Chicago Travel Guide: The Best Things to Do, See, and Eat in the Windy City

Top 10 Attractions in Chicago

Chicago has something for everyone, from art lovers to history buffs, from nature enthusiasts to thrill seekers. Here are the top 10 attractions that you should not miss when you visit Chicago:

1. Millennium Park

Millennium Park is the heart of Chicago’s downtown and one of the most popular tourist destinations in the city. It is a 24.5-acre park that features stunning public art, beautiful gardens, and amazing views of the skyline. The park is also home to some of the most iconic landmarks in Chicago, such as:

• The Bean: Officially known as Cloud Gate, this is a giant stainless-steel sculpture that reflects the cityscape and the sky. It is one of the most photographed spots in Chicago and a must-see for any visitor.

• Crown Fountain: This is a unique interactive fountain that displays the faces of Chicagoans on two 50-foot towers. The faces change every few minutes and occasionally spit out water, creating a fun and playful atmosphere.

• Jay Pritzker Pavilion: This is an outdoor concert venue that hosts free music events throughout the year. It has a stunning design by architect Frank Gehry and a state-of-the-art sound system that covers the entire park.

• Lurie Garden: This is a 2.5-acre garden that showcases the native plants and flowers of Illinois. It is a peaceful oasis in the middle of the city and a great place to relax and enjoy nature.

The best time to visit Millennium Park is in the morning or evening, when the crowds are smaller and the light is better for photography. The best time of year to visit is in the spring or summer, when the park is full of colors and activities. From December thru February ice skating is also available for your enjoyment. You can get to Millennium Park by taking the CTA train to Randolph/Wabash or Washington/Wabash stations, or by taking the bus to Michigan & Randolph or Michigan & Washington stops.

2. Willis Tower Skydeck

Willis Tower, formerly known as Sears Tower, is the tallest building in Chicago and the second tallest in the Western Hemisphere. It stands at 1,450 feet and has 110 floors. The tower offers an incredible panoramic view of the city and beyond from its 103rd floor observation deck, known as the Skydeck. The Skydeck also features four glass boxes, called the Ledge, that extend out from the building and allow you to see the street below your feet.

The best time to visit the Skydeck is on a clear day, when you can see up to 50 miles and four states. The best time of year to visit is in the fall or winter, when the lines are shorter and the air is clearer. You can get to the Skydeck by taking the CTA train to Quincy/Wells or Jackson stations, or by taking the bus to Adams & Wacker or Jackson & Wacker stops.

3. Navy Pier

Navy Pier is a 3,300-foot-long pier that extends into Lake Michigan and offers a variety of attractions, entertainment, and dining options. It is one of the most visited places in Chicago and a great place to enjoy the lakefront and the city skyline. Some of the highlights of Navy Pier include:

• Centennial Wheel: This is a 200-foot-tall Ferris wheel that offers a spectacular view of the city and the lake. It operates year-round and has climate-controlled gondolas that can fit up to eight people.

• Chicago Children’s Museum: This is a museum that features interactive exhibits and programs that inspire children to learn through play. It is suitable for kids of all ages and has areas dedicated to art, science, math, engineering, and more.

• Crystal Gardens: This is a six-story glass atrium that houses a botanical garden with over 80 palm trees, fountains, and sculptures. It is a beautiful and serene place to escape the hustle and bustle of the pier and enjoy some greenery.

• IMAX Theater: This is a theater that shows the latest movies in IMAX format, which means larger screens, sharper images, and immersive sound. It is a great way to experience the cinematic magic of Hollywood in Chicago.

• Navy Pier Park: This is a park that features a variety of rides and games for all ages, such as a carousel, a wave swinger, a climbing wall, and a mini golf course. It is a fun and festive place to have some family fun or a romantic date.

The best time to visit Navy Pier is in the afternoon or evening, when the pier is lively and illuminated. The best time of year to visit is in the summer, when the pier hosts many events and festivals, such as the Chicago Shakespeare Theater, the Aon Summer Fireworks, and the Chicago Air and Water Show. Also located at the pier are the boats for taking a lake or river tour. The Chicago River architecture tours are not to be missed. You can get to Navy Pier by taking the CTA train to Grand/State or Lake stations, or by taking the bus to Illinois & Streeter or Grand & Streeter stops.

4. Art Institute of Chicago

Art Institute of Chicago is one of the oldest and largest art museums in the country and one of the most prestigious in the world. It has a collection of over 300,000 artworks, spanning from ancient to contemporary, from various cultures and regions. It is especially renowned for its Impressionist and Post-Impressionist paintings, such as Monet’s Water Lilies, Van Gogh’s The Bedroom, and Seurat’s A Sunday on La Grande Jatte. It also has notable works by Picasso, Matisse, Dali, Warhol, and many more.

The best time to visit the Art Institute of Chicago is in the morning or midday, when the museum is less crowded and the natural light is better for viewing the artworks. The best time of year to visit is in the winter, when the museum offers free admission to Illinois residents on certain days. You can get to the Art Institute of Chicago by taking the CTA train to Adams/Wabash or Monroe stations, or by taking the bus to Michigan & Adams or Michigan & Monroe stops.

5. The Magnificent Mile

The Magnificent Mile is a stretch of North Michigan Avenue that runs from the Chicago River to Oak Street. It is the premier shopping destination in Chicago and one of the most famous shopping streets in the world. It has over 460 stores, ranging from luxury brands to department stores to boutiques. It also has over 200 restaurants, bars, and cafes, offering a variety of cuisines and atmospheres. It also has many landmarks and attractions, such as:

• Water Tower Place: This is a 74-story skyscraper that houses a shopping mall, a theater, a hotel, and a museum. It is one of the most recognizable buildings in Chicago and a symbol of the city’s resilience after the Great Fire of 1871.

• John Hancock Center: This is a 100-story skyscraper that has an observation deck, called 360 Chicago, on its 94th floor. It offers a stunning view of the city and the lake, as well as a thrilling attraction, called Tilt, that tilts you over the edge of the building.

• Wrigley Building: This is a 27-story building that has a distinctive white facade and a clock tower. It was the headquarters of the Wrigley chewing gum company and one of the first skyscrapers in Chicago.

• Tribune Tower: This is a 36-story building that has a Gothic Revival style and a collection of stones imbedded in the facade from famous landmarks around the world, such as the Taj Mahal, the Great Wall of China, and the Colosseum. It was the headquarters of the Chicago Tribune newspaper and a landmark of journalism.

The best time to visit the Magnificent Mile is in the evening, when the street is illuminated and lively. The best time of year to visit is in the holiday season, when the street is decorated with lights, wreaths, and bows, and hosts the Magnificent Mile Lights Festival, a parade and fireworks show that kicks off the Christmas spirit. You can get to the Magnificent Mile by taking the CTA train to Grand/State, Chicago/State, or Clark/Lake stations, or by taking the bus to Michigan & Wacker, Michigan & Illinois, or Michigan & Chicago stops.

6. Shedd Aquarium

Shedd Aquarium is one of the largest and most visited aquariums in the world. It has over 32,000 animals, representing over 1,500 species, from freshwater, marine, and terrestrial habitats. It has several exhibits and galleries, such as:

• Caribbean Reef: This is a 90,000-gallon circular tank that simulates a coral reef ecosystem. It has over 60 species of fish, turtles, sharks, rays, and eels. It also has a diver who feeds the animals and interacts with the visitors.

• Amazon Rising: This is an exhibit that showcases the diversity and dynamism of the Amazon River and its surrounding rainforest.

• Wild Reef: This is an exhibit that recreates a Philippine coral reef and its inhabitants. It has over 100 species of fish, sharks, rays, and invertebrates. It also has a shark tunnel that lets you walk under the water and see the predators up close.

• Abbott Oceanarium: This is an exhibit that features the marine mammals and birds of the Pacific Northwest coast. It has beluga whales, dolphins, sea otters, sea lions, penguins, and more. It also has a dolphin show that showcases the intelligence and agility of these amazing animals.

• Polar Play Zone: This is an exhibit that is designed for children to explore and learn about the polar regions. It has a penguin habitat, a submarine simulator, an icy slide, and a touch pool.

The best time to visit the Shedd Aquarium is in the morning or midday, when the aquarium is less crowded and the animals are more active. The best time of year to visit is in the spring or fall, when the aquarium offers discounted tickets and free days for Illinois residents. You can get to the Shedd Aquarium by taking the CTA train to Roosevelt station, or by taking the bus to Museum Campus or Solidarity Drive stops.

7. The Field Museum

The Field Museum is one of the largest and most comprehensive natural history museums in the world. It has over 40 million specimens and artifacts, covering everything from dinosaurs to mummies, from gems to meteorites, from cultures to ecosystems. It has several permanent and temporary exhibits, such as:

• Sue the T. rex: This is the largest and most complete Tyrannosaurus rex skeleton ever found. It measures 40 feet long and 13 feet tall at the hips. It is displayed in the main hall of the museum and is a must-see for any dinosaur fan.

• Ancient Egypt: This is an exhibit that showcases the life and death of the ancient Egyptians. It has over 20,000 artifacts, including mummies, coffins, statues, jewelry, and more. It also has a three-story replica of a mastaba tomb, where you can see how the Egyptians prepared for the afterlife.

• Inside Ancient America: This is an exhibit that explores the diverse and complex civilizations that existed in the Americas before the arrival of Europeans. It has over 10,000 artifacts, representing over 100 cultures, such as the Maya, the Inca, the Aztec, and the Hopewell. It also has interactive displays and videos that explain the history and culture of these ancient peoples.

• Evolving Planet: This is an exhibit that traces the history of life on Earth, from the first single-celled organisms to the present day. It has over 1,000 fossils, including dinosaurs, mammoths, saber-toothed cats, and more. It also has animations and simulations that show how life evolved and adapted to changing environments.

The best time to visit the Field Museum is in the afternoon or evening, when the museum is less crowded and the lighting is better for photography. The best time of year to visit is in the winter, when the museum offers free admission to Illinois residents on certain days. You can get to the Field Museum by taking the CTA train to Roosevelt station, or by taking the bus to Museum Campus or Solidarity Drive stops.

8. Lincoln Park Zoo

Lincoln Park Zoo is one of the oldest and most popular zoos in the country. It is also one of few zoos that are free and open to the public every day of the year. It has over 1,000 animals, representing over 200 species, from around the world. It has several exhibits and habitats, such as:

• Regenstein Center for African Apes: This is a state-of-the-art facility that houses gorillas and chimpanzees. It has indoor and outdoor areas that mimic the natural environment of the apes. It also has interactive displays and cameras that allow you to learn more about the behavior and conservation of these endangered primates.

• Farm-in-the-Zoo: This is a farm-themed exhibit that features domestic animals, such as cows, pigs, sheep, goats, chickens, and more. It is a fun and educational place for children to interact with the animals and learn about farming and agriculture.

• Nature Boardwalk: This is a 14-acre pond and wetland that provides a natural habitat for wildlife, such as turtles, frogs, fish, birds, and more. It also has a pavilion that offers a panoramic view of the pond and the city skyline. It is a great place to enjoy nature and wildlife in the heart of the city.

• Pritzker Family Children’s Zoo: This is a zoo within a zoo that is designed for children to explore and learn about the animals of North America. It has bears, wolves, beavers, otters, lynx, and more. It also has a canopy climb that lets you see the animals from above and a play area that lets you pretend to be an animal.

The best time to visit the Lincoln Park Zoo is in the morning or evening, when the zoo is less crowded and the animals are more active. The best time of year to visit is in the spring or summer, when the zoo hosts many events and activities, such as the ZooLights, the Craft Brews, and the Jammin’ at the Zoo. You can get to the Lincoln Park Zoo by taking the CTA train to Armitage, Fullerton, or Diversey stations, or by taking the bus to Clark & Armitage, Stockton & Webster, or Cannon & Fullerton stops.

9. Museum of Science and Industry

Museum of Science and Industry is one of the largest and most interactive science museums in the world. It has over 800 exhibits and experiences, covering topics such as physics, chemistry, biology, engineering, technology, and more. It has several permanent and temporary exhibits, such as:

• U-505 Submarine: This is a German submarine that was captured by the US Navy during World War II. It is the only U-boat in the US and one of the few in the world that is still intact. You can tour the inside of the submarine and see how the crew lived and worked under the sea.

• Coal Mine: This is a replica of a coal mine that lets you experience the life of a miner. You can ride a hoist down to the mine, see the machinery and tools used to extract coal, and learn about the history and challenges of coal mining.

• Science Storms: This is an exhibit that lets you explore the science behind natural phenomena, such as tornadoes, avalanches, lightning, and fire. You can see and interact with giant simulations and experiments that demonstrate the power and beauty of nature.

• Numbers in Nature: This is an exhibit that reveals the patterns and shapes that exist in nature and mathematics. You can see and create fractals, spirals, tessellations, and more. You can also enter a mirror maze that challenges you to find your way out.

The best time to visit the Museum of Science and Industry is in the afternoon or evening, when the museum is less crowded and the exhibits are more engaging. The best time of year to visit is in the fall or winter, when the museum offers free admission to Illinois residents on certain days. You can get to the Museum of Science and Industry by taking the CTA train to Garfield station, or by taking the bus to Museum of Science & Industry or 57th Street & Lake Shore Drive stops.

10. Wrigley Field

Wrigley Field is the home of the Chicago Cubs, one of the oldest and most beloved baseball teams in the country. It is also one of the oldest and most historic ballparks in the country, dating back to 1914. It is known for its ivy-covered walls, manual scoreboard, and rooftop seats. It is a place where you can enjoy the game, the atmosphere, and the tradition of America’s pastime.

The best time to visit Wrigley Field is during a game, when you can cheer for the Cubs and sing along to “Take Me Out to the Ball Game”. The best time of year to visit is in the summer, when the weather is warm and the baseball season is in full swing. You can get to Wrigley Field by taking the CTA train to Addison station, or by taking the bus to Clark & Addison or Sheridan & Addison stops.

Best Local Foods to Try in Chicago

Chicago is a food lover’s paradise, with a diverse and delicious culinary scene. You can find everything from fine dining to street food, from ethnic cuisine to local specialties. Here are some of the best local foods to try in Chicago:

• Deep-dish pizza: This is a Chicago invention and a must-try for any visitor. It is a pizza that has a thick and buttery crust, a generous layer of cheese, and a chunky tomato sauce on top. It is baked in a deep pan and cut into slices. Some of the best places to get deep-dish pizza are Lou Malnati’s, Giordano’s, Pequod’s, and Pizzeria Uno.

• Italian beef sandwich: This is a sandwich that consists of thinly sliced roast beef, soaked in a seasoned broth, and piled on a long Italian roll. It is often topped with sweet or hot peppers, cheese, or giardiniera, a spicy pickled vegetable relish. It is a messy but satisfying meal that originated in Chicago. Some of the best places to get an Italian beef sandwich are Al’s Beef, Portillo’s, Mr. Beef, and Buona.

• Chicago-style hot dog: This is a hot dog that is topped with yellow mustard, chopped onions, neon green relish, tomato slices, sport peppers, a pickle spear, and celery salt. It is served on a poppy seed bun and never with ketchup. It is a classic and cheap snack that reflects the city’s diverse heritage. Some of the best places to get a Chicago-style hot dog are Gene & Jude’s, Superdawg, Redhot Ranch, and Wiener’s Circle.

• Popcorn: This is a snack that is made by popping corn kernels and coating them with different flavors. Chicago is famous for its popcorn mix, which combines caramel and cheese popcorn in one bag. It is a sweet and savory treat that is addictive and satisfying. Some of the best places to get popcorn are Garrett Popcorn, Nuts on Clark, Popcorn Asylum, and Kernel’s Gourmet Popcorn.

• Jibarito: This is a sandwich that is made with fried plantains instead of bread. It is filled with meat, cheese, lettuce, tomato, and garlic mayonnaise. It is a crispy and flavorful dish that originated in Chicago’s Puerto Rican community. Some of the best places to get a jibarito are Borinquen Lounge, Papa’s Cache Sabroso, Jibaritos y Mas, and Cafeteria Marianao.

• Deep-fried cheese curds: These are bite-sized pieces of cheese that are coated in batter and deep-fried until golden and gooey. They are a staple of Wisconsin cuisine that has become popular in Chicago as well. They are a perfect appetizer or snack that goes well with beer and dipping sauces. Some of the best places to get deep-fried cheese curds are Will’s Northwoods Inn, The Bad Apple, The Publican, and Roots Handmade Pizza.

Best Neighborhoods to Stay in Chicago

Chicago is a city of neighborhoods, each with its own character, culture, and charm. Depending on your preferences, budget, and itinerary, you can choose from a variety of neighborhoods to stay in Chicago. Here are some of the best neighborhoods to stay in Chicago:

• The Loop: This is the downtown area of Chicago and the business and cultural center of the city. It is where you can find most of the major attractions, such as Millennium Park, Willis Tower, Art Institute of Chicago, and more. It is also where you can find many hotels, restaurants, shops, and theaters. It is a convenient and lively place to stay, but also expensive and crowded.

• River North: This is a trendy and upscale neighborhood that is north of the Loop and along the Chicago River. It is where you can find many art galleries, design studios, and nightlife venues. It is also where you can find some of the best dining options in the city, from steakhouses to sushi bars. It is a stylish and vibrant place to stay, but also pricey and noisy.

• Lincoln Park: This is a charming and historic neighborhood that is north of River North and along Lake Michigan. It is where you can find the Lincoln Park Zoo, the Lincoln Park Conservatory, and the Chicago History Museum. It is also where you can find many cozy cafes, boutiques, and pubs. It is a family-friendly and relaxing place to stay, but also limited in public transportation and parking options.

• Wicker Park: This is a hip and eclectic neighborhood that is northwest of the Loop and along the Blue Line. It is where you can find many vintage shops, record stores, and street art. It is also where you can find some of the best music venues, bars, and restaurants in the city, from dive bars to fine dining. It is a cool and creative place to stay, but also edgy and crowded.

Best Ways to Get Around in Chicago

Chicago is a large and sprawling city, but also a walkable and bikeable one. Depending on where you want to go and how you want to travel, you can choose from a variety of ways to get around in Chicago. Here are some of the best ways to get around in Chicago:

• CTA: This is the Chicago Transit Authority, which operates the buses and trains that cover most of the city and some of the suburbs. It is the cheapest and most convenient way to get around, especially if you buy a Ventra card or a day pass. You can use the CTA website or app to plan your trip and check the schedules and maps.

• Divvy: This is the bike-sharing system that has over 600 stations and 6,000 bikes across the city. It is a fun and healthy way to get around, especially if you want to explore the lakefront and the neighborhoods. You can use the Divvy website or app to find a station and rent a bike for 30 minutes or more.

• Taxi: This is the traditional way to get around, especially if you want to travel in comfort and speed. You can find taxis at the airport, the train stations, the hotels, and the major attractions. You can also use the Curb or Arro apps to book a taxi in advance or pay with your phone.

• Rideshare: This is the modern way to get around, especially if you want to travel in convenience and flexibility. You can use the Uber or Lyft apps to request a ride from a driver who will pick you up and drop you off at your destination. You can also choose from different types of vehicles and services, such as pool, luxe, or express.

Conclusion

With its world-class attractions, diverse cuisine, and vibrant neighborhoods, Chicago offers something for every type of traveler. Whether you're exploring iconic landmarks, savoring local flavors, or soaking in the city's cultural scene, our comprehensive guide will help you navigate the best of the Windy City with ease. So pack your bags, hit the streets, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure in Chicago!

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