, formerly (and, to some, currently) known as Comiskey Park.  

Why go? Okay, so the South Side team doesn't command the rabid following of its neighbors to the north (although the whole city went nuts when it clinched the World Series in 2005). But the stadium is much more spacious than Wrigley, and it's almost always possible to walk up and purchase tickets.

Don’t miss:  You can get a corned beef sandwich and an Impossible dog, or satisfy your sweet tooth with a campfire milkshake.

25.  Hang out at a museum after hours

What is it? After-hours events at popular Chicago museums.

Why go? You’ve probably visited many of the city’s best museums, but did you know some of them stay open late after normal hours once a week? Snag tickets to Adler at Night , Jazzin’ at the Shedd or Tuesdays on the Terrace for a unique experience. You’ll get to listen to live music and walk around exhibits while sipping on a drink.

26.  Bring your pup on a boat cruise

• Loop Until Oct 13, 2024

What is it? A 90-minute, dog-friendly boat ride on the Chicago River and Lake Michigan.

Why go? Tired of the same old architectural cruise? Then liven things up with some pooches! Mercury Cruises offers a canine cruise every weekend, where you’ll be surrounded by four-legged friends as you take in unparalleled views of the skyline and learn about the city’s rich history. Plus there are plenty of photo ops, of course.

27.  Play pickleball

What is it? The fastest-growing sport in America.

Why play?  If you're looking for a new hobby or outdoor activity, why not take up a new sport? Requiring just two or four players, the game is easy to pick up and combines elements of tennis and badminton. There are numerous courts around the city (and more coming) so give it a try!

28.  Shop for wares at Maxwell Street Market

• Little Italy, UIC Until Oct 27, 2024

What is it?  A weekly flea market that dates back to the late 19th century.

Why go?  You can shop for just about everything imaginable, from furniture to clothes, household items, collectibles and more alongside live street performances and an abundance of delicious Mexican food.

29.  Hit the trails for a hike

What is it?  Hiking trails around Chicagoland.

Why go? Now that it's warm out, it's the perfect time to go hiking. Visit a state park or nature preserve for an adventurous escape from the city. These sprawling, winding paths will take you through historic sites, sand dunes, woodlands and much more.

30.  Show off your putt-putt skills at City Mini Golf

• Millennium Park

What is it? An 18-hole miniature golf course located in Maggie Daley Park.

Why go? There's a kitschy kind of charm to mini-golfing in the shadow of the Chicago skyline, especially since the course is decorated with replicas of famous Chicago attractions (like a six-foot-tall Willis Tower and a teeny version of the Picasso sculpture in Daley Plaza). 

Don’t miss:  Snapping a photo next to the mini Chicago landmark of your choice.

31.  Cruise around town on a Divvy e-bike

• Transport & Travel

What is it?  These jet-black e-bikes allow riders to go up to 15 miles per hour with the help of a small electric motor.

Why try it?  Let's face it: the original bright blue Divvy bikes are heavy and cumbersome. These newer e-bikes (which you'll find at stations throughout the city) make it easier to see more of the city atop a shared ride. The pedal-assist system adds some additional power everytime you move your legs, allowing you to get to your destination faster—and possibly without breaking a sweat.

Don't miss:  Divvy e-bikes come with an attached lock, meaning that you can end your ride by locking it to a bike rake or sign post, though you may incur an extra fee. You can also place them in any Divvy dock.

32.  Hop aboard Chicago’s First Lady for an architecture tour

What is it? The breeziest way to survey the city's famed architecture.

Why go? An architectural tour is a must for any visit to Chicago, and t he Chicago Architecture Foundation employs certified volunteer docents who narrate the history behind more than 50 downtown buildings for the duration of a 90-minute cruise along the Chicago River.

Don’t miss:  An evening version of the tour that allows you to take in the twinkling city lights from the river.

33.  Visit animals (for free!) at Lincoln Park Zoo

• Lincoln Park

What is it?  One of the last free zoos in the country, this 35-acre attraction connects visitors with animals from all over the world.

Why go? More than 1,000 critters are waiting for you to visit them—free of charge—in Lincoln Park.  From mammals (beavers, lions, otters and bears) to birds (penguins, eagles and parrots) to reptiles (snakes, crocodiles and turtles), there's something for every animal lover.  

Don’t miss:   The expansive Regenstein Macaque Forest, where snow monkeys swing from branch to branch. 

34.  See public art in Millennium Park

What is it?  The crown jewel of Chicago's front yard.

Why go?  Home to iconic public art installations such as   Cloud Gate   (a.k.a. "The Bean"), t his 25-acre park is one of the most popular gathering spots in the city . Visitors can walk through the vegetation in the Lurie Garden—renowned for its beauty throughout all of Chicago's seasons—or grab a requisite selfie in front of the Bean's reflective surface. 

Don’t miss:  Crown Fountain , an interactive installation featuring two 50-foot-tall LED video structures. 

35.  See Yoko Ono’s installation in Jackson Park

• Literary events

What is it?  Designed by activist and artist Yoko Ono, Skylanding is composed of 12 large steel lotus petals jutting from the ground of the Garden of the Phoenix in Jackson Park.

Why go?  Calling all public-art fanatics. This gleaming installation from the famed artist has become a major draw in the 600-acre park. The photogenic sculpture was erected as a symbol of peace, taking up residence on the site of a pavilion built by the Japanese government for the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition .  

Don’t miss:  The park is also home to a beautiful, traditional Japanese respite dubbed the Garden of the Phoenix. 

36.  Hop aboard the Chicago Water Taxi

What is it?  For the first time since 2019, the Chicago Water Taxi is operating seven days a week.

Why go?  If you're looking to get out on the water for budget prices, you won’t find a better option than the bright yellow water taxi—a one-way ticket will set you back just $6, while 10-ride pass is $25.

37.  See live music at the iconic Morton Salt building

What is it?  The Salt Shed, Chicago’s new(ish) music venue from the team behind Thalia Hall and the Empty Bottle.

Why go?   Located at the site of the historic Morton Salt building (you know, the one you've probably spotted alongside the Kennedy Expressway), Salt Shed is an indoor/outdoor venue that's backed by a stellar sound system and skyline views during summertime performances.

Don’t miss:  Genuinely good concessions from notable Chicago restaurants.

38.  Eye masterpieces at the Art Institute of Chicago

• Art and design

What is it?  Guarded by an iconic pair of bronze lions, the Art Institute of Chicago houses a permanent collection of more than 300,000 artworks. 

Why go?   The Art Institute of Chicago is filled with masterpieces from every era, from Georges Seurat’s iconic painting   A Sunday on La Grande Jatte   (notable for its appearance in   Ferris Bueller’s Day Off ) to Andy Warhol's print of actress Elizabeth Taylor. This month, see Georgia O’Keeffe: “My New Yorks”, an exhibit examining the American artist's paintings of New York from the late 1920s.

Don’t miss:  Tucked away in the lower level of the Art Institute, the Thorne Miniature Room contains 68 recreations of American, European and Asian architecture and furniture, represented at 1:12 scale. It’s like a hyper-detailed, ultra-realistic doll house that you wish you had when you were a kid.

39.  Find serenity at the Garfield Park Conservatory

• East Garfield Park

What is it? A gorgeous glass structure home to more than 100,000 plants. 

Why go? When temps start to dip, there are few better places in Chicago to escape the cold than Garfield Park Conservatory, where you can wander through eight indoor display gardens full of greenery. Marvel at towering tropical plants in the 65-foot Palm House, admire cacti in the Desert House and imagine the primordial settings of Illinois millions of years ago among the lush Fern Room.   

Don't miss: Swing by Horticulture Hall from Friday through Sunday for a lavender oat milk cold brew made by Monday Coffee Co., the conservatory's resident coffee pop-up.

40.  Tap your toes to late-night jazz at the Green Mill

• Cocktail bars

What is it?  An Uptown institution that books smart bebop and free jazz with a discriminating ear. 

Why go?  In the ’20s, Chicago gangsters like Al Capone were known to frequent the Green Mill, but ever since Prohibition, the club has garnered a reputation for hosting live jazz every night. 

Don’t miss:  Taking a picture under the glittering marquee, which wasn't actually destroyed in Michael Mann's 1981 neo-noir film Thief . 

41.  See a blockbuster movie at Alamo Drafthouse

• Movie theaters

What is it?  A popular movie theater chain from Texas.

Why go?  In addition to showing the latest films, the venue offers expansive food and beverage menus and servers will bring meals to customers' seats during screenings.

Don't miss:  The theater's special events, which include rowdy sceenings where talking is encouraged and movie parties—immersive and interactive viewing experiences featuring fun props, themed drinks and more.

42.  Go mini-golfing (and drinking) at Puttery

What is it?  A mini-golf cocktail bar.

Why go? If the weather outside isn't suitable for hitting the links, do the next best thing and go mini golfing at this unique concept. Housed in a 23,000-square-foot space, Puttery offers two themed courses and state-of-the-art technology like digital scorecards and trackable balls.

Don't miss: Take a load off after you're done playing by hanging out in the swanky lounge area. There's a a full menu of craft cocktails and approachable bites.

43.  Hang out with a mummy at the Field Museum

• Science and technology
• Museum Campus

What is it?  A massive natural history museum that was founded to house the biological and anthropological collections for the World’s Columbian Exposition of 1893. 

Why go?   With 350,000 square feet of permanent exhibitions to explore, deciding what to see at the Field Museum can be a daunting task. We recommend starting in the institution's popular "Inside Ancient Egypt" exhibit, where you'll descend into a recreation of the 5,000-year-old tomb of pharaoh’s son Unis-Ankh. From there, you'll walk through an extensive assemblage of Egyptian artifacts, including one of the largest collections of mummies in the U.S.

Don’t miss:  "Unseen Oceans," an exhibit dedicated to exploring the mysterious, rarely-seen world hidden underwater.

44.  See a stellar play from the Steppenwolf Theatre

What is it?  What people think of when they hear "Chicago theater."

Why go?  Steppenwolf is known for its all-star collection of ensemble talent (folks like Laurie Metcalf, John Malkovich and Tracy Letts number among its ranks).

Don't miss:   Noises Off,   a classic comedy that follows the cast and crew of a play within a play as they scramble to right the ship.

45.  Explore the universe at the Adler Planetarium

What is it?:  A museum dedicated to astronomy and all things outer space.

Why go?:  You'll escape the planet with exhibits about the first lunar missions, the solar system and more, plus immersive shows in the dome theater. The Doane Observatory is also home to the largest public telescope in the area, and gathers 7,000 times more light than the human eye.

Don't miss: Adler at Night, the planetarium's afterhours event that takes place from 4pm-10pm every Wednesday. Best of all, entry is free for Illinois residents.

46.  Make a pit stop at the Chicago Cultural Center

What is it? Located just around the corner from Millennium Park, this gorgeous specimen of a building is the country's first free municipal cultural center; inside, you'll find tons of programming, exhibitions, and stunning architectural flourishes to explore, as well as a gift shop stocked with goods from local artists.

Why go? Anyone spending time in the Loop should make a point to check out any ongoing programming happening at the Cultural Center, which can run the gamut from art exhibitions to massive architectural expos. And did we mention it's completely free?

Don't miss: Once you've toured the 38-foot Tiffany glass dome in Preston Bradley Hall, head to the Landmarks Gallery  on the first floor to see "The Great Chicago Fire in Focus,"  an exhibit of images detailing the destruction of the historic disaster.

47.  Get acquainted with Frank Lloyd Wright’s architecture at the Robie House

• Historic buildings and sites

What is it?   A historic house that Wright himself called "the cornerstone of modern architecture." 

Why go?   Nearby Oak Park may be a mecca for Frank Lloyd Wright enthusiasts, but you can see some of the architect's finest work without leaving the city. The Robie House in Hyde Park exemplifies Wright's signature Prairie School style, both in its external appearance and interior design. You can take a peek inside the historic home (and get some decorating ideas) by taking a tour led by the Frank Lloyd Wright Trust, offered five days a week.

Don’t miss:  The bevy of beautiful art-glass windows and the furniture (also designed by Wright). 

48.  Go back in time at the Historic Pullman Foundation Exhibit Hall

What is it?  This destination  houses exhibits about the South Side 'hood's growth and preservation. 

Why go? When businessman George Pullman started a railroad sleeping car factory on the South Side of Chicago, he built an entire town to house his employees. The industrial complex has since been designated a National Park and the Pullman Exhibit Hall is the best place to start exploring the area.

Don’t miss:  Set out on a self-guided tour of the district, which includes historic buildings featured in films like  Road to Perdition  and  The Fugitive.

49.  Get high at 360 CHICAGO

• Streeterville

What is it?  Set atop the building formerly known as the John Hancock Center, this observatory offers views of the city (and surrounding states) from 1,030 feet above the streets.

Why go?  The sights from the 94th floor can't be beat, whether you're a longtime Chicagoan or a visitor. Stick around to enjoy a cocktail at 360 CHICAGO's bar or explore some of the interactive exhibits detailing the city's history.

Don't miss:  360 CHICAGO's most terrifying attraction: TILT. Guests board a glass-enclosed platform that slowly tilts over the side of the building at a 30-degree angle. Thrill seekers will want to fork over the additional fee for a ticket. 

50.  Catch rising bands at the Empty Bottle

• Rock and indie
• Ukrainian Village

What is it?  The best damn rock club in the States.

Why go? For more than a quarter of a century, a gig at the Empty Bottle has served as a rite of passage for local and touring musicians. The nondescript club on the edge of Ukrainian Village is far from the biggest venue in town (capacity is around 300), but the folks who book it have a knack for landing rockers, electronic acts and experimental musicians on the rise. Grab an Old Style, find a spot on the stairs by the stage and take in a sure-to-be memorable show. 

Don’t miss:  A slice of pizza before (or after) the show at next door's Pizza Friendly Pizza.  

51.  Take a stroll through Chinatown

• Public spaces

What is it?   A neighborhood that serves as one of the primary hubs of Chicago's Chinese community, filled with restaurants, shops and incredible nods to East Asian architecture.

Why go?  Chinatown is a great place to mosey from shop to shop and spend some time outdoors, whether you're walking through Chinatown Square or admiring the sweeping skyline views from Ping Tom Memorial Park. 

Don't miss:   Dumplings from QYX, bubble tea from the walk-up window at Joy Yee, Peking duck from BBQ King House, cocktails at Nine Bar... the list goes on. Start at Chinatown Square and work your way south down Wentworth, passing under the street's famous gate and into its central commercial strip.

52.  Get down to house music at Smart Bar

What is it?  An ace place to lose it to house music, right in the city that invented the genre. 

Why go? In the ’80s, Chicago served as the epicenter of the creation of a new sound that still influences the work of modern hip-hop and electronic artists. If you want to experience house music, there's no more authentic environment than Smart Bar. Within the subterranean Wrigleyville club, skilled DJs, drag performers and sweaty revelers come together to the steady pulse of a house beat.

Don’t miss:   The crowded Queen dance party, which takes place nearly every Sunday night.

53.  Hear live blues at Kingston Mines

• Folk, country and blues
• Sheffield & DePaul

What is it? You have to listen to blues music when you’re in Chicago, and few places are as fun to see the blues as Kingston Mines.

Why go? The city’s largest and oldest continuously operating blues club features high-energy live blues bands performing on two stages until 4am Thursdays and Fridays and 5am on Saturdays. Whether you’re hanging with bleary-eyed tourists from Iowa or friends of the local blues guitarists on stage, it’s hard to have a bad time here.

Don’t miss: The cover grants you entry to both rooms and its two different stages.

54.  Sip suds at Half Acre Brewery Balmoral

• Lincoln Square

What is it? The far North Side warehouse where one of the city's largest breweries produces the majority of its beer.

Why go?  Half Acre Balmoral's expansive parking lot beer gaden offers room to sip signature brews like Daisy Cutter and Tome in the open air. Plus, a menu of bar foods is available for hungry drinkers. There's also an indoor taproom for the colder months. 

Don’t miss: There are beers on tap here that are exclusive to this location, so be on the lookout. 

55.  Walk through an outdoor art gallery at the 16th Street Murals

• Lower West Side

What is it? A collection of murals and street art on an old railroad embankment in Pilsen that stretches from the Chicago River to Western Avenue.

Why go?  Take a stroll across 16th Street and you'll spot murals by local artists like JC Rivera and Hebru Brantley as well as international talents like The Yok and Sheryo.

Don't miss:  An infamous painting of a severed possum by Belgian street artist ROA, located just west of 16th and Laflin Street.

56.  Tour the work of Ludwig Mies van der Rohe at the Illinois Institute of Technology

What is it?  The college's Bronzeville campus is studded with one of the country's largest collection of buildings designed by Ludwig Mies van der Rohe, the German-born steward of the Bauhaus architecture movement in Chicago. 

Why go?  Mies was a pioneering figure in American Modernism, and he completed some of his most significant work while serving as the director of the Department of Architecture at the Armour Institute of Technology. The sleek, column-free S.R. Crown Hall—which houses the present-day College of Architecture at IIT—is considered his masterpiece, and the college's entire campus has been inducted into the National Register of Historic Places. 

Don’t miss:  You can always take a self-guided tour, but the Chicago Architecture Center offers two-hour guided sessions that lead visitors through the evolution of the campus, from Mies' heyday in the mid-20th century to the more recent McCormick Tribune Campus Center designed by Pritzker Prize-winning Dutch architect Rem Koolhaas.

57.  Explore the gallery district on Chicago Avenue

• East Village

What is it?   A string of art galleries located on Chicago Avenue between Ashland Avenue and Wood Street. 

Why go?  A combination of favorable real estate, happenstance and collaborative spirit has drawn some of Chicago's finest galleries—including Matthew Rachman Gallery, DOCUMENT, Rhona Hoffman, Chicago Truborn and many others—to this multi-block stretch in West Town, creating a concentrated (and not to mention, free) tour of curated work. Plan an afternoon around the exhibitions that pique your interest, and don't forget to make a reservation at each gallery ahead of time. 

Don’t miss:  Looking to splurge on, say, a mid-century Danish sofa or a luxury cowhide rug? Make an appointment at Matthew Rachman Gallery to view the furniture collection available for sale, where you'll find items from iconic designers like Vladimir Kagan, Jens Risom and Eero Saarinen.  

58.  Watch fish swim by at Shedd Aquarium

• Zoo and aquariums
• price 3 of 4

What is it?  Chicago's only aquarium, home to thousands of colorful fish and other aquatic creatures.

Why go?   Permanent exhibitions like "Wild Reef" and "Amazon" allow you to gaze at fish, stingrays, an anaconda and sharks. But the interactive experiences may be the biggest draw, allowing visitors to get up close and personal with some of the animals that live at the Shedd Aquarium and learn more about them.

Don't miss:  The internet-famous rockhopper penguins, known for exploring the Shedd (and other Chicago institutions) during lockdown in 2020. You can say hi to them in the Polar Play Zone exhibit.

59.  Take in the skyline from Promontory Point

What is it? One of the best places to sit on a rock and look at tall buildings from afar.

Why go? Just north of the Museum of Science and Industry, this man-made peninsula is a short jaunt from the Lakefront Trail. When the sun is out, it's a beloved spot for picnics, lounging and canoodling on the rock steps that line the perimeter of the point.

Don’t miss: The Promontory Point Field House, an extremely popular wedding venue that looks like a miniature castle.

60.  Have your mind blown at the Chicago Magic Lounge

What is it? A love letter to all things magic hidden behind what  appears to be a laundromat.

Why go? After three years of performances at Uptown Underground , the Chicago Magic Lounge’s brick-and-mortar manifestation opened in early 2018. The spot sports three performance spaces. There’s the front bar, where you can enjoy a drink and some sleight-of-hand. Then there’s the 120-seat Blackstone Cabaret mainstage, where ticketed shows take place, as well as a smaller back room, dubbed the 654 Club, offers up-close magic. Don’t miss: While enjoying your cocktail in the bar, check out the magician’s table built into the center of the bar itself. 

61.  Watch 30 plays in 60 minutes at the Neo-Futurarium

• Interactive

What is it? A theater where performance art is populist and fun AF. 

Why go?  You never know what you'll see when you attend the Neo-Futurists' signature show,  Infinite Wrench , but it's nearly always entertaining. The ensemble races against the clock to cram 30 miniature, two-minute plays into a 60-minute show that bristles with madcap energy. Over the course of the evening, you might witness a dramatic monologue, a funny song or simply stare at someone eating a sandwich. 

Don’t miss:  Grab a seat toward the front of the stage if you're game for interacting directly with the show's performers (their plays occasionally call for audience participation). 

62.  Double over laughing at the Second City

• Comedy clubs

What is it?  Where Bill Murray,  Tina Fey, Gilda Radner, Chris Farley and Steve Carell  cut their comedic teeth. 

Why go?   Before they joined the cast of   Saturday Night Live   or became big-screen stars, those folks above practiced their craft on the mainstage at the Second City. The venue's premiere revue features some of the institution's most talented performers in a series of loosely-connected, topical comedy sketches.

63.  Drink all the brews at the Beer Temple

• Liquor stores

What is it?  A place of worship for hops-heads.

Why go? You'll always find something new or unexpected on tap at this Avondale bar and bottle shop, which has gained a reputation for stocking the most sought-after releases from local and out-of-state brewers. 

Don’t miss:  Follow the Beer Temple on Instagram to stay on top of what's newly in-stock. If you want to get your hands on the latest brews from Hop Butcher and other hard-to-find releases, you'll need to order quickly.

64.  Take a ride on Navy Pier's Centennial Wheel

• Towers and viewpoints

What is it? : A nearly 200-foot-high Ferris wheel.

Why go?:  You won't find many sights that can rival the ones from Centennial Wheel. Riders are treated to 360-degree views of the skyline and Lake Michigan while sitting in enclosed, climate-controlled gondolas.

Don't miss:  After your ride, head to the Original Rainbow Cone at Navy Pier for a tasty sweet treat.

65.  Find something strange at Woolly Mammoth Antiques & Oddities

What is it?  A store that's not for the faint of heart and is one hell of a conversation starter.

Why go? You never know what you'll find at this popular Andersonville antique store, which prides itself on stocking items that are "resurrected from the past." Taxidermy, diving helmets, military supplies and other interesting knick-knacks typically line the shelves.

Don’t miss:  The anatomy items, medical stuff, skull bones (of all kinds) and skeletons.

66.  Add to your reading list at Pilsen Community Books

What is it?  A worker-owned bookstore, offering new and used books for in-store browsing and curbside pickup.

Why go?  You can support a local business while chipping away at your reading list by ordering something from this Pilsen shop. Submit an order online or call and talk to a human during business hours if you need a recommendation.

Don't miss:  Add a donation to the Liberation Library to your order to support the purchase of books for incarcerated youth.

67.  Explore cinematic history at Doc Films

• Independent

What is it? The University of Chicago's single-screen theater is the longest continuously running student film society in the country.

Why go? In the fall, winter and spring, this Hyde Park institution sheds light on some of the most obscure corners of film history, showcasing retrospectives of underappreciated directors, deep dives into highly specific movie genres and rarely-screened foreign films. Best of all, a ticket will only set you back $7.

Don't miss: Prefer to see something contemporary on the big screen? Stop by on Saturday nights, which are typically reserved for screenings of new and recent releases.

68.  Find some new records at Dusty Groove

• Music and entertainment

What is it?  A Wicker Park destination for discerning record nerds.

Why go? The "dusty grooves" of course refer to the wonderous global rhythms found in the smartly curated bins, sorted into Tropicalia, Afrobeat, reggae, vintage soul, French pop, blues, jazz and other genres. 

Don’t miss:  Obscure titles that you'll have a hard time finding elsewhere in the city.

69.  Watch a movie at the Music Box Theatre

What is it?  Chicago's premiere arthouse theater. 

Why go? Aside from being one of the 50 most beautiful cinemas in the world , the Music Box's screens one of the best assortments of arthouse films, documentaries and foreign language pictures in the city. And if you prefer to turn your living room into a theater,  Music Box Direct allows you to stream movies at home.

Don't miss:  Performances on the theatre organ, which is played during weekend intermissions, monthly silent film screenings and other special presentations. 

70.  Set a high score at Logan Arcade

• Logan Square

What is it? An expansive, bar-equipped arcade housed inside a former hardware store.

Why go? There are many arcade bars scattered throughout Chicago, but Logan Arcade boasts one of the largest (and best maintained) collection of games. You'll find classics like Ms. Pac-Man and Q*Bert alongside more modern machines like Mario Kart and a Jurassic Park shooter. Pinball wizards will flip over the selection of tables, including ones inspired by properties like Game of Thrones and Star Wars . Plus, you can sip a craft beer or cocktail between high-score attempts.

Don't miss: The Killer Queen cabinet, which allows two teams of five players to face off in a bee-themed battle that requires some intense cooperation to achieve victory.

71.  Have your mind blown at the Museum of Illusions

• Exhibitions

What is it?  The Chicago outpost of a chain of trippy "edutainment" destinations, packed with mind-bending photo-ops.

Why go?  You'll be able to take a ton of cool Instagram photos at the Museum of Illusions, but you'll also have a chance to learn a thing or two along the way. Staff is present to explain the psychology and science behind each of the mind-bending displays.

Don't miss:  The museum's infinity room, which surrounds guests with mirrors and shimmering lights.

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20 Top Tourist Attractions in Chicago

By Fiona Fiorentino · Last updated on June 6, 2024

From its towering skyscrapers to the sweeping arc of its expansive lakeshore, there’s a feeling of confidence and pride that radiates from the landmark features of Chicago and from the faces of the city’s inhabitants as well. The Windy City embodies the values of the American heartland, and a trip to Chicago offer visitors the chance to see what an American city can accomplish through hard work and determination.

There is a wealth of not-to-be-missed tourist attractions in Chicago, many of which offer unique perspectives of the city’s memorable skyline. As it is set on the shores of Lake Michigan, the city also has a wonderful waterfront to enjoy with lovely lakeside parks lying alongside an attraction-packed pier. With so many different sides to it and so much things to do in Chicago, the third-largest city in the United States is definitely worth a visit.

Map of Chicago

20. North Avenue Beach

Widely considered to be Chicago’s best beach, North Avenue is a popular place to go swimming and sunbathing with countless amenities to be found nearby. Lying along the shores of Lake Michigan, its golden sands are located within Lincoln Park, just a short drive north of the center.

Dotted with piers that keep the sand in place and create its scallop-shaped shoreline, North Avenue Beach has lots of volleyball courts as well as a path to run, cycle, or rollerblade along. In addition to a bar and restaurant, the beach offers up phenomenal views of the city’s skyline and hosts several large festivals and events each year.

19. Robie House

Set just twenty minutes’ drive to the south of the center is the fantastic Robie House which exhibits some exquisite and uniquely American architecture. Now a National Historic Site, it is located on the campus of the University of Chicago with tours taking you all around its attractive interior.

Designed by the renowned architect Frank Lloyd Wright, the beautiful building was erected in 1909 and is one of the best examples of Prairie-style architecture. Perfectly complementing the strikingly sharp angles and horizontal lines of its exterior are the fine furnishings, period pieces and colored art-glass windows that lie within.

18. The 606

Once an elevated railway track, the Bloomington Line now instead forms the backbone of he 606 – a linear park and trail network. Stretching just over four kilometers in total, it is a very pleasant and picturesque place to walk, run, or cycle along, connecting numerous parks and parts of the northwest side of the city together.

After being abandoned and overrun with weeds, the more than a century-old railway line was finally converted into a greenway in 2015. Nowadays, pretty flowerbeds, trees, and shrubs line its paved path with commanding views to be enjoyed out over the city as you go.

17. Chicago Water Tower

Designed by architect William Boyington, the 47 meter (154 foot) tall turreted Chicago Water Tower once played a critical role in the city’s water system. In 1871, a fire that began in a barn owned by Patrick and Catherine O’Leary quickly spread and destroyed the city’s entire business district.

One of the few surviving structures of the infamous Great Chicago Fire, the Chicago Water Tower is a symbol of the city’s resilience. Today, the beautiful limestone structure is home to the City Gallery, which exhibits works by local artists and photographers.

16. Maggie Daley Park

Another scenic spot to spend some time is the magnificent Maggie Daley Park which lies within the Loop and is connected to Millennium Park by a pedestrian bridge. Packed with playgrounds, picnic areas, and lush green spaces, it is a very family-friendly place to visit with even climbing walls and a mini-golf course on offer.

Named for Maggie Daley, the former first lady of the city, the park was re-imagined, redesigned and reopened in 2015. It now has six play areas for kids to explore with the animal-themed Watering Hole lying alongside the boats of the Harbor and the twisting walkways of the Enchanted Forest.

15. Chicago Theatre

Just a short stroll from the park you can find the iconic Chicago Theater which puts on everything from concerts and plays to magic shows, stand-up comedy, speeches, and sporting events. Instantly recognizable thanks to its illuminated six-story sign, the opulent theater certainly is a memorable and magical place to attend an event.

Built in 1921, it boasts a breath-taking neo-baroque interior with its grand lobby and galleries being based on the Palace of Versailles. Its cavernous auditorium is just as spectacular as glittering crystal chandeliers light up the marvelous murals and gilded decorations that adorn its walls and ceilings.

14. Lincoln Park Zoo

Home to an incredible array of animals, Lincoln Park Zoo lies just a short drive to the north of the center within the sprawling park of the same name. A firm favorite with locals and tourists alike, it has countless expansive exhibits and enclosures for you to explore which focus on different animals and ecosystems from around the world.

One of the oldest zoos in North America, it was impressively founded in 1868 and now houses over 1,100 animals in total. As well as rhinos, hippos, and gorillas, you can also spot penguins and polar bears with its historic Kovler Lion House being enduringly popular.

13. Museum of Science and Industry

Remarkably the largest science museum in the Americas, the Museum of Science and Industry lies at the north end of Jackson Park. Such is its size that guests could spend days if not weeks exploring its exhibits which include everything from trains and planes to a captured German submarine and full-size replica of a coal mine.

Opened in 1933, its huge collection is housed in the former Palace of Fine Arts which was built to host the 1893 World Expo. While some sections look at anatomy or genetics, others focus on the evolution of industry and transport. With mock tornados and science experiments to try and over 75 halls to peruse. This amazing museum is definitely not to be missed.

12. Wrigley Field

If you’re after a fun and unforgettable experience, then you can’t beat watching the Chicago Cubs play baseball at the hallowed Wrigley Field. The second-oldest ballpark in the nation after Boston’s Fenway Park, it is located on the North Side of Chicago, just fifteen minutes’ drive from the center.

Named after the chewing gum magnate, it was built in 1914 and still has a lovely old time and look and feel. As well as its ivy-covered outfield walls, the park is famed for its hand-turned scoreboard and iconic entrance. Besides watching an exhilarating and atmospheric game, you can also take terrific tours that teach you about the team and field’s history.

11. Lakefront Trail

Winding its way along the western shore of Lake Michigan is the popular and picturesque Lakefront Trail which stretches thirty kilometers in length. As well as connecting Chicago’s massive lakeside parks to its many beaches and countless tourist attractions, the paved path offers spellbinding views over both the lake and the city’s skyline.

Starting at Edgewater Beach on North Side, the path makes its way to South Shore on the opposite side of town, passing through Millennium Park and the Magnificent Mile as it goes. Besides its epic scenery and sights, the trail is also perfect for walking, running, cycling, or skating along.

10. Shedd Aquarium

Located in the same lakeshore Museum Campus as the Field Museum, the John G. Shedd Aquarium is home to more than 1,500 species of sea life, including 32,500 fish, as well as an array of birds, insects and amphibians. Completed in 1930, the aquarium gets more than two million visitors each year, making it one of the most-visited aquarium in the United States.

Exhibits are organized in themed areas such as the “Caribbean Reef” and the award-winning “Amazon Rising.” The Oceanarium, which features dolphins and beluga whales, is one of the aquarium’s most popular exhibits.

9. Field Museum of Natural History

The Field Museum of Natural History owes its existence to the World’s Fair that was held in Chicago in 1893. Originally designed as way to showcase exhibits from the Fair, the museum quickly evolved into a collection of natural history artifacts and exhibitions.

The collection was moved to its current location in Grant Park in 1921 and is part of the Museum Campus. Exhibits range from a taxidermy collection of large animals such as African elephants to an extensive collection of Native American artifacts. A 12 meter (40 foot) long Tyrannosaurus skeleton is the most popular exhibit out of the museum’s millions of specimens, and many visitors wouldn’t feel that their trip to Chitown is complete without viewing the dinosaur known as “Sue.”

8. Buckingham Fountain

Located in Grant Park, the Beaux Arts-style Buckingham Fountain was designed by architect Edward Bennett after the Latona Fountain at Versailles. The font is famous for its grand size and for the height of its spray, which can reach as high as 15 stories.

The fountain’s four water-spouting sea horse statues are said to represent the four states that surround Lake Michigan, while the fountain’s pool symbolizes the lake itself. The fountain was donated to the city by Kate Sturges Buckingham, a patroness of the arts who inherited her family’s massive fortune at the age of 32.

Known as “Chicago’s Grandest Spinster,” she bequeathed the Buckingham Fountain to Chicago as a memorial for her brother in 1927 and established a trust fund for the fountain’s continuous operation as well. A famous Chicago landmark, the fountain was featured in the title sequences of TV shows Married with Children and Crime Story.

7. 360 Chicago Observation Deck

While the Lakefront Trail offers up some delightful views from below, the 360 Chicago Observation Deck boasts simply unbeatable views from up high. From the 94th floor of what was once known as the John Hancock Center, guests can gaze out over not just the city’s skyline and Michigan Lake but the Magnificent Mile too.

Beside basking in breath-taking panoramas which reach up to ninety kilometers on a clear day, you can also enjoy a drink in the supertall skyscraper’s bar. As if the stupendous sunsets weren’t enough, brave visitors can also try TILT – a thrill ride which tilts so you can enjoy views of the city’s streets, 300 meters directly below.

6. Chicago River

No other feature better illustrates the character of Chicago than the waterway that runs through the city. In 1900, the city completed an incredible engineering project: reversing the flow of Chicago River. Through the installation of a series on canal locks, the water was directed to empty into the Mississippi River instead of Lake Michigan.

Today, the mile-long pedestrian Riverwalk that runs along the south bank of the river as it winds through the downtown district offers visitors a lush green space where they can stroll and take in the sights of the city. River cruises are available that offer visitors historical insight about the city’s most-celebrated landmarks.

5. Millennium Park

Long before it opened, Millennium Park had become notorious for delays and cost-overruns, missing its titular date by a wide margin. However, when it was finished, the biggest shock of all came when it turned out to be quite nice.

Aside from plenty of grass and open space, it has modern sculptures in steel and glass, including Chicago’s newest must-photo for visitors, The Bean (properly known as Cloud Gate), and the Frank Gehry-designed Pritzker Pavilion for outdoor concerts. An ice rink accommodates skaters in the winter and serves as an open-air restaurant in the summer.

4. Art Institute of Chicago

As it is one of the oldest and largest art museums in the States, the world-renowned Art Institute of Chicago really is not to be missed. Housed in a beautiful Beaux-Arts building that was built for the 1893 World Expo, its extensive exhibitions and galleries can be found in the ginormous Grant Park.

Founded in 1879, its captivating collection includes everything from masterpieces by Magritte and Monet to Renoir, Rembrandt, and Picasso. While it is particularly known for its Impressionist and Post-Impressionist paintings, the museum also houses artefacts and artworks from as far away as Africa and Asia. Two of its most famous American works are Grant Wood’s American Gothic and Edward Hopper’s Nighthawks.

3. Sears Tower

While some may argue that the skyscraper, renamed Willis Tower in 2009, has lost a bit of its swagger since it lost its status as the world’s tallest building, the Sears Tower remains one of the most popular tourist destinations in Chicago.

Completed in 1973, the 108-story structure features some of the fastest elevators in the world, covering as much as 1,600 feet per minute. A 70-second ride takes visitors to the 103rd-floor Skydeck where they can feel the building sway beneath them on a windy day. The Skydeck offers of sweeping views of Lake Michigan and glimpses of the states of Michigan and Wisconsin beyond.

2. Navy Pier

Another of Chicago’s must-visit sites is the incredible Navy Pier which juts into Lake Michigan and offers up all kinds of fun and family-friendly entertainment. Lined with carnival rides, gardens, and an endless array of enticing attractions – the kilometre-long pier has something for everyone to enjoy with countless restaurants and shops also dotted about.

While wandering along the pier, you’ll come across everything from theaters and museums to public plazas and performance spaces with lots of cultural events and festivals held here over the course of the year. On top of this, there is a towering Ferris wheel and historic carousel to try as well as mini-golf and sightseeing cruises.

1. Magnificent Mile

One of the best places to shop in the world, the Magnificent Mile is home to an incredible number of department stores and luxury retailers with several multi-storey malls also dotted about. Stretching from Oak Street to the Chicago River, this gleaming section of Michigan Avenue is the place to go if you want to shop until you drop.

Towered over by massive skyscrapers and iconic buildings such as the Chicago Water Tower and Wrigley Building, the upscale area was given its nickname by real estate magnate Arthur Robloff back in the ‘40s. In addition to all its unique boutiques and designer shops, the ‘Mag Mile’ has lots of excellent restaurants and luxury hotels for visitors to enjoy.

The “Mag Mile,” as its sometimes called, also provides access to many of the numerous landmarks and tourist attractions in Chicago, including the Museum of Contemporary Art, the Wrigley Building and the Chicago Water Tower.

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Reader interactions.

December 29, 2014 at 4:34 am

Chicago attractions are really impressive. You must experience by travelling.

June 19, 2014 at 3:29 pm

I need to know good attractions for young children

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18 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Chicago

Written by Lana Law and Lura Seavey Updated Mar 18, 2024

Chicago, the "Windy City" as it is often called, lies along the shores of Lake Michigan. Known for its vibrant arts scene, numerous cultural attractions, excellent shopping, and interesting architecture, this city attracts visitors from the US and around the globe.

Chicago enjoys a worldwide reputation as a focal point of 20th-century architecture and art, with architects such as Louis Sullivan and Frank Lloyd Wright, and artists like Picasso, Mirõ, Dubuffet, and Chagall leaving their mark.

The city also has much to offer in the sporting sphere, too, with the Chicago Bears in American football, the Chicago White Sox and Cubs in baseball, and the Chicago Bulls in basketball.

Last, but not least, are the beautiful beaches that stretch along the waterfront, attracting throngs of sun seekers in the summer.

Deciding when to visit Chicago may depend on your interests, particularly if you are coming for sports or cultural events, but spring until fall is the best time for weather.

For a complete look at places to visit, see our list of the top attractions and things to do in Chicago.

Visit the Art Institute of Chicago

Walk through millennium park, stroll around navy pier, reach for the stars at adler planetarium, museum of science and industry, see the view from the willis tower skydeck, watch the water show at buckingham fountain, 360 chicago, field museum of natural history, michigan avenue and the magnificent mile, take a tour or see a game at wrigley field, lincoln park, shedd aquarium, lincoln park zoo, chicago riverwalk and lakefront trail, oriental institute museum, the rookery building, enjoy a show in style at the chicago theater, where to stay in chicago for sightseeing, map of tourist attractions in chicago, best time of year to visit chicago.

The Art Institute of Chicago is a world class museum with hundreds of thousands of artworks. The diverse collection spans thousands of years and includes pieces from a variety of media including painting, prints, photography, sculpture, decorative arts, textiles, architectural drawings and more.

The Institute is known for its collection of impressionist and post-Impressionist paintings including Georges Seurat's 1884 A Sunday Afternoon on La Grande Jatte , Renoir's 1879 Acrobats at the Cirque Fernando, and numerous paintings by Claude Monet.

The main building, designed by Shepley, Rutan, and Coolidge in beaux-arts style, was built for the 1893 World's Columbian Exposition. Several other buildings have been added on over the years and today the complex measures 400,000 square feet.

Address: 111 South Michigan Avenue, Chicago, Illinois

Official site: http://www.artic.edu/

Millennium Park is part of the larger Grant Park , located in downtown Chicago bordered by Michigan Avenue to the west, Columbus Drive to the east, Randolph Street to the north, and Monroe Street to the south. Its centerpiece is a 110-ton sculpture name Cloud Gate , which has a polished, mirror-like stainless steel surface that was inspired by liquid mercury. It reflects the surroundings, including buildings, the sky, and the tourists who walk through its central arch.

Another top attraction in Millennium Park is Crown Fountain , a fascinating modern interpretation of the ancient gargoyle that gives the appearance of water flowing from the mouths of projected images of Chicago citizens. Other popular things to do here include seeing a performance at the Jay Pritzker Pavilion , an outdoor concert venue, and visiting Lurie Garden , which is open to the public at no cost year-round.

Located close to many of the major attractions, as well as great shopping, this area of the city is a convenient place to base yourself.

Address: 201 East Randolph Street, Chicago, Illinois

Official site: http://www.cityofchicago.org/city/en/depts/dca/supp_info/millennium_park.html

The Navy Pier originally opened in 1916 as an amusement area and shipping facility but is now one of Chicago's most popular tourist attractions. Today, the Navy Pier is made up of 50 acres of gardens, attractions, shops, restaurants, concert venues, and parks. There is a 150-foot Ferris wheel and an historic carousel in Navy Pier Park.

Visitors can also watch a film at the 3D Imax Theater, watch actors perform the classics at the Chicago Shakespeare Theater, or visit Crystal Gardens, a one-acre, six-story, indoor botanical garden. Also located here is the Chicago Children's Museum. The Pier hosts year-round festivities, including the Chicago Festival in August. Cruise ships leave from here on various sightseeing excursions.

Address: 600 East Grand Avenue, Chicago, Illinois

Official site: www.navypier.org

The Adler Planetarium is leaps and bounds beyond the ones most kids get to visit on school trips, and all ages will appreciate the shows and comprehensive exhibits it has to offer. The Adler prides itself in being the first planetarium in the Western Hemisphere, built in 1930 on the shore of Lake Michigan.

The planetarium is home to two dome theaters, which offer a variety of shows, including exploration of Chicago's night sky, the solar system, and the moon. There is also an extensive array of exhibits that explore topics including life on other worlds, meteors and meteorites, space exploration, the history of the scientific discipline, and even the history of astrology.

There are also several exhibits dedicated to the accomplishments of marginalized groups including female, Latinx, and LGBTQ+ astronomers. Of note is an excellent exhibit that looks at the importance of Islamic astronomers' contributions and how their studies affected the faith and the world. In addition, there are collections of artifacts from astronomers past, including many antique and ancient sundials, as well as telescopes.

While visiting, be sure to leave enough time for the Skyline Walk along the perimeter, the best place to get photos of the city skyline short of a boat cruise.

Address: 1300 S. DuSable Lake Shore Drive, Chicago, Illinois

Official site: www.adlerplanetarium.org

At the north end of Jackson Park is the Museum of Science and Industry, founded in 1933, and arguably the most impressive museum in Chicago. It is devoted to the application of natural laws in technological and industrial development.

The museum is thought to be the first in the U.S. to incorporate the idea of "hands-on" exhibits. Visitors are encouraged to interact with hundreds of exhibits. The MSI features permanent and changing exhibits, as well as an OMNIMAX theater.

Address: 5700 South Lake Shore Drive, Chicago, Illinois

Official site: http://www.msichicago.org/

Until 1996, when the Petronas Towers were built in Kuala Lumpur, the 110 story Sears Tower, now Willis Tower, was the world's tallest office block. While there are now several taller buildings, the view from here is incredible. On a clear day you can see 40 to 50 miles over four states, and gain a bird's eye view of Chicago's impressive architecture.

The Willis Tower took three years to build and was opened to the public in 1974. The building is 1,453 feet tall with an observation area, called the SkyDeck, on the 103rd floor, 1,353 feet above the ground. A glass box with a glass floor, known as the Ledge, juts out from the SkyDeck, where visitors can stand and look directly down at the city below.

Address: 233 South Wacker Drive, Chicago, Illinois

Official site: https://theskydeck.com/

Built in 1927 as a donation from the family, the Clarence Buckingham Memorial Fountain is one of the largest in the world. Designed in the period's iconic Art Deco style, the central fountain is surrounded by four seahorses that represent Lake Michigan's four bordering states. From 8am to 11pm, the fountain bursts to life hourly, shooting 15,000 gallons of water through nearly 200 nozzles each minute to create an impressive display.

After dusk, the water show is accompanied by lights, a must-see if you are in the neighborhood in the evening. The fountain is the central focal point of Grant Park , Chicago's expansive public space that contains many attractions and smaller parks like Millennium Park , comparable to Central Park, one of the top attractions in New York City .

One of the park's main tourist sites is Museum Campus , home to The Field Museum of Natural History , the Art Institute of Chicago , the Adler Planetarium , and Shedd Aquarium . Grant Park is also home to several gardens and recreational facilities, and hosts events, including music and food festivals.

Located in the John Hancock Center office building, 360 Chicago is an observation deck on the 94th floor of the John Hancock Building, easy to recognize by its dark metallic looking exterior and cross-braced steel design, which runs up the outside of the building. The large glass-walled observation deck has views that look out over Chicago's skyline and beyond.

More adventurous tourists will love the deck's newest feature, "Tilt," which gives visitors a unique view from more than 1,000 feet above the Magnificent Mile as they are tipped outward at an angle to look straight down from the glass enclosure.

The rest of the building contains a variety of shops, offices, and apartments, as well as a multimedia exhibit located on the first floor that includes information about the city of Chicago and the construction of the John Hancock Building.

Address: 875 North Michigan Avenue, Chicago, Illinois

Official site: http://www.360chicago.com/

Originally called the Columbian Museum of Chicago, the Field Museum of Natural History was founded in 1893 to showcase the biological and anthropological collections gathered for the World Columbian Exposition. The name changed in 1905 to honor Marshall Field, the department store owner, art patron, and major benefactor of the museum.

The permanent collection features approximately 20 million artifacts and specimens covering a variety of disciplines including geology, botany, zoology and anthropology. Of special note are the permanent displays on Ancient Egypt and the cultures of North, Central and South America and "Sue," the world's largest, most complete Tyrannosaurus rex skeleton. Special rotating exhibits take place on a regular basis throughout the year.

Address: 1400 South Lake Shore Drive, Chicago, Illinois

Official site: http://fieldmuseum.org/

Michigan Avenue is probably one of the most attractive boulevards in America. The city's famous Magnificent Mile is a section of Michigan Avenue north of the Chicago River, with numerous galleries, boutiques, and luxury shops.

Some of the attractions along here include the John Hancock Center, the Wrigley Building, and the Tribune Tower. Michigan Avenue splits between North and South designations at Madison Street. This district is also known for its theaters, which host touring plays, musicals, and comedy acts.

Official site: http://www.themagnificentmile.com/

Wrigley Field, home to the Chicago Cubs, was built in 1914 and is the second-oldest Major League Baseball park in the US, second only to Fenway Park in Boston. The park has seen some legendary moments in baseball history, including the 1917 no-hitter pitching duel between the Cubs' Jim Vaughn and the Reds' Fred Toney, and Babe Ruth's "called shot" during game three of the 1932 World Series.

Ballpark tours are conducted in-season, when you can visit the press box and field, as well as the dugouts if there is no game that day.

Official site: http://chicago.cubs.mlb.com/chc/ballpark/

Lincoln Park is a six-mile stretch of green space along the edge of Lake Michigan, and Chicago's biggest park. This popular park is home to the lovely Lincoln Park Conservatory and the Lincoln Park Zoo , one of the oldest zoos in the country. Also located here are the Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum , and the Chicago History Museum .

For those who simply want to enjoy the outdoor space there are playing fields, bike trails, jogging paths, and beaches. Visitors can see a number of significant statues and pieces of public art within the park grounds including Augustus Saint Gaudens' Standing Statue of Lincoln (1887).

If Lake Michigan has you wondering what sort of aquatic life exists just offshore from downtown Chicago, swing by the Shedd Aquarium. Inside are exhibits that cover aquatic regions of the world, from the Arctic to the Caribbean.

If you are visiting with young children, one of the must do's is the Polar Play Zone. Here, children can slip into their favorite animal costume, take a make-believe trip in a submarine, and touch sea stars. Another popular place for children of all ages is the Stingray touch tank. This massive tank is full of curious stingrays who love to be petted and touched.

Address: 1200 S DuSable Lake Shore Drive, Chicago, Illinois

Official site: www.sheddaquarium.org

Another fun thing for families to do in Chicago is a trip to the Lincoln Park Zoo. The zoo is home to over 200 species from around the world. Sixteen different exhibits showcase the wonderful animals that we share this world with. Some of the most entertaining animals include penguins, otters, and seals. For a truly fascinating experience, stop by the Regenstein Center for African Apes.

The zoo is not just about animals, in fact it's one of the best places in Chicago to see amazing floral displays. Each year, the gardening crew tends to over 2,000 individual plants across 1,200 species.

Address: 2001 N Clark Street, Chicago. Illinois

Official site: www.lpzoo.org

The Chicago River runs through the heart of the city, parallel to the lakeshore, and is known for its large number of movable bridges. In just two miles, there are 18 bridges, each with the ability to allow large boats to pass.

The McCormick Bridgehouse & Chicago River Museum treats tourists to an up-close look at the mechanisms of one of the city's most famous bridges, where you can actually watch the gears work as it moves.

The Riverwalk is home to many dining options and hosts special events throughout the year, and you can also find several river tours and cruises that depart from the Riverwalk.

The fully-paved Lakefront Trail offers beautiful views of the city skyline and Lake Michigan, stretching 18 miles from 71st Street on the South Side to Ardmore Street on the North Side. It is open to pedestrians and people-powered wheels, and is lined by parks, gardens, and recreation areas, as well as beaches. Many of the city's top attractions are located along the trail, including Navy Pier , Lincoln Park , and Soldier Field .

Official site: www.chicagoriverwalk.us

The Oriental Institute Museum, located on the University of Chicago campus, is dedicated to the archeology and art of the Near East, including antiquities from excavations in Egypt, Sudan, Nubia, Iraq, Turkey, Israel, and the ancient site of Megiddo.

Among the permanent exhibits are the Mesopotamian Gallery, which features objects from between 100,000 BC and the 7th century AD, and two Egyptian Galleries, which include artifacts that range from everyday objects to mummification relics.

Address: 1155 East 58th Street, Chicago, Illinois

Official site: http://oi.uchicago.edu/museum-exhibits

The Rookery Building was designed by architects Daniel Burnham and John Root in 1888, but the interior lobby and patio were remodeled by Frank Lloyd Wright in 1907. This 12-story building has a Roman Revival and Queen Anne-style façade, but it is the central light court and the ornamental ironwork of the elegant staircases that are the true gem of the building.

The Rookery, named for the large number of pigeons that frequented the building, is listed on the Register of National Historic Places. The Frank Lloyd Wright Trust conducts tours of the building, as well as other sites, like the Robie House in Hyde Park and the Bach House.

Address: 209 South LaSalle Street, Chicago, Illinois

Official site: http://therookerybuilding.com/

Between the theater's unmistakable sign and its stunning façade, it's impossible to miss this stunning Chicago landmark. Built in 1921, the front of the building was designed after the Arc de Triomphe in Paris, featuring stained glass and an ornate neon sign.

The interior features French Baroque architecture inspired by the palace at Versailles . Visitors will find a grand lobby with ornate details and a sweeping staircase before entering the immense theater that is seven stories high. Even if you don't have time to check out a show, be sure to pop in or schedule a tour to get a closer look.

The theater now hosts a variety of stage performances by major entertainers, from comedians to musicians. If you prefer a more intimate venue, check out The Second City on North Wells Street for nightly live comedy shows. This stage has seen many famous comedy performances, from the early careers of Tina Fey, Bill Murray, Steve Carrell, and many others.

Address: 175 N. State Street, Chicago, Illinois

Official site: www.msg.com/the-chicago-theatre

The best sightseeing, shopping, and dining and the most interesting architecture are found in Chicago's city center, and this is where most visitors will want to stay. The city center encompasses the famous Magnificent Mile and areas of the waterfront, which are particularly popular in summer.

The best time of the year to visit Chicago is between April and October during the shoulder season and the high-tourist summer season, when the selection of things to do is the most abundant.

During the busy summer tourist season , Chicago can be quite warm, especially in the concrete jungle of downtown. June, July, and August have the most festivals and convention activity, and that is when the Navy Pier is buzzing.

The summer crowds are big, so you may experience wait times on the observation decks at the Willis Tower and TILT, which tips you over the Magnificent Mile at 1,000 feet in the air. Be aware that the high tourist season also comes with higher prices at Chicago's most popular hotels.

The shoulder seasons of April and May are great times to visit, too, in the small window between spring and summer. September and October are also good times to go to Chicago, as temperatures become milder. The weather is still pleasantly warm, and many of the outdoor activities are still in full swing.

These are the best times to visit for moderate temperatures, especially for activities like strolling through downtown to the stores along the Magnificent Mile and snapping a selfie at the Bean in Millennium Park, one of the top tourist attractions in Illinois . The bonus to a shoulder season visit is that hotel rooms will be less expensive than in the summer months.

Spring : Spring is a beautiful time to visit Chicago , when the flowers and gardens are in full bloom and the city is awakening after the cold winter. Activity at the parks and lakefront is picking up, with walkers and bicyclists. Spring weather in Chicago is mild , with low humidity and comfortable daytime temperatures, from in the 50s Fahrenheit in March to the 70s by late May. These are perfect temperatures for walking around downtown and enjoying outdoor activities.

While springtime weather in Chicago is comfortable, it is also unpredictable—rain showers are likely, so pack a poncho or umbrella. The spring months have fewer crowds and lower prices , with the exception of mid-March when spring break tourists and St. Patrick's Day revelers flock to the city.

Summer : Summertime in Chicago is busy, and it is one of the most exciting times to visit . It is also hot and humid in Chicago in the summer. That is easy to remedy with an iced tea at one of the many open-patio restaurants and rooftop terraces. Summer temperatures range from the high 70s to the mid-90s Fahrenheit and feel even warmer with the humidity. You can also get storms in the summer, with June being the wettest month in Chicago .

Summer is the most popular time to visit Chicago , so expect large crowds everywhere, high prices for hotels, and long lines and wait times at restaurants. If you like being where the action is, summer is the best time to go to experience the festivals, outdoor music, and events . Some things, like the free fireworks at Navy Pier twice a week, you can only enjoy during the summer months. Availability is tough to come by in peak season, so it is best to book your Chicago resort or hotel far in advance if you plan on a summer getaway.

Fall : If your vacation goal is comfort and being able to maximize your time then the fall is the best time to go . The city is still active, and attractions and outdoor activities are still buzzing, but the temperatures start to drop, making it nice to walk around or sit in the stands at a Chicago White Sox baseball game. Daytime temperatures in the fall average in the 60s and 70s Fahrenheit. Restaurant patios are still open this time of year but with fewer crowds and without the summer vacationers competing for space.

Some attractions, like Lincoln Park Zoo and Navy Pier, may have reduced hours later in the fall season, but you can still enjoy the outdoor venues, city parks, and the lakefront. This is also a great time of year to experience the many cultural activities in Chicago with live theater and comedy performances and special exhibits at places like the Art Institute of Chicago .

Winter : While winters in Chicago can be brutal there are unique experiences during the colder months that can make for a fun vacation, especially around the holidays. Chicago winter weather usually means lake-effect snow up to 37 inches and average daytime temperatures below freezing. If you do not mind the cold weather then a few layers of winter clothing and a heavy coat will have you prepared to explore Chicago easily.

Winter in Chicago means indoor museums, theater, and shopping. The holiday displays in the store windows and festive lighting throughout the city creates a nice ambience that you can only experience during the winter. Since this is the low tourist season, you will find cheaper hotel rates and airfares . Keep in mind that the weather frequently causes flight delays in and out of Chicago in the winter, so it is best to pad your agenda with extra travel time.

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23 Best Things to Do in Chicago

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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).

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 Center 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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Headed to Chicago? You’ve got a lot of ground to cover. This guide breaks down all the best parts of our city, from our stunning waterfronts to our bustling neighborhoods to our vibrant theatre district. Don’t leave before you check these must-sees off your list.

Eat and drink in Chicago: dive bars to Michelin stars

Gourmet to street food, Italian to Indonesian, cheap eats to fine dining. The variety of Chicago’s culinary scene is astounding. We’re home to more than 7,000 restaurants, from Michelin star winners and James Beard Award medalists to world-famous cheeseburgers and classic deep dish pizza.

Take a culinary tour of Chicago’s diverse — and delicious — dining scene. Don’t miss hot dining districts like “Restaurant Row” on Randolph Street and Fulton Market in the West Loop . The trendy area is home to some of the nation’s most celebrated chefs, including Top Chef alum Stephanie Izard and her many acclaimed spots, like Girl & the Goat .

Meanwhile, areas like Logan Square and River North continue to add buzz-worthy restaurants and bars to our bucket lists. Or eat your way around the world in our thriving international neighborhoods , like Greektown , Chinatown , Little Italy , Pilsen , and so many more.

If you want to taste a bit of everything, head to one of our popular summer food festivals. Mark your calendar for Taste of Chicago , the largest free-admission food fest in the world in July and fine-dining focused Chicago Gourmet in September. No matter where you go, make sure to sample Chicago’s most classic eats : Chicago-style hot dogs, deep dish pizza, Italian beef, and more.

Cheers to the city’s craft beer scene

Chicago is America’s craft beer capital, home to more breweries than any other city in the country. That means no visit is complete without a trip to a local taproom for a cold one (or two).

The city is home to a tons of cool breweries , from big-name brewers (Goose Island, Revolution, and Half Acre to name a few) and hip neighborhood microbreweries (Begyle, Hopewell, Off Color, and so many more). Stop by their locations to tour the facilities, chat with the brewers, sample the goods, and grab a six pack to take back home with you.

If you want to get a more thorough taste of our craft brew scene, try a tour like the Chicago Beer Experience . Or you can plan your trip around one of our annual beer festivals like the Festival of Barrel Aged Beer or Chicago Friday Night Flights .

See our award-winning skyline and iconic architecture

One of Chicago’s greatest achievements is its skyline, complete with architectural stunners such as the Wrigley Building, 875 N. Michigan Ave. (formerly the John Hancock Center), Willis Tower, and Tribune Building (with its facade punctuated with stones from historic buildings around the world, such as the Taj Mahal and Parthenon).

One of the best way to see all those modern and historic marvels? An architecture boat cruise down the Chicago River or out on Lake Michigan. Afterward, check out the Chicago Architecture Center for fascinating exhibits on the birth of the skyscraper, the impact of the Great Chicago Fire, and more.

Venture onto the glass-bottomed Ledge at Skydeck Chicago for stunning views from one of the world’s tallest buildings, the Willis Tower. Or take in panoramic views from the 94th floor at 360 CHICAGO , home to one-of-a-kind thrill ride TILT. Tip: If you get your Chicago CityPASS , you’ll save on admission and skip the ticket lines.

It’s not all about skyscrapers, though. Venture to suburban Oak Park, just 10 miles from the downtown Loop , to see more examples of the work of Frank Lloyd Wright than anywhere else in the world. Or see some of Wright’s Chicago works, like the light court inside The Rookery and the restored Robie House, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Hyde Park .

Experience an urban oasis: miles of sandy shoreline

The lakefront is the hot place to be in the summer, as Chicagoans head to the water to run, bike, and walk along the scenic Lakefront Trail . The trail connects 24 of the city’s free public beaches , where you can swim, kayak, paddleboard, play beach volleyball, and enjoy the sun and sand. Watch wildlife at Montrose Beach , sip cocktails at lively North Avenue Beach , and watch the waves roll in at peaceful 31st Street Beach.

Tip: Rent a Divvy bike on Chicago’s 18-mile long Lakefront Trail to see more of the waterfront, or take a more leisurely stroll and snap skyline pictures along the way.

Cheer for top teams and the world’s best fan base

Chicago’s sports history runs as deep as its fans’ passion. This baseball season, take in 100+ years of history at Chicago Cubs stadium Wrigley Field , home to the 2016 World Champions and the second-oldest ballpark in the country. Head to Guaranteed Rate Field to see the Chicago White Sox , plus pre-game tailgating and nightly fireworks.

Watch two legendary teams under the same roof: Chicago Bulls , the world-famous basketball team that was once home to Michael Jordan, and Chicago Blackhawks , who have built a hockey dynasty, both call the United Center home. The Chicago Sky dominate at Wintrust Arena , and soccer clubs Chicago Fire and Chicago Red Stars are known for their wildly enthusiastic fans.

Get outdoors in our parks and gardens

Chicago is a city of green spaces — that’s why they call us “the city in a garden.” Whether you’re wandering the lakefront or venturing into the city’s diverse neighborhoods, you’ll find parks, gardens, conservatories, and more in every corner of the city.

The 606 , the 2.7-mile elevated park and trail, cuts through hip neighborhoods like Bucktown , Wicker Park , Logan Square , and Humboldt Park . It’s a favorite spot for locals, who come here to bike, run, walk, and enjoy the various parks and public spaces scattered along the trail.

At the lakefront, Grant Park’s grand boulevards and landscaped lawns make it a must-see. Just north, Maggie Daley Park , is a whimsical 20-acre green space, complete with its own mini-lighthouse, a life-sized ship, two climbing walls, a skating ribbon, picnic spaces, tennis courts, and more.

Millennium Park is an architectural and art-filled jewel, thanks to the iconic Cloud Gate sculpture (aka “The Bean” ), the interactive Crown Fountain, and the soaring beauty of the Jay Pritzker Pavilion, where you’ll find free summer concerts and movies.

On the north side, scenic Lincoln Park is home to two popular attractions: Lincoln Park Zoo and Lincoln Park Conservatory . You’ll also find Alfred Caldwell Lily Pool , a tranquil oasis filled with prairie plantings and birdsong.

Stroll down The Magnificent Mile

The 13-block stretch of Michigan Avenue, dubbed The Magnificent Mile (or Mag Mile as the locals call it), is home to hundreds of stores, from high-end designers (Burberry, Coach, Louis Vuitton, Chanel), to major brands (Banana Republic, Disney Store, Nike) to renowned department stores (Bloomingdale’s, Macy’s, Nordstrom).

Don’t know where to start? Head to retail centers like Water Tower Place , The Shops at North Bridge , and 900 N. Michigan Ave . for all the chicest shops in one place.

Take a shopping break at the area’s popular attractions, like the free art gallery inside the Historic Water Tower , Lookingglass Theatre , the renowned Museum of Contemporary Art , the opulent  Driehaus Museum , and sky-high observation deck 360 CHICAGO . Or stop off for afternoon tea at the Drake Hotel , a posh lunch at RL , an artful bite at elevated museum cafe Marisol .

Stay up for non-stop nightlife

Keep the party going all night long at Chicago’s famous bars and clubs. Go classy with craft cocktails at some of the city’s most celebrated bars, like tiki-inspired Three Dots and a Dash , Art Deco-style Celeste, modern and semi-hidden speakeasy The Violet Hour , and local distilleries CH Distillery and KOVAL .

You can also enjoy a glass at swanky wine bars, share a toast to a local team at a neighborhood sports bar, and dance the night away at trendy clubs and music venues (tip: head to Spybar to hear house music in the city where it was born). For drinks with a view, there’s no shortage of rooftop bars. Try NoMI Lounge on The Magnificent Mile , hip ROOF at theWit Hotel , and the flashy Cerise rooftop at Virgin Hotel Chicago .

Hear Chicago’s rich musical legacy

Music emanates from every corner of the city. Chicago’s history is steeped in jazz and blues, with noteworthy venues like Buddy Guy’s Legends , Kingston Mines, and Green Mill Jazz Club (founded in 1907), on every music-lovers wish list. Not to mention free music festivals the annual Jazz Festival (August/September), Blues Festival (early June), and World Music Festival (September) that draw hundreds of thousands to Chicago each year.

Other popular venues adding to the music landscape include Thalia Hall , a Pilsen landmark and indie haven, house-turned-mini-concert-venue The Hideout , and The Promontory , home to jazz, R&B, folk rock, soul, and more in Hyde Park .

Head outside to Millennium Park for lunchtime and evening performances at the nation’s only free outdoor classical music series, Grant Park Music Festival (June-August). The Millennium Park Music Series draws eclectic crowds for its alfresco summer shows — also free! — which showcase electronica, indie rock, and jazz in Millennium Park’s Jay Pritzker Pavilion.

Mega fests Lollapalooza (August) and Pitchfork (July) have been going strong in Chicago for more than a decade. And the annual  Chosen Few Picnic & Music Festival (July) honors the Chicago-born genre.

Hit up festivals and outdoor events

Chicago is a city that celebrates everything from fine art to fringe theatre, craft beer to cultural heritage — and there’s no better way to celebrate than with an epic outdoor festival.

From spring to fall, neighborhood street fests take over city blocks every weekend. Bring your appetite, especially if you’re going to the Roscoe Village Burger Fest, Windy City Smokeout , Taste of Chicago , or Chicago Gourmet .

Salsa and swing through Chicago SummerDance , the largest annual outdoor dance series in the United States. Or scan the sky for jets at the oldest and largest free air exhibition of its kind, the Chicago Air and Water Show .

Check out our festival and event guide for even more popular fests.

Explore new worlds at Chicago museums

The expansive Art Institute of Chicago , one of the oldest and largest art museums in the country, is a must for art lovers. Its permanent collection features more than 300,000 works, including the largest Impressionist collection outside Paris. Meanwhile, the Museum of Contemporary Art stages cutting-edge exhibitions, showcasing works from David Bowie to Virgil Abloh.

Nearby, Chicago’s Museum Campus brings an impressive trifecta of attractions to the lakefront: Field Museum , home to the largest creature to ever walk to earth, the Shedd Aquarium with thousands of rare and local sea creatures, and the Adler Planetarium , where visitors go on a journey through space and time. Also on the lake, the Griffin Museum of Science and Industry is the biggest science museum in the Western Hemisphere. Step inside a tornado, walk aboard a U-boat, dive into a coal mine, and beyond.

There’s also a rich variety of cultural museums, historic homes and districts, art galleries, and more to explore all around Chicago.

Experience fearless Chicago theatre

Theatre is the fearless soul of Chicago. We’re home to more than 200 stages, including five regional Tony Award-winning theatres ( Chicago Shakespeare Theater , The Goodman Theatre , Lookingglass Theatre Company , Court Theatre , and Steppenwolf Theater Company  Theater ) — more than any other city in country. And with blockbuster hits from Broadway in Chicago , acclaimed touring productions, cutting-edge works from storefront theatres, there’s truly a show for everyone.

For an evening of laughs, turn to the comedy masters at The Second City or the iO Theater, watch stand-up at Zanies Comedy Club , or grab your ponchos an immersive evening with the Blue Man Group .

And if you’re in the mood for something a little different, head to Chicago’s innovative storefront theatres, including A Red Orchid Theatre , Walkabout Theater Company , Chopin Theatre , and The Storefront Theatre .

Plan your trip around Chicago Theatre Week (February) to see top shows at discounted prices. Choose from more than 120 productions and sample the extraordinary range of theatrical offerings in Chicago.

Explore our diverse neighborhoods

The heart and soul of Chicago lives in its many vibrant neighborhoods . The city’s 77 distinct communities showcase their own flavors, customs, festivals, and attractions. From the diverse, family-friendly Edgewater , to the historic cultural institutions of Hyde Park , and the Mexican-influenced Pilsen , there’s an abundance of unique neighborhood to explore.

Chicago is a melting pot of hundreds of different ethnicities and cultures. Enjoy the cultural scene in traditionally Irish-American Bridgeport ; explore the shops, restaurants, and bars of LGBTQ-friendly Northalsted (also known as Boystown) and Swedish-influenced Andersonville ; delve into Chicago’s rich African American history in Bronzeville ; browse the Chinese and Vietnamese shops on Argyle Street in Uptown ; or grab samosas and try on a sari in “Little India” on Devon Avenue in Rogers Park .

Feel the LGBTQ+ pride

Each June, Chicago is home to some of the largest Pride celebrations in the country. And our welcoming neighborhoods and proudly displayed LGBTQ+ landmarks mean you’ll feel right at home here all year long.

Spend some time in the lively neighborhood of Boystown , the country’s oldest gay neighborhood. That’s where you’ll find the LGBTQ-owned businesses, inclusive nightlife, and the Legacy Walk honoring local LGBTQ+ history. For the ultimate Boystown experience, plan a summer trip during the neighborhood’s banner events, Chicago Pride Fest and Pride Parade (June) or Northalsted Market Days (August), which attract more than one million spectators.

The charming North Side neighborhood of Andersonville is rich in Swedish tradition and home to a diverse LGBTQ+ community. Andersonville’s main street is filled with independent, locally owned businesses, from specialty bakeries and innovative restaurants to stylish boutiques and gift shops.

From this article

Tours & Attractions

Chicago architecture center.

Skydeck Chicago

Special Event Venues

360 chicago observation deck.

The Magnificent Mile

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Shedd Aquarium

The Field Museum

Adler Planetarium

Griffin Museum of Science and Industry

Art Institute of Chicago

Chicago’s Lakefront Trail

Sports & Recreation

Chicago cubs.

Wrigleyville

Wrigley Field

Chicago White Sox

Chicago Blackhawks

United Center

Chicago Fire Football Club

Maggie Daley Park

Wicker Park / Bucktown

Millennium Park

Lincoln Park Zoo

Lincoln Park

Lincoln Park Conservatory

Alfred Caldwell Lily Pool

The Violet Hour

KOVAL Distillery

ROOF on theWit

Buddy Guy’s Legends

Theater & Performing Arts

Museum of contemporary art.

Streeterville

Chicago Shakespeare Theater

Goodman Theatre

Steppenwolf Theatre Company

Broadway In Chicago

Meeting and Event Suppliers

The second city.

CSz Theater Chicago

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The Drake Hotel

The Robey Chicago

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The Top 20 Things to Do in Chicago

TripSavvy / Cory Giguere

Chicago boasts a large number of tourist attractions, but there is undoubtedly a select handful that is by far the most popular with visitors.

Located on Lake Michigan in Illinois, Chicago ranks with New York City, and Los Angeles as cities that draw visitors for the U.S. and internationally. People come to see it's bold architecture and skyscrapers such as the John Hancock Center, the Willis Tower (formerly the Sears Tower), and the neo-Gothic Tribune Tower.

Chicago is known for its skyline, the museums, festivals , and the parks. Here are some of the most significant tourist destinations in the Windy City, which range from Lincoln Park Zoo to President Obama's Hyde Park home.

Watch the Water Show at Buckingham Fountain

TripSavvy / Cory Giguere 

Opened May 26, 1927, the Buckingham Fountain in Grant Park is one of Chicago's most recognizable landmarks, and its hourly water show in the summer is fun for young and old.

The fountain, constructed out of gorgeous pink Georgia marble, was donated to the city by Kate Buckingham, a grand patroness of the arts. It is Chicago's centerpiece along the Lake Michigan shore. While beautiful, the real attraction of the fountain is the computer-controlled water, light, and music show that takes place every hour. It's a dazzling display that makes for a fantastic photo opportunity and a picture perfect background—which is why you'll inevitably see a wedding party having portraits taken there during milder weather.

Get Your Thrills on the 360 Chicago Observation Deck

The  360 Chicago Observation Deck (formerly John Hancock Observatory) may not be as high as the Willis Tower Skydeck , but at 1,000 feet up, the view of Chicago is still breathtaking. The observation deck located in the historic John Hancock Building is the place to go for breathtaking 360-degree views of Lake Michigan and the city.

If that isn't enough, they offer " Chicago's highest thrill ride ," an enclosed moving platform the will tilt you over the streets below from the 94th floor.

After the scenic thrills, enjoy a cocktail at the Signature Room on the 95th floor.

Visit the Animals at the Lincoln Park Zoo

Nestled among lagoons and mature trees, Lincoln Park Zoo is one of the most beautiful in the country, featuring historical architecture and world-class wildlife exhibits. It's easy to spend an entire day at this tranquil, intimate destination and forget that the bustling city of Chicago is right beyond its boundaries.

Open 365 days a year with free admission to all, the Lincoln Park Zoo is a premier Chicago attraction.

Stroll Through Millennium Park

Millennium Park is one of the highlights of the city and rivals the Lincoln Park Zoo as Chicago's best free attraction. The Bean (a sculpture officially known as Cloud Gate) is quickly on its way to becoming Chicago's most recognizable icon. It is located on the east side of downtown, bordered on the west by Michigan Avenue, on the east by Columbus Drive, on the north by Randolph Street, and on the south by Monroe Street.

Primary Chicago public transportation to the park is either the Michigan Avenue CTA bus #151 or the Red Line subway train, Randolph stop. Admission to Millennium Park is free and is open daily from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m.

Have Fun at Navy Pier

Originally a shipping and recreational facility, Navy Pier has a rich history and has evolved into one of the most popular spots for people visiting Chicago. Navy Pier is separated into these areas: Gateway Park, Family Pavilion, South Arcade, Navy Pier Park, and Festival Hall.

One of the fun areas of Navy Pier to take kids to is the Family Pavilion, home to the 50,000-square-foot Chicago Children's Museum, an  IMAX Theater , the Crystal Gardens indoor botanical park and numerous restaurants and shops.

In another section, you can catch harbor cruises. Navy Pier and its park is the place to go for summer concerts, rides, and a miniature golf course.

Drive by President Obama's Home

The Obamas' home address is 5046 S. Greenwood Ave., and it's located in Hyde Park on the South Side. It's also about a five-minute drive to the  Museum of Science and Industry .

The former president's home is in a lovely historic neighborhood. You can visit Burnham Park where the Obama family often walked. The park greenery starts just South of Grant Park and is best known for its beautiful harbor and skateboarding park. Also in the park is  Promontory Point , a peninsula designed by landscape architect Alfred Caldwell, where you can get some amazing views of the Chicago skyline.

Visit Sea Life at Shedd Aquarium

TripSavvy / Kathleen Messmer

With almost two million visitors a year, the Shedd Aquarium easily qualifies as one of Chicago's most popular attractions. And rightly so—it's one of the premier aquariums in the country. A word to the wise: Get there early, or you may be greeted with a long line snaking out the door and all the way down the aquarium's steps. Shedd Aquarium is part of Chicago's Museum Campus .

Go Out on the Ledge at Willis Tower Skydeck

Soaring at 110 stories tall, the Willis Tower (formerly the Sears Tower) is the tallest building in North America and remains a huge tourist attraction, namely due to the Sears Tower Skydeck observatory offering a  view of Chicago at 1,353 feet (412 meters).

On the 103rd floor, you'll be awed by the views extending to four states as you stand in clear observation boxes, which include the scary "Ledge." Those who are not afraid of heights can step outside (while in the observation box) and look down. The Ledge’s glass boxes extend out 4.3 feet from the Skydeck.

Relive Baseball History at Wrigley Field

Games at Wrigley Field , home of the Chicago Cubs, consistently sell out. Fans and tourists come to soak in the history of the United States' second oldest ballpark and enjoy the party atmosphere of the crowd, especially in the bleacher seats.

Explore Egypt at The Field Museum

The famous Field Museum is a natural history museum in the Grant Park's Museum Campus. Popular things to see include the Inside Ancient Egypt exhibit, where you can go into a reconstruction of a three-story Egyptian tomb.

Kids always want to visit SUE, the museum's T. rex, the largest, most complete T. rex fossil ever unearthed. Plus, you can see the new Titanosaur, Maximo, the largest dinosaur found by scientists to date.

Take a Prohibition Tour

Courtesy of Viator

You can take a bus tour to visit the speakeasies that made Chicago infamous during Prohibition. The guided tours tell stories of gangsters, politicians, and illegal alcohol. You're on your own to purchase drinks so can choose not to indulge.

Enjoy a Flapper-Era Dinner Show

Courtesy of Tommy Gun's Garage

Enjoy dinner at Tommy Gun's Garage with a gangster and flapper show in a Prohibition-era speakeasy-type theater . This musical comedy is a fun event where diners get involved and may even be subjected to a raid.

The dinner and show price includes the main entree, soup or salad, vegetable side, potato, dessert, coffee, tea or soda. Cocktails (also called "hooch"), which can be purchased, include such delights as "Al Jolson's Razzmatazz" and "Charlie Chaplain's Chocolate Martini."

Cruise the Architecture

TripSavvy / Anna Haines

Take a Shoreline Architecture River Cruise from Navy Pier. Chicago’s architecture is world-famous. On this cruise, you'll see the Chicago skyline, and have over 40 architectural landmarks pointed out to you as you travel along the Chicago River's three branches.

Chicago's architecture is part of the history of this large city and you'll hear the story of how it all unfolded. Included in the tour is seeing skyscrapers like the Tribune Tower, Wrigley Building, Trump Tower, Marina City, and more.

Cruises run weather-permitting.

Learn About the Planets

At Adler Planetarium , America's first when built in 1930, you'll learn about the Universe through displays, events, and shows. In "Mission Moon," find out how the United States became the first nation to put a man on the Moon and at the "Historic Atwood Sphere," you can experience the night sky over Chicago as it was in 1913.

See the Adler sky shows and learn about the planets, the stars, and our moon. There are special programs that enhance learning for little children.

Take a Hop-On, Hop-Off Bus Tour

Bruce Leighty / Stockbyte / Getty Images

The Hop On Hop Off Big Bus Chicago 1-Day Classic tour is a great way to get oriented to the city when you arrive. The tour will take you by the famous skyscrapers and down the Magnificent Mile.

You can get off the bus at any stop to explore more in-depth. As you ride, learn from the narration which tells you about the architecture, landmarks, and history.

Buildings such as the 360 Chicago Observation Deck, Willis Tower, and the Wrigley Building are stops along with the Shedd Aquarium, Field Museum, Millennium Park, and more.

Ride the Centennial Wheel

On Navy Pier which extends out into Lake Michigan at the mouth of the Chicago River, there is a huge Ferris wheel, visible from afar as part of the Chicago skyline. From the enclosed gondolas on the wheel, you'll reach heights of 200 feet and marvel at the 360-degree views of Chicago and Lake Michigan.

The pier is also home to some other fun rides, the Children’s Museum, Chicago Shakespeare Theater, weekly fireworks displays, restaurants, live concerts, and more.

Walk the Magnificent Mile

The Magnificent Mile is the part of Michigan Avenue that goes from the river at the south end to Oak Street at the north end. It's a great place to go shopping and out to eat. Along the walk, you'll pass the Tribune Tower, the Wrigley Building, and the 100-story John Hancock Center, with a rooftop observation deck with a restaurant.

There's history too: See the original Water Tower and Pumping Station , two survivors of the Chicago Fire of 1871. These ornate structures are worth a visit.

Take in the Art

Cory Giguere / TripSavvy

Visit the Art Institute of Chicago , in Grant Park, which houses a permanent collection of more than 300,000 works of art from all over the world. The institute, founded in 1879, is one of the oldest art museums in the United States. 

There are contemporary works such as Andy Warhol's print of actress Elizabeth Taylor. But the museum also houses a Medieval armory on the second floor where you'll see swords, crossbows, and suits of armor.

See the Museum of Science and Industry

The Museum of Science and Industry is in Hyde Park and is worth seeing; it's not only a part of Chicago history, but its collections are also fascinating. The museum was initially part of the Columbian Exposition of 1893.

As you visit the museum, you'll encounter Colleen Moore’s Fairy Tale dollhouse made out of gems, tour a real German submarine highlighting WWII history, and learn about flight while riding in aircraft simulators.

Hike or Bike the 606 Trail

 Matt Barnes Photography / Getty Images

The 606 is an urban hiking and biking trail modeled after New York's High Line trail. It's a great way to visit some of the Chicago neighborhoods and get some exercise.

The 2.7-mile trail is an elevated path along an old railway line that was no longer in use. There are 12 access points to the trail which runs along the Bloomingdale Trail ( map ). You'll discover neighborhood restaurants, shops, and pubs along the way where you can take a break.

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50 Best Places to Visit in Chicago

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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!

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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!

Chicago Tourist Attractions

Among the country’s best vacation destinations, Chicago is the perfect place for tourists to explore. Many of the top attractions are centrally located in the Loop or within an easy bus or train ride. Depending upon where you are staying in the city, some are within comfortable walking distance, too! Whether you’d like to see the city and the lake from above, encounter fascinating new creatures, or explore historical destinations, there’s plenty to see and do in Chicago.

Click the photos to enlarge.

Seeing the city from above is one of the most beloved Chicago tourism traditions. Fortunately, the Windy City has two excellent observation decks: Skydeck Chicago and 360 CHICAGO. Skydeck Chicago is hosted in the Willis Tower (formerly Sears Tower) and features excellent views of the city from the Loop. 360 CHICAGO is found just off the Magnificent Mile near the top of the John Hancock Center. Here you can see Navy Pier and Lake Michigan in the immediate distance and out to Soldier Field farther away.

Some of the most popular attractions in Chicago are aquariums and zoos. In fact, Shedd Aquarium (located in the Museum Campus neighborhood) is one of the most-visited attractions in the entire city! Head here to find glittering jellies, playful sea otters, majestic whales, and vibrant tropical fish. There are also some excellent zoos in the Chicago area, including the modest Lincoln Park Zoo and the larger Brookfield Zoo (located a bit outside the city). Both of these zoos are home to animals both exotic and domestic, with themed, recreated habitats hosting animals from around the world.

Chicago is also known for its historic homes and significant architectural achievements. For one, the Robie House is a prime example of Frank Lloyd Wright’s famed prairie style. It’s located on the University of Chicago campus and is open for tours. If you prefer literature to architecture, the Ernest Hemingway Birthplace Home is a lovingly-restored Queen Anne-style home where the famed American author spent his early years. If you’re interested in Chicago history, there are plenty of museums, too.

Here are some of the top Chicago tourist attractions that visitors love:

Shedd Aquarium

Without a doubt one of the country’s best aquariums, Shedd is divided into several themed sections with different types of aquatic and marine critters in each. Some of their most popular inhabitants include the colorful jellies, playful penguins, leaping dolphins, and a multitude of colorful fish.

SkyDeck Chicago

One of the city’s observation decks, Skydeck Chicago is located in the Willis Tower (formerly Sears Tower), and provides excellent views of the city spanning from Soldier Field to Navy Pier. 

Art Institute of Chicago

This renowned museum is known for its extensive collections including photography, fine art, architecture, domestic craft, ancient artifacts, and paintings. Some standout pieces include the Chagall windows, Georgia O’Keeffe’s “Black Cross, New Mexico,” and Matisse’s “Bathers by a River.”

Adler Planetarium

Alder Planetarium is a kid-friendly institution that’s popular for its interactive exhibits and historical approach to teaching visitors about space travel. Exhibits include the exciting “Mission Moon” and the beloved “Planet Explorers.”

Museum of Science and Industry

This South Shore standout is actually the largest science museum in the entire country. Here you can undertake explorations of natural phenomena like tornados, scope out man’s influence on the natural world.

Field Museum

This comprehensive natural history museum is home to everything from legendary dinosaur fossils to gorgeous gemstones to a pristine collection of ancient Chinese craftwork. 

360 CHICAGO

The second (but no less popular) observation deck on this list, this one is found at the top of the John Hancock Building. Head to the 94 th floor for unparalleled views of the city below, the Lake in the immediate distance, and portions of four different states beyond. 

Chicago Architecture Center

This non-profit organization runs an extensive variety of acclaimed tours highlighting Chicago’s many remarkable buildings. Favorite tours include the Chicago River Cruise tour, the Art Deco Skyscrapers tour, and the Chicago Architectural Highlights tour.

Wrigley Field

One of the most famous sporting venues in the world, Wrigley Field is home to the much-loved Chicago Cubs. First opened in 1914, the Cubs have played baseball here since 1916.

Museum of Contemporary Art

A fascinating institution dedicated exclusively to contemporary art, this ever-changing museum features innovative and cutting-edge exhibitions that will provoke and inspire you.

Brookfield Zoo

Located west of the city, the Brookfield Zoo is the area’s largest zoo. It features a wide selection of animals from all across the globe, with everything from the Great Bear Wilderness to the Regenstein Wolf Woods to explore.  

Lincoln Park Zoo

A smaller zoo than Brookfield but no less fascinating, this free zoo features a selection of animals in recreations of their natural habitats including lions, gorillas, and giraffes. There’s also the popular “Farm-in-the-Zoo,” which showcases the animal life found on a rural farm.

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Three Perfect Days: A trip to Chicago

Allegra Pusateri August 28, 2024

There isn’t another city quite like Chicago, making it easy to plan a trip. Architecture and museums, food and bars, beaches and parks, live events—it’s a diverse city that always has something new to do and see. Chicago is also United’s hometown. Many of us at United are either locals or transplants, like myself, that have spent years exploring the 77 neighborhoods that make up this beautiful lakefront city. Here’s what we recommend to get the most out of Chicago.

Know before you go

Before diving into how to spend your days, let’s talk about how to get around Chicago:

• It's easy to get downtown from O’Hare using the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) , which is our public transit system. From the airport you’ll take the Blue Line to the stop closest to your hotel, or to pick up one of the other CTA train lines (or “ the L” ).
• The Ventra app is a big help with transit. Use it to load up a transit pass and look at maps of all the L lines and buses.
• Google and Apple maps are synced with the CTA, so you can easily look up directions to wherever you’re going.
• You can also rent a bike with Divvy . Chicago has bike lanes on most major streets. Plus, the Chicago lakefront is 18.5 miles of paved trail connecting the south side to the north.
• Chicago is a very accessible city. Most L stops, bus stops, museums and parks have accessibility options available (including elevators, sensory areas and touch tours) and are wheelchair friendly .

Spend a day exploring downtown Chicago

Before heading out for the day drop your bags at your hotel. We recommend using United Hotels to find the perfect one. Then, it’s time to explore downtown (or “The Loop”). How you do this all depends on what interests you.

Museum and culture lovers

If you love art, history, science, animals, space, or just a museum in general, there’s several museums to choose from, especially in and close to The Loop. If you plan to hit multiple museums, we suggest getting a CITYPASS , or seeing which ones have free days while you’re in town.

The Art Institute of Chicago has a collection spanning thousands of years, from the 12th century to the present day. Works by Vincent van Gogh, Georgia O’Keefe and Salvador Dali are favorites of United employees. But it’s the Thorne Miniature Rooms (which are exactly what they sound like) that many of us have been staring at since we were kids.

A little further south you’ll find several more museums fairly close to each other:

• Explore the universe (and a view of the Chicago skyline) at the Adler Planetarium .
• Take a walk through 4.6 billion years of history (and see the largest discovered T-Rex) at the Field Museum .
• See beluga whales, otters, penguins and other sea critters at the Shedd Aquarium .

You can venture even further south to Hyde Park for the Griffin Museum of Science and Industry , for interactive science exhibits, model trains and more. Head north to the Chicago History Museum in Old Town to learn more about the history of the city.

Sight seers

If your goal is to see as much of downtown as possible, it can be hard to do everything in a day—but this should help narrow it down:

• Millennium Park is part park, part outdoor art exhibit, and part music venue by summer and ice-skating rink by winter. There’s also art installations like Cloud Gate (better known as “The Bean”) and Crown Fountain .
• Roam The Loop in search of more outdoor art, including world-famous sculptures like Flamingo by Alexander Calder , Untitled by Pablo Picasso , and Miró’s Chicago by Joan Miró .
• Explore by water on a Chicago River architecture tour to see more of the city, learn about the city’s history and architecture, and take a ride down the Chicago River.
• Stay on land and take a stroll along the Riverwalk to enjoy views, eateries and bars.
• Shop and dine along the Magnificent Mile (aka “Mag Mile”). This 13-block stretch of Michigan Avenue starts at Oak Street and ends at the Chicago River.
• Take a dip in Lake Michigan with a view of the city at Oak Street Beach .

Chicago is a food city. You can find top notch food from all over the world here. While a lot of great food is found in the neighborhoods throughout Chicago, the West Loop has downtown’s best dining. There’s something for every craving and Michelin Bib Gourmand restaurants are plentiful:

• Go to Girl and the Goat for new American cuisine from Top Chef’s Stephanie Izard.
• Rose Mary is a fusion of Italian and Croatian with outdoor seating options.
• If you want a steak, head to Swift & Sons .
• For a taqueria with a casual vibe, Tacombi has you covered.
• For okonomiyaki and other Japanese favorites, head to Gaijin .
• Avec serves up mediterranean small plates at communal tables.

While a lot of great food is found in the neighborhoods throughout Chicago, the West Loop has downtown’s best dining.

Pick a neighborhood and see a new side of the city

Exploring Chicago’s neighborhoods is the only way to see the real city. But, you can’t see them all in one trip, so here are nine that United employees rave about the most.

In nearly every north side neighborhood you’ll see brownstone houses and apartment buildings next to Michelin-starred restaurants and world-renowned museums.

Uptown is just off the lake and Lakefront Trail. Here you’ll find Montrose Beach , a favorite of locals and less crowded than other beaches in the city. Plus, it’s close to Montrose Point Bird Sanctuary a 15-acre nature preserve great for birding and hiking.

Asia on Argyle is strip off the Argyle Red Line stop packed with a lot. There’s food from all over Asia, largely Vietnam. A popular spot is Bambu , where the bobaristas whip up fresh dessert drinks and foods. Stay after your meal for shopping, murals and a night market in the summer.

For dinner, I recommend the sambussa sampler and a messob from Demera , an Ethiopian hot spot. For a drink, head to the The Green Mill . While this jazz club is infamous for Al Capone’s favorite booth, it’s also long been the center of Chicago jazz and hosts regular poetry slams.

Lakeview, just south of Uptown, is known for its proximity to the lake, Wrigley Field and Boys Town . If you’re in the area check out a drag show like Drag Brunch at The River .

Movie buffs should go to the Music Box Theatre , which has been around since 1929. They show indie, foreign, and cult classic films. And if there’s room in your suitcase for a little bit of shopping, Lakeview is littered with vintage, thrift and consignment shops. Studio 32 is a local favorite.

Hungry? Here’s what we love to eat in Lakeview:

• Korean fried chicken at Crisp .
• The Chicago Diner’s vegetarian and vegan takes on your diner favorites.
• Craft beer and good food at Corridor Brewery & Provisions .

Lincoln Park

Taking the Lakefront Trail south from Lakeview, you’ll hit Lincoln Park next. The trail leads you right inside the free Lincoln Park Zoo (the flamingos and polar bears are both a personal favorite). The Lincoln Park Conservatory is nearby and free as well, though you’ll need to make a reservation before you go.

If you want to stop for a drink and live music, head over to Kingston Mines , one of Chicago’s many blues clubs. Koko Taylor, Eric Clapton and Mick Jagger have all played there. While you’re in Lincoln Park, you must try:

• Armitage Alehouse , a pub worth the hype if you’re looking to dine in.
• The critically-acclaimed deep dish pizza at Pequod’s Pizza .
• Weiner Circle is a Chicago classic for hot dogs and milkshakes.
• Annette’s Italian Ice , a hidden gem only open from March to November.

Many west side neighborhoods have a trendy yet relaxed vibe. These neighborhoods move at a slower pace than others, but there’s no shortage of night life, food and shopping.

Logan Square

You can’t get to the west side of Chicago from the Lakefront Trail, but it’s close to the Blue Line. If you’d rather walk or bike, The 606 is an abandoned rail line turned paved trail that runs through Logan Square, Humboldt Park, Wicker Park and Bucktown.

Logan Square has great street art. The murals on Milwaukee Ave are ever-changing and quite literally add color to an already vibrant neighborhood. Just west of Milwaukee you’ll also find City Lit Books . Their staff picks section is always on the money.

When you’re ready to eat, you have a lot of options:

• In the morning and early afternoon, Bang Bang Pie & Biscuits serves up sweet and savory pies (and biscuits).
• For Macau comfort food, Noodlebird is the place to go.
• Stop by Superkhana International for Indian food with a Chicago flare.

Wicker Park

Continuing south from Logan Square is Wicker Park, where you’ll find an artsy and bohemian vibe. There are both art galleries and boutiques selling clothes where trendy meets vintage, like Saint Alfred and P45 . Myopic Books is a three-story shop with over 80,000 books and regular poetry nights. You could spend an entire afternoon there if you wanted. I have. Plus, there’s the neighborhood’s namesake: Wicker Park with its gardens and fountain.

When your stomach starts growling, you have a lot of options in Wicker Park:

• For ramen and sake, head to Kizuki Ramen .
• At Mott St. you’ll find an umami-filled menu (and, rumor has it, the city’s best burger).
• Lilac Tiger serves up Korean Indian fusion food and cocktails.

Ukrainian Village

Next stop on the west side of town is Ukrainian Village. This is a more relaxed part of the city, but there’s still a lot to do. The Delta M sells both traditional and modern Ukrainian goods, including jewelry, clothes, paintings and more. The Ukrainian Institute of Modern Art features work by some of Ukraine’s most famous artists and the Vertical Gallery often features emerging local artists.

There’s a variety of food in Ukrainian village, including:

• Ann’s Bakery and Deli , a Ukrainian shop selling breads, pastries and sandwiches.
• For Polish favorites, including pierogi, head to Kasia’s Deli .
• Check out Kasama , the first Filipino restaurant to earn a Michelin star.

The south side has defined Chicago’s culture and character for decades.

Heading south from The Loop, Chinatown is just off both the Red Line and Green Line. You can also take the Chicago Water Taxi from downtown. It’s a straight shot west from the Lakefront Trail, if you’re biking or walking.

Chinatown Square is a two-story outdoor mall with all kinds of boutiques and restaurants, including Ichiban Candy and Snacks . If you’re looking for a park you can enjoy with the kids, Ping Tom Memorial Park hosts bamboo gardens and a playground with a trail throughout.

No trip to Chinatown is complete without trying the food. Here are our top picks:

• People from all over the city go to QXY Dumplings for their namesake dish.
• MingHin is a great dim sum spot.
• For soups and Szechuan dishes, head to MCCB Chicago .

Directly west of Chinatown is the Pilsen neighborhood, filled with Latino culture, music, art, nightlife and more. The murals on 16th street are must-see. They’re everywhere, on the front of homes, on overpasses, on train platforms—big, beautiful works of street art seamlessly integrated into the neighborhood.

18th street is one of the coolest streets in the city, with dozens of restaurants, museums and art galleries (including the National Museum of Mexican Art ), bookstores and bars. Don’t just take our word for it— Timeout named 18th street one of the coolest streets in the world in 2024.

You’ll find something to eat at these 18th street favorites:

• For something sweet, go to the Panaderia Nuevo Leon bakery.
• 5 Rabanitos Taqueria is a community favorite.
• If you like carnitas and chicharron, Carnitas Uruapan is the place for you.

A few miles south of Pilsen and Chinatown, right along the Lakefront Trail, is Hyde Park. It’s home to the University of Chicago and it’s three museums. There’s also the grassy Jackson Park . This over 500-acre park includes the gilded bronze Statue of the Republic , the Wooded Island and its Japanese style Osaka Garden, Bobolink Meadow and a vegetable and flower garden. Another popular urban hiking spot is Promontory Point thanks to its proximity to Lake Michigan. If you’re interested in architecture, also check out Frank-Lloyd Wright’s famous Robie House . Lastly, head to Hyde Park Records for vinyl and CDs from a variety of genres and decades.

If you’re looking for the best eats in Hyde Park, we’ve got you covered:

• For a taste of the south, head to Roux .
• The Neopolitan pizza at Nella’s is worth the trip.
• Check out Valois for cafeteria-style restaurant that’s been around since 1921.

Enjoy live entertainment for any interest

Chicago locals know, there’s always something going on. Whether it’s festivals, comedy, concerts, theater or games—you’ll find a live event for any interest year-round.

Chicago has nearly every major sport covered:

• See the Chicago Cubs play baseball at Wrigley Field (one of only two 100-year-old baseball stadiums in the U.S.), or the Chicago White Sox at Guaranteed Rate Field, best known for its food stands.
• The United Center (also known as the house that Michael Jordan built) is home to our basketball team, the Chicago Bulls , and six-time Stanley Cup winners, the Chicago Black Hawks .
• Our WNBA team, the Chicago Sky , is one of the best in the league and play at the Wintrust Arena.
• The Chicago Bears (one of the oldest football teams in the NFL) and our men’s soccer team, the Chicago Fire , play at Soldier Field.
• See the women’s soccer team, Chicago Red Stars , and our rugby team, Chicago Hounds play at SeatGeek Stadium.

Chicago is known for gospel and house music, as well as blues and modern jazz. We celebrate our strong music scene throughout the city at both seasonal and year-round venues.

In the summer, it’s all about outdoor concerts and music :

• Lollapalooza is at Grant Park in August.
• Millennium Park hosts the Chicago Blues Festival in June, the Chicago Jazz Festival in late August and early September and the Grant Park Music Festival all summer long.
• Pitchfork Music Festival is at Union Park in July.
• Douglass Park hosts Riot Fest in September.

There’s also smaller music venues if that’s more your vibe. The Vic , Lincoln Hall and Salt Shed are all on the north side of the city and places United employees enjoy.

Chicago is a big theater town—we have Broadway in Chicago and get previews of pre-Broadway plays and musicals. Shows are constantly on rotation, but some of our favorite theaters and companies include:

• Chicago Theatre , a Chicago landmark.
• The nearly 100-year-old Goodman Theatre puts on both original and classic shows.
• The not-for-profit Steppenwolf Theatre is a small space to see a play.
• The lavish Lyric Opera of Chicago is located right on the Chicago River.
• The Joffrey Ballet performs The Nutcracker every winter and other rotating shows throughout the year.
• The Chicago Symphony Orchestra plays at the Symphony Center and is one of the top five orchestras in the country.

Whether it’s improv (which was invented at the University of Chicago), stand up or open mic nights, you’ll find a great spot to laugh with your friends, family or partner:

• If you like improv check out Second City , home of Steve Carrell, John Belushi and Bill Murray.
• Both well-known and emerging stand-up comedians perform at the Laugh Factory .
• Lincoln Lodge is a small, non-profit run stand-up comedy club.
• One of Chicago’s original stand-up clubs, Zanies , is also worth a visit.

Summer in Chicago is all about festivals. Some are in parks downtown and some block entire neighborhood streets. There’s too many to name them all, but here are a few of our favorites:

• For the best food and drink from the neighborhoods, try Taste of Randolph , Taste of Lincoln , Burger Fest and the Craft Beer Festival .
• Peruse art and go shopping at Northalsted Market Days , Wells Street Art Festival and the Old Town Art Fair .
• In June, check out the Chicago Pride Parade and Chicago Pride Fest .
• Catch a movie outdoors at the Millennium Park Summer Film Series .

Here in the cooler months? No worries.

• In October, Open House Chicago lets you explore some of Chicago’s historical buildings not typically open to the public.
• From November through January, the Zoo Lights are up at the Lincoln Park Zoo, creating a winter wonderland.
• Open from Thanksgiving through December, the Christkindlmarket provides holiday fun, treats and activities both downtown and on the north side.
• Restaurant Week typically takes place around mid-January and lets diners enjoy special prix fixe menus from restaurants around the city and suburbs.

To us at United, Chicago is more than just a homebase for our operations. It’s our hometown. We’re proud of the history, the culture, the sites, the food— and we’re excited to share it with you. See you soon!

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