Chicago

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Top attractions in Chicago

See all tours & things to do in Chicago

Top 10 things to do in Chicago

Chicago has it all and enjoys spoiling its visitors and locals alike with a wealth of culture, shopping, dining and entertainment possibilities. As Frank Sinatra sang so many times about this world-class city, "it's one town that won't let you down."

  • Wrigley Building

    1. Wrigley Building

    Built in the 1920s, the two towers of this iconic landmark on Michigan Avenue once housed the headquarters for chewing gum magnate William Wrigley Jr.

  • Michigan Avenue

    2. Michigan Avenue

    The Chicago Water Tower on North Michigan Ave. was one of the few structures to have survived the Chicago Fire of 1871. Today, it's a gallery for local artists and photographers.

  • The Magnificent Mile

    3. The Magnificent Mile

    13-blocks of North Michigan Avenue comprise The Magnificent Mile. It offers retail therapy, a bevy of restaurants with international cuisine and examples of historical buildings.

  • The Loop

    4. The Loop

    It's the district that mixes business with pleasure amid soaring downtown highrises. Take a seat at one of many eateries, stroll along the river or enjoy the nighlife revelry.

  • Chicago Picasso Statue

    5. Chicago Picasso Statue

    Controversy surrounded the unveiling of this 50-foot statue in downtown's Daley Plaza in 1967. Some regarded Picasso's Cubist artwork to that of a baboon or a giant insect.

  • 6. Chicago Pedway

    When the weather and traffic are bad, thousands of locals take advantage of this system of underground corridors and overhead bridges in a 40-block radius in downtown.

  • Chicago Cultural Center

    7. Chicago Cultural Center

    First opened as The Chicago Public Library and Civil War memorial in 1897, the building is famous for its stained-glass domes. Cultural events take place regularly and for free.

  • Chicago Children's Museum

    8. Chicago Children's Museum

    Dig for dinosaur bones, learn how the city's tallest structures stand, and manipulate the power of water. Parents and kids will give this hands-on museum an A+ by the day's end.

  • 9. Chicago History Museum

    From the original days as a fur trading center to what daily life is like today, visitors will learn all there is to know at the "Chicago: Crossroads of America" exhibition.

  • Science and Industry Museum

    10. Science and Industry Museum

    The largest science museum in the Western Hemisphere is the ideal environment for an immersion in science. The Omnimax Theater also shows fantastic films throughout the year.

Planning Your Visit

  • Chicago Children's Museum tickets and hours

    Admission: $14
    Opening hours: Monday-Wednesday from 10:00AM-5:00PM; Thursdays from 10:00AM-8:00PM; Fridays from 10:00AM-6:00PM; Weekends from 10:00AM-7:00PM. Thursdays from 5:00PM-8:00PM is Family Night and free.
    Location: Navy Pier

  • Chicago History Museum tickets and hours

    Admission: $14 with two audio tours. Kids 12 and under are free.
    Opening hours: daily from 9:30AM-4:30PM
    Location: Lincoln Park

  • Science and Industry Museum

    Admission: $18 (adults), $11 (kids 3-11). Three different ticket packages are also available for $27, $32, and $36. Depending on the selected package, visitors may choose up to three extra museum features, such as the Omnimax Theater, which are not included in the general admission price.

    Opening hours: daily from 9:30AM-5:30PM
    Location: 5700 Lake Shore Drive

  • When should I go?

    April through May and September through October are great months to visit. The weather is nice, prices are reasonable, and there are plenty of festivals to enjoy. Plus, the crowds are less than in the peak summer season.

Good to know

  • Language
    English
  • Currency
    USD ($)
  • Time Zone
    UTC (-06:00)
  • Country Code
    +1
  • Best time to visit
    Early summer and early fall tend to have pleasant temperatures, fewer crowds, and a great selection of events on offer.

Top Attractions in Chicago

Things to Do in Chicago

Cities in United States

Other Sightseeing Options in Chicago

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What people are saying about Chicago

Overall rating

4.6 / 5

based on 7,337 reviews

This cruise takes you down and then back up the Chicago River giving you plenty of opportunities to see some of Chicago's most iconic architecture. The cruise is very informative and is an excellent way to get to know the Chicago skyline.

Chicago River Architecture Cruise: Skip-the-Ticket-Office Reviewed by Alan, 12/13/2020

I loved the Architecture cruise it was very informative, I seen great views of the buildings as well as it was just a beautiful experience .10/10 would recommend

Chicago River Architecture Cruise: Skip-the-Ticket-Office Reviewed by Anonymous, 11/26/2020

Even though we didn’t get to see an actual sunset we got great architecture info on all the beautiful buildings. I would definitely do it again

Chicago: 1.5-Hour Romantic Sunset Cruise Reviewed by Alicia, 11/21/2020

It was ok for the first time traveler, but it’s only good for one time deal. The bar and hot beverages hit the spot during the winter month.

Chicago River Architecture Cruise: Skip-the-Ticket-Office Reviewed by Anonymous, 12/21/2020

Lauren was an awesome guide! Great knowledge, great voice and great job following COVID protocols. Wonderful thanksgiving experience!

Chicago: Gangsters and Ghosts 2-Hour Walking Tour Reviewed by Todd, 12/1/2020

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