Chicago, the third-largest city in the United States, is a vibrant hub of culture, history, and architecture. With its iconic skyline, world-class museums, beautiful parks, and diverse neighborhoods, there is something for everyone in the Windy City. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, here are the top places you should visit when in Chicago.
1. Millennium Park
Beyond these attractions, Millennium Park has beautiful gardens, art installations, and walking paths, making it a perfect place to relax and take in the city's atmosphere.
2. Navy Pier
Navy Pier is a family-friendly entertainment destination located on Lake Michigan. Originally built in 1916 as a shipping and amusement pier, it has grown into one of Chicago’s most visited tourist spots. Navy Pier features a variety of attractions, including:
- The Centennial Wheel: A 200-foot-tall Ferris wheel that offers stunning views of the city and lake.
- Chicago Children’s Museum: A hands-on museum that is fun for kids and adults alike.
- Crystal Gardens: A beautiful indoor garden filled with palm trees, fountains, and tropical plants.
In addition to these attractions, Navy Pier has plenty of dining options, shops, and boat tours that give you a chance to enjoy Lake Michigan. During the summer, there are often fireworks shows that light up the night sky.
3. The Art Institute of Chicago
For art lovers, the Art Institute of Chicago is a must-visit. Founded in 1879, this museum is one of the oldest and largest art museums in the U.S. It is home to an extensive collection of artwork from around the world, including pieces by famous artists like Vincent van Gogh, Georges Seurat, and Grant Wood. One of the museum's most famous pieces is American Gothic by Wood, depicting a farmer and his daughter.
The museum is located in Grant Park and is easily accessible from other downtown attractions. Apart from the paintings, the museum also has sculptures, ancient artifacts, and decorative arts on display. With over 300,000 works of art, visitors could spend hours exploring its galleries.
4. Willis Tower Sky-deck
If you want to experience breathtaking views of Chicago, a visit to the Willis Tower (formerly known as the Sears Tower) is a must. Standing at 1,450 feet, the Willis Tower was once the tallest building in the world. The Skydeck on the 103rd floor offers a glass box known as The Ledge, where you can step out and look straight down at the city below. It’s an exhilarating experience that gives you a bird’s-eye view of the Windy City.
On a clear day, you can see up to four states from the Skydeck. The tower also has interactive exhibits and a rich history that will keep you engaged while you wait for your turn to step out on the Ledge.
5. Lincoln Park Zoo
For a fun, free activity, head to Lincoln Park Zoo. Located in Lincoln Park, this zoo is one of the oldest in the United States and offers a wide variety of animals to see. It’s open year-round, and admission is completely free. The zoo houses over 1,000 animals, including big cats, primates, and exotic birds.
The zoo also has beautiful gardens and a conservatory that offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. It’s a great spot for families, couples, or anyone looking to spend some time outdoors. Don’t forget to check out the Farm-in-the-Zoo, where kids can pet and feed farm animals like goats and pigs.
6. The Field Museum
The Field Museum of Natural History is another must-visit in Chicago. This museum is one of the largest natural history museums in the world. It’s home to a vast collection of specimens, including fossils, ancient artifacts, and animal dioramas.
One of the most famous exhibits is Sue, the largest and most complete Tyrannosaurus rex fossil ever discovered. The museum also has impressive exhibits on ancient civilizations, the history of human cultures, and Earth sciences. If you’re interested in science, history, or nature, the Field Museum is a fascinating place to explore.
7. Chicago Riverwalk
The Chicago Riverwalk is a beautiful waterfront area that stretches along the Chicago River. It’s a great place for a leisurely walk, with stunning views of the city’s architecture. The Riverwalk features cafes, restaurants, and boat tours that allow you to explore the city from a different perspective.
One of the best ways to see the city is to take a Chicago Architecture Foundation River Cruise. These boat tours are led by expert guides who share the rich history of Chicago’s famous buildings and architecture. Along the way, you’ll learn about the city’s growth, design, and how the river helped shape its development.
8. Museum of Science and Industry
The Museum of Science and Industry is located in Jackson Park and is one of the largest science museums in the world. This hands-on museum offers interactive exhibits on a variety of topics, including space exploration, transportation, robotics, and environmental science. Visitors can explore a real-life U-505 submarine, step inside a coal mine simulation, and even see a Tesla Coil in action.
This museum is perfect for families, science enthusiasts, and anyone looking to learn something new. It’s both educational and entertaining, making it one of Chicago’s top attractions.
9. Magnificent Mile
For shopping, dining, and sightseeing, the Magnificent Mile is the place to be. Located on Michigan Avenue, this stretch of road is lined with luxury stores, department stores, and popular brands. Whether you’re in the mood for a shopping spree or just window shopping, the Magnificent Mile offers something for every taste and budget.
Aside from shopping, the Magnificent Mile is also home to several historic landmarks, including the Tribune Tower and the John Hancock Center. It’s a great area to walk around, enjoy the city’s energy, and stop for a meal at one of Chicago’s famous restaurants.
10. Grant Park
Known as "Chicago’s front yard," Grant Park is a large urban park that features a variety of attractions and activities. Located in downtown Chicago, it’s home to several important landmarks, including:
- The Buckingham Fountain: One of the largest fountains in the world, which puts on a spectacular water show, especially in the evening.
- The Art Institute of Chicago: As mentioned earlier, this museum is located at the southern end of the park.
- The Harris Theater: A venue for dance, music, and theater performances.
Grant Park is a lovely spot to relax, take a walk, or have a picnic. It also hosts major events and festivals throughout the year, including the Chicago Blues Festival and Lollapalooza.
11. Chicago History Museum
To learn about Chicago’s rich history, visit the Chicago History Museum. Located in Lincoln Park, this museum offers exhibits about the city's past, including its founding, its role in the Great Fire of 1871, and its rise as a cultural and industrial hub. The museum also features collections of photos, artifacts, and documents that tell the story of Chicago’s growth and its diverse communities.
The museum provides an in-depth look at the people and events that shaped the city, making it a great stop for history buffs.
