20 Of The Best Things to Do In Chicago
As an Australian living in Chicago for the past few years, I know for a fact that Chicago is one of the most exciting cities to visit in the United States. Known for its unique architecture, rich cultural heritage, and famous deep-dish pizza, Chicago has something for everyone. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a regular to the Windy City, here are 20 of the best things to do in Chicago.
Everything you can not miss around Chicago
1. Visit Millennium Park
Located in Chicago’s Loop, Millennium Park is most famously known as the home to the Bean and is a must-visit attraction in Chicago. Millennium Park has free admission and features the Jay Pritzker Pavilion, Cloud Gate, the Crown Fountain, the Lurie Garden, and various other attractions. There’s something for everyone, take a selfie with the Bean, explore the park's beautiful gardens, and even enjoy free concerts during the summer.
2. Explore Navy Pier
Located on the shores of Lake Michigan, Navy Pier is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. Take a ride on the Ferris wheel, visit the Chicago Children's Museum, and enjoy live music and entertainment. You can even try Chicago’s famous Rainbow Cone, right at the pier!
3. Visit the Willis Tower
Formerly known as the Sears Tower, the Willis Tower is the tallest building in Chicago. Take a trip up to the Skydeck and enjoy stunning views of the city from 103 floors up.
4. Take a Selfie With The Bean
Formally known as ‘Cloud Gate,’ it gained its famous nickname for its bean-like shape. Snap a selfie in its reflective surfaces or admire its multiple reflections.
5. Visit The Art Institute of Chicago
One of the oldest and largest art museums in the United States, the Art Institute of Chicago is home to over 300,000 works of art. Explore the museum's vast collection and see works by some of the world's most famous artists.
6. Visit the John Hancock Center
The 100-story John Hancock Center, which has a rooftop observation deck with fine dining and panoramic city views, sits over 1000 ft. above Chicago’s Magnificent Mile.
7. Wander the Magnificent Mile
North Michigan Avenue, also known as The Magnificent Mile is Chicago’s vibrant, bustling area, home to upscale shops, luxury fashion, cool restaurants, and posh hotels. Landmarks include the historic Chicago Water Tower, the neo-Gothic Tribune Tower, the terracotta Wrigley Building skyscraper, and the John Hancock Center.
8. Explore the Lincoln Park Zoo
Home to over 1,000 animals, the Lincoln Park Zoo is one of the oldest zoos in the United States. Explore the zoo's exhibits and see animals from around the world. The best part of all? It’s completely free to enter (although donations are always welcome)!
9. Watch a Cubs Game at Wrigley Field
Baseball fans won't want to miss the chance to see the Chicago Cubs play at Wrigley Field. Enjoy a hot dog and a cold beer while cheering on the home team.
10. Admire Buckingham Fountain
Located in the center of Chicago’s Grant Park, Buckingham Fountain is among one of the largest fountains in the world. If you’re visiting between May and mid-October, be sure to catch the hourly, 20-minute water show featuring the fountain’s center jet shooting water 150 feet into the air.
11. Walk the Chicago Riverwalk
Take a stroll along the Chicago Riverwalk and enjoy stunning views of the city skyline. Stop for a drink or a bite to eat at one of the many restaurants and bars along the way.
12. Picnic in Humboldt Park
Enjoy a picnic or graze one of the many food trucks that line the streets of Chicago’s Humbolt Park.
13. Visit the WNDR Museum
Chicago’s WNDR Museum is an interactive and immersive art museum that is unlike any other, offering a journey into the world of wonder and creativity that's sure to leave you in awe.
14. Snap a Picture with the Greetings from Chicago Mural
Situated in Logan Square, the Greetings from Chicago Mural was one of the first official on-the-road ‘postcard murals’ by artists Victor Ving and Lisa Beggs.
15. High Tea at the Drake Hotel
The Drake has been serving tea for over a century, and its afternoon tea service is renowned for its sophistication and attention to detail.
16. Walk the 606 Trail
For a change of pace and scenery, take a leisurely walk or bike ride along the 606 Trail, a former railroad line turned elevated urban oasis. The 606 Trail spans several neighborhoods, including Bucktown, Wicker Park, and Humboldt Park, providing a different perspective of Chicago's vibrant communities.
17. Devour a Chicago-style hot dog
No visit to Chicago would be complete without indulging in one of the city's iconic culinary creations – the Chicago-style hot dog. Head to a local hot dog joint, such as Portillo's or Superdawg, to get your hands on this mouthwatering delight.
A Chicago-style hot dog is far from your average hot dog. It's a steamed, all-beef hot dog served in a poppy seed bun and loaded with a unique combination of toppings. These toppings typically include yellow mustard, chopped onions, bright green relish, a dill pickle spear, tomato slices, sport peppers, and a dash of celery salt. Put the ketchup away, we don’t do that in around here…
18. Eat Deep Dish Pizza
No trip to Chicago is complete without trying the city's famous deep-dish pizza. Head to my personal favourite, Pequods, or check out eh classics like Lou Malnati's or Giordano's for a slice of the city's signature dish.
19. Visit the Field Museum
One of the largest natural history museums in the world, the Field Museum is home to over 40 million specimens. Explore the museum's exhibits and learn about the history of the natural world.
20. See a show at the Chicago Theatre
Built in 1921, the Chicago Theatre is one of the city's most iconic landmarks. See a show or take a tour of the historic theater. Look for the flashing Chicago sign, you won’t want to miss this one!
Enjoy Chicago In All Its Glory
Chicago is a city that offers something for every traveler, from its world-class museums to its delicious food and vibrant neighborhoods. So, grab your camera, put on your walking shoes, and get ready to discover the best of Chicago!
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