If you’re planning a trip to Chicago, Illinois, you’re in for a treat. Chicago is a vibrant and exciting city with so much to see and do. From world-famous attractions to hidden gems, there’s something for everyone.
Interesting facts about Chicago:
- Chicago was founded in 1837 and is located on the shores of Lake Michigan.
- The city’s name comes from a Native American word that means “wild onion.”
- Chicago is home to the world’s first skyscraper, the Home Insurance Building, which was built in 1885.
- The city is also home to the world’s largest food festival, the Taste of Chicago, which attracts millions of visitors each year.
- Chicago is known for its deep-dish pizza, hot dogs, and Italian beef sandwiches.
- The city is also known for its architecture and has many famous buildings, including the Willis Tower (formerly known as the Sears Tower) and the John Hancock Center.
- Chicago is home to the world’s largest collection of Impressionist art outside of Paris, which can be found at the Art Institute of Chicago.
- The city is also home to the world’s largest indoor aquarium, the Shedd Aquarium.
- Chicago is the birthplace of the skyscraper and the modern office building.
- The city has a rich musical history and has been home to many famous musicians, including Muddy Waters, Buddy Guy, and Kanye West.
- Chicago is home to the oldest and largest free outdoor music festival in the country, the Chicago Blues Festival.
- The city is also home to the oldest and largest science fiction and fantasy convention in the country, the Chicago Comic & Entertainment Expo (C2E2).
- Chicago is the third-largest city in the United States, with a population of over 2.7 million people.
- The city is home to two major league baseball teams, the Chicago Cubs and the Chicago White Sox.
- Chicago is also home to the Chicago Bulls basketball team and the Chicago Blackhawks hockey team.
- The city is known for its brutal winters, with temperatures sometimes dropping below zero degrees Fahrenheit.
- Chicago is also known for its strong winds, which gave the city its nickname, the Windy City.
- The first ever televised presidential debate was held in Chicago in 1960 between John F. Kennedy and Richard Nixon.
- Chicago is home to many famous landmarks, including Navy Pier, Millennium Park, and the Bean sculpture.
- The city is also known for its famous skyline, which has been featured in many movies and television shows.
In this article, we’ll take a look at 30 of the best things to do in Chicago.
Explore Millennium Park
Millennium Park is a sprawling public space in the heart of Chicago that is home to some of the city’s most famous landmarks. The park’s centerpiece is the Cloud Gate sculpture, which is also known as “The Bean.” This iconic sculpture has a mirror-like surface that reflects the city’s skyline and visitors can walk under and around the sculpture to take in all the angles. The park also has a beautiful garden, the Lurie Garden, which is an urban oasis featuring a variety of plants and flowers that are native to the Midwest. The park is also home to the Crown Fountain, which features two 50-foot towers with LED screens that project images of Chicagoans’ faces.
Visit the Art Institute of Chicago
The Art Institute of Chicago is one of the oldest and largest art museums in the country. The museum is home to an impressive collection of art from all over the world, including works from famous artists like Monet, Van Gogh, and Picasso. Visitors can explore the museum’s vast galleries and admire the stunning pieces on display. Some of the museum’s most famous pieces include Grant Wood’s “American Gothic,” Edward Hopper’s “Nighthawks,” and Georges Seurat’s “A Sunday on La Grande Jatte.” The museum also features several temporary exhibitions throughout the year, so there’s always something new to see.
Take a stroll down Navy Pier
Navy Pier is a historic landmark in Chicago and is one of the city’s most popular tourist destinations. The pier is home to a variety of attractions, including the Navy Pier Ferris Wheel, which offers breathtaking views of the city and Lake Michigan. The pier also has a range of restaurants, shops, and entertainment options, making it the perfect place to spend an afternoon or evening. Visitors can take a ride on the carousel, see a show at the Shakespeare Theater, or visit the Chicago Children’s Museum. During the summer months, the pier also hosts a variety of festivals and events, including the Chicago Beer Fest and the Chicago Food Truck Fest.
Enjoy the view from the Willis Tower Skydeck
Formerly known as the Sears Tower, the Willis Tower is one of the tallest buildings in the country. Visitors can take an elevator to the Skydeck on the 103rd floor and enjoy stunning views of the city from above. The Skydeck has glass boxes that extend out from the building, allowing visitors to stand over the city and experience a bird’s eye view of Chicago. The tower also has several restaurants and shops, including the Skydeck Marketplace, where visitors can pick up souvenirs and gifts.
Catch a game at Wrigley Field
Wrigley Field is a historic baseball stadium and home to the Chicago Cubs. The stadium has a rich history and is known for its ivy-covered walls and classic architecture. Visitors can take a tour of the stadium and learn about its history, or catch a game and experience the excitement of a Cubs game firsthand. The stadium also has a range of food and drink options, including the famous Chicago-style hot dog.
See the animals at Lincoln Park Zoo
The Lincoln Park Zoo is a free zoo located in Lincoln Park. The zoo is home to a variety of animals from around the world, including lions, tigers, and bears. Visitors can also see the zoo’s famous gorillas and chimpanzees, or check out the reptile and bird exhibits. The zoo also has several restaurants and cafes, making it a great place to spend a day with family and friends.
Check out the Field Museum
The Field Museum is a natural history museum located in Chicago’s Museum Campus. The museum has an extensive collection of artifacts, including the world-famous Sue, the largest, most complete, and best-preserved Tyrannosaurus rex fossil ever discovered. The museum also has exhibits that explore the history of ancient civilizations, including ancient Egypt, China, and Peru. Visitors can also learn about the natural world and see specimens of plants, animals, and insects from around the world.
Experience the Adler Planetarium
The Adler Planetarium is a museum dedicated to astronomy and astrophysics. Visitors can explore interactive exhibits, watch shows in the planetarium dome, and learn about the universe and our place in it. The museum also has a range of telescopes and other equipment for visitors to use and explore the night sky. The planetarium is located in the Museum Campus, which also includes the Field Museum and the Shedd Aquarium.
Take a boat tour on the Chicago River
One of the best ways to see the city of Chicago is from the water. Visitors can take a boat tour on the Chicago River and admire the architecture of the city’s buildings from a unique perspective. The tours are available during the day and at night, and visitors can choose from a variety of companies and tour options.
Visit the Museum of Science and Industry
The Museum of Science and Industry is the largest science museum in the Western Hemisphere. The museum features interactive exhibits that explore various scientific topics, including space exploration, genetics, and physics. Visitors can also explore the museum’s coal mine exhibit, which takes them on a journey through a simulated coal mine. The museum is located in the Hyde Park neighborhood of Chicago and is a must-visit for anyone interested in science and technology.
Walk along the Magnificent Mile
The Magnificent Mile is a shopping district located on Michigan Avenue in downtown Chicago. The area is home to a variety of high-end shops, restaurants, and hotels. Visitors can take a walk down the street and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere. The Magnificent Mile is also home to several famous landmarks, including the Tribune Tower and the Wrigley Building.
Discover the Chicago Cultural Center
The Chicago Cultural Center is a cultural landmark in Chicago. The building is home to a variety of art exhibits, concerts, and events. Visitors can take a tour of the building and learn about its history and significance. The center is also home to the world’s largest Tiffany stained-glass dome, which is a must-see for anyone visiting Chicago.
Enjoy a meal at The Purple Pig
The Purple Pig is a popular restaurant located in downtown Chicago. The restaurant specializes in Mediterranean-inspired dishes and features an extensive wine list. Visitors can enjoy a meal and soak up the lively atmosphere. The restaurant is a popular spot for both locals and tourists, so be sure to make a reservation in advance.
Check out the Chicago Theatre
The Chicago Theatre is a historic landmark in Chicago. The theater is known for its iconic marquee and has hosted a variety of famous performers over the years. Visitors can catch a show and experience the magic of this iconic venue. The theater also offers tours, which allow visitors to see the behind-the-scenes workings of the theater.
Take a trip to the Garfield Park Conservatory
The Garfield Park Conservatory is a botanical garden located on the west side of Chicago. The conservatory features a variety of plants from around the world and is home to several indoor gardens and greenhouses. Visitors can take a guided tour or explore the conservatory on their own.
Explore the Chicago Riverwalk
The Chicago Riverwalk is a pedestrian walkway located along the Chicago River. The area is home to several restaurants, bars, and shops and is a great place to take a leisurely stroll. Visitors can also rent kayaks and paddleboards and explore the river from a different perspective.
Discover the Museum of Contemporary Art
The Museum of Contemporary Art is a museum dedicated to modern and contemporary art. The museum features exhibits that explore various themes and topics, including gender and identity, race and politics, and technology and media. Visitors can also attend lectures, workshops, and other events at the museum.
Go on a Chicago pizza tour
Chicago is famous for its deep-dish pizza, and what better way to explore the city’s food scene than on a pizza tour? Visitors can take a guided tour and sample some of the city’s best pizzas, including the famous deep-dish style.
Visit the DuSable Museum of African American History
The DuSable Museum of African American History is a museum dedicated to the history and culture of African Americans. The museum features exhibits that explore the African American experience, including the struggles and triumphs of black people in America. Visitors can also attend events and programs at the museum.
Take a bike ride along the lakefront
Chicago has a beautiful lakefront trail that stretches for miles along Lake Michigan. Visitors can rent bikes and take a ride along the trail, stopping at various landmarks and attractions along the way. The trail is also a great place for a leisurely walk or run.
Enjoy the beach at North Avenue Beach
North Avenue Beach is a popular beach in Chicago located on Lake Michigan. The beach is a great place to relax and soak up the sun, go for a swim, or play beach volleyball.
Visit the National Museum of Mexican Art
The National Museum of Mexican Art is a museum dedicated to Mexican art and culture. The museum features exhibits that explore Mexican history, traditions, and art, including a collection of over 10,000 pieces of Mexican folk art.
Take a trip to the Shedd Aquarium
The Shedd Aquarium is a popular attraction in Chicago located in the Museum Campus. The aquarium features over 32,000 animals from around the world, including sharks, dolphins, and penguins.
Discover the Oriental Institute Museum
The Oriental Institute Museum is a museum located on the campus of the University of Chicago. The museum features artifacts from the ancient Near East, including Egypt, Mesopotamia, and Persia.
Have a picnic in Grant Park
Grant Park is a large park located in downtown Chicago. The park is home to several iconic landmarks, including the Buckingham Fountain and the Art Institute of Chicago. Pack a picnic and enjoy a day in the park.
Visit the Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum
The Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum is a museum dedicated to the natural history of the Midwest. The museum features exhibits that explore the ecology of the region, including live butterflies and birds.
Explore the Lincoln Park Conservatory
The Lincoln Park Conservatory is a botanical garden located in Lincoln Park. The conservatory features a variety of plants from around the world and is a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.
Go shopping at the Magnificent Mile
The Magnificent Mile is a shopping district located on Michigan Avenue in downtown Chicago. The area is home to a variety of high-end shops, restaurants, and hotels. Shop ’til you drop in this famous Chicago shopping district.
Take a trip to the 360 CHICAGO observation deck
360 CHICAGO is an observation deck located in the John Hancock Center. Visitors can take an elevator to the 94th floor and enjoy panoramic views of the city from above.
Enjoy a night out in Wicker Park
Wicker Park is a trendy neighborhood in Chicago known for its restaurants, bars, and nightlife. Spend a night out on the town and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of this lively neighborhood.
Conclusion
Chicago is a city full of amazing attractions and experiences. Whether you’re interested in history, art, food, or nature, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant and exciting city. With so many things to see and do, you’ll never run out of options when visiting Chicago.
FAQs
What is the best time to visit Chicago?
The best time to visit Chicago is during the spring and fall seasons when the weather is mild, and there are fewer crowds. However, summer is also a popular time to visit because of the warm weather and outdoor activities.
Are there any free attractions in Chicago?
Yes, there are several free attractions in Chicago, including Millennium Park, the Lincoln Park Zoo, the Chicago Cultural Center, and the Navy Pier.
What is the best way to get around Chicago?
The best way to get around Chicago is by public transportation, including the “L” trains and buses. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also available.
What is the food scene like in Chicago?
Chicago has a vibrant food scene, with a variety of options ranging from deep-dish pizza to hot dogs to ethnic cuisine. The city is known for its high-quality restaurants and innovative chefs.
What are some other popular neighborhoods to visit in Chicago?
Other popular neighborhoods to visit in Chicago include Wicker Park, Logan Square, and Pilsen, each with its own unique atmosphere and attractions.
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