top place to visit in chicago

All products and listings featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. If you purchase something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

North America Chevron

United States Chevron

Illinois Chevron

Chicago Chevron

23 Best Things to Do in Chicago

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.

Recommended

By signing up you agree to our User Agreement (including the class action waiver and arbitration provisions ), our Privacy Policy & Cookie Statement and to receive marketing and account-related emails from Traveller. You can unsubscribe at any time. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.

The 10 best things to do in Chicago

Aug 11, 2024 • 8 min read

Chicago has plenty to see and do, from impressive skyscrapers and green parks to fascinating museums and moody speakeasies. Shutterstock

No matter what kind of vacation vibe you want to roll with, the Windy City has you covered. Chicago is the Midwest's big-hitter, blending top-notch museums and iconic landmarks with hip neighborhoods and views across the silvery waters of Lake Michigan.

Whether you're here for a break packed with iconic Chicago landmarks such as the Bean, the Chicago Picasso or Navy Pier, a cultured circuit around museums and theatres, or some chill-out time in up-and-coming burbs like the North Side’s Andersonville, Chicago keeps the good times rolling.

To make things easy, most parts of the city can be reached by L or Metra train , but with so much on offer, where do you start? Listen to the locals, of course. Here are the 10 best ways to experience Chicago like those who know it best – before you know it, you'll be navigating the Windy City like a pro.

1. Take yourself out to the ball game

As the home turf of the Chicago Cubs (at historic Wrigley Field ), the Chicago White Sox (MLB), the Chicago Bears (NFL), the Chicago Bulls (NBA), the Chicago Sky (WNBA), the Chicago Blackhawks (NHL), the Chicago Fire FC (soccer) and the Chicago Red Stars (NWSL), it’s safe to say that Chicago is a sports town.

On any given day, you'll find a game somewhere, with fans filling up arenas, stadiums and bars, and rooting for their favorite players. Plus, Chicago has a long legacy of league championships, so there's a good chance of catching a make-or-break game featuring top talent.

Planning tip:  Tickets to major games sell out quickly, so book seats well in advance if there's a particular match you hope to catch. Accommodation prices also shoot up at peak times , including during championships – book ahead to avoid disappointment.

The perfect 48 hours in Chicago

2. Dive into Chicago’s cocktail scene 

The Violet Hour is said to be the birthplace of craft cocktails in Chicago, and no visit would be complete without a drink at one of the city’s original speakeasies. Look for a yellow light on North Damen Avenue in Wicker Park marking the bar’s entrance – if the light is on, they're open for business.

Once you cross the threshold, the lights dim, and sound hushes behind towering velvet curtains that open to reveal a sleek space for sipping the creations of the house mixologists. Be sure to keep your phone on silent and dress as if you’re meeting the parents to ensure admittance. 

If you can’t get enough of Chicago’s speakeasies, add The Drifter to your list. It's located on the lower level of River North’s iconic Green Door Tavern ,  the city’s oldest drinking hole; find the entrance en route to the bathroom behind a bookshelf. And the best part? Vaudeville shows play every hour (expect to pay a cover). 

Another top pick is Lady Bird , nestled in the basement of the Hoxton in the West Loop . This atmospheric bar features live music (jazz, soul and rock) Thursday through Saturday and it evokes a nostalgic 1960s glam.

3. Find Chicago's magic 

Some of the most prominent magicians in the industry reside in Chicago, so i t’s little wonder the city has become the hub for a burgeoning magic scene. In the Loop, spectators can get dolled up for an intimate night of misdirection with Dennis Watkins , a third-generation magician, at the opulent Palmer House Hilton . Dress well to fit in with this smart crowd.

If you prefer something more laid-back, head north to the Chicago Magic Lounge on North Clark Street. In true magic show fashion, the entrance is disguised – as a laundromat. A wall of washing machines swings open to reveal a host ready to guide you to the auditorium show or the bar, where bartenders serve up close-hand magic alongside delicious drinks.

Planning tip:  The Magic Lounge hosts a family matinee show every other Sunday, open to everyone aged five and up – perfect for the whole family!

4. Groove to the Chicago blues

No musical genre is as closely tied to Chicago as the blues – the electric blues, to be more precise. When Muddy Waters and friends plugged into their amps in the 1950s, guitar grooves reached new decibel levels, and the Chicago blues scene was born.

You can still hear the real deal in clubs around town, such as Buddy Guy's Legends , where the icon himself sometimes takes the stage, or Rosa's Lounge , where the vibe is a bit more down and dirty. Held in Millennium Park in June, the Chicago Blues Festival attracts top talent.

Planning Tip: T he blues paved the way for rock and roll, and you'll find cool little venues hosting edgy indie bands slouching on many a street corner. Thalia Hall , Hideout and Reggies are good places to start.

5. Shop local in Chicago's cool neighborhoods

Chicago is a vibrant collection of neighborhoods . T o really experience the city like a local, go beyond the Loop, avoid Michigan Avenue and support local neighborhood stores that reflect the city’s diverse make-up. 

Andersonville sits on the North Side and has intriguing Swedish roots. The Clark Street passage between Foster and Bryn Mawr is littered with nostalgic shops that give off Wes Anderson vibes, while Wicker Park and Bucktown  tailor their scenes to local hipsters and young families.

If you continue south to Little Village, you'll find a Mexican-dominated hub that's the city’s second-highest-grossing district for shopping. Pop into Comercio Popular to buy from unique artisans and catch events imported straight from Mexico . 

End your retail tour in Hyde Park, home to Michelle and Barack Obama (when they’re in Chicago). The Silver Room is a must – this Black-owned store features various products that put Black culture and Black artisans in the spotlight.

Planning Tip: Michigan Avenue is touristy and big-brand oriented, but it's worth visiting between Thanksgiving and Christmas for seasonal decorations and festive storefronts.

6. Dine at award-winning restaurants 

Over the years, Chicago's reputation as a culinary destination has flourished. You'll find well-loved stalwarts like deep-dish pizza parlor Gino's East , but also imaginative new openings popping up all over the city.

The James Beard Awards arrived in Chicago in 2015, with plans to stick around until 2027, largely thanks to local chefs such as Grant Achatz, Stephanie Izard, Bill Kim and Carlos Gaytan. For high-end dining, head to the West Loop and take your pick of top culinary artists. Joe Flamm’s Rosemary , an Italian-Croatian restaurant, is one of the city’s hotspots, while Swift & Sons caters to the power dining crowd, and the scattered branches of Beatrix  deliver top-notch brunch.

For anyone looking to splurge, book a reservation at Next for their unique dining experiences. For more low-key, budget-friendly fare, head to the Athenian Room in Lincoln Park and try their chicken kalamata (a Tina Fey favorite) . Other reliable spots include Oasis in the Loop (located in the back of a jewelry shop) and Carniceria A guascalientes on West 26th Street in Little Village.   

7. Make the most of Millennium Park

In the playful heart of Chicago, Millennium Park shines with whimsical public art. Go ahead, walk under Anish Kapoor's Cloud Gate – aka "the Bean" – and touch its silvery smoothness. Let the human gargoyles of Jaume Plensa’s Crown Fountain shower you with water to cool down in summer, or unfurl a blanket by Frank Gehry's swooping silver  Jay Pritzker Pavilion as the sun dips and gorgeous live music fills the twilight air. 

Planning tip:  Check out the schedule of free summer concerts in Millenium Park – jazz and world music on Mondays and Thursdays, and classical music on Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays as part of the Grant Park Music Festival .

8. Take a Windy City tour  

Want to know all of Chicago's secrets? Take a guided tour to uncover lesser-known facts and all sorts of insider information that will help you win Trivia Night back home. The river cruise run by the Chicago Architecture Foundation is popular with architecture buffs; it now runs during the day and at sunset with indoor and outdoor seating.

If you want to explore  Chicago's neighborhoods more fully,  book a tour run by TikTok historian Shermann “Dilla” Thomas , who leads fascinating walks through Bridgeport/Stockyard, Bronzeville or Pullman/Roseland with his company Chicago Mahogany Tours .

9. Feel the fun of the fair on Navy Pier

Stretching away from the skyline and into the blue of Lake Michigan, the half-mile-long Navy Pier is one of Chicago’s most visited attractions. Its charms revolve around cool breezes and sweet views, especially from the vertigo-inducing, 196ft-tall Ferris wheel.

High-tech rides, splash fountains, big boats and greasy snacks blow the minds of young ones, while l ive music, Shakespearean theater and whopping fireworks displays entertain older visitors. A smart renovation has added inviting public plazas, performance spaces, art installations and free cultural events.

Planning Tip; The lakefront speedboat tours that leave from Navy Pier are an enjoyable way to admire the city from the water. 

10. Laugh out loud at a Chicago show

A group of jokesters began performing intentionally unstructured skits in a Chicago bar a half-century ago, and voilà – improv comedy was born. Second City still nurtures the best in the biz, though several other improv theaters also work magic with suggestions hollered up by the audience. 

There's more to see on stage than comedy. Among the city's 200 theaters are powerhouse drama stages such as Hollywood-star-laden Steppenwolf  and heaps of fringey, provocative "off-Loop" companies, such as The Neo-Futurists .

This article was first published Jun 16, 2021 and updated Aug 11, 2024.

Explore related stories

Aug 10, 2024 • 6 min read

Famous for its icy winters, steamy summers and busy cultural calendar, Chicago has something going on in every season. Here are the top times to visit.

Aug 1, 2024 • 6 min read

Jul 23, 2024 • 9 min read

Jul 10, 2024 • 9 min read

Jun 11, 2024 • 4 min read

Mar 15, 2024 • 10 min read

Feb 19, 2024 • 7 min read

Feb 1, 2024 • 7 min read

Jan 24, 2024 • 7 min read

Oct 7, 2023 • 14 min read

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Newsletters
• Sweepstakes
• Destinations

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.

Related Articles

Home » Travel Guides » United States » Illinois (IL) » 15 Best Things to Do in Downtown Chicago

15 Best Things to Do in Downtown Chicago

When you’re visiting Chicago, head for the downtown district and you’ll be in The Loop. It’s more than an urban spread of cloud-high skyscrapers and cultural recreation centers. You’ll be amazed by what you find.

The Loop is a community area of the city which covers over one and a half square miles, is fronted by the stunning shoreline of Lake Michigan and backed by the Chicago River. There are lakeside trails, riverside walks, and enormous parks as well as museums, art galleries, and historical monuments.

While you may be in the city, you can be forgiven for thinking you’re in a coastal resort as there are several beaches within a few minutes of the Loop too. Downtown Chicago really is a suburb of the city which has it all and more. Don’t miss out on any of these fifteen fantastic things to do while you’re there. You’ll be kicking yourself if you do.

1. Boat Cruise

By day or night one of the best ways to take in the Loop skyline is from on the water. Board a boat at the Navy Pier and be prepared to be impressed by sights of Downtown Chicago as you sail by. Whether you take a cruise down the Chicago River or on Lake Michigan, you’ll get stunning and unforgettable panoramic views of iconic buildings and the Loop’s prominent monuments.

There are lunch, brunch or dinner cruises. Cruises for sightseeing or ones which offer educational information on the city’s architecture. For adrenaline junkies, there are speedboat tours and extreme thrill rides which will get your heart pumping as you speed over the water at 45 mph.

For the romantics, watch the fireworks display on Navy Pier light up the night sky from a cruise boat. Combine that with dinner onboard and a spot of dancing for a perfect night out Loop-style.

2. The Picasso

Catch an eyeful of The Picasso. An arresting, unnamed sculpture which dominates the Loop’s Daley Plaza. The weighty steel sculpture stands around fifty-foot tall, and is the subject of an ongoing, fifty-year long debate as to what it actually represents.

Is it a winged horse, a dog or a Cubist representation of a preferred model? Your guess will be as good as anyone else’s. The Picasso, or the Chicago Picasso, which was a gift to the city from the famous French artist, makes an unusual and outstanding presence in the plaza. The sculpture has also been a background prop in several well-known movies and as strange a visage as it has, it’s surprisingly photogenic.

The sculpture makes an interesting centerpiece in the plaza during the festive or farmer’s markets and music events which are held there regularly.

Related tour : Chicago’s Modern Skyscrapers Guided Walking Tour

3. Pizza, Popcorn & Pumpkin Pie,

There are three things you just have to try when you’re in Downtown Chicago. They’re all iconic foodstuffs which the city claims to have created or has adopted as its own.

Chicago-style pizza is double deep-dish high and when its cut, as thick as a slice of cake. Oozing with chunky tomato sauce, melted cheese and layer upon layer of whatever other ingredient takes your fancy, it’s been a staple comfort food of the city for over seventy years. Sink your teeth into a slice at Pizano’s on Madison Street or Giordano’s on Randolph Street.

Chicago-style popcorn is an unusual, but tasty combination of two different flavors of popcorn. Cheesy kernels are mixed with others which have been coated with caramel for a unique taste sensation which has not just Chicago, but the whole state of Illinois, addicted. No one knows for sure how it came about and no one’s too worried so long as they keep making it. You can get yourself a bucketful at Garrett’s on E Madison Street.

The official pie of the state of Illinois is pumpkin pie. Spiced with cinnamon and with a pastry crust base to keep all that pumpkin custard under control, it’s a filling sweet treat. Don’t miss out on grabbing a slice or two while you’re in the Loop.

4. Willis Tower Skydeck

The Willis Tower or the Sears Tower as it’s also known once held the number one position as the tallest building in the world. While it’s now been surpassed by several others, its observation deck is still the highest in the US at one thousand three hundred and fifty-three dizzying feet. There are incredible views of Chicago and Lake Madison through the deck’s windows.

If you’ve got the nerve, you can make the experience even more memorable. Step onto The Ledge, a glass-walled and glass-floored box which juts four feet out of the building – one hundred and three floors above the ground.

If you’re on the Ledge and feel as if you’re developing vertigo, don’t worry. It’ll just the building swaying in the wind.

Book online : Chicago Skydeck Experience Ticket

5. Lakefront Trail

The Lakeside Trail is a nineteen mile long, asphalt and concrete pathway which runs adjacent to Lake Michigan shoreline from the South Shore Cultural Center in Chicago to the city’s Kathy Osterman Beach. Part of the trail runs through the Loop, and it’s the ideal place to get some fresh air and exercise.

Renting a bicycle or a pair of inline skates is a fun thing to do if you don’t want to walk or jog. You can access the trail from Grant Park or E Monroe Street as well as various other points throughout the Loop.

Riding or walking out to the Adler Planetarium is recommended. You’ll get some great views of the Loop skyline from there.

6. Historic Route 66 Sign

Head to East Adams Street, just off South Michigan Avenue in Downtown Chicago and look up. You’ll find a surprising historic monument there which will make a great photo for your Instagram account. Snap a shot with the historic Route 66 sign to get your own personal memento of the iconic highway.

Route 66 is probably the most well-known highway in the world and has been immortalized in films, songs and stories. The original road was almost four thousand miles long and stretched from Chicago right the way across the US to Santa Monica in California. It begins, and ends, in the Loop.

7. Grant Park

Grant Park is the Loop’s three-hundred and nineteen-acre green space which is bordered by Lake Michigan. Its wide boulevards are perfect for strolling; there are numerous flower gardens, fountains, monuments, and a three-acre skate park.

Inside its boundaries, Grant Park encompasses three other parks, the Millennium, the Maggie Daley and the Hutchinson Field, which offer visitors access to sporting facilities and artwork. Two marinas, a university campus and the Art Institute of Chicago. It’s also where the Petrillo Music Shell, the Cloud Gate and the Buckingham Fountain are. All of those, you can read about further on.

The park hosts amazing food and music festivals throughout the year. Time your visit to coincide with The Taste Chicago, Lollapalooza or the Chicago Blues Festival and you’ll see the park thronged with crowds.

Don’t miss out on seeing the Agora, a weird and wonderful sculpture comprised of over a hundred headless and armless figures. It’s definitely photo-worthy.

8. Buddy Guy’s Legends

When you’re in Downtown Chicago, there’s one thing you have to do, and that’s listen to some Blues. In the Loop, one of the best clubs to do that is Buddy Guy’s Legends.

The club is owned by Blues legend Buddy Guy, winner of seven Grammy awards plus a whole lot more and has influenced more musicians than he’s had hot dinners. Now at the age of eighty-one, he’s not on the stage every night, but other top Blues musicians are.

There are live shows nightly and an in-house restaurant which serves Louisiana soul food in honor of Buddy’s ancestral roots.

9. Cloud Gate

The Cloud Gate is one public sculpture you can’t walk past without noticing. The one hundred ton, shiny stainless steel “bean” which was inspired by a droplet of mercury, is eye-boggling.

The Cloud Gate is in the AT&T Plaza in Millennium Park. Walk underneath the Gate’s arch and look up to see a distorted version of yourself and those around you. It’s an unusual experience.

Stand at a distance from the Cloud Gate to capture a photo of the Loop’s twisted skyscrapers reflected on the sculpture’s curved surface. Amazing.

10. Loop Retail Historic District

The Loop Retail Historic District is much more than departments stores. This area of the Loop which covers over twenty-six acres is full of historic buildings and landmarks which are just as interesting from the outside as they are on the inside.

If you feel the need to shop, step into Macy’s on State Street. The store covers a full eight floors of retail space and ranks as the second largest store in the world. Clock the two seven-ton timepieces attached to the corners of the building before you go in because once you’re inside, you’ll forget about time completely.

11. Riverside Walk

Wander down the Loop’s Riverside Walk, and you’ll find more than a towpath running alongside the water.

The mile and a quarter long paved pathway is lined with beer gardens, restaurants with terraces and cafes. More than just a walk by the riverside, the Riverside Walk is one of the best social hubs in Downtown Chicago.

Don’t miss out on trying a traditional and handmade Italian ice cream from the old-fashioned handcart. Their flavors are to sigh for.

12. The Art Institute Of Chicago

The Art Institute of Chicago, on South Michigan Avenue in Grants Park, may be housed in what looks like a forbidding mausoleum, but inside it’s an absolute trove of treasures.

It takes a full day to browse around as there is so much to see. The museum has over three-hundred thousand permanent exhibitions plus hosts countless temporary exhibits throughout the year.

The artworks are not restricted to American artists. There are numerous and varied collections displaying the works of notable artists from all over the world in multiple forms which range from oils and watercolors to photographs, prints, textiles, and furniture.

Book online : Art Institute of Chicago Skip-the-Line Ticket

13. Buckingham Fountain

The Clarence Buckingham Memorial Fountain, to give it its full title, is not only the centerpiece of Grants Park and the symbolic feature of the city of Chicago, it is one of the largest fountains in the world.

The magnificent fountain is tiered in layer upon layer of pink marble, surrounded by eight seahorses and has a central jet which spurts water to a phenomenal height of one-hundred and fifty feet.

Catch the hourly water shows from the middle of April through to mid-October or the evening performances when the sprays dance in rhythm with lights and music. Impressive.

14. Petrillo Music Shell

If there’s an outdoor music festival happening in the Loop, it’ll be happening at the Petrillo Music Shell in Grants Park.

The Shell houses a massive stage plus all the high-tech sound and lighting equipment needed to satisfy even the most discerning of performers and audiences. It’s fronted by tiered seating for five thousand and enough lawn space to accommodate thirty thousand spectators more.

Whether you watch the live bands performing at the Taste of Chicago or attend the Chicago Blues Festival there, guaranteed, the atmosphere will be buzzing.

15. Miller’s Pub

Eat, drink and maybe spot a celebrity at one of the Loop’s oldest establishments. Miller’s Pub, on S Wabash Street, has been operating since 1935 and has been in the ownership of its current proprietors since 1950.

Check out the gallery of famous faces on the picture wall, then sit back in one of the booths and enjoy a rack of Miller’s infamous ribs or their trademarked, HenryJ corned beef hash followed by a slice of Key Lime Pie.

Miller’s is a Loop tradition, don’t miss out on dining there.

15 Best Things to Do in Downtown Chicago:

• Boat Cruise
• The Picasso
• Pizza, Popcorn & Pumpkin Pie,
• Willis Tower Skydeck
• Lakefront Trail
• Historic Route 66 Sign
• Buddy Guy's Legends
• Loop Retail Historic District
• Riverside Walk
• The Art Institute Of Chicago
• Buckingham Fountain
• Petrillo Music Shell
• Miller's Pub

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.

1. Visit the Art Institute of Chicago

2. walk through millennium park, 3. stroll around navy pier, 4. reach for the stars at adler planetarium, 5. museum of science and industry, 6. see the view from the willis tower skydeck, 7. watch the water show at buckingham fountain, 8. 360 chicago, 9. field museum of natural history, 10. michigan avenue and the magnificent mile, 11. take a tour or see a game at wrigley field, 12. lincoln park, 13. shedd aquarium, 14. lincoln park zoo, 15. chicago riverwalk and lakefront trail, 16. oriental institute museum, 17. the rookery building, 18. 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.

More on Illinois

Discover your Chicago Style

Chicago is a city that does things its own way. We’re the birthplace of the skyscraper, a city within a garden, a place with big city culture and a welcoming Midwestern soul.

Come discover your own Chicago style — and find why Condé Nast Traveler readers voted Chicago the Best Big City in the country for a historic seven years in a row.

Start exploring

Summer in Chicago

There’s nothing like summer in Chicago. Explore top beaches, music festivals, rooftop bars, blockbuster museum exhibits, and more this summer.

Plan your Chicago style summer 

Festivals & events

Some of this year’s top events are just around the corner, including Chicago Gourmet, Chicago Jazz Festival, and Taste of Chicago.

Free things to do

Discover free and cheap things to do all month long, from live music to neighborhood tours to free museum days.

Explore free things to do

Chicago is proud to welcome the 2024 Democratic National Convention to our great city. Discover things to do while you’re here with our curated guides.

Find your Chicago style

There are tons of ways to experience Chicago. Find yours here.

• Experiences

First-time visit

Accessibility

Couple’s trip

Hidden gems

On a budget

Classic Chicago

Festivals & special events

Tours and attractions

Food & drink

Museums and culture

Theatre & performing arts

Music & nightlife

Parks & outdoors

Chicago sports

New and trending

Chicago holidays and celebrations

See chicago like a local.

See the city through the eyes of the people who know it best — Chicago locals. Read our blog for insider tips and guides.

Blog , Special events

How chicago is hosting the most accessible democratic national convention in history.

Special events

Meet the chicago businesses in the spotlight during the democratic national convention 2024 .

Things to do in Chicago this weekend

Blog , Neighborhoods

Take a global food tour in chicago’s west ridge neighborhood.

25+ Chicago spots to check out for National Wellness Month

45+ things to do in Chicago this August

See all blog posts

Home to unique neighborhoods

Chicago is a city of neighborhoods, each with its own vibe and personality.

See all neighborhoods

Upcoming events

• This weekend

Museums, Galleries & Exhibitions , Tours & Attractions

Level up: writers & gamers.

American Writers Museum

Museums, Galleries & Exhibitions

Chicago: home of house exhibit.

Tours & Attractions

Open your eyes: explore chicago’s underground pedway & other secrets of the loop.

Chicago Pedway

Music & Comedy , Theatre & Performing Arts

The infinite wrench.

The Neo-Futurist Theater

Neighborhood Pop-Ups Summer Series

Walking Tour: Haunted by Our Dark Side

Inside Chicago Walking Tours

Theatre & Performing Arts

Chicago dance month’s wave wall.

Wave Wall Wax at Navy Pier

Navy Pier, 600 E Grand Ave, Chicago, IL 60611, United States

Festivals, Fairs & Special Events

Celebrating chicago at daley plaza.

Daley Civic Center

Loop as Lab: Reshaping Downtowns

Chicago Architecture Center

View all upcoming events

Explore hotels, flights, deals, and more

Plan your trip.

Chicago Newsletter

Stay in the know.

Visitors Guide

Start planning today.

Get the guide

Your Favorites

Quick access links.

• Meet the Team
• Our Manifesto
• Work with Us
• Budget Travel
• Personal Development
• Work & Travel
• United Kingdom
• More of Europe
• Philippines
• More of Southeast Asia
• More of South America
• More of Central America
• South Korea
• More of Asia
• More of North America
• New Zealand
• Pacific Islands
• More of Oceania
• South Africa
• More of Africa
• More of the Middle East
• Travel Essentials
• Travel Gear

Home » North America » Chicago

37 BEST Places to Visit in Chicago (2024)

Everyone’s heard of the windy city and it’s an incredibly popular destination for tourists from inside and outside of the US. Chicago is known for its amazing food, especially the unusual pizzas they have there, as well as iconic buildings that reflect this city’s tumultuous past. And if you’re looking for entertainment, there’s always something going on in Chicago for every taste, from concerts to theater and a vibrant nightlife.

But Chicago isn’t all pizza, history and entertainment. It also has a darker side that makes some people reluctant to visit the city. It’s sometimes called one of the most dangerous cities in the US, with a higher than average crime rate, and yet this isn’t the full story. Careful travelers rarely ever see this side of the city. Instead, they spend all their time enjoying everything that Chicago has to offer. If this is what you want for your trip to Chicago, we’ve created a guide on how to stay safe while exploring this exciting part of the US.

Need a place quick? Here’s the best neighbourhood in Chicago:

These are the best places to visit in chicago, faq on the best places to visit in chicago, final thoughts on the coolest places to visit in chicago.

Downtown/The Loop

Home to the city’s business district, this area of Chicago is packed with skyscrapers, lively theatres, and picturesque architectural landmarks. Walking distance away from Chicago’s best attractions, you’ll get to explore a lot.

• Take a picture at Cloud Gate, the iconic Bean sculpture.
• Climb to the 99th floor of Willis Tower and enjoy sweeping views out over the city.
• Dig into an exquisite Italian dinner at Trattoria No. 10.

Hold off on that deep dish for a second because although we know you want to get going, we think you should check out where to stay in Chicago first. It’s a sprawling and diverse city, so we’ve condensed all of our recommendation options down for you. Give it a whirl and then get back to your deep dish.

Unlock Our GREATEST Travel Secrets!

Sign up for our newsletter and get the best travel tips delivered right to your inbox.

#1 – Shedd Aquarium – Awesome place to visit in Chicago with kids!

The Broke Backpacker is supported by you . Clicking through our links may earn us a small affiliate commission, and that's what allows us to keep producing free content 🙂 Learn more .

• More than 80 different habitats.
• Great for kids and adults as well.
• Has live animal shows and encounters if you want to get up close and personal.

Why it’s so awesome : There’s nothing like a great aquarium. They’re a chance to get out of the heat and spend time marvelling at a whole different world. The animals that live under the sea are some of the strangest and most amazing creatures in the world, which is why spending time learning about them can create a fascination that lasts a lifetime.

What to do there : Spend some time while you’re at this aquarium so you get the chance to see all the exhibits. The Shedd Aquarium has more than 80 different habitats, so you’ll probably see a few sea animals that you’ve never even heard of before let alone seen. But if you still want more, you can have a penguin encounter and be introduced to one of these adorable, tuxedoed animals, or see a live animal show featuring some of the aquarium’s most amazing residents. Some of Chicago’s best hostels are located nearby so you could go multiple times and not pay for transport if you wish!

#2 – The Art Institute of Chicago

• Voted one of the best art museums in the world by travelers.
• Home to some of the most famous paintings in the world.
• A great place for art lovers.

Why it’s awesome : Have you ever heard of American Gothic with the farmer and his wife standing with the pitchfork? Or wanted to see a work created by Van Gogh in real life? Well, you can do all of that here. The Chicago art museum is one of the best in the world and now it includes the recently completed Modern Wing, which houses artwork from around the world and from different times in history.

What to do there : Make sure you take a look at the Modern Wing with its artwork from ancient Greece and Rome. Another favorite houses the Thorne Miniature rooms, which have tiny, detailed houses from key times in European and American history. You’ll quite literally be able to see how people from other times lived and marvel at the amount of detail in each piece.

Save more and experience more. Get a city pass before you travel.

#3 – Second City

• Some of the best comics in the world started out here!
• A fun night out for groups and people on their own.
• Make sure you stick around for the encore to see new material.

Why it’s so awesome : Steve Carrell, Tina Fey, Bill Murray and Chris Farley all started out at this venue. Second City has been the home of the best comedy in the city for a long time and that hasn’t changed. When you attend a show at this location, you’ll get to see some of the best comedy sketches in the world, which will make for a laughter-filled evening.

What to do there: Check what’s on and when while you’re in the city and make sure you reserve your seat! And once the show’s over, stay there until the encore’s finished too, because this is when the comedians improvise, and that’s sometimes funnier than the rest of the show!

#4 – The Empty Bottle – A nice non-touristy place to visit in Chicago

• One of the best rock and roll clubs in the US!
• A chance for you to see the best newcomers to the music scene.
• Is the perfect location for a night out with friends.
• This club is mostly for the locals, so you probably won’t see too many tourists while you’re there.

Why it’s so awesome : If you like rock and roll then you must spend an evening at the Empty Bottle. This is a small club that books some of the best music acts in town, and the venue has become a rite of passage for up-and-coming bands. If you are lucky enough to visit Chicago on a weekend then this place will really come alive.

What to do there : Take your friends, get there early, and enjoy the music. The club has a maximum capacity of about 300, so make sure you’re there early so you don’t get locked out. And if you’re there on a Monday, take advantage of the slow night special to see a free show.

Want to save money on accommodation?

We got you. For reals.

#5 – The 360 Chicago

• Has a one of a kind open Skywalk.
• Gives a gorgeous view of some of Chicago’s prime tourist spots.
• Great for photographers.

Why it’s so awesome : This attraction boasts the fastest elevator in North America, which will take you up to the 94th floor in 40 seconds. There you can look out over the city and spot some of Chicago’s best tourist attractions from a bird’s eye view. The site also has educational features where you can learn about the city’s history, its culture, and some of the architecture that you’re looking at.

What to do there : While you’re there, see how many of the city’s attractions you can spot from your sky-high view. And if you’re a history buff, you can explore the city’s past by spending some contemplating the history wall. But if you want a little more from your experience, try the TILT, which allows you to lean over the edge of the building to see the city from high up without any barriers. It’s hair-raising but almost worth the terror!

#6 – Adler Planetarium

• Great for kids and adults.
• A place to indulge the science geek in you.
• Includes hand on exhibitions and display that will fascinate you even if you aren’t a science buff.

Why it’s so awesome : This planetarium does its best to push back the pollution that crowds the skies of most big cities and show visitors the stars. With some of the most technologically advanced theaters in the world, you’ll get a closeup view of the universe in living color in this Planetarium, and walk away with a whole new appreciation of the size of the universe and our tiny place in it.

What to do there : Make sure you spend some time at the Galaxy Wall, which shows the largest and most complete picture of the Milky Way that we have at the moment. And check what shows they have on in the theaters too. Whether you’re a child or an adult who’s curious about the world, you’ll love learning about this side of the universe that most people only see through a telescope. This is one of the best things to do in Chicago by far.

A new country, a new contract, a new piece of plastic – booooring. Instead, buy an eSIM!

An eSIM works just like an app: you buy it, you download it, and BOOM! You’re connected the minute you land. It’s that easy.

Is your phone eSIM ready? Read about how e-Sims work or click below to see one of the top eSIM providers on the market and  ditch the plastic .

#7 – Museum of Science and Industry – Cool place to see in Chicago with friends!

• The largest science museum in the western hemisphere.
• The first museum in North American to get interactive displays.
• Great for kids and science lovers.

Why it’s so awesome : This museum is all about encouraging visitors to interact with the displays and this makes it one of the most interesting and personally relevant museums that you can spend time in. There is also a 5 story, wrap around theater where you can watch Omnimax shows and learn even more about the world around you!

What to do there : This is a museum where you should wander around and try everything. You can explore the weather through the Science Storms display, play basketball with a virtual instructor, and wander through a German submarine from World War II. Whatever you’re interested in, you’ll find something here that will help you learn more about it. School was never as fun as this!

#8 – The Field Museum – A fascinating educational place to visit in Chicago

• Travel through time billions of years in one place.
• Great for history buffs and people who want to learn more about how the world came to be.
• Kids will love the animal and dinosaur displays.

Why it’s so awesome : If you want to understand the history of the planet then this is the place to do it. The Field Museum explores billions of years of the world’s history in living, exciting color. And if you like your displays a little closer to home, there are also displays showing the history of human civilization as well as exciting exhibitions that will make you see the world from a whole new, much smaller perspective.

What to do there: Check out the Egyptian tomb with all the trimmings including a book of the dead, mummies and other artifacts. And make sure that you spend some time in the Underground Adventure exhibition, where you’ll explore the world from the view point of a creature that’s 1/100th of your size. From this perspective, spiders are enormous, and you’ll get to experience what it’s like to be hunted by one!

#9 – Navy Pier – An awesome place to visit in Chicago for half a day!

• A city within the city.
• Truly one of Chicago’s most iconic spots.
• There’s no end to the activities that you can indulge in here.

Why it’s so awesome : Navy Pier is one of the most popular spots in the city for tourists and locals alike. It consists of more than 50 acres of lakefront territory and is home to shopping centers, restaurants, gardens and lots of other attractions. This area is like a city within a city, with its own energy and vibe, and you could literally spend days here just seeing what it has to offer.

What to do there : Well, what are you interested in? Some of the most popular options are the river or dinner cruises, where you can take in the city from the water. There’s a 150-foot Ferris wheel that operates year-round as well as fireworks twice a week during the summer. And if you enjoy the theater, then you must go to one of the shows put on at the Chicago Shakespeare theater, which is one of the best in the world and dedicated to groundbreaking productions. And if none of that appeals, you can just wander the area, sightsee and shop!

If you really want to make a statement, you can consider chartering a yacht in Chicago which will take you anywhere you want to go on Lake Michigan and the river for a decent price.

#10 – Skydeck Chicago – One of the most amazing places in Chicago!

• The tallest building in the Western Hemisphere.
• Great for photographers and anyone who wants a shot of the iconic skyline of Chicago.
• The best place to take in the whole city.

Why it’s so awesome : This is the tallest building in the Western hemisphere and that makes it a great spot to get photographs of Chicago’s famous skyline . The observation deck is on the 103rd floor and you’ll be able to see some of Chicago’s most famous buildings from this vantage point. This is definitely not a place for people who are scared of heights, but it’s the best view in the city!

What to do there : If you’re really brave, you can step out onto The Ledge, a glass-enclosed balcony where there’s nothing between you and the city but air. Make sure you have a strong stomach if you try this because you’ll have a clear view all the way down. And it’s a really long way down. Otherwise, just take some great pictures with the skyline in the background and try to pick out some of the buildings you’ve already seen in your travels around the city!

#11 – Millennium Park – One of the most incredible free places to go to in Chicago

• A brand-new attraction that’s become one of the city’s hotspot.
• Holds hundreds of free concerts and events, so you’ll definitely get to see something good!
• A lovely natural area where you can escape from the busyness of the city.

Why it’s so awesome : Chicago is a busy city and sometimes it’s nice to get away from the streets and the pollution and spend time in a natural area. Millennium Park is the best place in the city to do that. Not only is it a beautiful park, but there are also lots of unique art pieces throughout the area for you to enjoy and sometimes puzzle over.

What to do there : While you’re in the Millennium Park, make sure you check out the Jay Pritzker Pavilion, where the city holds free concerts and events throughout the year. Even if you don’t catch a concert, the park is a lovely natural area so spending some time wandering around. And if you don’t like to walk, you can hire a bike or a Segway and see the park on wheels!

#12 – The Magnificent Mile – A great place in Chicago if you love to shop!

• Shopping, shopping, shopping.
• One of the busiest, most popular areas for tourists in the city.
• This area is also the heart of Chicago’s restaurant scene.

Why it’s so awesome : If you love to shop then this is where to come! The Magnificent Mile is basically a collection of streets where every shop you can imagine has a home. No matter what you’re looking for, you’ll find it here. And when you get tired, some of the best restaurants in Chicago are in this area. So, the only thing you’ll have to worry about is how to choose one!

What to do there : There are a lot of shops and a lot of streets included in this area so make sure you visit every one of them if you’re looking for something in particular! Whatever you’re looking for, from clothes to pet goods to jewelry, you’ll find it here, so just explore until you find some treasure!

Wanna know how to pack like a pro? Well for a start you need the right gear….

These are packing cubes for the globetrotters and compression sacks for the  real adventurers – these babies are a traveller’s best kept secret. They organise yo’ packing and minimise volume too so you can pack MORE.

Or, y’know… you can stick to just chucking it all in your backpack…

#13 – Grant Park – One of the most incredible free places to go in Chicago

• Over 300 acres of natural space.
• It includes bike trails and softball diamonds so you can play sports.
• It’s also known as a public art space, so there’s no shortage of things to see.

Why it’s so awesome : Grant Park is located between the city and the riverfront so it’s basically Chicago’s front yard. This is the perfect place to enjoy a bit of nature, get your blood pumping with some sports, or take advantage of the free music concerts that are frequently held in the area. There are also a number of art installations around the park, so no matter what you’re interested in, you’ll find something to occupy your time here.

What to do there : While you’re in the area you can go biking, play some softball or baseball, or just sit on the grass. The gardens themselves are gorgeous and well worth a look on their own, but you should also have a look at the headless figures dotted throughout the landscape. These art installations are striking and make an interesting statement about modern life.

#14 – Cloud Gate

• An odd, fascinating piece of artwork.
• A great place for photos.
• The ‘Bean’, as it’s known, as become Chicago’s most iconic piece of art.

Why it’s so awesome : Cloud Gate is a futuristic, silvery bean that was put in place during the grand opening of Millennium Park. It has a shiny exterior surface that reflects everything around it in a distorted and highly entertaining way. Looking at the bean is a little like being in a mirror house, except for the fact that everything from the sky to the buildings to the people are reflected, versus just a single person.

What to do there : There are pictures of the ‘bean’ all over social media, so why not join the crowd? You can get a great shot of the Chicago skyline all twisted by the surface of this slightly odd piece of artwork. But you can do more than look at it. This piece of art is meant to be touched and its shiny, smooth surface makes it irresistible, so don’t try to fight the urge!

#15 – The Chicago Theater

• Interesting architecture.
• The theater has played host to lots of big stars, so if you’re interested in celebrity culture then this is the place to go.

Why it’s so awesome : The theater itself is beautiful. It boasts a vertical Chicago sign that’s almost six stories high and lights up the night. But even if you aren’t interested in architecture than go for the shows. This theater is known as a hub for great entertainment and has hosted stars like Dolly Parton, Aretha Franklin, Oasis and Ellen Degeneres. So, if you’re looking for a great show to watch, you’ll probably find it at this theater.

What to do there : Get dressed up and see a show. This theater used to be a movie mansion, but now it hosts live theater with amazing productions and stars. So, if you feel like having an elegant night on the town, then make this a part of your evening.

#16 – Chicago Lakefront Trail – A beautiful and scenic place to check out in Chicago

• Great views of Lake Michigan!
• The most scenic route you can take to Chicago’s hotspots.
• A great way to get some exercise in beautiful surroundings.

Why it’s so awesome : Lake Michigan is iconic, and you’ll never be able to get a better view than along this trail. It’s 18 miles of stunning views of both nature and the city and is the ideal way to travel when you have a little extra time and don’t mind the walk. There are also several beaches, parks and attractions along the way, so you don’t have to go one more step than you want to.

What to do there : Run, walk or job along the lakefront if you want to get some exercise in during your stay. And if you’re just there for the views and the experience, walk a little way and then stop off at some of Chicago’s best attractions. The Field Museum of Natural History and the Shedd Aquarium are both easily accessible from the walk, so you don’t have to stick it out for the whole 18 miles.

Our GREATEST Travel Secrets…

Pop your email here & get the original Broke Backpacker Bible for FREE.

#17 – Wrigley Stadium – A must visit place to visit in Chicago on the weekend!

• Home to Chicago’s iconic sports team, the Cubs!
• If you manage to grab a game, it’s a great afternoon out with snacks and an exciting vibe!
• You can also visit the souvenir store and take home some Cubs memorabilia!

Why it’s so awesome : Chicago is a city that loves its sports which, is why going to a game is a must-do while you’re in Chicago. Even if you don’t like sports, the trashy food, the excitement, and the entertainment that goes on throughout the day make it well worth the trip.

What to do there : If it’s the right time of year, then you absolutely must go and see a game. There’s something about seeing a sport in real life, with thousands of other fans, that just can’t be missed. Games are a big deal in this city, so there’s no shortage of food and non-stop entertainment for you to enjoy on game days.

#18 – Chicago Cultural Center

• Great for music and lovers of art of all kinds.
• Lots of free public events are held in this building.
• Brings culture, history and art together in a stunning and fascinating display.

Why it’s so awesome : If you want to learn more about any facet of Chicago then you’ll probably be able to learn it here. This beautiful building is a masterpiece on its own, but it’s also home to the city’s best music and art scene. You can see movies, dance performances, theater, and art exhibitions at any time of year. And there’s always something going on, so make sure you check out what’s on offer while you’re in the city.

What to do there : There’s so much to do in the Cultural Center that it can be hard to choose what to do first. Visit the building for Chamber Mondays and delight in the shows put on by jazz, classical and ethnic musicians. Or take the building tour and learn about its many stunning features including the world’s largest stained glass Tiffany dome that holds pride of place at the top of the building.

#19 – Lincoln Park

• The park is a beautiful natural area by day.
• At night it’s part of Chicago’s exciting night life.
• Great for photographers and nature lovers.

Why it’s so awesome : Most of the attractions in Lincoln Park are free, which makes the area the perfect place to spend an afternoon without spending all your money. And it’s great for the family too, with a range of exhibits that kids of all ages will enjoy as well as some great dining options.

What to do there : Make sure you check out Lincoln Park Zoo if you’re visiting with the family or just enjoy seeing animals without paying an admission fee. You can also check out the Lincoln Park Conservatory and other attractions dedicated to different types of plants and the most beautiful parts of nature. And when you’re tired of all that green, you can head up to the beach area to get your feet wet or visit one of the cafes in the area for a nice relaxing snack and sit down.

#20 – Chicago Botanic Garden

• A great place to have a break from the city.
• The beautiful displays look great in photos.
• There’s a tram tour of the garden if you don’t feel up to walking it.

Why it’s so awesome : There’s nothing like exploring a bit of nature when you’re spending most of your time in the city. The Chicago Botanic Gardens are beautiful, expansive, and include a number of displays that will delight anyone. You will be able to relax in this area while you’re entertained and educated at the same time, and even the kids will like it so much that they won’t notice they’re actually learning!

What to do there : Take the narrated tram tour around the gardens to you can get an idea about the layout of the area. This will help you to find your favorite places later! And also make time to explore the Waterfall Garden and the English Oak meadow to glimpse beautiful and vibrant natural worlds that will make you feel like you’re a world away from the busy city!

Drink water from ANYWHERE. The Grayl Geopress is the worlds leading filtered water bottle protecting you from all manner of waterborne nasties.

Single-use plastic bottles are a MASSIVE threat to marine life. Be a part of the solution and travel with a filter water bottle. Save money and the environment!

We’ve tested the Geopress  rigorously  from the icy heights of Pakistan to the tropical jungles of Bali, and can confirm: it’s the best water bottle you’ll ever buy!

#21 – Logan Arcade – Easily one of the most fun places to check out in Chicago

• A chance to revisit some old favorite pastimes.
• You’ll get to play arcade games and drink at the same time.
• This is one of the best and the biggest arcade bars in the city.

Why it’s so awesome : Arcade bars are extremely popular in Chicago and the city has a few of them. Logan’s Arcade has one of the largest collections of well-maintained arcade games, which makes it a standout in this group. You’ll get to play all your old favorites and see for yourself if you still have the knack.

What to do there : Unapologetically retro, these types of venues play into the best parts of the past and will probably be a lot more fun than you think. Make sure you have a look around at the arcade games and find the ones you remember playing when you were younger. They have old favorites like Mario Kart, Ms. Pac Man and Jurassic Park, and you can have a drink while you play too, which just doubles the enjoyment.

#22 – Neo Futurarium

• A theater with a difference.
• The shows are different every time.
• Great for people who enjoy the unusual and the quirky.

Why it’s so awesome : This is a show that prides itself on leaving behind the restrained, polite world of the theater in favor of pure madness. It’s a 60-minute show that includes 30 miniature shows, all of them different and with a zany energy that’s infectious and sometimes just crazy! You’ll never know what you’ll get to see here, so just sit back and enjoy the spectacle!

What to do there : When you buy your ticket for this venue, you’ll have to pay a price that’s based on the roll of a dice. So, if you’re really lucky you could end up paying almost nothing. And this barrier to entrance is indicative of the tone of the entire show, so you have been warned. Strange as it sounds, you need to sit back, enjoy the show, and expect to be surprised when you spend time here.

#23 – The Robie House – A great place to see in Chicago if you love architecture

• Created by the famous architect Frank Lloyd Wright.
• A marvel of engineering and naturalistic lines and shapes.
• Take a tour to get the most from the experience.

Why it’s so awesome : Frank Lloyd Wright was a maverick in the field of architecture and his work stands as a symbol of the new style he inspired. The Robie House is one of his best pieces of work and you don’t have to leave the city to see it. The art-glass windows alone are worth the trip there, and the rest of the house is one of the best examples of Wright’s Prairie School style that you’ll ever see. We really wish this place was an Airbnb, but you’ll have to settle for one of the great Chicago Airbnb’s nearby and hope they’ve copied the architecture.

What to do there : Unless you’re an architecture student or an architect yourself, make sure that you take the tour through the Robie House. This is the best way to ensure that you get the full effect and that you understand just how significant this architectural style was in the past and how it still affects our present.

#24 – Boystown

• The center of homosexual culture in Chicago.
• One of the best places in the city to go bar hopping.
• Has everything from cocktail bars to drag shows and famous gay bars.

Why it’s so awesome : If you like to bar hop then this is one of the most colorful places in the city to do it. Make sure you visit a few different venues while you’re in the area because this location boasts everything from amazing cocktail bars to drag shows that will have you in stitches. And the lively atmosphere is something that must be seen to be believed, so add it to your Chicago itinerary!

What to do there : There are a lot of bars and restaurants in this area but make sure you check out perennial favorite Sidetrack, have a cocktail at the Elixir bar, and watch a drag show at the Kit Kat bar.

#25 – Half Acre Brewery Balmoral

• A behind the scenes look at the brew scene.
• This venue has beers that you can’t get anywhere else, so if you enjoy unusual beer, then try some of what’s on offer.
• A quick, educational tour that ends with a beer. Does it get any better than that?

Why it’s awesome: Unusual brews, free samples, and a cheap and interesting tour that teaches you the basics about what you’re drinking. No matter what brew you enjoy you’ll find it and learn about it here, and you might find a new favorite while you’re at it!

What to do there : For 10 dollars you can take a tour of the brewery and learn about how your favorite drinks get from field to the bottle. You’ll learn a little something and get some free samples as an added bonus. Sounds like the perfect lazy afternoon!

#26 – The United Center

• Home of the Chicago Bulls.
• Once home of that legendary player, Michael Jordan!
• A great place to see a game and enjoy fattening snacks.

Why it’s so awesome : Chicago is a town that loves its sports, all sports, and this stadium is a great place to see a game and start to understand why. During basketball and hockey season you can see games here. And in the off-season, the venue holds some of the biggest music concerts in the city!

What to do there: When you’re going to see a sporting event you need to get into the spirit and try everything that’s on offer. Eat fattening food, cheer for your favorite team, and generally get caught up in the madness. And if you admire Michael Jordan, and who doesn’t, make sure you get a photo with his statue in the venue’s public atrium. If you don’t like sports, keep an eye out for any musical events the venue has planned. Everyone from U2 to Madonna has played here, so if there is a concert on, it’ll probably be amazing!

#27 – Rainbow Cone

• An iconic ice cream shop in Chicago.
• Home to some of the most amazing flavors as well as some more unusual choices!
• Great for kids and anyone who has a sweet tooth.

Why it’s so awesome : This shop is iconic in Chicago and one of the best places to get a sweet treat on a hot afternoon. The shop first opened in 1926 and is colored bright pink, so there really is no way to miss it.

What to do there: What else? Try some ice cream. You’ll find old favorites here such as delectable strawberry and diet busting worthy chocolate as well as some unusual flavors you probably haven’t tried before. And if you’re not in the mood for ice cream, they have some great sundaes, cakes and shakes as well.

#28 – The Signature Lounge – A great place to visit in Chicago at night

• An iconic bar.
• Panoramic views of the city at night that you can take in through the floor to ceiling windows.
• A long popular bar with great cocktails.

Why it’s so awesome : Taking in the lights of a city at night is amazing and it’s even better when you can do it with a drink in your hand. This bar, located at 875 N Michigan Avenue, has been the place to look at the lights with a drink in hand for years. Locals never get sick of that view, and neither will you once you relax and take it in.

What to do there : This is a place to relax, order your favorite drink, and take in the lights. It’s located on the 96th floor above the Hancock Observatory. So, rather than paying the entrance fee to the Observatory, just pay for your drink and take in the view from a comfortable chair.

#29 – Stony Island Arts Bank

• An old bank that was converted into an art gallery and media archive.
• It has free art exhibitions on the ground floor showcasing some of the best parts of the city’s media history.
• A great place to experience a slice of Chicago’s past.

Why it’s so awesome : Sometimes we forget that the internet and CD’s and online music haven’t always existed. In reality, these things are fairly new, and not so long ago there were other ways for artists to share their work with the world. And this is the place where you can experience that slice of the past and gain an appreciation for the changes and how lucky we are to live in an age driven by technology.

What to do there : Firstly, spend some time on the bottom floor and take in the art, which often showcases some of the best artists in the US. And when you’re done with that, go upstairs to see the permanent collections. You’ll see record collections, slides from Chicago University, and other ways that people showed off their work in times gone by.

#30 – Jackson Park – Quite the quirky place in Chicago!

• Home to one of Yoko Ono’s quirky creations.
• A very photogenic place where you can take a more unusual picture of your travels.
• Great for art lovers.

Why it’s so awesome : Yoko Ono is a controversial figure even today, and most people don’t even know that she was also an artist in her own right. This display of her work in the Garden of the Phoenix in Jackson Park is an indication of her talent and her vision. it’s become a major draw for tourists in recent years, so make sure you check out what all the hype is about.

What to do there : Take a photo next to one of the quirky, slightly strange looking installations before you move on to explore other parts of the garden. There’s actually a beautiful Japanese garden known as the Osaka Japanese Garden in the park as well. It’s laid out in a traditional style and is a relaxing, restorative place to spend some time.

#31 – Kingston Mines

• One of the oldest blues bars in the city.
• Two different stages where you can experience different sides of this soulful sound.
• Great for music lovers.

Why it’s so awesome : Chicago has an exciting music scene and blues music is a mainstay here, so you absolutely must catch a show and see what all the hype is about. The Kingston Mines is the oldest continuously operating blues club in the city, and it has an infectious energy that always makes for a fun night.

What to do there: This bar is open most nights of the year until late and features some of the best blues music in the city. It’s a high energy place, so make sure you come expecting to have a loud and lively night!

#32 – Montrose Beach

• A quieter beach that’s slightly off the beaten track.
• There are less tourists here, which makes for a more relaxing atmosphere.
• A great place to soak up the sun!

Why it’s so awesome : You probably don’t think of beaches in connection with Chicago and yet there are a number of them in the city. The closer the beach is to the Loop, the busier it is, which is why you should spend your time at Montrose Beach. It’s a little further away from the center of the city so it’s less crowded and more conducive to a relaxing afternoon!

What to do there : This beach is great for relaxing, but it also has the same amenities as some of the more popular choices. If you’re feeling energetic you can hire a kayak or play volleyball on the beach. And when you get hungry, there are lots of food places nearby to choose from too.

#33 – Pequod’s – A must-see for foodies!

• A local secret that has amazing Chicago style pizza.
• The place to go for great pizza at non-tourist prices.

Why it’s so awesome : You can’t go to Chicago without trying one of their famous pizzas. They’re super thick, with layers of cheese and sauce, and you can even get a stuffed crust if you want to really ruin your diet. There are a lot of places that sell these pizzas for tourists, but if you’re looking for a more local restaurant then Pequod’s is a great choice. There are two locations in the city, one of them in Lincoln Park, and you’ll get amazing pizza at local prices whichever one you find!

What to do there : Eat one of Chicago’s famous pizzas! This is where the locals come, so you know it’s good, and the prices are excellent. Going at lunchtime is an especially good idea, as you’ll get a pizza for a fraction of the price you’d pay at a more touristy spot.

#34 – Pilsen

• Chicago’s Hispanic Neighborhood.
• Great for foodies who enjoy Mexican dishes.
• There’s also some great street art in this area.

Why it’s so awesome : Spending time in Pilsen is a good way to see another side of Chicago. You’ll eat some amazing Mexican food, learn about another culture, and enjoy the rebellion and color of street art at the same time.

What to do there: This is a great neighborhood if you like to eat. There are a number of incredible eateries in the area including 5 Rabanitos , which offers some of the best meals in the city. Make sure you check out the National Museum of Mexican Art while you’re there and spend some time on 16th and 18th streets, where there are some colorful murals brightening up the buildings.

#35 – Chinatown

• The best dim sums in the city.
• Some amazing teahouses where you can get out of the heat and enjoy some varieties of tea.
• Check out the Chinese-American Museum while you’re there.

Why it’s so awesome : If you want some authentic Chinese food then you’ll find it in this area. Spread out over Cermak Road and Wentworth Avenue, this is a lively area where you can eat, shop and drink tea. There’s also a museum that explores the history of the area and its people which will give you an insight into another facet of Chicago and its culture.

What to do there: While you’re there, make sure you eat. You’ll find some of the best dim sums in the area here, especially in landmark locations like Dolo Chicago , which has a full bar, and Duck Duck Goat , which has a weekend menu to die for.

#36 – Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago

• A smaller, but no less impactful art museum than others in the city.
• Has a permanent collection that showcases Andy Warhol, Francis Bacon and Alexander Calder.
• The venue’s eatery  Marisol  is well worth checking out for the food and the ambiance.

Why it’s so awesome : This imposing building fits perfectly with the contemporary art that it showcases. It houses a smaller collection that’s absolutely fascinating for art lovers and people who are curious about modern art. The restaurant also has a range of startling dishes for brunch, lunch and dinner, so whatever time you go make sure that you check it out!

What to do there : If you’re an art lover then you’ll probably recognize many of the famous names that showcase their art in this museum. But if you don’t know as much about contemporary art then it’s a chance to wander and maybe find some new favorites! Make sure you check out the rotating display as well as the regular one to get the full effects. And grab a snack or a meal at the Marisol restaurant to experience some truly innovative dishes while you’re there.

#37 – Oz Park

• A quirky and whimsical place to spend a couple of hours.
• Great for kids and lovers of the movie or the books.
• A magical wonderland in the middle of the city!
• You’ll get some amazing and slightly quirky photos here too.

Why it’s so awesome : It’s a whole park dedicated to the Wizard of Oz movie and world, how could it not be awesome? This park started its transformation in 1974 and is now filled with Oz-inspired amenities and images. But the best part has to be the statues of the iconic characters who are on display throughout the park.

What to do there : This is a place to wander around and let your imagination go wild. You’ll see a playground called Dorothy’s Playlot and a green space known as the Emerald Gardens as well as all your favorite characters. The park is meant to provide a clean and safe space for children, one that excites their imagination, and it does that very well indeed.

Get insured for your trip to Chicago!

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Find out what people want to know about the best places to visit in Chicago

What is the number 1 place to visit in Chicago?

The Navy Pier is the most popular tourist attraction in Chicago and is full of gardens, shops, restaurants and parks.

Is 2 days enough for Chicago?

If you only want to see the highlights of Chicago, then two days should be enough time to see them all.

What is Chicago famous for?

Chicago is famous for is skyscrapers, deep dish pizzas and mobster routes.

What is the most famous place to visit in Chicago?

Millenium Park and Navy Pier are the most famous places to visit in Chicago.

Chicago’s reputation has suffered a bit over the last few years, but this doesn’t mean that you should avoid the city. As long as you’re careful and stay away from certain key areas, your visit to Chicago should be safe and filled with great food, entertainment and amazing sites! So make sure you visit some of your favorite sites on this list, and you’ll see why people say that Chicago is one of the most exciting and interesting cities in the world.

Made it this far? You get 15% OFF to book a place to stay ! Offer valid exclusively for Broke Backpackers 😉

Aiden Freeborn

Share or save this post

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Notify me of followup comments via e-mail.

• United States

50 Best Places to Visit in Chicago

• 8 Pinterest

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

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

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

1 – 360 Chicago Observation Deck

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

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

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

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

• 360 Chicago Observation Deck tickets

2 – Shedd Aquarium

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

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

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

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

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

3 – Navy Pier

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

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

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

• Navy Pier Centennial Wheel tickets

4 – Michigan Avenue’s Magnificent Mile

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

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

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

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

• walking tours in Chicago

5 – Zoos

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

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

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

6 – The Field Museum of Natural History

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

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

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

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

• Field Museum of Natural History tickets

7 – Millennium Park

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

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

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

Directions in Google Maps

8 – Willis Tower SkyDeck

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

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

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

• SkyDeck tickets

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

9 – Six Flags Great America

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

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

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

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

10 – Art Institute of Chicago

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

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

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

• Art Institute of Chicago tickets

11 – Chicago Riverwalk

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

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

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

12 – North Avenue Beach

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

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

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

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

13 – Buckingham Fountain

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

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

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

14 – Lake Michigan

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

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

Seel also: best architecture boat tours in Chicago

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

• boat tours in Chicago

15 – Garfield Park Conservatory

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

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

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

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

16 – Maggie Daley Park

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

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

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

17 – Adler Planetarium

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

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

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

• Adler Planetarium tickets

18 – Soldier Field

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

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

19 – Chicago Children’s Museum

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

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

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

20 – Glessner House

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

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

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

21 – Loop district

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

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

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

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

• The Loop tours in Chicago

22 – Oz Park

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

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

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

23 – Baháʼí House of Worship

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

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

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

24 – Congress Plaza Hotel

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

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

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

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

• Gangsters and Crime tours in Chicago

25 – Music Box Theatre

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

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

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

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

26 – LEGOLAND Discovery Center

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

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

• LEGOLAND Discovery Center tickets

27 – Indiana Dunes National Park

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

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

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

28 – Promontory Point at Burnham Park

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

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

29 – Museum of Science and Industry

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

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

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

• Museum of Science and Industry tickets

30 – United Center

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

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

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

31 – Alfred Caldwell Lily Pool at Lincoln Park

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

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

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

32 – Great Wolf Lodge Water Park Illinois

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

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

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

33 – Museum Of Contemporary Art

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

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

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

• Museum Of Contemporary Art tickets

34 – Wrigley Field

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

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

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

35 – Chicago Cultural Center

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

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

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

36 – Robie House

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

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

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

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

• Robie House tickets

37 – DuSable Museum of African American History

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

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

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

38 – Chicago Architecture Center

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

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

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

39 – Tribune Tower

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

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

40 – Illinois Beach State Park

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

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

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

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

41 – Chicago Theatre

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

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

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

• Chicago Theatre tours

42 – National Museum of Mexican Art

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

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

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

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

43 – Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio

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

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

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

44 – Waterfall Glen Forest Preserve

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

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

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

45 – Orchestra Hall

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

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

46 – Cantigny Park

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

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

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

47 – Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum

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

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

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

48 – The Green Mill

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

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

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

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

49 – Illinois Holocaust Museum & Education Center

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

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

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

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

50 – Morton Arboretum

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

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

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

Want a travel hack? Grab a city tourist pass!

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

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

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

Looking for a hotel?

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

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

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

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

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

Save yourself hassle: book an airport transfer

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

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

Final thoughts

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

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

🙌 Awesome, you're subscribed!

Thanks for subscribing! Look out for your first newsletter in your inbox soon!

Get us in your inbox

Sign up to our newsletter for the latest and greatest from your city and beyond

By entering your email address you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy and consent to receive emails from Time Out about news, events, offers and partner promotions.

Awesome, you're subscribed!

The best of Chicago for free.

Sign up for our email to enjoy Chicago without spending a thing (as well as some options when you’re feeling flush).

Déjà vu! We already have this email. Try another?

Love the mag?

Our newsletter hand-delivers the best bits to your inbox. Sign up to unlock our digital magazines and also receive the latest news, events, offers and partner promotions.

• Things to Do
• Food & Drink
• Time Out Market
• Coca-Cola Foodmarks
• Attractions
• Los Angeles

Chicago travel guide: 27 tips every first-time visitor needs to know

Chicago is a friendly city for tourists, but we’ve collected a few useful things to know before you arrive.

Welcome to Chicago! We’re glad you’re here (or considering a trip, at least). Whether you’re visiting on business or pleasure, we know it can be daunting to travel to a new city for the first time. There are logistical hurdles: figuring out the public transportation options , navigating the grid system, knowing the best neighborhoods to stay in . And then there are the cultural questions: When is the best time to visit? What should you do with your time? Where should you go? Is deep dish truly all it's cracked up to be? Is  Malört   that  bad or are locals just dramatic? We’ve drawn from our experience as Chicagoans, and polled our own visiting friends, to come up with a list of what you should know as a new arrival.

RECOMMENDED: Discover the best things to do in Chicago

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

Chicago travel tips for first-time visitors

1.  take the "l" to and from the airports..

Beat the traffic and surcharges by skipping the taxi or rideshare when you arrive. Our regular Chicago Transit Authority "L" (short for "elevated") trains offer direct service to both Chicago airports: The Blue Line serving O’Hare and Orange Line for Midway International Airport. A $2.50 fare from Midway or $5 from O’Hare for regular service downtown in under an hour feels like a steal to us when we travel to other cities without such easy airport access.

2.  Get a three-day (or seven-day) CTA pass.

No need to rent a car if you're sticking close to the city. In the smartphone age, the CTA is easy enough to navigate even for newbies. Fares, though, can be a little harder to keep track of: You could load a dollar amount onto a Ventra card and then try to do the math every time you spend $2.50 on a train ride and $2.25 on a bus—or maybe that counted as a $0.25 transfer if it was within two hours of your last ride? Much easier to buy a three-day pass, which is $15 for 72 hours of unlimited rides. If you’re staying longer, a seven-day pass on a new Ventra card will run you just $20—totally worth it if you’re spending that much time here. All can be purchased from the Ventra vending kiosks at either airport and any CTA station, as well as many supermarkets and pharmacies.

3.  If you do drive, download the ParkChicago app.

If you’re driving into the city and want to use your car while you’re here, download the ParkChicago app ( parkchicago.com ) to your phone for all your street parking needs. Create an account with your license plate number and link a credit card, and you’ll pay in the app using the zone number printed on signs where paid street parking is available. Rates vary by neighborhood (many residential streets will be marked permit-only, while a blessed few unmarked streets are actually free to park on—check carefully for signage before you assume).

4.  While you’re at it, download all of these apps to help you get around.

Google Maps, Apple Maps or Waze will give you solid directions, and the Uber and Lyft apps can find you a ride at just about any address and any time of the day or night (most rideshare drivers work for both services, in our experience). Transit  is our favorite for real-time arrival projections for "L" trains and bus routes, and if you’re a nervous navigator, you can tell the app exactly where you’re going and it will give you a heads up when your stop is approaching.

5.  Get the gist of the grid system.

Unlike a lot of cities, Chicago’s streets are laid out on a generally reliable grid system. Here’s the quick-and-dirty version: The intersection of State and Madison Streets, smack in the middle of the Loop, is the zero point of the grid. Street numbers fan out from there on north-south and east-west axes, and every eight blocks (outside of the Loop, at least) equals a mile. There are angle streets and river branches and historical quirks here and there to create confusion and six-corner intersections, but the grid is a solid foundation for getting around. Also, if you remember nothing else, east is always towards the Lake. 

6.  Give yourself plenty of time to get where you’re going.

In a city of almost 3 million people, delays are almost bound to happen whether you’re on the "L" or on the expressway (which, by the way, is what we call our controlled-access highways, a.k.a. freeways, interstates or motorways). If you’re trying to make an appointment with a rigid start time—whether it’s a meeting, a dinner reservation or a theater curtain—allow more time than you think you need, just to be safe.

7.  Tipping is standard for many services. Here's how to do it.

In the United States, tipping is customary for service in several situations, and the standard rates in Chicago may be higher than you’re used to elsewhere in the country. At sit-down restaurants, where you have a server taking your order at your table and seeing to your needs through your meal, you should tip at least 20 percent of your total bill for good service. If you’re out for drinks, a dollar per drink is usually fine if you’re ordering from the bar—more if they’re complicated cocktails.

If the establishment accepts credit cards, you can add the tip onto your total when you sign the bill. Many restaurants and coffee shops also now have a payment system that allows you to add a tip automatically to your bill via credit or debit card, and calculates the percentage for you.

Other situations will call for cash tips: Give a valet parking attendant a couple of dollars when they retrieve your car, and tip a bellhop or skycap a buck or two for each of your bags they handle. Hotel housekeeping staff should be tipped about $5 per day of your stay, which you can leave out in the room when you check out.

8.  You might need cash in other situations, too.

While it’s increasingly uncommon, there are a remaining few cash-only venues around the city that don’t accept credit cards—among them, some of our favorite dive bars and cheap eats establishments. It’s also good to have cash on hand if you’re planning on visiting any summer street festivals or looking to make a purchase at art or craft fairs; many small vendors can now accept credit cards via services like Square, but it's a good idea to bring cash just in case (and to avoid the high fees that are often found at on-site event ATMs). 

9.  Be prepared to have your purse or bag searched at large venues.

Whether you’re a business commuter or a tourist, unless you’re driving your own car everywhere you go you’ll probably be carrying a purse, tote, briefcase or bag of some kind to lug your stuff around. Security precautions at certain large venues—stadiums and ballparks, theaters, concert venues and music festivals—will mean an agent asking to take a cursory peek inside your bag before you go in; it’s standard practice. Certain venues, though, won’t allow very large bags or specific items inside at all, and they won’t be able to hold anything for you at the gate or the cloakroom. If you don’t want to find yourself making a trip back to your car or hotel and missing part of your event, it’s best to check the rules ahead of time.

10.  Skip the chains and stay in one of these local hotels…

You can stay in a Hyatt or a Hilton anywhere you go. When you’re here, splurge instead on one of the best hotels in Chicago —unique digs like the Chicago Athletic Association or the Emily Hotel. Or look at the city’s best boutique hotels , gems like the Freehand, Hotel Lincoln or the Robey.

11.  …or try an Airbnb, like one of these intriguing options.

Rent out an extravagant apartment or a homey condo for the duration of your stay—we’ve chosen some of the city’s most attractive options  here .

12.  There’s nothing “too touristy” about taking a tour.

The Chicago Architecture Foundation’s boat tours along the Chicago River are, frankly, one of our favorite reasons to have out-of-town guests (and they're fun to check out even when we don't have out-of-town guests). It’s just one of dozens of the best tours of Chicago , including walking tours and bike tours. You can also find food tours or brewery tours  of some of the city's best spots.

13.  Or take a self-guided tour of our best public art.

The unnamed Picasso sculpture in Daley Plaza and, more recently, Millennium Park’s Cloud Gate (a.k.a. “The Bean”) have become symbols of the city. But there’s great public art to be found all over the place in Chicago, from murals by Hebru Brantley to mosaics by Marc Chagall to sculptures like Lorado Taft’s Fountain of Time . Even the enormous facade of the Merchandise Mart has become a canvas for video art with the ART on THE MART program.

14.  Bring comfortable walking shoes.

Chicago’s terrain is relatively flat and you won't find many hills to climb, unless you’ve built a side trip to one of our nearby hiking trails into your visit. But you’ll probably wind up doing more walking than you might think. Our city blocks are long, and both CTA stations and parking spots can be a good distance from your destinations.

15.  Wear layers. Year-round.

The weather in Chicago can fluctuate wildly in a matter of hours: Summer storms roll in out of nowhere, or the temperature rises 30 degrees Fahrenheit from morning to midday. If you’re going to be out on the town all day, it’s best to dress with options to shed or layer on as the day progresses. Even at the height of summer or winter this is true: Pitchfork  or Lollapalooza summer festival attendees in tank tops and short-shorts often find themselves wishing for a hoodie when the evening chill sets in, and there’s nothing worse than the overheated feel of being too bundled up on a packed CTA car in January.

16.  But summer is what we do best.

We can make a great case for every season in Chicago, but it’s hard to deny that summer is when visitors and residents alike can take the best advantage of what the city has to offer. After a long winter, Chicagoans scramble outside to outdoor dining and rooftop bars , our great public parks , Cubs and White Sox games, and of course to one of Chicago’s finest features—the 26 miles of beaches and open lakefront that make up the city’s eastern edge. We take our summers seriously.

17.  Speaking of summer, street festivals are a must.

We’ve already breathlessly sung the praises of summer in Chicago, but summer festival season deserves a shoutout all its own. Every weekend from spring well into autumn, there are multiple lively festivals to choose from, each with delicious food, live music and other fun activities to explore. From art fairs and cultural and LGBTQ+ festivals to exuberant, jam-packed concerts and celebrations of a specific food or drink item (e.g. Ribfest, Apple Fest and Burger Fest), there’s truly something for every taste.

18.  Get out of downtown.

A lot of the city’s hotels are clustered in River North, on the Mag Mile and in the Loop. Not coincidentally, so are a lot of chain restaurants and tourist traps. (It’s no surprise the only TGI Friday’s in the city is just off Michigan Avenue). Just like visiting Times Square doesn’t mean you’ve seen New York City, if you want to see how Chicago really lives, you’ll need to venture out into the neighborhoods. We like to call this a city of neighborhoods, and each area of the city has its own identity and attractions. Start with our guide on where to stay in Chicago .

19.  You could spend a week on museums alone.

Remember we said you’d be doing a lot of walking? A good chunk of that could take place inside Chicago’s must-see museums . The Art Institute alone is the second-largest museum in the United States by size—at over a million square feet and with 300,000 pieces in its collection, don’t expect to knock it off your list in an afternoon. You’ll have to pay admission to most of the big institutions; free days are generally offered only to Illinois residents, but a Chicago CityPASS is a good way to get discounted admission to several attractions. And plenty of smaller free museums and galleries never charge admission and are definitely worth your while.

20.  We still love Old Style, but we’re increasingly a craft beer town.

While Chicago has always been a beer-loving city, there was a dark period of a decade or so after Peter Hand Brewing closed in 1978 when no beer was actually being made here. The closest you could get to a “local brew” was stuff from Milwaukee. But in the late ’80s and early ’90s, a few hops-headed entrepreneurs launched Chicago’s first brewpubs, where beer was made and drank on the same premises. One of these, Goose Island, made its first foray into bottling and distribution in 1995; within another decade, the craft beer boom had begun. Now, Goose sits alongside names like Half Acre, Revolution and Marz on any list of Chicago’s best breweries , but there are well over 100 breweries operating in the city and suburbs, many of which have attached taprooms and offer brewery tours,  and events like FOBAB (Festival of Barrel-Aged Beers) and Illinois Craft Beer Week have become tourist draws all their own.

21.  We don’t really eat that much deep dish.

We like Chicago-style deep dish pizza , trust us. But it’s not exactly a staple of our diets—in fact, we know a lot of Chicagoans who only eat deep dish when we have friends in town. There’s so much more to food in Chicago—heck, there’s so much more to pizza in Chicago . But let’s not forget we also have Michelin-starred fine-dining restaurants , great taquerias in Pilsen, Indian fare on Devon Avenue, Vietnamese  food on Argyle Street, killer old-school steakhouses  and much more. When it comes to the best restaurants in Chicago , there are almost no limits. Oh, but the thing about no ketchup on Chicago hot dogs ? That’s real.

22.  You can (and should) skip the Magnificent Mile.

We mentioned the chain restaurants around Michigan Avenue. Well, these days most of the shops lining the pedestrian-packed sidewalks of the Mag Mile are also outposts of department stores and brands you can find elsewhere in the country (or even elsewhere in the city). For more unique retail, look where the locals do: great shopping neighborhoods like Wicker Park and Bucktown, Lincoln Park, Lakeview, Logan Square or Andersonville.

23.  Carve out some time to stroll through the park.

• Things to do

With more than 600 parks in the city limits, there's plenty of green space to take in. Plan the perfect morning by grabbing a pastry and coffee at one of the best bakeries in the city and taking a walk through the public parks. Millenium Park is a great first stop to see iconic landmarks like the Crown Fountain, "The Bean" and the Art Institute. But if you're looking for a more authentic and low-key saunter, we recommend venturing out toward other giant parks around the city. Try Humboldt Park to take a dip in the only inland beach in Chicago or head over to Jackson Park to admire the beautiful Osaka Garden with picturesque views of the Museum of Science and Industry. We recommend marveling at the orate gold dome fieldhouse at Garfield Park to brag to friends back home about the "hidden architectural wonders" of Chicago.

24.  Experience the local sports culture.

From the Michael Jordan-led Bulls dynasty in the ‘90s to recent championship titles by the Blackhawks, Cubs and Sky, Chicago prides itself on heavy-hitting sports teams and wildly passionate fans. With most stadiums easily accessible by train or bus and single-game tickets relatively affordable if you book in advance (it’s possible to get White Sox tickets for as little as $7 , for example), cheering on one of the many local teams with a hot dog and an Old Style in hand is a great way to spend an afternoon or evening in Chicago. 

If you’re not much of a sports person, it still helps to know when the local teams are playing for getting-around purposes. If you’re heading north on the Red Line and the Cubs are in town, be prepared for a packed-to-the-gills train or bus and possible delays. There’s even a handy website for quick references.

25.  Dare to take a shot of Malört.

Throwing back a shot of Chicago's most controversial spirit will undoubtedly get you some street credit from Chicagoans. You be the judge: Is it really as bad as they say or can you endure what some call "the worst booze ever?" Don't be too worried about how to source it—pull up to any dive bar in the city and there will definitely be a bottle.

26.  There’s way more to Chicago theater than downtown, and more to comedy than Second City.

The big musicals that do a run in the Loop under the banner of Broadway in Chicago  are a major tourist draw; some visitors build their trips to Chicago around getting to see Broadway-style shows without having to go to New York. And hey, we’re not going to tell you not to see Hamilton  (or whatever other marquee show is playing) if that’s what brings you here. But Chicago’s homegrown theater isn’t centralized around one district. Instead, theaters large and small have cropped up across the city and suburbs; you can catch a show in neighborhoods from Lincoln Park to Jefferson Park, Back of the Yards to Grand Crossing, and many residents become loyal subscribers of the theaters in their own backyards. Similarly, while Second City has produced a lot of famous names, it’s not the only comedy club in town for the improv and sketch comedy Chicago’s famous for. You’ll find a greater variety of shows (and possibly more comfortable seats) at Lincoln Lodge or the Annoyance, and many more of the city’s best comedy nights take place in bars, bookstores and other non-theater venues.

27.  Chow down on iconic Chicago dishes.

Sure, it's great to fill up on deep dish pizza , a Chicago-style hot dog or an Italian beef . Once you've checked those off your bucket list, though, there's plenty of other lesser-known dishes popular in Chicago that are worth the rave, too. The jibarito, originating in Humboldt Park, will have you rethinking your sandwich standard while slow-cooked rib tips popular on the South Side reveal the deep flavors of Southern cooking that made its way up the Mississippi River. Don't forget to try mild sauce with your fried chicken—your first taste of it may entice you to bring some home by the gallon. 

While you’re here

Best things to do in chicago that locals and tourists will love.

These attractions and events are fun for first-time visitors and residents alike

[image] [title]

Discover Time Out original video

• Press office
• Investor relations
• Work for Time Out
• Editorial guidelines
• Privacy notice
• Do not sell my information
• Cookie policy
• Accessibility statement
• Terms of use
• Copyright agent
• Modern slavery statement
• Manage cookies
• Advertising

Time Out products

• Time Out Worldwide

Time Out magazine

Protect Your Trip »

Best day trips from chicago for 2024.

Chicago's eclectic neighborhoods, world-class attractions and lakeside setting can easily fill a travel itinerary. But when you've worn a path through the Windy City and are looking for a change of scenery, you'll find a bevy of destinations within a few hours, from Lake Michigan retreats to quaint towns. U.S. News weighed expert and traveler feedback, as well as sights, accessibility and culture, to bring you this list of the best day trips from Chicago. Be sure to vote for your favorite spots below to influence next year's ranking.

Lake Geneva

Madison, wi, new buffalo, south haven, wisconsin dells, indiana dunes national park.

Sitting 80 miles northwest of Chicago, just across the Wisconsin border, Lake Geneva has long been a summer home haven for Chicago's elite, so much so that it was dubbed the "Newport of the West." Like its Rhode Island counterpart , Lake Geneva's shoreline is dotted with historic estates sure to impress history buffs. Today, visitors can find an abundance of activities year-round, from beaches and boating in the summer to skiing and snowshoeing in the winter. When you're not enjoying the great outdoors, treat yourself to some boutique shopping, indulge at a wine bar or brewery, or explore the grandeur of Yerkes Observatory.

The home of the University of Wisconsin-Madison, this city nearly 150 miles northwest of Chicago has plenty to do beyond its well-known campus. Surrounded by five lakes, Madison is an outdoor paradise, offering boat rentals, beaches, parks and an enchanting botanical garden. When the weather is warm, join coeds on the Memorial Union Terrace for a pitcher of beer, or head to the observation deck at the domed Wisconsin State Capitol building for a view of lakes Mendota and Monona. But the fun doesn’t end when the temperatures drop: Embrace Madison's notorious winter chill while ice fishing, biking on frozen lakes and attending unique festivals.

This small Michigan town may only be 70 miles east of Chicago, but with its slow pace and relaxed atmosphere, it feels worlds away. New Buffalo's location on Lake Michigan grants visitors access to 16 miles of shoreline, including 260-foot dunes at Warren Dunes State Park and an amenity-filled town beach. The town's proximity to wineries, farms and orchards along the Lake Michigan Shore Wine Trail adds to its allure, as do its chic boutiques and waterfront dining options.

A fraction of the size of Chicago, Milwaukee is ideal for escaping the Windy City's crowds while still enjoying exceptional cultural and culinary experiences. Plus, it's easily accessible via Amtrak train; the rail ride from Chicago to Milwaukee is just about 90 minutes. Start your day at the Milwaukee Art Museum, known as much for its sculptural design as it is for its exhibits, before touring the Pabst Mansion, built in 1892. Beyond legendary beer, cheese and bratwurst, all of which you can find at the Milwaukee Public Market, the city's thriving dining scene boasts restaurants helmed by James Beard Award winners.

One of Michigan's most popular beach towns, South Haven is a quintessential summer haunt for Midwesterners. Follow the shoreline of Lake Michigan just more than 120 miles east, and you'll arrive at this idyllic town bursting with bed-and-breakfast accommodations, seven public beaches and locally owned shops. Spend a carefree day basking in the sun, eating old-fashioned ice cream and kayaking on the lake. If you're not in a rush, stay for a sunset cruise before driving back to the city.

With its restored electric streetcars and original buildings (including the century-old soda fountain at Coopers Uptown), nostalgia-infused Kenosha warrants the 60-mile trip north. Perched on Lake Michigan's western shore, this Wisconsin city offers the outdoor pursuits of a beach town with a more robust itinerary. The lakefront is undoubtedly Kenosha's most defining attraction, complete with a sculpture walk, a bike trail and two historical lighthouses. But the city also features several accredited museums, such as the Kenosha Public Museum, and a host of entertainment options that make it worth a visit even in cooler months.

Those with kids in tow will want to pack up the car for a trip to the Wisconsin Dells. This town, known as the Waterpark Capital of the World, sits approximately 200 miles northwest of Chicago and is home to the largest concentration of indoor and outdoor water parks in the world. Prefer to stay dry? The Dells features scores of additional adventures for active families, ranging from feeding animals at the Wisconsin Deer Park to amphibious vehicle tours along the Wisconsin River.

For a Hallmark-esque escape, look no further than this tiny Illinois town roughly 160 miles northwest of Chicago. Galena's historic Main Street oozes charm with its well-preserved 19th-century buildings, which house ice cream parlors, candy shops, boutiques and antique stores. What's more, the rural roads surrounding this Mississippi River Valley locale are begging for a scenic drive to the region's wineries. If you're into history, save time for a Galena Trolley Tour, on which your guide will take you to the home of Ulysses S. Grant and regale you with stories about this mining town's past.

Trade Chicago's congested Lake Shore Drive for 15 miles of untouched shoreline with a quick day trip to Indiana Dunes National Park. In less than an hour (the dunes are located about 50 miles east of the city), you'll be digging your toes into the soft sand, splashing around in Lake Michigan's chilly water or working up a sweat on the park's 50-plus miles of trails. To really elevate your heartrate, hike up the 120-foot Mount Baldy dune on a ranger-led tour, or take it easy on the park's less challenging trails through forests and marshes.

Vote to Add these Destinations to the Rankings

Springfield, IL

Michigan City, IN

You may be interested in.

Best Weekend Getaways in the Midwest

Best Places to Visit in Michigan

Best U.S. Cities to Visit

Best Places to Visit in the USA

Best summer vacations in the usa for 2024.

Best Beaches in Michigan

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

Recommended

The 28 Best Water Parks in the U.S. for 2024

Holly Johnson|Timothy J. Forster May 8, 2024

The 18 Best Napa Valley Wineries to Visit in 2024

Lyn Mettler|Sharael Kolberg April 23, 2024

The 25 Best Beaches on the East Coast for 2024

Timothy J. Forster|Sharael Kolberg April 19, 2024

The 50 Best Hotels in the USA 2024

Christina Maggitas February 6, 2024

The 32 Most Famous Landmarks in the World

Gwen Pratesi|Timothy J. Forster February 1, 2024

9 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in Florida for 2024

Gwen Pratesi|Amanda Norcross January 5, 2024

24 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in the U.S. for 2024

Erin Evans January 4, 2024

26 Top Adults-Only All-Inclusive Resorts for 2024

Zach Watson December 28, 2023

Solo Vacations: The 36 Best Places to Travel Alone in 2024

Lyn Mettler|Erin Vasta December 22, 2023

26 Cheap Beach Vacations for Travelers on a Budget

Kyle McCarthy|Sharael Kolberg December 4, 2023

This ‘secret' Wisconsin spot could be one of the best places in the US to catch Perseids meteor shower

The best chance to see the perseids meteor shower is to view it under a dark sky - and this 'secret' park in wisconsin could be your best bet, by nbc chicago staff and the associated press • published august 9, 2024 • updated on august 9, 2024 at 1:12 pm.

Perhaps the best meteor shower of the year is about to dazzle skies beginning Monday -- and this spot near Illinois may be one of the best -- and most unknown -- places to see it.

The annual meteor shower , active since July, peaks before dawn Monday, Aug. 12. It's one of the brightest and most easily viewed showers of the year, producing “bright blue meteors — and lots of them," said University of Warwick astronomer Don Pollacco.

📺 24/7 Chicago news stream: Watch NBC 5 free wherever you are

According to the Adler Planetarium , a peak of above 50-90 meteors per hour are expected -- but there's a catch: Far fewer meteors will be seen in light-polluted areas, the Adler said.

"One rule of thumb for meteor viewing is to be under a dark sky, with no glare from artificial or natural light (like the Moon)," the Adle said. "This year, the Perseids peak when the Moon is near its first quarter phase. However, the first quarter Moon rises around noon local time and sets around midnight; so its glare won’t interfere with the Perseids during their peak between midnight and dawn."

While the moon won't interfere with the peak of the Perseids, Chicago's city lights might. But in a certain area of Wisconsin, they might not.

According to Forbes editors , Wisconsin's Kickapoo Valley Dark Sky Park -- a park that would be made up of Kickapoo Valley Reserve, Wildcat Mountain State Park and Mississippi Valley Conservancy -- is one of 11 "secret places" in the nation to watch the meteor shower.

Editors describe the area, approximately 50 miles west of Wisconsin Dells, as an "off-the-beaten-path location" with pristinely-dark skies that make for excellent stargazing.

Riot Fest's return inspires reaction from Chicago officials, music fans

Chicago restaurant among ‘best new ramen spots' according to Yelp

The area -- which, if designated, would be Wisconsin's second "Dark Sky Park," after Newport State Park -- has a number of suggested skygazing maps across three different locations.

"The public land along the Kickapoo River in Vernon County has been known for years for fantastic night sky viewing," the Kickapoo Valley Dark Sky Initiative said .

Feeling out of the loop? We'll catch you up on the Chicago news you need to know. Sign up for the weekly Chicago Catch-Up newsletter .

If you aren't able to travel, you still may be able to some "shooting stars."

"To spot meteors, first go outside and give your eyes about 20–30 minutes to adjust to the dark," the Adler said. "Look all around the sky for quick streaks of light."

The streaks are caused by superheated, "glowing air" as the tiny pieces of comet burn up due to friction with the atmosphere, the Adler goes on to say.

"You don’t need any special viewing tools to see meteors, you won’t see the meteors any better using binoculars or a telescope. Meteors range over a wide expanse of sky, so you don’t want to limit your view to a tiny window."

NBC 5 Storm Team Meteorologist Kevin Jeanes noted it will be most visible Monday between midnight and dawn, and will even be visible for weeks after.

Another big meteor shower, the Geminids, comes in December, but that one is often harder to catch since the weather is much colder.

"You don't have to freeze your tail off to go look at a meteor shower," Jeanes said, of the Perseids.

What is a meteor shower?

Multiple meteor showers occur annually and you don’t need special equipment to see them.

Most meteor showers originate from the debris of comets. The source of the Perseids is the comet 109P/Swift-Tuttle.

When rocks from space enter Earth’s atmosphere, the resistance from the air makes them very hot. This causes the air to glow around them and briefly leaves a fiery tail behind them — the end of a “shooting star.”

The glowing pockets of air around fast-moving space rocks, ranging from the size of a dust particle to a boulder, may be visible in the night sky.

The Perseids result from “bigger particles than a lot of other showers,” said NASA’s Bill Cooke, giving them the appearance of “bright fireballs” — easier to spot than many others.

How to view a meteor shower

Meteor showers are usually most visible between midnight and predawn hours.

It’s easier to see shooting stars under dark skies, away from city lights. Meteor showers also appear brightest on cloudless nights when the moon wanes smallest.

The Northern Hemisphere will have the best view of the Perseids. This year's peak coincides with a moon around 44% full.

When is the next meteor shower?

The meteor society keeps a list of upcoming large meteor showers, including the peak viewing days and moonlight conditions.

The next major meteor shower will be the Orionids, peaking in mid-October.

This article tagged under:

Updated Northern Lights Forecast: Where To See Aurora Borealis Tonight As Perseids Continue

• Share to Facebook
• Share to Twitter
• Share to Linkedin

There may be a chance to see the Northern Lights and the Perseids—one of the most anticipated meteor showers of the year—again Monday night after scientists predict geomagnetic storm conditions may continue on into Tuesday. (Update: Here’s Tuesday’s aurora forecast .)

Wisconsin's night sky is glowing with the Northern Lights, as a geomagnetic storm is bringing ... [+] vibrant pink and green colors, stealing the spotlight from the Perseus meteor shower. (Photo by Ross Harried/NurPhoto via Getty Images)

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration released a Northern Lights forecast for this week, and it predicts geomagnetic storm conditions may persist into Tuesday, though space weather is unpredictable and it’s unsure how favorable solar conditions will be.

A group of coronal mass ejections—eruptions of solar material—arrived to Earth over the weekend, and CMEs are predicted to continue passing by until Tuesday, causing the aurora borealis to be visible in several continental U.S. states.

This comes after a strong G4 geomagnetic storm was observed Monday and had a Kp index that reached high level eight status—which were stronger conditions than previously expected—producing some of the strongest Northern Lights since May’s impressive show.

Monday night’s aurora borealis has a Kp index of six , meaning the lights will move even further from the poles and become “quite bright and active,” according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

The Perseid meteor shower peaked Sunday night into early Monday morning, and the aurora borealis was also visible during this time, causing a dazzling show for viewers.

Although the Perseids have already peaked , the popular meteor shower doesn’t end until September 1, and since the days right before and after the peak are prime viewing days, there’s a good chance the shower will be visible again Monday night.

Get Forbes Breaking News Text Alerts: We’re launching text message alerts so you'll always know the biggest stories shaping the day’s headlines. Text “Alerts” to (201) 335-0739 or sign up here .

Where Will The Northern Lights Be Visible Tonight?

Though it’s difficult to know where the Northern Lights will show up, they may be the most visible Tuesday night in Canada and Alaska, according to NOAA (see image below). However, continental U.S. states within the aurora’s view line include Washington, Oregon, Idaho, Montana, Wyoming, North Dakota, South Dakota, Nebraska, Minnesota, Iowa, Wisconsin, Illinois, Michigan, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire and Maine.

Monday night's aurora view line.

What’s The Best Way To See The Northern Lights?

The lights are typically the most active between 10 p.m. and 2 a.m. For the best views of the Northern Lights, the agency advises traveling as close to the poles as possible, avoiding city lights and other light pollution, monitoring weather forecasts for prime viewing conditions and finding a position on a vantage point like a hilltop.

What’s The Best Way To Photograph The Northern Lights?

Smartphone cameras are sensitive enough to pick up the aurora, even when it’s invisible to the naked eye. Visit Iceland , a tourist website for Iceland, where the lights are often visible, advises turning on night mode to best increase smartphone camera exposure.

Key Background

Solar Cycle 25 —the cycle the sun goes through around every 11 years—has been the cause of geomagnetic storms that have resulted in recent sightings of the Northern Lights, and NASA predicts it will continue on into next year. Cycle 25 began in Dec. 2019, and it’s estimated it will reach its maximum—when activity is expected to peak— between late 2024 and early 2026. It’s projected to peak with 115 sunspots, which are where geomagnetic storms originate. Although the maximum hasn’t happened yet, the sun’s activity has been busier than scientists anticipated, so it’s possible there will be even more geomagnetic storms leading up to 2025, though it’s difficult to predict exactly when these storms will occur.

Surprsing Fact

Solar Cycle 25 likely reached its highest sunspot number on August 8 since the cycle began, according to NOAA. Though the official number won’t be available until the end of August, NOAA predicts it peaked with almost 300 sunspots. This is the highest number since at least July 2002.

Section Title

Northern Lights And Perseid Meteor Shower Put On A Celestial Show Overnight (Photos) (Forbes)

Perseid Meteor Shower: Why Astronomers Recommend Putting Your Phone Away For This Weekend’s Show (Forbes)

• Editorial Standards
• Reprints & Permissions

Join The Conversation

One Community. Many Voices. Create a free account to share your thoughts. 

Forbes Community Guidelines

Our community is about connecting people through open and thoughtful conversations. We want our readers to share their views and exchange ideas and facts in a safe space.

In order to do so, please follow the posting rules in our site's  Terms of Service.   We've summarized some of those key rules below. Simply put, keep it civil.

Your post will be rejected if we notice that it seems to contain:

• False or intentionally out-of-context or misleading information
• Insults, profanity, incoherent, obscene or inflammatory language or threats of any kind
• Attacks on the identity of other commenters or the article's author
• Content that otherwise violates our site's  terms.

User accounts will be blocked if we notice or believe that users are engaged in:

• Continuous attempts to re-post comments that have been previously moderated/rejected
• Racist, sexist, homophobic or other discriminatory comments
• Attempts or tactics that put the site security at risk
• Actions that otherwise violate our site's  terms.

So, how can you be a power user?

• Stay on topic and share your insights
• Feel free to be clear and thoughtful to get your point across
• ‘Like’ or ‘Dislike’ to show your point of view.
• Protect your community.
• Use the report tool to alert us when someone breaks the rules.

Thanks for reading our community guidelines. Please read the full list of posting rules found in our site's  Terms of Service.

Watch CBS News

Perseid meteor shower put on quite a show when it peaked overnight

By Aliza Chasan

Updated on: August 12, 2024 / 6:33 AM EDT / CBS News

The Perseid meteor shower peaked overnight Sunday into Monday, giving astronomy fans one of the best shows of 2024 as they look to the skies. 

The shower started in July and will continue through most of August, but just peaked, NASA said. The Perseids are considered the " best meteor shower of the year" by NASA, with about 50 to 100 meteors seen per hour under ideal conditions. 

What time did the Perseid meteor shower peak?

The best time to catch the Perseids was in the pre-dawn hours, according to NASA, but it was possible to view its meteors as early as 10 p.m. 

NASA noted that the moon was to set just as the Perseids started to peak. The Old Farmer's Almanac details specific moonset times  for different ZIP codes across the United States. 

Where was the Perseid meteor shower visible?

The best view of the Perseids meteor shower was from the Northern Hemisphere. NASA urged astronomy fans who wanted to check out the shower to get away from the bright lights of cities. 

" Try to get to the darkest location you can," NASA wrote . "The darker it is where you are, the more meteors you will see streaking across the sky."

Around 50 to 75 meteors an hour could be seen in darker locations. 

Where was it best to look to see the meteor shower?

NASA had a simple suggestion: Look up! NASA suggested lying on your back, enabling your eyes to adjust to the dark — and staying off your phone. There was no need to look in any particular direction as the meteors could generally be seen all over the sky.

The space agency's Jet Propulsion Laboratory suggested facing roughly northeast as you lay down, but to try to take in as much of the sky as possible because meteors can appear all over.

When will the next meteor shower be?

Two other meteor showers are actually active right now. The Southern Delta Aquariid meteor shower began last month and will run through Aug. 21. It peaked in late July. The alpha Capricornids, a small meteor shower, also started last month. It will continue through Aug. 11, according to the American Meteor Society.

The next major meteor shower, the Orionids , won't be active until late September, with a peak in October, according to the American Meteor Society. NASA describes the Orionids as one of the most beautiful showers of the year. The Orionids are known for their brightness and speed.

What are meteor showers?

Meteors — space rocks that enter Earth's atmosphere — streak through the sky every night, but meteor showers happen less frequently. During a meteor shower, many meteors hit Earth's atmosphere over a short period of time. When they pass through the atmosphere, the meteors leave behind streaks of light caused by glowing, hot air. 

While most meteors burn up as they fall, some survive the trip and reach Earth. Those surviving space rocks are considered meteorites.

Look up — what else can you see in the sky this summer?

There are two more full moons this summer. August's full moon, known as the Sturgeon Moon, reaches peak illumination on Monday, Aug. 19. September's full moon will reach peak illumination on Tuesday, Sept. 17, just days before the start of fall. 

• Meteor Shower

Aliza Chasan is a Digital Content Producer for "60 Minutes" and CBSNews.com. She has previously written for outlets including PIX11 News, The New York Daily News, Inside Edition and DNAinfo. Aliza covers trending news, often focusing on crime and politics.

More from CBS News

Trump's live chat with Musk on X plagued by glitches

Save an extra $50 on a Nolah mattress with this coupon code

Gold's price surpasses $2,500 an ounce: 4 moves to make now

New study estimates 47,000 heat-related deaths in Europe last year

• chicago air & water show

Chicago Air & Water Show 2024: Parking, transit, full lineup, prohibited items and more

CHICAGO (WLS) -- The Chicago Air and Water Show returns to the city this weekend.

ABC7 Chicago is now streaming 24/7. Click here to watch

The event began in 1959 and is one of the largest free events of its kind, with over a million spectators coming to watch the show ever year.

Herb Hunter, the "Voice of the Air and Water Show" for 36 years, will narrate the aerial choreography all weekend long.

Here's what you need to know before you go.

LOCATION, ADMISSION, TRANSPORTATION

WHEN : The Chicago Air and Water Show will be held along the lakefront from 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, August 10, and Sunday, August 11.

ADMISSION : Free

HOW TO WATCH : The show can be viewed along the lakefront from Fullerton to Oak Street, with North Avenue Beach as the focal point.

ACCESSIBILITY : Audio description for people who are low vision or blind is available both days through a dial-in Zoom number. The description will be available from 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. both days. To join the Zoom meeting follow this link and enter meeting ID 825 9811 3869. More information is available from the City of Chicago here .

PARKING : There is no public parking at the beach over the Chicago Air and Water Show weekend. Millennium Garages offers discounted pre-purchase parking and a free shuttle from the 6 South Columbus Drive garage between Randolph and Monroe starting at 9 a.m. on level 2.5. For more information on the Millennium Garages parking offer, click here.

HOW TO GET THERE : The city encourages using CTA to attend the air and water show. You can use the CTA Trip Planner to get your best route. The CTA 72 bus that normally stops at North Avenue beach will be rerouted and only go as far as North and Clark.

Supplemental bus service will be provided on the 72 North Avenue and 151 Sheridan bus routes. Buses on the 145 Wilson/Michigan Express, 146 Inner Drive/Michigan Express and 147 Outer Drive routes also have stops near the activities. You can also take the 22 Clark or 36 Broadway buses to North and Clark, within walking distance of North Avenue beach.

If you are driving or using rideshare, pickup and drop off is at the North Avenue northbound entrance to DuSable Lake Shore Drive. Use of North LaSalle will be limited to emergency management's discretion. All drop off and pick up also may be cut off due to crowds. If you are using rideshare or driving, the city recommends being dropped off away from the event and walking over.

The city encourages attendees to arrive early and stay through the end of the event if you need pick up and drop off.

CAN I WATCH ON THE WATER? Boaters can watch the show from Lake Michigan, in the "Playpen" or out on the lake as long as they avoid the show's restricted zone. That zone will be delineated by orange "Do Not Enter" buoys and patrolled by the Coast Guard, CPD and CFD.

FULL LINEUP OF PERFORMERS

Headliners include the iconic U.S. Navy Blue Angels and the U.S. Army Parachute Team Golden Knights this year.

Stunt pilot RJ Gritter will make his debut at the show aboard his acrobatic Decathlon 150 CS.

Trojan Phlyers will be aboard their historical North American Aviation Company T-28B aircraft.

Featured military performers include: -U.S Navy Blue Angels flying F/A-18 Hornets.

- U.S Navy F-35C

-U.S Marine Corps F-35B

-U.S Air Force C-17

-U.S Air Force KC-135

-U.S Air Force KC-46 Pegasus

-U.S Air Force B-1B

-U.S Army Golden Knights Parachute Team

-U.S Army AH-64

-U.S Air Force/Maryland Air National Guard A-10

-U.S Coast Guard MH-65 Dolphin Search & Rescue (SAR)

Civilian stunt performers include:

-RJ Gritter Decathlon Aerobatics

-Trojan Phlyers - T-28 (2-ship)

-Bill Stein Edge 540

-Kevin Coleman Red Bull Aerobatic Pilot

-Susan Dacy - Big Red Stearman Biplane

-Ed "Hamster" Hamill - Folds of Honor Biplane

WHAT SHOULD I BRING?

FOOD AND DRINK : Food vendors are located up and down the lakefront.

Attendees are welcome to bring personal coolers with water and ice, as well as their own food and drink. Bags and coolers will be subject to search.

AMENITIES : Restroom facilities are available in the North Avenue Beach House. There will also be port-a-pottys throughout the beach area.

A first aid tent will be located in the parking lot west of the North Avenue Beach House. A lost child tent will be located in the center of the LaSalle Street turnaround.

Free cooling stations will be set up at the entrance to North Avenue Beach.

OTHER : Portable radios/listening devices, hats, binoculars, chairs, sunscreen and earplugs are all allowed and encouraged. Parents are especially encouraged to bring sunscreen and earplugs for children.

PROHIBITED ITEMS

Normal beach security rules apply during the Chicago Air and Water Show. As such the following items are prohibited:

• BBQ grills (open flames)
• Drones (personal or commercial)
• Fireworks or explosives
• Illegal substances
• Pop up tents or canopies
• All flying objects such as helium balloons or kites
• All pets, excluding service animals

Related Topics

• COMMUNITY & EVENTS
• LINCOLN PARK
• NEAR NORTH SIDE
• CHICAGO AIR & WATER SHOW
• FAMILY & PARENTING
• CHICAGO POLICE DEPARTMENT
• CHICAGO FIRE DEPARTMENT

Chicago Air And Water Show

Chicago Air and Water Show wraps up after day 2

Blue Angels bring thousands out to Chicago Air and Water Show

ABC7's Christian Piekos skydives with US Army Golden Knights

Bud Billiken Parade, Air & Water Show make for busy Chicago weekend

Top stories.

Union Pacific investigating train cargo theft on West Side

5, including 2 doctors, charged in Matthew Perry's death

• 9 minutes ago

Peter Marshall, 'Hollywood Squares' host and Broadway star, dies at 98

• 2 hours ago

Legal battle between DNC protesters, City of Chicago continues

• 5 minutes ago

Trump to hold news conference at his NJ golf resort

• 19 minutes ago

Nominate your high school for ABC7 Chicago's Friday Flyover

Woman attacks airline employees at O'Hare Airport: CPD | VIDEO

Multiple arrests made in fatal shooting of 'GH' actor Johnny Wactor

• 3 hours ago

• Travel recommendations
• The taste of travel
• Tips & tricks
• Travel experiences

The 15 best solo trips in the US according to KAYAK data

Throughout my years of experience as a travel journalist – more often than not relying on myself to navigate the world of airports, hotels and new cities – I’ve found that some destinations are better suited for solo travel than others. 

My evidence certainly veers more qualitative, but it’s also mirrored by a recent solo travel and dining research from KAYAK and OpenTable . Below, learn more about the 15 best solo trips in the US, ranked based on data from KAYAK and OpenTable.

Best places to travel alone in the US

• Washington, D.C
• Salt Lake City
• Philadelphia
• Los Angeles
• San Francisco

1. Washington, D.C

According to KAYAK’s Solo Travel and Dining Guide, the best place to vacation by yourself in the US is Washington, D.C. With highly walkable neighborhoods and easily navigable public transportation, D.C. is the best East Coast city for those traveling on their own. Before your trip, I recommend thoughtfully mapping out all of the sights, museums, restaurants, and areas you’re hoping to see.

If you plan your route efficiently, you can check off most of the top cultural destinations and iconic D.C. experiences within a short weekend. The National Mall, for example, is home to several must-see attractions, like the Washington Monument, the Lincoln Memorial, the Korean War Veterans Memorial and the Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial. Plus, it’s completely free to explore. 

When you’re in a place as dynamic as Boston, it’s often easier to explore solo than with someone by your side. You can visit all of the top tourist attractions – including the Freedom Trail, the Museum of Fine Arts, the Public Garden and Boston Common – without slowing down for a fellow traveler or discussing what to do next.

If taking in all of Beantown’s historical sights solo gets old after a day or two, consider booking a guided tour of the Freedom Trail , a seat on a hop-on hop-off trolley tour , or a whale-watching cruise . The Seaport District and Harvard’s campus are also two of my favorite areas to leisurely wander on a nice day . 

City escapes are inherently solo traveler-friendly, and Chicago is no different. The Windy City features more than its fair share of amazing architecture, world-class museums, green parks and award-winning restaurants – and none of it requires a travel partner. If you’re hoping to plan your adventure around Chicago’s notorious snowstorms and less-than-perfect weather, book your trip during the summer.

This will allow for ample opportunity to explore some of the gorgeous lakefront neighborhoods, including Lincoln Park, Hyde Park and The Loop. The summer also gives way to can’t-miss outdoor events like the Millennium Park Summer Music Series, boat cruises on Lake Michigan and watching fireworks from Navy Pier. 

Given the fact that Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta Airport (ATL) is the busiest airport in the US , flights to A-Town typically fall on the more affordable side – depending on where you’re flying from, of course. Consider this permission to spend a little more on your accommodations.

There’s nothing as luxurious as a solo night in a five-star hotel – with room service, a hot shower and a cozy bathrobe – and Atlanta has some of the most glamorous guest experiences in the South. If you’re feeling particularly fancy, you can’t go wrong with either the Four Seasons Hotel Atlanta or The St. Regis Atlanta .  

5. Salt Lake City

A magnet for outdoor enthusiasts and snow chasers, the capital of Utah places visitors directly in the foothills of the Wasatch mountain range. If you’re planning to take advantage of the surrounding hiking trails and ski slopes, follow best solo travel practices, like ensuring someone you trust has your location. Salt Lake City also has a bunch of other cultural attractions that cater to individual travelers, including the Natural History Museum of Utah , the Clark Planetarium and The Leonardo Museum .

Solo travelers who consider themselves extroverts and night owls should add Tampa to their bucket list. Located in the heart of Florida’s Gulf Coast, Cigar City is a colorful metropolis where celebration, creativity and cultural diversity thrive.

During the day, explore Busch Gardens Tampa Bay , Lowry Park Zoo or Cypress Point Park . After the sun goes down, make your way to the Tampa Riverwalk . Controlled by security, this is a great, safe option for solo travelers who want to participate in Tampa’s nightlife or sip a few cocktails while taking in the city skyline and water views. 

7. Philadelphia

There’s a certain sense of freedom that comes with solo travel, so where better to experience that feeling than in the birthplace of American Independence? As someone who lived in Philadelphia for several years, I can say that the City of Brotherly Love is filled with endless activities and delicious meals that can be thoroughly enjoyed on your own.

Don’t miss a meander through Reading Terminal Market , and save a few hours in your day for the Mütter Museum , the Philadelphia Museum of Art and the Rodin Museum . Just be sure to bring comfortable walking shoes, as many of Philly’s top tourist neighborhoods – Center City, Rittenhouse Square, Washington Square West and Old City – are best explored on foot. 

Best for those who can swing an extended visit, the Emerald City has an impressive list of cultural, culinary, and outdoor recreation opportunities. To narrow down the options, spend at least a day museum hopping; don’t miss the Museum of Pop Culture , the Seattle Art Museum or the Museum of Flight .

The next morning, focus on finding all the most delectable bites in Seattle (Pike Place Market is the best place to start). And before you leave town, paddle a kayak on Lake Union or hike some of the trails in Discovery Park. With a schedule as packed as this one, you’ll hardly notice the lack of a travel companion. 

9. Los Angeles

For many travelers, Los Angeles is high on their list of best vacation spots , thanks to its warm weather and beach access. It’s also ideal for solo travel – whether you plan to spend your alone time soaking up the sun by a pool, shopping in The Grove or hiking in Runyon Canyon Park.

Remember, though, Los Angeles is a spread-out city, and your exact experience will vary based on which neighborhood you’re staying in and what you plan on doing. In my experience, Downtown (DTLA) and Santa Monica are both extremely walkable and your best bet if you’re traveling alone.

10. New York City

When I moved to New York City for my first job after college, I spent every free moment I had exploring the boroughs – most of the time, on my own and with affordability in mind. During those years, I discovered that, while NYC rent and real estate prices are high, this is also a destination with top-tier public transportation and a host of affordable cultural activities .

Budget-conscious solo travelers can walk around Central Park, ride the Staten Island ferry (passing the Statue of Liberty) and visit the Metropolitan Museum of Art, where admission is granted on a “pay what you want” basis. If museums strike your fancy, check out all of NYC’s best museums , many of which are free on certain days. 

Similarly to Salt Lake City, Denver calls to solo travelers who crave adventure – but you don’t necessarily need to head out on the trail alone. There are a variety of groups, tours and events that serve as a way for travelers to connect with fellow visitors and the local community. I suggest checking out BIPOC Mountain Collective on Facebook and Meetup .

Another thing to be aware of is Denver’s general size. When I first visited the Mile-High City on my own, I was a bit intimidated by how spread out it is. You can avoid that sense of overwhelmingness , by booking a hotel downtown, an area that is more compact and incredibly walkable. 

Austin may not have a reputation for affordability – its cost of living is relatively high – but there are many ways for solo travelers to visit without breaking the bank. To save a few dollars, avoid traveling to Austin during major events and festivals (like SXSW and Austin City Limits) when hotel prices will skyrocket.

You can also keep yourself busy with Austin’s impressive roster of free or affordable things to do. Take a free tour of the Texas State Capitol, lounge in Zilker Park, or pay the small entrance fee (around $9) to take a dip in the refreshing Barton Springs Pool.

13. San Francisco

San Francisco is a mecca for foodies – even those who are traveling solo. In fact, when you’re by yourself, you never have to compromise on what you want to eat. If you’re craving a sweet treat, help yourself to the Ghirardelli’s Hot Fudge Sundae .

If you’re in the mood for James Beard award-winning delicacies – and you’re lucky enough to snag a reservation – the team at State Bird Provisions will leave you dreaming of their creations long after you’ve returned home. And if you’d like to pair a glass of wine with a good book? Head to Cultivar . 

Dallas has one of the most underrated art scenes in the US, and the city has a range of museums and galleries to add to a solo itinerary. Many are also easy to find and relatively close to one another. If you can, book a hotel near the Dallas Art District (DAD), the largest contiguous urban arts district in the US.

Here, you’ll be able to pop into the Dallas Museum of Art, the Nasher Sculpture Center, the Crow Museum of Asian Art and the Meyerson Symphony Center. You can also check out DAD’s website to see which exciting events and programs align with your trip dates.

15. Houston

Houston, Texas rounds out KAYAK and Open Table’s list of best solo trips in the US. As in most larger cities, safety can be a concern at night but, for the most part, solo travelers can feel at ease visiting Space City’s tourist attractions and downtown areas.

These include kayaking along the Buffalo Bayou Waterway, checking out the Houston Graffiti Building , watching a performance at the Miller Outdoor Theatre and hiking around the Houston Arboretum and Nature Center . Houston’s food scene also comes heavily recommended. Stop by Villa Arcos for the breakfast tacos and Henderson & Kane General Store for Texas barbecue and a curated selection of groceries.  

Looking for more solo trips and tips? Check out the KAYAK and OpenTable’s solo travel and dining guide.

A total of 15 cities have been selected based on the largest share of solo travel searches made on KAYAK.com and the share of solo dining at OpenTable restaurants. 

The solo travel share has been identified based on the hotel searches for one person conducted from the 1st January 2024 to 30th June 2024 for the travel period between the 7th January 2024 and 30th November 2024.

About the author

Explore more articles

California consumers have the right to opt out of the sale * of their personal information. For more information on how we securely process personal information, please see our Privacy Policy .

Do not sell my info ON

* The definition of "sale" under the California Consumer Privacy Act is applicable only to California consumers.