Being one of the largest cities in the United States, this is one of the most common topics discussed. Depending on if you stay for a week or a quick weekend visit.
What are different things to do in Chicago?
Below we touch on a variety of things to do. We also break it up into different categories – so you can skip through to a certain section.
Traveling Chicago Index:
- Active Lifestyle
- Arts & Theatre
- Entertainment
- Family & Kids
- Historical & Museums
1. Millennium Park
Location: 201 E Randolph St, Chicago, IL 60602
Hours: 6am-11pm
Cost: FREE
Built to celebrate the new millennium. Definitely a great place to visit in Chicago if you’re looking for things to do in the city. People absolutely love Cloud Gate – aka “the Bean”. A popular tourist destination that draws big crowds to Millenium Park. If that may bother you, consider try visiting early in the morning during the week. Or even when it rains. Also, check out the interactive screen known as Crown Fountain that is a big hit with kids. There is also many beautiful sculptures, a pedestrian bridge, and the Pritzker Pavilion to visit as well.
2. Grant Park and Buckingham Fountain
Location: 337 E Randolph St, Chicago, IL 60601
Hours: 6:00am – 11:00pm
Cost: FREE
A must visit if you enjoy a large, wide open park. Beautifully landscaped throughout. One of the largest green spaces you’ll see in such a large city. Take
3. Art Institute of Chicago
Location: 111 S Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60603
Hours: 10:30am – 5:00pm
Cost: Price starts at $14.00
A beautiful building packed with a large variety of interesting pieces of Art. The Art Institute of Chicago is a sanctuary for any art history buff. With many different areas that boast some of the most amazing galleries. Truly there is something for everyone here. Some of the most popular categories at the Art Institute may likely be the Impressionism Wing, Modern Wing, Suites of Armor Just to name a few. However there is many more other categories to enjoy as well.
4. Navy Pier
Location: 600 E Grand Ave, Chicago, IL 60611
Hours: 10:00am – 8:00pm
Cost: FREE to enter
This list wouldn’t be complete without adding this attraction. Definitely one of the most popular things to do in Chicago. Some may say that it is
Quick Tip: When traveling, stay in the loop close to Michigan Ave. This will put you close to all the museums.
6. Field Museum
Location: 1400 S Lake Shore Dr, Chicago, IL 60605
Hours: 9:00am – 5:00pm
Cost: Prices start at $24 (Adults)
Possibly one of the largest museums you will ever step foot in to. With so many different exhibits to explore at Field Museum. Ranging from fossils, mummies, past civilizations, birds, and even 3D theatre. The Field Museum is definitely an
One of the most popular is probably the Dinosaur exhibit. This is an impressive exhibit taking you all the way back into time during the prehistoric era. Sue, the most complete
7. Chicago Riverwalk
Location: Chicago Riverwalk, Chicago, IL 60601
Hours: 6:00am- 11:00pm
Cost: FREE
Take a stroll, jog or just bring a meal and have a picnic. The Chicago Riverwalk is a great place to go to spend an hour or two. Take in the view of the many buildings and the beautiful architecture of the city. Or just sit and watch the people and boats pass on by.
8. Architecture Boat Tours
A cheaper alternative to the river boat architecture tours is the Chicago Water Taxi that runs from the Riverwalk to MingTom Park in Chinatown. No guide talking but you get pretty much the same sights.
9. Chicago Architecture Foundation Walking Tour
A great way to get a deeper understanding and appreciation for the city. Learning about the past, present, and future of architecture in the city. Tours are typically two hours long. From Art Deco Skyscrapers to Frank Lloyd Wright houses, and Modern Architecture.
10. Humboldt Park
Location: 1400 N Humboldt Dr Chicago, IL 60622
Hours: 6:00am- 11:00pm
Cost: FREE
Beautiful wooded paths throughout this peaceful park with skyline views in the background. Hangout at the lagoon and relax and watch the ducks and herons or enjoy the sculptures and formal gardens. A great park for everyone! There is also a beach that is popular during the summer months and even nearby is ‘Little Cubs’ baseball field. The Puerto Rico Arts & Culture Museum is also located here as well.
11. Wrigley Field
Location: 1060 W Addison St, Chicago, IL 60613
Hours: TBD
Cost: Price Varies
Even if you are not a Cubs fan – visiting Wrigley Field is a must! Don’t be bummed If they happen to be on the road when you are in town. Consider taking a guided tour to get an in-depth look at the iconic ballpark. These 90-minute guided tours are awesome! You’ll get to see the different parts of Wrigley that you typically would not during a baseball game or event. Walkthrough the visitor’s locker room, visit the press box, grab a seat in the outfield and learn about the ivy. Or even get to go down into the dugout and take a few selfies.
12. Lincoln Park Zoo
Location: 2001 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60614
Hours: 10:00am – 5:00pm
Cost: FREE
This Chicago Zoo might be known because of the FREE admission but this zoo has much to offer. Depending on what time of year you visit – you will likely catch one of the many events held at Lincoln Park Zoo (Zoo Lights, Lebowski Fest, Summer Wine Fest and more). From tourist to residents living in Chicago IL, this zoo is well-kept and great to bring the kids. Come see all of your family favorites. Giraffes, polar bears, gorillas, hippos, zebras, and much more! However, even though this is a FREE zoo, you will still likely pay for parking. Insider tip for visitors, be sure to cross the bridge that overlooks the city skyline. Great view for pictures!
Quick Tip: Purchase a City Pass that gives you access to most attractions for a discounted price.
13. Lincoln Park Conservatory
Location: 2391 N Stockton Dr, Chicago, IL 60614
Hours: 9:00am – 5:00pm
Cost: FREE
Such a quiet and beautiful place to get away from the loud and busy city. Conveniently located next to the Lincoln Park Zoo. Take a stroll through the gardens and enjoy a beautiful variety of plant life. Viewing the. horticulture area with different rooms ranging from orchids, ferns, and palms. With these climate controlled rooms – it can be a great place to escape the cold.
14. Willis Tower – SkyDeck
Location: 233 S Wacker Dr, Chicago, IL 60606
Hours: 10:00am – 8:00pm
Cost: Prices start at $25 (Adults)
Probably one of the top on your list of things to do in Chicago. One of the most iconic buildings in the magnificent skyline. Take in one of the best views in the city – of the city. The biggest draw to Willis Tower is the SkyDeck. Glass enclosures that protrude from the building to give a great Birdseye view of the city. Great for pictures too!! However, expect and plan for long lines. If you can, try to visit when they first open during the week for a smaller crowd.
15. John Handcock Building (360 Chicago)
Location: 875 N Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60611
Hours: 9:00am – 11:00pm
Cost: Prices start at $22 (Adults)
Get great views of the city without the long lines at the Willis Tower. Climb to the 94th floor and experience the 360 Observatory Deck. Or if you are a thrill seeker, consider looking down at the city by stepping up to the ‘Tilt’. A 45 degree tilted view which will make you feel like your falling off the edge of the building from 1,000 feet up.
John Handcock Signature Room
16. Shedd Aquarium
Location: 1200 S Lake Shore Dr, Chicago, IL 60605
Hours: 9:00am – 5:00pm
Cost: Prices start at $39.95 (Adults)
A great place to visit to see all the different kinds of marine life. The layout of the Shedd Aquarium is spectacular. Almost like a star with a large, 360 view of a coral reef on display when you enter. A mesmerizing display to see all the different types of sea creatures circling the reef. One of the favorites for visitors is the Polar Play Zone. Watch beluga whales, dolphins, and penguins. There also many different shows to attend. Including a 4D movie where the seats vibrate and even a slight mist of water that might cool you off. Visit the stingray bay to get a close experience with these neat aqua life. The line to get in can be a little long so consider purchasing tickets online to cut down on the wait.
17. Garfield Park Conservatory
Location: 300 N Central Park Ave, Chicago, IL 60624
Hours: 9:00am – 5:00pm
Cost: FREE
One of the largest Botanical Conservatories in the US. This is such
Quick Tip: Some of the attractions in Chicago allow for FREE or discounted admission for residents in Illinois. Be sure to ask to recieve the discount.
18. Baha’i House of Worship
Location: 100 Linden Ave, Wilmette, IL 60091
Hours: 10:00am – 5:00pm
Cost: FREE
19. Milton Lee Olive Park
Location: 511 N Columbus Dr, Chicago, IL 60611
Hours: 7:00am – 8:00pm
Cost: FREE
Another jewel and must-see for visitors or anyone living in Chicago. Located near Navy Pier, on the Lakefront of Chicago. This small park has amazing views of the city skyline. Best of all, this park tends to be less crowded than other attractions in Downtown Chicago.
20. International Museum of Surgical Science
Location: 1524 N Lake Shore Dr, Chicago, IL 60610
Hours: 9:30am – 5:00pm
Cost: FREE
A beautiful 4-story mansion located off if Lakeshore Ave that has been converted into a museum. If you are interested in experience and learn more about science and medicine, the International Museum of Surgical Science is a must visit. From old artifacts and sculptures to old medical practices and crazy side effects caused by poorly researched medicine. This museum will take you on an interesting journey through the history and evolution of surgical science and medicine.
Conclusion
After exploring some of these attractions, be sure to grab a bite to eat at one of the popular restaurants in the city of Chicago. From a quick meal at
Whats your favorite thing to do in Chicago?
