25 Best Things to Do in Chicago - Your Ultimate Guide

Millennium Park is a must-see for anyone exploring Chicago! This iconic park offers a variety of attractions, including the famous "Cloud Gate" sculpture, affectionately known as "The Bean". Take a selfie in her reflection or simply admire her unique design. You can also catch a free concert or movie at the Jay Pritzker Pavilion or take a stroll through the tranquil Lurie Garden. Also visit nearby attractions like the Art Institute of Chicago and Grant Park. Don't miss this cultural hub in the Windy City!

The Art Institute of Chicago is an art lover's paradise! This world-famous museum has an extensive art collection that includes works from all parts of the world. The museum houses over 300,000 works of art, ranging from ancient times to the present. Don't miss the opportunity to see works by Van Gogh, Monet and Picasso. For insiders, it's worth visiting the Thorne Miniature Rooms, an impressive collection of 68 nearly to-scale rooms from various historical periods. Pro-tip: The museum is located near Grant Park, so take a walk and enjoy the breathtaking views of Lake Michigan after your visit.

The Riverwalk in Chicago is a must-see for tourists and locals alike. Walk along the river and enjoy breathtaking views of the city skyline, with many scenic photo spots. Visit the six different sections of the Riverwalk, each with unique features like an interactive fountain and public art installations. Don't forget to stop by the restaurants and bars for a bite to eat and a cocktail while enjoying some of the best views of the city. Plus, the Riverwalk is just steps away from the famous Magnificent Mile, where you'll find world-class shopping.

If you're visiting Chicago, Navy Pier is a must-see. This iconic destination offers breathtaking views of Lake Michigan and a variety of exciting activities throughout the year. Walk along the pier and enjoy the street performers, stop by the classic Ferris wheel for an unparalleled view of the city skyline, and treat yourself to delicious Chicago-style cuisine at one of the many on-site restaurants. Don't miss the opportunity to attend a performance at the Chicago Shakespeare Theater, located just steps away. Whether you're traveling alone or with family and friends, Navy Pier is sure to be a highlight of your trip to the Windy City.

Get ready to explore the jewel that is Lincoln Park in Chicago. One of the city's largest parks, it offers picturesque views of Lake Michigan, beautiful gardens, and charming nature trails. Lincoln Park Zoo, one of the oldest and most renowned zoos in the country, is also free! Take a walk on North Avenue Beach, where you can sunbathe, swim, or just enjoy the breathtaking skyline views. Don't forget to take a photo with the iconic Abe Lincoln statue at the entrance of the park.

Grant Park is a must-see for any Chicago visitor! Not only is it the city's most famous park, but it also offers stunning architecture, beautiful gardens, and recreational activities. Take a walk around Buckingham Fountain, enjoy a picnic with friends on the lush green lawns, or attend live music events at the Petrillo Music Shell.

As a baseball fan, a visit to Wrigley Field is an absolute must when in Chicago. This iconic stadium is home to the beloved Chicago Cubs and has a rich history dating back to 1914. Not only is the stadium's architecture stunning, but the atmosphere on game days is electrifying.

One of Chicago's premier destinations is undoubtedly Museum Campus. This stunning park is home to three world-class museums that showcase the best in natural history, science and planetarium. Here you can visit the Field Museum, home to the world's largest T-Rex, the Shedd Aquarium or the Adler Planetarium.

If you're looking for a museum that truly has it all, the Field Museum in Chicago is a must-see. With over 26 million artifacts and specimens, this museum takes you on a journey through time, from prehistoric to current species. The museum has something for all ages, including the famous T-Rex named Sue and an extensive Egyptian exhibit. Be sure to grab a bite at the museum's restaurant, The Field Bistro, which serves delicious and regional dishes. And don't miss exploring nearby Grant Park and the Lakefront Trail, where you'll have great views of the city.

Immerse yourself in the fascinating underwater world of the Shedd Aquarium in Chicago. This world-class aquarium is home to more than 32,000 animals from around the world, including dolphins, penguins, beluga whales and even sharks. Through exciting exhibits and informative lectures by experts, you'll learn about the habitats and behaviors of these amazing creatures.

Get ready to experience the wonders of science and innovation at the Museum of Science and Industry in Chicago! The museum's collection includes more than 35,000 artifacts, events, and exhibits covering nearly every field of science. You can explore the history of space exploration, tour a real submarine, and even walk through a human-sized hamster wheel. Be sure to visit the fascinating world of nanotechnology, where you can see real atoms up close! The Museum of Science and Industry in Hyde Park is just a stone's throw away from the magnificent Jackson Park. Don't miss the opportunity to stroll through this tranquil urban oasis and take in the breathtaking views of Lake Michigan.

If you're looking for an unparalleled shopping experience in Chicago, be sure to visit 875 North Michigan Avenue, also known as the "Mag Mile." In this iconic shopping district, you'll find world-renowned luxury brands like Gucci, Louis Vuitton and Neiman Marcus, as well as local favorites like Garrett Popcorn Shops and Hershey's Chocolate World. Don't miss the stunning architecture of the John Hancock Center, which houses a 360-degree observatory on the 94th floor. Plus, Oak Street is just a short walk away for even more upscale shopping.

If you're looking for a fun and free activity in Chicago, be sure to visit the Lincoln Park Zoo! Located in the heart of the vibrant Lincoln Park neighborhood, this zoo is home to over 200 species of animals from around the world. From lions and tigers to monkeys and penguins, you'll have the opportunity to see a variety of animals up close. As a bonus, the zoo offers spectacular skyline views and nearby restaurants for a quick break. Don't miss this opportunity to experience the wild wonders of Chicago!

Attention all adventure seekers! If you're in Chicago, don't miss an exciting experience at Willis Tower. The tower offers breathtaking views of the entire city from the 103rd floor SkyDeck with a glass balcony that extends over the edge of the tower. You'll feel like you're on top of the world as you gaze out over Lake Michigan and the cityscape.

If you are in Chicago, you can't miss Cloud Gate, popularly known as "The Bean". This unique art installation is located in Millennium Park and is one of the most popular attractions in Chicago, attracting millions of visitors every year. The reflective surface of the sculpture reflects the breathtaking Chicago skyline, creating an unforgettable and captivating visual experience. Be sure to get up close to the bean to discover its intricacies and details.

If you want to escape the hustle and bustle of Chicago's streets and step into a peaceful green oasis, Garfield Park Conservatory is the perfect place to do it. The conservatory is a horticultural oasis with lush greenery, blooming flowers and calming fountains. Don't forget to pick up an audio guide at the entrance to learn more about the different plants in each room.

Get ready to sharpen your senses at Skydeck Chicago! This lofty attraction offers unparalleled panoramic views of the city skyline. Step from the 103rd floor onto The Ledge - a glass balcony that juts ten feet out from the building - and experience the thrill of a bird's eye view. Believe me, the view of Chicago from above is incomparable and worth every penny! Skydeck Chicago is located in the iconic Willis Tower, so you can also take a walk around the neighborhood and enjoy some delicious Chicago-style pizza!

A visit to Chicago is not complete until you visit Maggie Daley Park. This beautiful park is the perfect place to relax and soak up the sun while enjoying breathtaking views of the city skyline. With its wide range of activities including rock climbing, mini golf, and an ice skating rink, this park is a must-see for families and solo travelers alike.

Are you looking for that unmistakable Chicago experience? Buckingham Fountain is a true gem that symbolizes the grandeur of the Windy City. This magnificent water fountain in Grant Park features 133 powerful jets and majestic water features, each lasting 20 minutes. Depending on the light, the fountain changes color - and the effect is simply breathtaking. Pro tip: Visit the park in the evening when the fountain is illuminated, and be sure to take a walk along the nearby shore of Lake Michigan.

If you're looking for an unparalleled view of the Windy City, 360 CHICAGO is the place for you. Located on the 94th floor of the historic John Hancock Building, this observation deck offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Chicago skyline. You can even test your mettle by heading up to the TILT, an enclosed glass platform that tilts outward for an exciting downward perspective.

If you want to learn about Chicago's history, be sure to visit the DuSable Bridge, which connects the Chicago River with Lake Michigan. This landmark is named after the city's founder, Jean Baptiste Point DuSable. From here, you'll have a breathtaking view of the surrounding neighborhoods like River North, the Magnificent Mile, and the lakefront. And if you feel like a little exercise, you can take a walk on the Riverwalk, a pedestrian path that runs along the Chicago River.

Jackson (Andrew) Park in the heart of Chicago is a must-see for any tourist exploring the city. This historic park is home to ancient trees and picturesque landscapes, perfect for a relaxing walk or picnic. You can also visit the famous Osaka Garden, a beautiful Japanese garden in the park. If you're lucky, you can even catch one of the park's many concerts, festivals or cultural events. And if you're hungry, be sure to make a detour to the nearby Hyde Park district for dining and shopping.

The Chicago Cultural Center is a true gem for any culture lover visiting the Windy City. The stunning building itself is a masterpiece of design and architecture, with a grand staircase, intricate mosaics, and incredible stained glass domes. Inside, visitors can discover a variety of galleries and exhibits, including art collections, cultural exhibits, and historical artifacts. Don't miss the stunning Preston Bradley Hall, which features an impressive Tiffany dome and is often used for live performances and events.

The "Chicago Theatre" is an absolute must-see in the heart of downtown Chicago. This famous theater is not only an architectural masterpiece, but also one of the most famous landmarks of the city. Its large auditorium hosts numerous events, from concerts to comedy shows. The majestic interior is decorated with gold leaf, silk curtains and grand staircases that transport you to a bygone era. The original "Chicago" sign on the marquee of the building was hand painted and is made up of over 2,000 light bulbs! While you're in the area, be sure to check out State Street, one of Chicago's busiest shopping districts.

Northerly Island Park is a hidden gem that offers breathtaking views of Lake Michigan and the Chicago skyline, making it a must-see for any visitor to the Windy City! This 91-acre peninsula has been transformed in recent years from an airport to a beautiful park with walking trails, lush greenery and a pristine beach.