Chicago captivates visitors year-round with its striking skyline, bustling neighborhoods, and scenic lakefront. From the iconic Cloud Gate sculpture (affectionately known as "The Bean") to historic Wrigley Field, this guide highlights the must-see Chicago experiences that draw millions of tourists annually.
Tourists interested in art, architecture, food, sports, and family fun will find memorable experiences in every corner of the Windy City. Grab your walking shoes and prepare to discover what makes this Midwestern city a favorite destination for travelers worldwide.
These are just a few of the most iconic Chicago locations and activities that first-time visitors to Chicago won’t want to miss!
Millennium Park is known as Chicago’s front yard, and is a popular stop for first-time tourists. Stroll the grounds and see the iconic Cloud Gate, affectionately known as "The Bean.” During summer months, you can find free workout classes on the Great Lawn, catch concerts at the Jay Pritzker Pavilion, or let kids splash in Crown Fountain's interactive water displays. In winter, the park becomes a holiday wonderland, with ice skating at McCormick Tribune Ice Rink and special events throughout the season.
Lincoln Park is a sprawling, 1,200-acre public space where visitors can find natural beauty and cultural attractions. In the Lincoln Park Conservatory, you can enjoy year-round tropical warmth and stunning flower displays. The Lincoln Park Zoo is one of North America's oldest free zoos and is home to over 200 species of animals. The zoo's free admission policy makes it a popular tourist location.
Get a bird's-eye view of the city on the observation deck 1,000 feet above the Magnificent Mile at 360 CHICAGO. Here, you’ll find unmatched views of the city skyline and Lake Michigan. For an extra thrill, try TILT – an enclosed moving platform that angles you outward for a face-first view of the city below. After your exhilarating ride, stop by CloudBar for craft cocktails while you watch the sunset over the Chicago skyline.
Chicago's signature dish deserves dedicated exploration. Each pizzeria offers its own interpretation, and you’ll find lots of strong opinions about which is best. Just remember that traditional deep dish takes up to 45 minutes to prepare, so dedicate some time to the experience if you’re eating in-restaurant. Many locations offer pre-orders for pickup, so be sure to call ahead if you’d rather take your deep dish to go.
If you have time during your visit to the Windy City, check out one of these special-interest locations.
Even those who aren’t baseball fans can appreciate the history and atmosphere of Wrigley Field. The manual scoreboard and ivy-covered walls hint at the history of this iconic field that was built in 1914. The surrounding Wrigleyville neighborhood is full of lively celebrations on game days. On non-game days, baseball fans can book behind-the-scenes tours to see otherwise restricted areas like player facilities and the press box.
Alder Planetarium was America's first planetarium and combines historic architecture with cutting-edge space science. Domed theaters present immersive sky shows, and interactive exhibits let visitors explore space missions and astronomical phenomena. The Doane Observatory houses the largest public telescope in the Chicago area. The planetarium's location on Northerly Island means you’ll get one of the best skyline views in Chicago, especially at sunset. Visit during one of their special evening events for an extra exciting and educational experience.
The massive Museum of Science and Industry, located in Jackson Park, makes science accessible and exciting. The U-505 submarine tour takes visitors inside the only German U-boat captured during World War II. The Giant Dome Theater shows IMAX films, and the Science Storms exhibit explains natural phenomena with interactive displays. The Coal Mine descent has educated visitors about mining since 1933. Plan on spending at least 4 hours at the museum if you plan to explore it thoroughly.
Reimagine what a city park can be when you visit the 20-acre Maggie Daley Park. At the Play Garden, you’ll find custom-designed equipment for different age groups. Depending on the season, you can enjoy ice or roller skating on the quarter-mile Skating Ribbon. Visitors can also take advantage of the climbing walls, mini golf, and tennis courts. Visit early on summer mornings to avoid crowds at the play areas, or come at dusk when the park's lighting creates a magical atmosphere.
Three floors of hands-on exhibits at the Chicago Children’s Museum encourage learning through play. The Tinkering Lab lets kids experiment with real tools and materials. The Dinosaur Expedition recreates a real Chicago fossil dig site. Water City teaches about the Great Lakes ecosystem, and the Treehouse Trails offers safe exploration for toddlers. Morning visits tend to be quieter, especially on weekdays.
You won’t run out of places to visit or delicious food to try when you spend a day touring any one of these top Chicago neighborhoods.
The historic boulevard district, Logan Square, is one of Chicago's most vibrant neighborhoods. The Logan Theatre, restored to its 1915 glory, shows indie films and hosts special events. The Logan Square Farmers Market operates year-round, moving indoors during winter months. The restored graystones and boulevard system earned Logan Square a spot on the National Register of Historic Places. Visit during the summer to experience the Logan Square Arts Festival.
While not quite a full neighborhood, the famous stretch of Michigan Avenue known as The Magnificent Mile is home to Chicago's premier shopping and dining district. Along with flagship stores and luxury boutiques, you’ll see architectural landmarks like the Tribune Tower and Wrigley Building. The historic Water Tower, which survived the Great Chicago Fire, can also be seen here. Visit during the holiday season to see spectacular light displays and window decorations.
In Chicago's Chinatown, you’ll discover authentic Asian culture just minutes from downtown. On Wentworth Avenue, you’ll find dim sum restaurants, bubble tea shops, and specialty stores. Ping Tom Memorial Park is home to peaceful riverside gardens and skyline views, and the Chinese-American Museum explores the community's rich history.
Pilsen is a Lower West Side neighborhood that showcases Chicago's Mexican-American heritage with vibrant murals, galleries, and restaurants. Visitors can visit the National Museum of Mexican Art for free to see the rotating exhibits that celebrate Mexican culture. On 18th Street, you’ll find authentic taquerias, vintage shops, and independent art spaces. Visit during the annual Pilsen Food & Wine Festival to sample the area's best cuisine, or join a mural walking tour to learn about the neighborhood's public art.
Lake Michigan is home to all kinds of fun activities and interesting sights for first-time tourists and locals alike.
Navy Pier extends into Lake Michigan and is home to a mix of family entertainment and lakefront scenery. The Centennial Wheel rises 200 feet above the pier, with stunning views of the Chicago skyline and lake. When it’s time to eat, you can choose anything from casual Chicago-style hot dogs or upscale dining with waterfront views. In the summer, catch spectacular fireworks displays on Wednesday and Saturday nights. The pier is typically less crowded on weekday mornings, and there are plenty of indoor attractions to see on rainy or cold days.
The Chicago Riverwalk is a 1.25-mile pedestrian pathway that turned this former industrial waterfront area into one of Chicago's most popular destinations. Stop at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Plaza for a moment of reflection, or watch boats navigate the river's locks near Michigan Avenue. The walk is particularly beautiful during the morning and evening golden hours when sunlight plays off the surrounding architecture.
Boat tours are a unique way to see the city skyline from Lake Michigan and the Chicago River. You’ll find a variety of boat tours and cruises at Navy Pier. Sightseeing cruises glide past iconic buildings. Dining cruises pair stunning views with upscale meals. Thrill-seekers can opt for high-speed rides that zip across Lake Michigan, and families can find more relaxed tours that are fun for everyone. Book a morning cruise for calmer waters and smaller crowds, or choose a sunset cruise to watch the city lights come alive.
At Shedd Aquarium, you’ll get an immersive look at aquatic life from around the world and have the chance to see over 32,000 animals. The Caribbean Reef exhibit, a 90,000-gallon circular tank in the central rotunda, features regular diver presentations. Visit during feeding times for the most active animal encounters. Early afternoon tends to be the most crowded time to visit, so morning visits can mean shorter lines.
Tourists looking for culture in the city won’t be disappointed. Chicago is home to a wide variety of museums and cultural experiences of all kinds.
The Art Institute of Chicago on Michigan Avenue is home to one of the world’s finest art collections. The Modern Wing houses an impressive collection of 20th and 21st-century art, and the older galleries contain countless masterpieces, including "American Gothic" and Monet's "Water Lilies." Illinois residents can take advantage of free admission Thursday evenings. The museum's Ryan Learning Center also offers free family programs on weekends.
The Field Museum is one of the world's largest natural history museums. SUE, the most complete skeleton of a T-Rex ever found, resides in the main hall. The museum's extensive collection also includes mummies from ancient Egypt, precious gems, and Native American artifacts. Plan at least half a day to explore. The third-floor houses fascinating anthropology collections that are often missed by casual visitors. Visit on the first and second Wednesdays of each month for free admission if you're an Illinois resident.
Explore the flavor of Chicago's diverse neighborhoods with Chicago Food & City Tours. Tours range from downtown deep-dish adventures to explorations of iconic neighborhoods like Little Italy and Pilsen. Many tours combine food tastings with architectural and historical information. If you’ll be visiting Chicago for an extended period of time, booking a food tour at the beginning of your trip is an excellent way to get recommendations for the rest of your stay.
The Chicago Cultural Center, known as "The People's Palace," occupies an entire city block in the heart of downtown. The building's two stunning stained-glass domes include the world's largest Tiffany glass dome, which spans 38 feet in diameter. Visitors can find daily programs in this historic space, including free music performances, art exhibitions, and cultural celebrations. Take a free building tour to discover hidden architectural details and learn how this structure served as Chicago's first public library.
Located near Navy Pier, the world-class Chicago Shakespeare Theatre presents quality productions in an intimate setting. The main theater's design means no seat is more than 30 feet from the action. Along with Shakespeare, the theater presents musicals, international productions, and family programming. The TheaterBox space hosts experimental works and visiting companies. Arrive early to explore the lobby exhibits about current productions.
Chicago holds an impressive mix of architectural marvels, cultural sites, beautiful parks, and unique neighborhoods that appeal to visitors of all ages. Make 360 CHICAGO Observation Deck a priority stop on your tour, and add excitement to your visit with TILT – the attraction that leans you out over Chicago for a one-of-a-kind view from 94 floors up! Book your tickets today and create lasting memories at 360 CHICAGO during your visit to the Windy City!
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