Top destinations in Chicago

1. Millennium Park

Millennium Park is a must-see for anyone visiting Chicago, offering a mix of art, architecture, and outdoor spaces. One of the most iconic features is the Cloud Gate, also known as "The Bean," which is a mirrored sculpture that offers a perfect photo opportunity with the city's skyline. The park also features the Jay Pritzker Pavilion, a stunning outdoor concert venue, and the Lurie Garden, a beautiful space for relaxation and nature walks. It’s the perfect place for you to start exploring Chicago.

2. The Art Institute of Chicago

If you’re an art enthusiast, the Art Institute of Chicago should be at the top of your list. Home to one of the oldest and largest collections of art in the U.S., this museum showcases over 300,000 works of art, including masterpieces like Grant Wood’s "American Gothic" and Georges Seurat’s "A Sunday on La Grande Jatte." With both permanent collections and traveling exhibitions, it’s a place where you can immerse yourself in the world of art and culture.

3. Navy Pier

Navy Pier is one of Chicago’s most popular attractions, offering something for everyone. You can ride the Centennial Wheel, which gives you sweeping views of Lake Michigan and the Chicago skyline, or visit the Chicago Shakespeare Theater and the Chicago Children's Museum. Navy Pier also boasts a variety of dining options, shops, and seasonal events like fireworks and festivals. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing stroll, a meal with a view, or family-friendly entertainment, Navy Pier has you covered.

4. Willis Tower Skydeck

The Willis Tower, formerly known as the Sears Tower, is one of Chicago’s tallest buildings and offers incredible views of the city from its Skydeck. Located on the 103rd floor, the Skydeck features The Ledge, a glass-floored balcony that lets you look straight down at the streets below. It’s a thrilling experience for anyone with a love for heights and a great way to see Chicago from a whole new perspective.

5. Chicago Riverwalk

The Chicago Riverwalk is a beautiful urban space that stretches along the Chicago River, offering a scenic path for walking, dining, and exploring. You can take a boat tour, rent a kayak, or simply relax at one of the many outdoor cafes. It’s a great spot for you to enjoy the views of the city’s architecture, which is renowned worldwide, and the numerous bridges that cross the river.

6. Museum of Science and Industry

If you’re traveling with kids or simply have an interest in science and innovation, the Museum of Science and Industry is an excellent destination. With hands-on exhibits, interactive displays, and fascinating displays on everything from space exploration to human biology, it’s one of the largest science museums in the world. Highlights include a U-505 submarine, a coal mine exhibit, and the Science Storms exhibit, which showcases the power of nature.

7. Lincoln Park Zoo

Located just north of downtown Chicago, Lincoln Park Zoo is one of the oldest zoos in the country and remains free to visit. You’ll find a wide variety of animals from around the world, including big cats, primates, and exotic birds. The zoo is set in Lincoln Park, which also features gardens, walking paths, and a beautiful pond, making it a perfect place for a day of relaxation and wildlife viewing.

8. Chicago History Museum

The Chicago History Museum offers a deep dive into the city’s rich history. Exhibits cover topics like the Great Chicago Fire of 1871, the city’s architecture, and its transformation into one of the most vibrant urban centers in the U.S. Whether you’re interested in Chicago’s history, its culture, or its people, this museum provides a fascinating look at how the city has evolved over time.

9. Grant Park

Grant Park is a vast urban park in the heart of Chicago, home to many of the city's landmarks, including the Buckingham Fountain, one of the largest in the world. The park is also the site of the Art Institute of Chicago, as well as beautiful gardens and walking paths. Grant Park is often referred to as "Chicago’s Front Yard," and it’s a great place for you to take a stroll, enjoy the scenery, or attend one of the many outdoor concerts and festivals hosted throughout the year.

10. Magnificent Mile

The Magnificent Mile is Chicago’s premier shopping and dining district. Stretching along Michigan Avenue, it’s home to high-end stores, luxury boutiques, and department stores, along with a variety of restaurants, cafes, and bars. Whether you’re looking to do some serious shopping, enjoy a fine dining experience, or simply window shop, the Magnificent Mile is the place to be.

11. The Field Museum

The Field Museum is one of the most famous natural history museums in the world, with exhibits that explore everything from ancient dinosaurs to ancient civilizations. Highlights include Sue, the largest and most complete T. rex fossil ever discovered, as well as exhibits on ancient Egypt, biodiversity, and more. It’s a fantastic destination for anyone interested in science, nature, and history.