25 BEST THINGS TO DO IN CHICAGO
Chicago is a city in the state of Illinois. The city is famous for its grand architecture, museums, deep dish pizza, green parks, theatre, Jazz music, and clean beaches. Chicago is also a home to some prominent people in the world—Barack Obama, Harrison Ford, Common, and Chaka Khan. American English is the widely spoken language in Chicago. The money used is the United States Dollar.
The weather in Chicago is usually mild—it does not get very cold there. June, July, and August have the highest temperatures (between 80°F and 84°F). December, January, and February have the lowest temperatures; the lowest temperatures average between 18°F and 24°F.
1| CLOUD GATE (THE BEAN) IN MILLENIUM PARK
The Bean is a public structure made of shiny silver steel. It was simply named the Bean because of the bean-like shape. The Bean structure is 66 feet long and weighs 110 tons. The reflective steel on the Bean makes it appealing to tourists who love to look at themselves while taking pictures. It also captures the buildings surrounding it, as well as the green space and sky.
The Bean, also known as the Cloud Gate, is located in the plaza, inside Millennium Park. This is a public park located at 201 E. Randolph Street (between Michigan Ave & Columbus Ave). The bean has an underside which allows visitors to walk through hence the name Cloud Gate.
2| CHICAGO ARCHITECTURE BOAT TOUR ON THE CHICAGO RIVER
One of the most sought after tours in Chicago is the Chicago architecture boat tour that goes through the waterways of Chicago River. The tour brings spectacular views of the best architecture in Chicago. The architectural landmarks are historical; they tell stories about endurance.
In 1871 fire destroyed most of the Chicago buildings. The city you see today is a symbol of resilience. The city was rebuilt ambitiously. Some of the architects whose work you will see are Jeanne Gang, Mies Van Der Rohe, and Bertrand Goldberg.
More on Chicago Architecture Tour
3| NAVY PIER
The Navy Pier sits on the shores of Lake Michigan—the actual address is 600 E. Grand Avenue, Chicago. The Navy Pier is one of the most visited tourist attractions in Chicago. It attracts about 8.6 million visitors each year. Most boat tours start from this location and the operating companies have offices along the lakeshore where you can purchase tickets.
Take a spin on the Ferris Wheel and experience a 360 degree view of Lake Michigan and the city at 200 feet. You can also enjoy other things like exploring the museum, going to the restaurant in the mall, or you can visit the Navy Pier theater. Visiting Navy Pier is definitely one of the best things you can do with the kids.
4| RIVERWALK CHICAGO
RiverWalk Chicago is one of the most visited locations in Chicago. This path is over one mile long and it is beautifully sandwiched by magnificent architecture. There are more things to do on the RiverWalk Chicago mile other than viewing architecture. You will find restaurants, a market, shops, and a nice path you can take a stroll on while enjoying the views of Chicago River at close proximity.
There are boat rental shops where you can rent boats. You can also purchase tickets for boat cruise tours. Visit the McCormick Bridgehouse & Chicago River Museum while on the RiverWalk mile. Vietnam Veterans Memorial Plaza is also a popular attraction on the RiverWalk.
5| 360 CHICAGO
360 Chicago observation deck is located on the 94th floor of the John Hancock Center building and is one of the most visited Chicago attractions. The address is 875 North Michigan Avenue, Chicago. The observation deck is the best place to experience breathtaking Chicago skyline featuring grand architecture, the Navy Pier, and the Magnificent Mile. Also, you will experience the best lake views of Lake Michigan as well as catch a glimpse of four neighboring states. All this is seen through all-glass panoramic windows. The sunset views in the evening are magnificent. Chicago at night is beautiful. Equally stunning are views of the shore line during the day.
Opening times are from 9 am to 11 pm, Monday to Sunday. During weekends and holidays it gets very packed so arriving early is important. On a normal day, if you want to beat the crowds be the first one in or the last one in as these times have less traffic.
The building has the fastest elevators; they travel 96 floors at a top speed of 1,800 ft/min (20.5 mph). Before heading to the top floor take time to explore the first floor. The first floor will amaze you with the exhibits highlighting cultures, history of Chicago and businesses around Chicago. While there, also watch a short documentary about the three nearby cities.
Another attraction you do not want to miss at Chicago 360 is the ‘Tilt. This thrill ride allows visitors a unique downward-facing view from 1030 feet. For safety reasons, the tilt holds only 8 people at a time.
If you care about taking nice pictures, it’s best to bring a family member or friend. There are so many people coming in, it is difficult to maneuver a tripod. Also, the best spots are so crowded, you need someone to quickly take a picture and move along.
6| MAGNIFICENT MILE
The Magnificent Mile runs on North Michigan Avenue in Chicago. From Dusable Bridge all the way to the T junction, where the road meets East Oak Street and East Lakeshore Drive. This mile is a tourist attraction made up of 13 blocks. You will find popular stores, amazing restaurants, attractions, and architecture.
The Magnificent Mile is the home of the historic Water Tower. You will also see a lot of buildings that are breathtaking. For example, Wrigley Building, Tribune Tower and John Hancock Tower. These are the best places for visitors looking for a view.
If you love luxury shopping then the Magnificent mile is the place to be. You will find shops that sell top notch brands such as Louis Vuitton and Nordstrom. Apart from that, you will find cheaper shops such as H&M, Zara, Columbia Sportswear and Topshop.
Restaurants of all sorts are located on the Magnificent Mile. All tastes from around the world are here—Indian, Italian, American, and Chinese cuisines.
7| CHICAGO SKYDECK
The highest observation deck in the USA is the Chicago Skydeck on the 103rd floor of the Willis Tower. The Willis Tower has 110 stories and stands at 1,450 feet–it is one of the tallest buildings in the world. Chicago Skydeck will give you a 360 view of the city, lake views of Lake Michigan, and the surrounding four states. Apart from that, you will get the best view of Chicago’s landmarks including Navy Pier and Soldier Field.
What makes Chicago Skydeck unique is the Ledge. The Ledge is a glass floored balcony which extends out four feet from the building edge. If you get to the ledge, you are able to see the city beneath your feet. Do not forget your kids because the Skydeck has a club for kids. Your children can play a lot of interactive games, puzzles and scavenger hunts. They have coffee shops and restaurants at Willis Tower, as well as a gift shop.
Chicago Skydeck is open daily, all year round. The time of opening varies according to the season. The Skydeck’s observation deck is open daily. The location is 233 S. Wacker Drive, Chicago. Walk-up admission is not allowed thus one has to make reservations online. Inside Willis tower, you will find restrooms, shops and restaurants.
The fun begins on the lower level of Willis Tower, you will see a museum. Take time to educate yourself with the history of Chicago and its traditions. To get to the 103rd floor, you will ride on a multimedia elevator that shows videos of what you will experience at the top.
8| STATE STREET
State Street is one of the main streets in Chicago and its south suburbs. It is very close to other attractions such as the Millennium Park. If you are a luxury shopper, then this is the best place for you. Explore the upscale retailers on the north side of the street.
There are a few things you can do on State Street. See the Reliance Building and Archbishop’s Mansion. You can also check out the cinema which is located in the Block 37 complex.
Another cheek looking spot on State Street is the Marshall Field and Company Building, located at 111 N. State Street. Go there for a good street photo of Chicago. This location is in close proximity to Chicago Theater —where there is the giant Chicago sign—and one of the popular Chicago attractions. Lake Subway Station is also very close by, across the street.
9| CHICAGO THEATRE
Located at 175 N. State Street, Chicago Theater is an important attraction in Chicago. It serves as a functioning theatre as well as a fixture that has an aesthetically pleasing exterior. The best way to explore Chicago Theatre is to take the daily venue tour. The design of Chicago Theater was inspired by the Royal Chapel at Versailles.
Save some money by buying a pass that will guarantee a free admission to theatre as well as other Chicago’s attractions and tours. During your visit, you will be escorted by a guide who will tell you the history of the theater. This includes the past performances from Dolly Parton, Frank Sinatra and Dean Martin.
You will learn about the building’s history and architecture. In addition to that, you will have an opportunity to see the dressing rooms of legendary performers, as well as a chance to stand on the theater stage. You can also explore the theatre by attending a performance. Tickets are available on their website.
10| LAKE MICHIGAN TOUR
Experience the beauty of Chicago’s skyline and the famous skyscrapers. The John Hancock Center, Trump Tower, and Willis Tower are all seen while touring Lake Michigan. The lake tour is also a great opportunity to take photos of Chicago’s skyline. The trip takes about 45 minutes during the summer and 35 minutes in the winter. Do not forget to pay attention to the onboard commentators as they share their knowledge on the history of Chicago.
Feel free to bring your lunch or you can buy food on board. Tour boats usually start from the Navy Pier, passing through the lighthouse and numerous skyscrapers such as the Willis Tower. The address for their Navy Pier office is 600 E. Grand Avenue, Chicago.
11| LINCOLN PARK AND LINCOLN PARK ZOO
Lincoln Park is well known because it is a good place to host private events such as weddings and birthday parties. The whole park is a beautiful place to take photos. There is a bridge at the zoo, Nature Boardwalk, this is where visitors love to stand to take a view of the Chicago Skyline.
Created in 1868, Lincoln Park Zoo is one of the free admission zoos in Chicago. The aim of Lincoln park zoo is to provide the highest quality animal care, education, science and conservation programs. The zoo keeps about 200 species. You can explore marine mammals such as sea lions, bears, chimpanzees, gorillas, penguins, lions, and many more. The zoo has educational programs for both adults and children.
You can enjoy a train ride that will take you around the zoo. Both Lincoln Park and the Zoo are among top Chicago’s tourist attractions. Families love it here. For more information about Lincoln Park Zoo, see their website. The location of the zoo and park is 2001 N. Clark Street, Chicago. Admission is free and open to the public.
One beautiful spot that can be easily missed at Lincoln Park Zoo is the Pavilion at Nature Boardwalk. This is an arch looking structure surrounded by flowers and trails. When you get to Lincoln Park follow directions to the Patio at Cafe Brauer where you will see a pond in front of you. Take the trail that is going around the pond, crossing an underpass—the Pavillion will be along the trail. You can download a map from Lincoln Park’s website.
12| CHICAGO CHILDRENS MUSEUM
Chicago Children’s Museum is located at the Navy Pier. The aim of the Museum is to educate children in a fun way. There are so many educational games at the Chicago Children Museum. Some games will teach children how to be safe. For example, playing dress up like a firefighter, driving the truck, putting out the fire, and escaping a fire congested building.
In addition to that, some games will teach children science and engineering. The museum has a tinkering lab that has real life tools and DIY toys. Children are able to design their own creation with the help of trained staff and professional engineers. Other things children can do are fishing, constructing skyscrapers, shopping in a grocery store, painting, printing, sewing, sketching and learning how to sculpt.
Location of Chicago Children’s Museum is 700 East Grand Avenue. For opening hours and ticket information, visit their website.
13| SHEDD AQUARIUM
Shedd Aquarium is one of the top attractions in Chicago. It is on the shores of Lake Michigan, the Shedd Aquarium is home to a lot of Marine animals. The Shedd Aquarium takes you on a wild underwater adventure. You will get a view of sharks, dolphins and even whales. The Aquarium has more than 1,500 species and cares for more than 32,000 animals.
Shedd Aquarium is also dedicated to research that focuses on the animals in the lake. They are also interested in conservation education, animal care, and conservation science. Kids are encouraged to take part in the activities created for children such as interactive marine exploration.
The location of Shedd Aquarium is 1200 S. DuSable Lake Shore Drive. See their website for opening times and ticket information.
14| ADLER PLANETARIUM
The Adler Planetarium is a place where visitors of all ages learn everything about the solar system. Apart from that, it is a place which inspires future space travel.
Children like to take part in planet exploration. They perform physical activities that prepare them for an outer space mission. Visitors have a chance to attend presentations made by astronomers. They learn how different cultures have studied astronomy. They also learn about the latest technologies used in exploring the universe.
The Adler Planetarium has a computer based interactive exhibit called cyberspace. This offers visitors a realistic immersive experience of the universe and much more. Apart from the activities listed above, visitors can attend the Adler Planetarium theaters. The theaters are Definiti Space Theater, Sky Theater and Universe Theater.
The Definiti Space Theater shows you the outer reaches of space, virtually. The Sky Theater allows visitors to see the clear night sky. The Universe Theater shows the universe in 3D.
The address of Adler Planetarium is 1300 S. DuSable Lake Shore Drive. Visit their website for opening hours and entry costs.
15| CALDER’S FLAMINGO
Calder’s Flamingo is one of the structures in the streets of Chicago that adds color. The giant 53-foot tall flamingo was created by the American artist, Alexander Calder in 1974. The location is 210 S. Dearborn Street. Right in the Federal Plaza, very close to the John C. Kluczynski Federal Building.
The public can visit the location of Calder’s Flamingo 24 hours a day. You can see it from the main road. The closest subway station is the blue line, Jackson located on Jackson Boulevard. You can also get there from W. Adam Street.
GO TO THESE RESTAURANTS TO EAT LOCAL PIZZA
16| Pequod’s Pizza
Pequod’s Pizza is regarded by many as the best place to eat pizza in Chicago. They serve the perfect deep dish pizza that has a caramelized crust. You can dine in, take out, or they can deliver to where you are in Chicago. This pizza restaurant is extremely busy and the waiting time is very long. Some people go to check in then go away to do other things. You can also order online and reserve a table on their website. The location of Pequod’s Pizza is 2207 N. Clybourn Avenue, Chicago—it is about 5 miles away from the tourists hotspots like the Cloud Gate (Millenium Park) but it is worth a visit.
17| Hard Rock Cafe Chicago
If you need a guide to the best restaurants to eat local pizza then Hard Rock Cafe is one the best places. It is hard to miss Hard Rock Cafe in Chicago—the place is marked by a giant guitar outside and considered a Chicago attraction in its own right. This is an American restaurant that has a rock n roll theme. The location is 63 W. Ontario Street, Chicago. See Hard Rock Cafe website for current opening hours and menu items.
Bonus Restaurant| Bacci Pizza
Bacci Pizza is a family owned gem in Chicago that has been operational for so many years. The locals love going to this restaurant offering different tastes—from Italian tastes to veggie choices. This is a pizza chain that has different locations in Chicago. Visit their website for more information.
OTHER PLACES TO VISIT IN CHICAGO
This is the Atmospheric Wave Wall created by the artist Olafur Eliasson. It is found outside the Willis Tower at 233 S Wacker Dr, Chicago.
18| FIELD MUSEUM
The Field Museum is the oldest place you will come across in Chicago. The museum takes part in education, research and Science. This is a good place to learn about the past world and the present world. The museum has a library worth 250,000 volumes of books and 20 million items in collections.
This is the place where you will get to see the remains of amazing animals that lived in the past, like the largest dinosaur that was ever discovered. The museum takes interest in cultures that made an impact in the civilization of the world, for instance China.
There are a lot of things to explore at the Field Museum. Take time to look inside Ancient Egypt and discover how the Egyptians lived and how they buried the dead. The other fun thing you can do is to learn science, observe scientists and learn how DNA is tested.
Also, you can look at the collection of gems and stones in the museum. The sparkling looks will amaze you. The field museum is one place that will leave you inspired and educated.
Location of The Field Museum is 1400 S. Lake Shore Drive. To see current opening hours and entrance information, visit their website.
19| MUSEUM OF CONTEMPORARY ART
The Museum of Contemporary Art was established in 1967 and it is the world’s largest contemporary art institution. If you are looking for arts and culture, then this is the place to be. The museum has a collection of over 2,500 pieces that include rotating exhibitions, paintings, sculptures and film. The location of the museum is 220 East Chicago Avenue. You pay a small fee to enter.
Make sure to check out the theater and enjoy the dance, music, and multidisciplinary arts. For food, visit the museum’s restaurant ‘Marisol’. The restaurant has a beautiful interior design by artist Chris Ofili.
20| LEGOLAND Discovery Center
This huge indoor space is filled with LEGO exhibits and thrilling rides that will make you work with your hands and legs. LEGOLAND Discovery Center has master builders showing visitors how to construct LEGO structures. Kids as well as adults have fun here. One of the most impressive builds is at Minila–1.5 million bricks made of this replica of Chicago City.
LEGO activities include Kingdom Quest. In this quest, you hop on the kingdom quest mini coaster and try to save a kidnapped princess. Try not to miss the LEGO 4D Cinema. Visitors use 3D glasses to experience characters that are brought to life. Their 4D movies include sound, wind, fog and lighting effects.
Apart from that, visitors can explore Merlin’s Apprentice Ride. This is a six-two cart that requires one to pedal to reach the stars. Also enjoy the Lego Jungle Expedition. This game required only the brave who are willing to meet life-size Lego animals. Similarly, you can take part in Pirate Adventure Island. This adventure requires a lot of jumping around. For current opening hours and admission fee visit their website. The address is 601 N. Martingale Road, Suite 130, Schaumburg.
21| CHICAGO HISTORY MUSEUM
The Chicago History Museum keeps permanent and temporary exhibits relating to local history. Here you will find records of how the Great Chicago Fire affected the city in 1871. The first thing that you will see as you enter the Museum are galleries that are inspired by different themes. Explore galleries of the most outstanding leaders and the first- ever L car which you can board and have some fun.
The Chicago Museum is a sensory friendly Museum. Visitors can have that multi-sensory experience of the past by hearing the Great fire and hopping on a high-wheel bicycle. Also, the Museum is the best place to learn about Abraham Lincoln, the former president of the United States of America. Facts about his assassination and the civil war are displayed here. The address of the Chicago History Museum is 1601 N. Clark Street, Chicago.
22| MUSEUM OF SCIENCE AND INDUSTRY
The Museum of Science and Industry is the largest science museum in the country with about 14 exhibits. The museum caters for all ages and is crucial in inspiring thousands of youth to study science subjects. For science enthusiasts, visiting this museum is one thing you must do in Chicago. The coal mine was the first exhibit at the Museum of Science and Industry. Visitors learn about mining machinery—they go down the mineshaft and they go through the mining process.
Visitors will also get a chance to explore a real German submarine. Take part in the Extreme Ice Exhibit and explore how glaciers diminish and how that affects climate change. There is also something for those who love mathematics; learn mathematics in a fun way through numbers in nature and mirror maze. The Museum has so much to offer, it attracts a lot of visitors every year. Most of these visitors are educators and students.
Visitors can also take part in Science exhibits. They get a chance to control a tornado inside a towering vortex. The most iconic exhibit you do not want to miss is the Exhibit You. This is a 3D interactive giant heart that showcases what one’s heart is like. The location of The Museum of Science and Industry is 5700 S. DuSable Lake Shore Drive, Chicago. See their website for ticket prices and opening hours.
23| FRANK LLOYD WRIGHT HOME
Frank Lloyd Wright was an architect in the 20th Century. He was a role model because he changed the style of modern architecture. He was able to use nature in his architecture. One of Wright’s icon designs is Fallingwater (Mill Run). The house sits on a rock above a gushing waterfall. Before Wright’s home became a museum, it was an experimental place for his work.
The Museum offers a 60 minutes self-guided audio tour to visitors. Experience the life of the architect from 1889 until 1909. Explore the studio where all the magic happened, the birthplace of all his design ideas. Wright and his team designed about 125 structures. Some of these structures include Unity Temple, Robie House and the Larkin Building. The address is 951 Chicago Ave, Oak Park. You pay to enter.
24| AMERICAN WRITERS MUSEUM
The American Writers Museum will get you connected to your favorite author. You will find different forms of writing at this museum—poetry, lyrics, novels and speeches. There are also galleries dedicated to children’s literature. Here you will meet famous Chicago writers and many much more.
The museum keeps five centuries of literary history and it takes pride in educating visitors. You’ll also get a chance to dive into the mind of a writer and learn about the writing process. Learn more about authors through interactive exhibits and multi-touch tables. The location of The American Writers Museum is 180 North Michigan Ave, Chicago. Ticket prices and entry hours are on their website.
25| ERNEST HEMMINGWAY BIRTHPLACE HOME
Ernest Hemmingway, a Nobel Prize winner, was a famous author who lived in Chicago for about 20 years. Take a tour at his birthplace home and reflect on how his home and family influenced him to become an author. Visitors will get a 45 minutes tour of his home. A guide will be there to help you get an insight of the home. Ernest’s room is on the second floor, and it is rich in Victorian decoration. After that, you can explore her mother’s parlor. This is where she taught music lessons.
Check out the family library; Enerst was a book lover, he spent much of his time reading and acting out poems and stories. The top floor was a museum where his father Dr. Hammingway kept his specimens. More information is on their website.
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