The 12 Greatest Issues to Do in Chicago (Up to date 2024)

Posted: 5/13/2024 | Might thirteenth, 2024

Famously generally known as “the Second Metropolis” (that means second in inhabitants to New York), I really feel like Chicago is commonly neglected by vacationers. It sees a fraction of the guests LA and NYC obtain, which is a disgrace, because it’s certainly one of my favourite cities on this planet.

Chicago is chock-full of world-class establishments, Michelin-starred eating places, awe-inducing structure, and verdant parks. There’s a lot to do right here and town has a very wealthy historical past. I feel extra folks ought to go to.

Positive, the winters are brutal. However, come spring, Chicago blossoms right into a dynamic city panorama of road life, out of doors cafés, and sunny parks when locals take over the outside to benefit from the few months of good climate. (I don’t suppose you may actually beat Chicago in the summertime.)

That can assist you plan your go to, right here’s my checklist of the most effective issues to do in Chicago:

1. Take a Strolling Tour

One of many first issues I do once I arrive in a metropolis is take a strolling tour. They’re a good way to see the principle sights, get the lay of the land, and join with an professional native information who can reply all my questions. Free Chicago Strolling Excursions hosts common free excursions that may introduce you to town. You’ll get to see lots of the coolest buildings within the metropolis whereas additionally studying in regards to the historical past of Chicago. The tour lasts just a few hours. You’ll want to tip the information on the finish!

For a extra distinctive tour, attempt the Gangsters and Ghosts Tour. You’ll be taught all about Chicago’s darkish aspect and creepy previous as you discover the Chicago Loop. The tour lasts two hours and actually talks about one of many pivotal occasions in Chicago’s historical past. Even should you’re not a historical past buff like me, you’ll get so much out of it.
 

2. Chill out in Grant and Millennium Parks

Situated downtown, these gigantic parks present an incredible place to hang around, have a picnic, or go for a run. Folks play chess right here when the climate is good and, in the course of the summer time, there are a whole lot of free concert events and occasions right here. The bigger Grant Park stretches alongside Chicago’s waterfront, whereas Millennium Park is the subsection the place the well-known “Chicago Bean” sculpture is situated. This iconic work of public artwork is a must-see. And, beginning at midday on the primary and third Saturdays from April via November, the Chicago Cultural Middle hosts strolling excursions specializing in the artwork of Millennium Park. It’s actually fascinating. I really like strolling via the park or simply chilling right here with a great e-book on a pleasant day.
 

3. Absorb some artwork on the Artwork Institute of Chicago

Since 1879, the Artwork Institute of Chicago has been wowing guests with its wonderful assortment of works from world wide. Situated in Grant Park, the museum has just a few instantly recognizable items, together with “American Gothic” by Grant Wooden, Edward Hopper’s “Nighthawks,” and “A Sunday Afternoon on the Island of Grande Jatte” by Georges Seurat. The huge assortment additionally contains works by Picasso, Monet, Renoir, Van Gogh, Jasper Johns, and Jackson Pollock. There are additionally wings dedicated to African, Asian, and American indigenous artwork. Should you’re going to go to 1 museum in Chicago, this needs to be it. Anticipate to spend just a few hours as a result of the gathering is so large.

To beat the crowds, skip a weekend go to because the place will get packed. As a substitute, go on a Monday or Thursday night (they’re open late on Thursdays). You’ll have the place nearly to your self.

111 S Michigan Ave, (312) 443-3600, artic.edu. Open Thursday-Monday 11am-5pm (8pm on Thursdays). Admission is $32 USD ($40 USD for advance skip-the-line entry). Day by day excursions (included within the value of your ticket) are provided at 1pm and 3pm.
 

4. Admire wonderful structure on a river cruise

Chicago is an structure lover’s dream. The perfect method to absorb its famed buildings is by way of a river cruise. This manner, you may sit again and cruise down the canals whereas an professional information gives context for what you’re . The guides provides you with an in depth historical past of the structure. A few of the buildings you’ll see on the boat experience embody the Tribune Tower, 333 West Wacker, Navy Pier, the Willis Tower, the Wrigley Constructing, and Marina Metropolis, amongst others. All in all, there are about 50 buildings to see on this fascinating tour, and I promise, it’s way more fascinating than it sounds!
 

5. Stroll down the Magnificent Mile

Usually nicknamed “Magazine Mile,” this stretch alongside Michigan Avenue from the Chicago River to Oak Avenue is thought for its upscale designer boutiques. In reality, hire right here is the third highest within the US (after Fifth Avenue in New York Metropolis and Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills). Even should you don’t need to blow your funds purchasing, it’s nonetheless an expertise to walk alongside the avenue and take within the sights and the folks, and benefit from the view of the Chicago River. There are a number of landmarks and sights alongside the best way too, together with the 360 Chicago Remark Deck for expansive views over town (extra on this beneath).
 

6. Go to the Shedd Aquarium

Should you’re visiting town with children (otherwise you’re a child at coronary heart), head to the huge Shedd Aquarium. It’s the third-largest aquarium within the Western hemisphere and residential to over 32,000 animals. They’ve turtles, penguins, sea otters, snakes, sharks, and extra. They actually emphasize schooling right here so that you’ll be taught a ton whilst you roam the totally different exhibitions. You’ll be able to even pay further to do issues like feed penguins and sharks, they usually additionally host every kind of enjoyable night occasions (resembling reside music after hours). I completely love coming right here. Simply be certain to e-book your ticket prematurely as they do get busy and promote out!

To beat the crowds, skip the weekend and go to in the course of the week as a substitute. Additionally, attempt to go to proper when it opens (particularly Wednesday-Friday). It’s normally quieter then.

1200 S DuSable Lake Shore Dr, (312) 939-2438, sheddaquarium.org. Open 9am-5pm Monday-Friday (9pm on Tuesdays), 9am-6pm Saturday, and 11am-6pm on Sundays. Tickets begin at $37 USD. Admission can be included with the Chicago CityPASS.
 

7. Absorb some pure historical past on the Subject Museum

In 1893, the World’s Columbian Exposition (also referred to as the Chicago World’s Truthful) came about within the Windy Metropolis to rejoice the four-hundredth anniversary of Christopher Columbus’ arrival in 1492. The truthful displayed some unimaginable artifacts from world wide, notably within the Columbian Museum of Chicago, which showcased anthropological and organic collections. After the truthful was over, organizers puzzled what to do with all of it. So, the Columbian Museum turned the Subject Museum, named after benefactor Marshall Subject, a division retailer mogul, and all the pieces remained on show.

One of many greatest museums on this planet, the Subject homes intensive collections spanning anthropology, geology, botany, and zoology. Some necessary collections embody the shows of taxidermied animals, a wing devoted to astronomy, and engaging artifacts from historic Egypt. I like to recommend planning to spend a minimum of 3-4 hours to actually take all of it in.

1400 S. Dusable Lake Shore Drive, (312) 922-9410, fieldmuseum.org. Open every day 9am-5pm (final admission is at 4pm). Fundamental admission is $30 USD. Particular exhibitions are an extra cost (which varies), although you will get an all-access move for $43 USD.
 

8. Get a surprising view at 360 Chicago Remark Deck

Chicago is a skyscraper metropolis, together with just a few moderately iconic towers. Situated atop what was previously generally known as the John Hancock Constructing and now (uninspiringly) referred to as 875 N. Michigan, the 360-degree viewing deck a thousand toes up and permits guests to get the most effective view of the Windy Metropolis and Lake Michigan. You’ll be able to even seize a pint on the Cloud Bar, which serves beer from Moody Tongue, a neighborhood brewery.

Should you’re a thrill seeker and need extra than simply the view, join Tilt. This a part of the remark deck is the place you may stand in entrance of a glass window, which then tilts ahead, till it seems you’re trying straight down on the road, 94 flooring beneath.

Simply be certain to examine the climate earlier than you go so you’ll even have a view to get pleasure from. Moreover, if you wish to beat the crowds, come early (earlier than 10am).

875 N Michigan Ave, (888) 875-8439, 360chicago.com. Open every day 9am-11pm (the final entry is at 10pm). Admission begins at $30 USD (get your tickets prematurely for skip-the-line entry).

9. Feast on deep-dish pizza

If there’s one meals Chicago has turn into synonymous with, it’s deep-dish pizza. It was invented in 1943 by Pizzeria Uno, which is now a nationwide restaurant chain. For one thing extra native, Chicagoans swear by Lou Malnati’s. Personally, I’m not normally an enormous fan of deep-dish (I like NYC pizza higher), but it surely’s one thing you must attempt whilst you’re right here.

Should you actually need to indulge, hop on a Chicago Pizza Tour, on which you’ll get to pattern all of the varieties on provide on the town. Excursions begin at $49 USD.
 

10. Stroll the Chicago Riverwalk

Stretching from Lake Michigan to Lake Avenue, the 1.25-mile Riverwalk alongside the Chicago River makes for a enjoyable stroll. Alongside the best way, you’ll not solely get improbable views of the river and metropolis, however you’ll encounter a legion of waterfront eating places, cafés, and bars. There’s a ton of public artwork and inexperienced area too (nice for picnicking and people-watching). It’s the proper place to decelerate and benefit from the second on this Midwestern metropolis, however should you desire a extra lively expertise, there are additionally plenty of aquatic actions right here too (resembling kayaking or taking a river cruise).
 

11. Eat your method via the Mexican eateries in Pilsen

The neighborhood of Pilsen was based in 1878 by Czech immigrants, who named the realm after the fourth-largest metropolis within the Czech Republic, the place pilsner beer was born. The Czechs could also be gone now, however at present Pilsen is Chicago’s essential Latino neighborhood, significantly Mexicans from the Michoacán area. Right now you may wander the realm, consuming among the finest tacos whereas taking within the vibrant road artwork.
 

12. Watch an improv present

The Second Metropolis is without doubt one of the hottest and well-known improv troupes within the nation. It’s the place greats like Invoice Murray, John Sweet, Catherine O’Hara, Steve Carell, Tina Fey, and Amy Poehler all lower their enamel. They placed on common performances and in addition host every kind of particular occasions. They even host workshops and courses if you wish to give improv a attempt your self. Simply make sure you get your tickets prematurely as the preferred exhibits promote out quick.

230 W North Ave, (312) 337-3992, secondcity.com. Performances are held every day so examine the web site for what’s on. Tickets begin at $35 USD.
 

13. Have enjoyable at Navy Pier

This 3,300-foot-long (1,010-meter) pier on the shore of Lake Michigan began off as a delivery website, but it surely has additionally been a jail for draft dodgers throughout World Battle II, a Naval coaching heart, and a brief college campus. Since 1995, it has reopened to the general public in its present type and has turn into a kind of carnival. It’s Chicago’s second-most visited vacationer attraction (after “The Bean”) and accommodates some rides, a Ferris wheel, plenty of eating places, a Shakespeare theater, boat excursions, numerous beer gardens, mini-golf, and extra! It’s a great place to have some foolish enjoyable (particularly if in case you have children).

600 E Grand Ave, (312) 595-7437, navypier.org. Open Sunday-Thursday 11am-8pm and Friday-Saturday 11am-9pm (particular person sights and eating places could have separate hours). Admission to the pier is free, although sights cost their very own charges (the Centennial wheel is $21.30 USD, for instance).
 

14. Catch a sport at Wrigley Subject

Residence of the Cubs, Wrigley Subject, on Chicago’s North Facet, is smack in the midst of city. It additionally occurs to be one of many oldest baseball stadiums in the US (it opened in 1914). Should you’re in Chicago in the course of the baseball seasons (April to October) and the Cubs are on the town, do your self a favor and go to a sport. It’s one of the crucial intimate and atmospheric baseball stadiums within the nation. If the Cubs are usually not on the town, you too can take a 90-minute behind-the-scenes tour of the stadium.

1060 W Addison St, (773) 404-2827, mlb.com/cubs/ballpark. Tour dates and occasions differ relying on the season (examine the web site for availability). Tour admission is $30 USD. Tickets to see a sport differ enormously however begin at simply $10 USD (for higher seats at a preferred sport, count on to spend nearer to $80-125 USD).
 

15. Feast in Chinatown

Deliver your urge for food to Chinatown, the place you may feast on low-cost dim dum, do karaoke, or chill out at one of many many tea homes. One of many oldest Chinatown’s within the nation, over a 3rd of Chicago’s Chinese language inhabitants lives in Chinatown, making it one of many largest concentrations of Chinese language-People within the USA. Don’t miss Ping Tom Memorial Park, and maintain a watch out for colourful murals across the neighborhood. A few of my favourite locations listed below are Hing Kee, MCCB Chicago, and Phoenix.
&nbsp

16. Expertise St. Patrick’s Day

Subsequent to Eire, Chicago is without doubt one of the finest locations to be on March seventeenth, St. Patrick’s Day. To honor its giant Irish-American inhabitants, town dyes the Chicago River inexperienced, hosts an enormous parade, and events till the solar comes up (full with copious quantities of inexperienced beer).

The custom started in 1843, when Chicago’s first Irish parade was held, but it surely wasn’t till 1962 that the dyeing of the river began, on the suggestion of a plumber’s union, which continues to be liable for the inexperienced river annually, although it gained’t expose its secrets and techniques about what’s used (it’s environmentally pleasant, although). Take a river cruise on the emerald waters or snap a pic from the sidelines and revel in. This is without doubt one of the greatest days of the yr right here!
 

17. Discover Oz Park

This whimsical little park, situated within the Lincoln Park space, was created to honor L. Frank Baum, the writer of The Wizard of Oz. He lived within the space on the finish of the nineteenth century, and when town needed to renovate the park they determined to take action in a method that honored Baum’s common e-book.

There’s a playground named after Dorothy, a inexperienced area referred to as the “Emerald Gardens,” and quite a few life-size statues of common characters from the musical adaptation, together with the Dorothy, Toto, the Tin Man, the Cowardly Lion, and the Scarecrow.

Open every day 6am-11pm. Admission to the park is free.

Chicago doesn’t get the eye it deserves. I feel it’s enjoyable and excellent for a weekend getaway. And you actually can’t beat the summers right here both. With plenty of fascinating museums, loads of inexperienced area, and a few nice eats, Chicago needs to be on each traveler’s checklist!