things-to-do-in-Chicago, Illinois

Chicago, Illinois: A World-Class Destination for Tourists

America’s Third Coast is waiting for you! Chicago, Illinois is a vibrant and eclectic city that offers something for everyone. From iconic landmarks to world-class museums, entertainment options, and delicious food, here are the top things to do in Chicago:

Landmarks & Attractions

  • Willis Tower (formerly Sears Tower): Take in breathtaking views of the city from the Skydeck on the 103rd floor.
  • Millennium Park: Explore iconic landmarks like the “Cloud Gate” sculpture (aka “The Bean”) and the Jay Pritzker Pavilion.
  • Navy Pier: Enjoy boat cruises, an amusement park, and entertainment options like the Chicago Shakespeare Theater.

Museums & Culture

  • Art Institute of Chicago: Discover over 300,000 works of art, including famous pieces by Monet, Picasso, and Van Gogh.
  • Field Museum: Home to Sue, the largest T. rex skeleton ever found, as well as ancient Egyptian artifacts and a vast collection of natural history specimens.
  • Museum of Science and Industry: Engage in interactive exhibits on science and technology.

Food & Drink

  • Deep-Dish Pizza: Try classic Chicago-style deep-dish pizza at Lou Malnati’s, Pizzeria Uno, or Pequod’s.
  • Hot Dogs: Enjoy an authentic Chicago hot dog at Portillo’s, Aline’s Hot Dogs, or Red Hot Ranch.
  • Classic American Diners: Visit the original Billy Goat Tavern or Mrs. Murphy’s on Southport for a taste of old-school America.

Outdoor Activities

  • Lake Michigan Beaches: Relax and soak up the sun at North Avenue Beach, Oak Street Beach, or Montrose Beach.
  • Chicago Riverwalk: Take a scenic stroll along the river and enjoy public art installations, boat cruises, and restaurants.
  • Lincoln Park Zoo: Visit this free zoo in the heart of the city for a fun day with family and friends.

Sports

  • Wrigley Field: Catch a Cubs game at this historic stadium and explore Wrigleyville’s bars and restaurants.
  • United Center: Watch the Bulls (basketball) or Blackhawks (hockey) in action at this iconic arena.

Neighborhoods to Explore

  • The Loop: Visit famous areas like Millennium Park, the Art Institute of Chicago, and the historic Water Tower Place.
  • Wicker Park/Bucktown: Discover trendy boutiques, restaurants, and bars in these hip neighborhoods.
  • Pilsen: Experience the city’s Mexican-American culture through food, music, and art.

Getting Around

  • Public Transportation: Use buses (the CTA) or trains (the ‘L’) to easily navigate the city.
  • Taxis & Ride-Sharing: Take advantage of convenient transportation services like Uber or Lyft.

Chicago is a world-class destination that offers something for every interest. Come and experience it for yourself!