The Chicago skyline beckons visitors to a “windy city” where architecture, food, live music, art, and outdoor activities are plentiful. It’s difficult to narrow down the “must-do” activities in a city jam-packed with shopping, parks, panoramic views, gourmet pizza, and sports fans. However, we’ve done our very best to put together a list of ten things to see and do if you find yourself in Chicago, Illinois…
1. Tour Frank Lloyd Wright’s Home
Step into the shoes of the famous designer by visiting Frank Lloyd Wright’s private residence and architectural studio to discover where he spent the bulk of his career (1889 to 1909). The home features guided tours and history to preserve the famous artist’s memory and contributions to American architecture.
2. Catch a Game
Chicago is serious about its baseball so this town is the perfect one to catch a Cubs or White Sox ball game—and to snack on a world-famous Chicago-style hot dog.
3. Navy Pier
Built in 1916, the scenic Navy Pier is a plethora of restaurants, shops, and live entertainment—including the famed Chicago Children’s Museum, Crystal Gardens botanical park, the Chicago Shakespeare Theater, and the Smith Museum of Stained Glass. You can also hop aboard a boat cruise at the nearby River East Plaza and enjoy a view of the stunning city skyline.
4. Millennium Park
This massive 24.5-acre park in the heart of downtown Chicago is a visual masterpiece of architecture, sculpture, and landscape art. Take a stroll—and remember your camera!
5. Sears Tower
The Skydeck at Chicago’s famous Sears Tower offers unprecedented views of the city from one of the world’s highest buildings.
6. The Magnificent Mile
A shopper’s dream—this stretch of 460 shops includes brand-name favorites like Nike, American Girl, Crate & Barrel, Bloomingdale’s Fashion, not to mention a top-notch spa, salon, fitness club, several museums, and delectable spots to dine.
7. The Art Institute of Chicago
Get a good dose of creative inspiration as you wander through famous French Impressionists, line drawings from Asia, European fine art, American photography and architectural drawings, Latin American textiles, and creations dating back as far as 3,000 B.C.
8. Have a Laugh
The laughs have been rolling out of Second City since 1959, when the Chicago landmark started hosting nightly comedy shows from famous names like John Belushi, Bill Murray, Gilda Radner, and Mike Myers.
9. Chicago Botanical Gardens
Explore the lush specialty living art at Chicago’s Botanical Garden. This 385-acre park features 23 blooming gardens amid charming islands, winding lakes, year-round festivals, and guided tours.
10. Eat your Heart Out
A trip to Chicago wouldn’t be complete without eating your way through the city’s superb delectable delights—including cheese steak, deep-dish pizza, and trendy restaurants with live music.
