There are limitless issues to do in Chicago and town shocked us (in a great way) with its bustling downtown core, expansive inexperienced areas, trendy artwork shows, Michelin-starred eating places and charming neighbourhoods!
Regardless of your age or journey model, you’ll discover sights and actions in Chicago that can pique your curiosity. It’s no marvel town is firmly on the checklist of the 101 finest locations to go to within the US.
We lately spent per week within the Windy Metropolis and will have lingered for much longer. With so many thrilling issues to do in Chicago (and eat!), attempt to give your self at the very least 5 days to discover.
And, opposite to perception, this metropolis is definitely one of many finest locations to go to in January because of having so many indoor sights and superb festivals throughout that point.
On this article, I’m going to checklist not solely the apparent issues to do in Chicago, however among the extra off-track websites and experiences that we had — and extremely advocate.
Word: Don’t miss our journey video of Chicago on the finish of this submit!
Prime 25 Should-Expertise Issues To Do in Chicago
Right here’s my information for the highest 25 issues to do in Chicago throughout your subsequent journey after being proven across the metropolis by a gaggle of locals and the Chicago Tourism Board.
1. Stroll – In all places!
I needed to put this primary on the checklist.
Taking transport is an effective way to get across the metropolis, however by strolling, you’ll have the ability to expertise all the in-between bits that makes Chicago so nice.
Plus, you’ll have the ability to burn off a few of these energy you’ve consumed after consuming so nicely!
Gaze up on the towering skyscrapers within the downtown space, or saunter down quiet streets in one of many 77+ surrounding neighbourhoods.
There are not any actual hills in Chicago, the sidewalks are nicely taken care of and also you don’t want to fret about falling off any uneven curbs. If you happen to get drained, name an Uber or hop on the prepare.
2. Attend a Competition
Chicago is understood for internet hosting many, many festivals.
There are too many to checklist right here, however in case you’re involved in music, meals, trend, movie, sports activities, tradition, flowers and every thing in between, you’ll discover a competition that you just take pleasure in.
Throughout the summer time months, don’t miss these occasions:
1. Style of Chicago
This meals/music competition has been operating since 1980 and is the most important meals competition on the earth!
Right here you’ll take pleasure in delicacies from across the globe — Indian, Thai, American, Caribbean, Mexican, European, and way more.
The grounds at Grant Park are free to enter, however you buy tickets to alternate for pattern parts of meals, or full meals.
A strip of 14 tickets will run you $10 and a taster portion of meals will price you about 6 tickets.
Ensure you carry your individual water although as a result of 500mL of bottled water on the competition will price you $8! Click on right here to be taught extra in regards to the Style of Chicago, which is held in July.
2. Windy Metropolis Smokeout
For BBQ, beer and nation music followers, this competition is one you don’t wish to miss!
I actually really feel like this is likely one of the finest issues to do in Chicago in the summertime and it was in all probability our favorite competition throughout our 5-day go to.
There’s a grandstand right here that hosts the primary music performances, plus one other smaller stage in the direction of the again. Wander round and let your nostril information you in the direction of billowing people who smoke, the place 20+ pitmasters from across the nation grill up tender meat.
There’s no scarcity of succulent, smokey ribs, tasty brisket, pit-roasted pork, and grilled rooster at this occasion.
Additionally, be certain to pattern among the craft beers on faucet, lots of that are from Chicago. I like to recommend the IPAs from Moody and Tongue and Goose Island. Click on right here to be taught extra in regards to the enjoyable Windy Metropolis Smokeout occasion, which is held in July.
3. Grant Park Music Competition
If you happen to’re into classical music, refrain, orchestras and FREE live shows, then don’t miss this one.
Seize a garden chair or a blanket, pack a picnic and a few wine and head all the way down to Millennium Park on the Jay Pritzker Pavillion.
This classical music competition is held yearly for 10 weeks from June to August and has been for greater than 80 years. Click on right here to be taught extra in regards to the Grant Park Music Competition.
4. Chicago Blues Competition
Extremely, that is one other free competition in Chicago!
Not solely is entrance free, however it’s the most important music competition within the metropolis. Head all the way down to Millennium Park for the weekend of Jun 8 – tenth and benefit from the present. (extra about Blues music in #22 on this checklist).
3. Go On an Structure River Cruise
Even when structure actually isn’t your factor, don’t miss the Chicago Structure River Cruise.
Chicago has quite a few towering skyscrapers, and smaller warehouses alongside the Chicago River, all of which have a narrative.
Quite than guessing for your self, the information on the boat tour offers you some historical past and describe the design model, all when you sip on a beer and benefit from the sunshine.
We joined the Chicago Structure Basis Middle River Cruise aboard Chicago’s First Girl and loved the journey. The information supplied glorious data, there was a toilet and a bar on board and the ship was fairly comfy. The tour is extremely rated on TripAdvisor.
There are quite a few corporations to go along with. Shoreline Sightseeing is one other extremely rated choice.
4. Get a Hen’s Eye View (probably the most superb issues to do in Chicago!)
After you’ve seen Chicago by foot and by boat, it’s time to get an aerial view of town.
A helicopter experience is on just about everybody’s bucket checklist and after flying excessive above Chicago on a sundown journey, I can say that this really is one thing you don’t wish to miss.
Along with 5 different folks (plus the pilot), you’ll don a headset and soar above Chicago, passing by the Lakefront, Navy Pier and extra. The pilot supplies details about the buildings down under and can reply any questions you could have.
I actually suppose that this is likely one of the finest worth issues to do in Chicago. A sundown flight in a helicopter over Chicago is value each penny and is one thing you’ll always remember. Click on right here to be taught extra and to guide this tour
*Professional-tip: carry a GoPro digicam or some form of fish eye lens in your smartphone, because it’s exhausting to get selfies in such a contained house.
5. Go To An Escape Room
Escape rooms have change into one in every of our favourite issues to seek out in new cities whereas touring or on vacation. Fortunately Chicago has some epic escape rooms to expertise.
At The Escape Recreation in Chicago, you may check out 5 totally different rooms with quite a lot of themes and problem ranges. One of many coolest units in an escape room ever is the “Mission: Mars” escape room. Be a part of with others or guide all spots for a personal expertise. Costs begin at round $45.
Click on Right here to guide on-line now.
6. Go to The Neighbourhoods
As I stated above, there are over 77 neighbourhoods in Chicago, every with its personal vibe and issues to do. Being downtown is nice, however attempt to go to a number of of the totally different neighbourhoods in Chicago.
Our favorite was Pilsen, which was as soon as a predominantly Slavic group, however because the 1960’s it has been dwelling to many Hispanic residents, largely Mexicans.
Amongst different issues, Pilsen gives brilliant avenue artwork, Mexican meals, the Nationwide Museum of Mexican Artwork and the Thalia Music Corridor.
Ensure you go to the Mexican museum right here to be taught in regards to the present situation of gentrification that has effects on Pilsen and another elements of Chicago.
Wander round at your individual tempo and benefit from the ‘hood.
Cease in at Leaping Bean for espresso, Canton Regio for Mexican meals (and BYOB!), and Michelin starred Dusek’s Board & Beer for tasty delicacies and beers. 3 – 4 hours in Pilsen is loads of time to discover lots of the again streets and funky outlets.
Different attention-grabbing communities embody:
- Close to West Aspect: providing implausible restaurant selections, boutique outlets and avenue artwork (try Randolph Avenue and Fulton Market), that is the foodie hotspot. Take a look at Michelin starred Lady and The Goat restaurant and have a espresso on the fashionable Soho Home.
- Wicker Park / Bucktown: recognized for classic outlets, craft cocktails and chilled out spots, spend a day right here procuring, eating and trying out the 606 which runs by these neighbourhoods (extra on the 606 at #10 on this checklist). Seize a brew from MapRoom Taphouse, or cool off with an Italian Ice from Miko’s.
- Logan Sq.: an space with a powerful sense of group and help of native companies…with a facet of hipster vibes, craft beer and reside music. Right here you’ll discover a few of Chicago’s finest eating places, don’t miss Fats Rice (Macanese fusion) and Mi Tocaya Antojeria (Mexican delicacies).
- Lincoln Park: a mixture of metropolis and nature, Lincoln Park gives a large inexperienced house full with a lakefront path and sandy seashores. On this neighbourhood you may take heed to blues music, celebration all evening lengthy, buy groceries at fashionable boutiques, or seize a motorbike and experience the paths. Strive a hotdog from Wiener’s Circle (extra on that at #9 on this checklist) and a few Korean rooster at Crisp.
- Andersonville: this enjoyable space is dwelling to one in every of Chicago’s largest homosexual communities, and is understood for being a various a part of town. Go to the theatre, devour a tasty burger at Little Dangerous Wolf and sip on a craft beer from Hopleaf.
- Edgewater: If you find yourself right here, you might also wish to try the New York Trapeze College for a fairly loopy expertise the place you really get to see what it’s prefer to be a member of cirque for your self!
7. Dangle Above the Metropolis
Conquer your fears and head to the SkyDeck Observatory on the Willis Tower (Sears Tower) and revel in superb views of Chicago.
This is likely one of the hottest points of interest within the metropolis, and for good purpose! There are 4 glass packing containers (ledges) protruding from the highest of the Willis Tower the place you may stroll out on 1.5 inches of glass.
On a transparent day, you may see Chicago, plus the three neighbouring states of Indiana, Wisconsin, and Michigan. This is likely one of the most Instagrammed spots within the metropolis, and probably the most widespread issues to do in Chicago.
I’m personally fearful of heights and was in a position to stand (and sit) on this platform.
If you happen to’re nervous as nicely, know that you’ll be able to inch your manner out at your individual tempo and you’ll have one foot on “strong” floor and one on the field if it makes you are feeling extra comfy. Click on right here to be taught extra and guide tickets for the SkyDeck Expertise.
8. Do a Cheese Pull
Inevitably, in your quest for issues to do in Chicago, you’ll hear plenty of discuss (and debate) in regards to the finest pizza in Chicago, however, after sampling a pair, we’ve come to the conclusion that our favorite was Giordano’s.
Now, there are quite a few different locations that we didn’t get to attempt, so I counsel occurring a hunt for the perfect pizza and seeing what you give you.
Giordano’s gives made to order deep dish and skinny crust pizzas — taking round 45 minutes to 1 hour to prepare dinner.
The pizzas listed below are tasty, however most significantly, the cheese is extremely stringy, supplying you with that final Instagram cheese pull picture. This is likely one of the finest locations to eat in Chicago.
9. Discover The Lakefront Path
When you’ve acquired your fill of town, top-of-the-line issues to do in Chicago to get some contemporary air is to move to the lakefront.
At 494 kilometers lengthy and 190 kilometers huge, Lake Michigan is the most important of the Nice Lakes and is definitely the sixth largest freshwater lake on earth.
Taking a look at it, you’d be forgiven for considering that it’s really extra of an ocean than a lake because it even has tidal shifts.
The Lakefront Path is an uninterrupted, 29 kilometers (18 miles) lengthy, pedestrian-only route. It’s the right place for biking, rollerblading, jogging, or strolling.
Alongside the way in which, you’ll move by lovely seashores, excellent for laying down a towel and going for a swim. Take a look at Kathy Osterman Seashore and Montrose Seashore.
To get right here, hop on an Uber and select some extent alongside the path that you just’d prefer to be dropped off at. I like to recommend arriving at Kathy Osterman Seashore and biking to Lincoln Park. This brings me to #9…
10. Hire a Divvy Bike
Divvy Bikes are an effective way to discover Chicago — particularly alongside the vehicle-free Riverwalk, 606 walkway, and the Lakefront path.
These shared bikes are inexpensive and make for a singular manner of getting across the metropolis. Whether or not you wish to simply get from level a to level b, or spend a day biking round, these bicycles are an incredible transportation choice.
Hire your self a Divvy bike at one of many stations round Chicago and set off to discover the Lakefront Path at your individual tempo.
With Divvy bikes, you may hire for half-hour ($3) or 24 hours ($15), and choose up and drop off at totally different areas across the metropolis.
Obtain the Divvy app to be taught the place to seek out bike stations, and whether or not or not there are any bikes presently docked there.
*Professional-tip: there aren’t any baskets on the entrance of the bikes, only a bungee twine, so be sure you carry a backpack or one thing to place your water and sunscreen in.
11. Get Insulted Whereas Consuming a Scorching Canine
Chicago has quite a few iconic meals and snacks, one in every of which is, after all, a sizzling canine! Eaten at ball video games, tailgate events, BBQs and on the road, sampling a Chicago model canine when you’re here’s a should.
If you happen to’re searching for a hotdog with a facet of sass, profanity, and heckling, then be certain to go to The Wiener’s Circle in Lincoln Park.
Throughout the day, it’s a fairly chilled out place, however after 8:00pm and nicely into the evening, it’s a joint that you just in all probability don’t wish to carry your youngsters to.
The employees right here make enjoyable of patrons, throwing curse phrases and insults at everybody who enters! It’s all in good enjoyable although and everybody laughs at one another, and themselves. This establishment has been right here for over 30 years, and continues to be going robust.
Questioning the place to remain in Chicago?
We stayed within the ideally positioned Loews Resort Downtown, and have been simply steps to the river, Magnificent Mile, Navy Pier and extra.
There’s a superb rooftop bar and lounge space (excellent for a sundowner) and the onsite journey themed “ETA” restaurant serves up tasty, seasonal meals. The rooms are luxurious and cozy and supply superb views – both of the cityscape or the Navy Pier.
If you happen to’re feeling energetic, head all the way down to the fitness center or for a swim within the 75-foot lengthy lap pool, and in case you’d slightly loosen up, head to the calming spa. The employees listed below are heat, welcoming and extremely useful! Click on right here to be taught extra in regards to the lodge and to guide a room.
12. Wander Alongside the 606
The 606 is to Chicago what the Highline is to New York, and at solely 5 years outdated, it’s one of many latest issues to do in Chicago.
As soon as an deserted railway line, this raised path and inexperienced house is now a spot for Chicagoans to cycle, jog, stroll, skateboard, or rollerblade away from the site visitors – from 6:00am to 11:00pm.
Named after the shared zip code prefix of this space of Chicago, the 606 is positioned within the neighbourhoods of Logan Park, Humboldt Park, Bucktown and Wicker Park and spans 4.3 kilometers (2.7 miles).
That is one other good spot to hire a Divvy bike! Click on right here to be taught extra in regards to the 606 and to see a map of the realm.
13. Tilt Over The Metropolis
Yet one more adrenaline-inducing factor to do in Chicago!
The “Tilt” is positioned on the 360 Chicago Remark Deck on the North Michigan Avenue Constructing (John Hancock Middle). If you wish to see town from 314m (1,030 toes) above the bottom, whereas tilting over the constructing to the streets under, then that is the experience for you.
Principally, you stand in opposition to a glass wall dealing with outwards. Holding onto handles, the glass wall then extends and tilts downwards supplying you with superb views of the streets and buildings under.
If you happen to’re feeling uncomfortable, don’t fear, you’re free to step again away from the glass at any time.
If you happen to simply wish to go to the 94th ground for a drink and to benefit from the unbelievable sundown views over town, that’s additionally attainable. Tilting is simply an added attraction. Click on right here to be taught extra and to buy tickets for the Tilt.
14. Chow Down on Some Popcorn
Popcorn is one in every of Chicago’s hottest snacks, so earlier than you say “consuming popcorn shouldn’t be thought of top-of-the-line issues to do in Chicago”, attempt Garrett’s and also you’ll understand why it’s on the checklist.
This connoisseur popcorn store is positioned throughout town and gives varied flavours — almond caramel crisp, cheese, butter, cashew caramel, macadamia caramel…or blended.
I like to recommend the combo of caramel crisp and cheddar cheese. Candy and savoury! Click on right here for areas.
15. Hangout By The Chicago River
The Chicago River snakes its manner by town and up till 2016, there wasn’t a manner for pedestrians to stroll alongside the river financial institution.
Today, you may take pleasure in the brand new riverwalk which runs for two kilometers (1.25 miles) from Lakeshore Drive to Lake Avenue, giving locals and guests the chance to stroll, run, dine and loosen up alongside the river.
This walkway is a good addition to town. Not solely are you able to take pleasure in some vehicle-free train, try the general public artwork and benefit from the surrounding structure, however there are quite a few locations to eat and drink!
Pull up a chair, play some video games, or watch the boats go by on the Island Occasion Hut (beers $7.50, cocktails $14). Seize a glass of wine and a few appetizers and folks watch at Metropolis Vineyard, or devour some BBQ whereas having fun with reside music at Tiny Tapp.
16. Store ’til You Drop
As with most massive cities on the earth, Chicago is dwelling to an unbelievable procuring scene. From high-end trend and cute boutiques to low-cost retailers and chains, there’s a store for you in Chicago.
The Magnificent Mile spans 8 metropolis blocks from Michigan Avenue Bridge to Oak Avenue and is likely one of the prime spots for procuring within the metropolis.
Right here you’ll discover designer outlets comparable to Burberry, Chanel, Giorgio Armani and Ralph Lauren, standing subsequent to the malls of Saks, Bloomingdale’s, Nordstrom, Macy’s and Neiman Marcus.
Combined in with all of those stand-alone outlets, you’ll discover 3 malls providing souvenirs, toys, sporting items, make-up, and naturally, clothes.
Lastly, after your bank card has taken a beating, pop into one of many many eating places, cafes or bars and seize a chew. For one thing a bit extra upscale, don’t miss Prime Chef season 15 winner, Joe Flamm’s restaurant, Spiaggia.
The “Magazine Mile” is your one-stop store for every thing you could possibly probably want.
17. Journey a Ferris Wheel
The Navy Pier is a prime landmark within the metropolis and is a good place to benefit from the skyline, go for a stroll, see the Crystal Gardens, watch a film, see a fireworks show, and naturally, experience the Ferris wheel.
Enjoyable truth: George Washington Ferris invented the Ferris wheel, and the primary one was constructed for the Chicago World’s Truthful in 1893. Entrance to the Navy Pier is free, however if you wish to experience the Ferris wheel, it prices $15.
18. Paddle a Kayak
City kayaking is likely one of the hottest issues to do in Chicago. After you’ve joined the structure boat tour and realized all in regards to the buildings, why not seize your self a kayak and paddle at your individual tempo?
There are a number of corporations within the metropolis that supply kayaking excursions on the Chicago River, or on Lake Michigan. However, in case you really feel like going solo, it’s also possible to hire a kayak at an hourly fee of round $25. Take a look at Water Riders or Kayak Chicago for extra particulars.
19. Hire a Boat (top-of-the-line issues to do in Chicago with mates)
If Kayaking isn’t your factor, it’s also possible to hire electrical boats and do a self-drive journey up and down the river. That’s proper, you get to be the captain! The boats are simple to drive, similar to a golf cart.
The unbelievable factor in regards to the fleet on the Chicago Electrical Boat Firm is that they’re all zero emissions. The boats can maintain between 10 – 12 folks and the speed is from $150 – $215 / hour.
Once you divide that worth amongst a gaggle of individuals, it actually is an efficient deal. See the Chicago Electrical Boat Firm for particulars. This is likely one of the most original issues to do in Chicago with mates.
20. Dine On Rib Eye and Wine
Chicago has one of many hottest meals scenes within the nation. Even in case you don’t think about your self a complete foodie, you’ll be impressed with the delicacies on supply within the metropolis.
If you happen to’re searching for a succulent minimize of beef, complemented with a sturdy glass of purple, in a non-pretentious, but elegant environment, then be sure you add RPM Steakhouse to your consuming itinerary. This is likely one of the finest locations to eat in Chicago.
Not solely is the menu seasonal and various, however the service right here is on level. Plus, in case you’re not into steaks, there are various different choices on the menu together with salads, seafood and rooster.
I extremely advocate the hamachi crudo, Mediterranean octopus, the rib eye, lobster, huckleberry cheesecake and chocolate cake. Yum!
21. Discover The Avenue Artwork
Chicago’s artsy facet is prevalent in its many public museums, galleries and park sculptures, however in case you’re right into a extra bohemian, graffiti model of artwork, you’ll wish to seek for among the cool avenue artwork scattered across the metropolis.
You’ll discover quite a few murals within the Pilsen neighbourhood, plus a number of dotted round Logan Sq. and Bucktown.
The B_line hall within the Fulton Market meatpacking district has been lately revived and is now crammed with vibrant illustrations. Spanning a mile, the partitions under the elevated B_line prepare tracks have been become spectacular items from artists world wide.
This space is a good instance of an open-air artwork gallery. Wander down West Hubbard Avenue between Peoria and North Ogden Ave. to seek out the paintings. To be taught extra, try the Instagram web page.
22. Sip On Some Craft Beer
You don’t need to be a hipster to take pleasure in an icy chilly glass of craft beer, and what higher place to take action than in Chicago, a metropolis that loves its beer.
In response to this submit, there are presently 72 breweries within the metropolis and 132 within the suburbs!
Clearly, you received’t have the ability to go to all of them on a brief journey to Chicago, however positively try the IPAs, Ales, Stouts and Lagers on supply at these craft breweries and taprooms: Revolution Brewing, Goose Island and Moody Tongue.
One other nice craft beer bar is the aptly named Map Room in Bucktown which has flags from world wide, and over 200 beers from varied international locations. Have enjoyable wandering round and having fun with the finest bars in Chicago!
23. Go to The Parks
There are quite a few inexperienced areas in Chicago, and tons of spots the place you may lay down a blanket and revel in a picnic within the solar. There are over 500 parks inside the metropolis limits, however be certain to take a look at these ones:
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- Millennium Park: dwelling to the Cloud Gate / Bean sculpture, artwork and exhibition exhibits, live shows, outside exercises, outside live shows and eating.
- Maggie Daley Park: this activity-filled park gives a climbing wall, playground, skating ribbon (ice within the winter, cement in the summertime), mini-golf, tennis courts and way more.
- Lincoln Park: positioned within the neighbourhood of the identical identify, Lincoln Park gives quite a few lakeside biking trails, seashores, museums, eating places and a cultural heart. This park is 1,208 acres (489-hectares) so be sure you give your self a while to discover and loosen up.
*Word: Grant Park really encompasses Millennium Park, Maggie Daley Park, Buckingham Fountain and the Museum Campus.
24. Take pleasure in a Night time At The Theatre
Touted because the theatre capital of the USA, there are over 250 theatre corporations in Chicago! From comedies and musicals to ballets and orchestras, there’s a plethora of performances to see within the metropolis.
Within the downtown / Loop space, try the Broadway exhibits on the Oriental Theatre, live shows on the Auditorium Theatre and widespread musicals on the CIBC Theatre.
If you happen to’re into comedies and improv, try The Second Metropolis which is the place the likes of Chris Farley, Invoice Murray, Tina Fay and Steve Carrell began out.
25. Take heed to Blues
For a enjoyable evening out in Chicago, I like to recommend trying out a Blues membership. This distinctive style of music originated in Mississippi in the course of the slave instances within the 1800s, and whereas these days are over, the soulful music has remained.
The explanation Blues music is so widespread in Chicago is as a result of Nice Migration of African-Individuals from Mississippi, Alabama and Louisiana.
Lots of the individuals who fled the southern states (because of racial discrimination) selected Chicago in hopes that they’d discover industrial work and a happier life. With them, they introduced their superb music.
Take a look at Kingston Mines, Home Of Blues, Buddy Man’s Legends and B.L.U.E.S. Most of those locations additionally serve up tasty southern-inspired delicacies.
Enjoyable truth: though blues music didn’t originate in Chicago, again within the 1980’s Home Music was created by DJ’s and producers in underground golf equipment. The subsequent time you’re dancing to digital music, bear in mind, you could have Chicago to thank for these beats!
BONUS: 26. Watch a Recreation
Chicago is dwelling to skilled sports activities groups and relying on which period of the yr you go to, be sure you attend a recreation.
Whether or not you’re into hockey, soccer, soccer, baseball or basketball, Chicago has an expert workforce on supply. Many of those groups have received championships, however the most well-liked sports activities within the metropolis are by far baseball and soccer.
For baseball followers, head to Wrigley Subject for a Cubs recreation, or to Assured Fee Subject for a White Sox recreation (click on the hyperlinks to see ticket costs). If soccer is your factor, make your strategy to Soldier Subject for a Bears recreation.
For hockey, cheer on the Chicago Blackhawks on the United Middle. For basketball followers, The Chicago Bulls play on the United Middle, whereas the WNBA workforce Chicago Sky is at Wintrust Area.
The Chicago Fireplace and Chicago Pink Stars soccer groups play on the Toyota Park venue.
Sports activities are an enormous a part of life in Chicago and Chicagoans are very passionate about their groups.
Take pleasure in a reside recreation alongside these superior followers, or share within the camaraderie at one of many many sports activities bars. Watching sports activities with a hotdog and beer in hand is likely one of the prime issues to do in Chicago for certain.
Bonus: 27. Gaze Up at The Fireworks
Throughout the summer time months from Could 26 – September 1, the Navy Pier places on a spectacular present.
Make your manner all the way down to the pier on Wednesdays (9:30pm) and Saturdays (10:15pm) and benefit from the fireworks present, synchronized to music.
Watch the sky mild up whereas sitting on the pier, or from a ship on the river or lake. This is likely one of the finest issues to do in Chicago in the summertime. Click on right here to be taught extra and to see the schedule.
Bonus: 28. Be a part of a Free Strolling Tour
Strolling excursions are a superb strategy to get a fast and informative introduction to cities world wide. We’ve joined strolling excursions in Medellin, Tirana, Berlin, Edinburgh, Florence and Rome (to call a number of), and it’s all the time been a tremendous expertise.
In Chicago, the guides are locals and are very educated about their metropolis. Anticipate to be taught in regards to the historical past of Chicago, the assorted buildings, and the place to eat and drink — all whereas being entertained by nice storytellers.
You possibly can select from structure excursions in varied elements of town, at totally different instances of the day. This is likely one of the finest budget-friendly issues to do in Chicago.
The excursions are usually round 2 hours lengthy, which is nice because it doesn’t take up your complete day. As a bonus, the excursions are “free” and also you’re solely anticipated to provide a tip in case you’re pleased with the service.
It’s extra of a “pay what you want” state of affairs. Click on right here to be taught extra about Free Excursions By Foot.
Getting Round Chicago
Fortunately, despite the fact that Chicago is a sprawling metropolis of slightly below 3 million folks, the environment friendly transportation techniques make getting round simple and stress-free, with elevated rail strains supplying you with glorious views of town when you experience.
Getting from the Airport to Downtown Chicago
Taking public transport (CTA – Chicago Transit Authority) from the airport is essentially the most budget-friendly choice. It’s additionally very simple.
The Blue Line runs 24 hours from the O’Hare Airport to downtown Chicago. The journey takes about 40-45 minutes and the associated fee is $5 (much less you probably have a vast experience move which you’ll be able to choose up on the airport and at merchandising machines across the metropolis).
If you happen to’re arriving on the Chicago Halfway Worldwide Airport, you may hop on the Orange Line for a 20-25 minute experience to the downtown loop space.
To pay for these journeys, buy a Ventra card from one of many merchandising machines on the airport prepare stations, at Ventra Merchandising Machines, or over 1,000 Ventra Retailers across the metropolis.
You should buy 1 journey, 1 day or 3-day tickets. The machines settle for money, credit score or debit. Click on right here to be taught extra in regards to the transport choices from the Chicago airports to the downtown space.
Getting Round Chicago
When you’re within the metropolis, the perfect methods to get round Chicago are by strolling and biking, or by prepare, bus and rideshare.
You’ll want to determine what number of instances you suppose you’ll take the CTA buses or trains, after which buy the suitable Ventra Card.
If you happen to suppose you’ll solely experience the prepare or bus a few instances, it can save you cash by buying particular person rides (normally $2.50) and pay as you go.
1 Day CTA Move for $10
3 Day CTA Move for $20
7 Day CTA Move for $28
For maps of the assorted prepare strains within the metropolis, click on right here.
Uber and Lyft are the most well-liked rideshare corporations in Chicago and are ceaselessly utilized by locals and guests.
I like to recommend downloading the Uber and Lyft apps so you may simply get round and revel in all the issues to do in Chicago.
Google Maps additionally permits you to name experience shares instantly from the app, so you may determine if you wish to stroll the space, cycle, use public transport or name an Uber.
Metropolis Attraction Passes in Chicago
Since there are such a lot of superb points of interest and issues to do in Chicago, you’ll wish to think about buying an points of interest move. There are 2 fundamental low cost playing cards out there:
1. CityPass Chicago
This move consists of:
- Shedd Aquarium – Precedence Entry
- Skydeck Chicago – Quick Move
- The Subject Museum – VIP Entry
- Museum of Science and Trade OR 360 CHICAGO Remark Deck – Categorical Entry
- Adler Planetarium – VIP Entry OR Artwork Institute of Chicago – Quick Move
The price of the CityPass is $106 for adults and $89 for kids aged 3 – 11, and it’s legitimate for 9 consecutive days.
If you happen to have been to go to all the points of interest listed above with out the CityPass, it will price you $217.90.
You must first determine what number of points of interest you wish to go to whereas in Chicago and work out if the CityPass is best for you. Click on right here to be taught extra and to buy the move.
2. Go Chicago Card
The Go Chicago Card is totally different from the CityPass in that you’re granted free entry to 25 points of interest throughout a set interval.
As with the CityPass, you’ll want so as to add up the points of interest you intend to go to and see if this low cost card is value it. Select between these passes:
“All You Can Do in…”
1 day – $109 for adults, $69 for teenagers.
2 days – $154 for adults, $109 for teenagers.
3 days – $184 for adults, $129 for teenagers.
5 days – $219 for adults, $149 for teenagers.
By my calculations, in case you have been to go to the SkyDeck ($24), 360 Chicago ($23), Artwork Institute of Chicago with Quick Move ($35), the Ferris Wheel on the Navy Pier ($15) and the Structure River Cruise ($43), then the associated fee could be $140.
This makes the 1 day move worthwhile — and it’s solely $14 shy of the price of the 2-day move.
These are the included points of interest within the Go Chicago Card:
• SkyDeck Chicago
• 360 CHICAGO
• Subject Museum (Admission plus one particular exhibit )
• Hop-On Hop-Off Large Bus Chicago: 1-Day Basic Tour
• Artwork Institute of Chicago – Quick Move Admission
• Museum of Science and Trade
• Adler Planetarium
• Chicago Kids’s Museum
• Navy Pier Centennial Wheel and Rides
• LEGOLAND® Discovery Middle
• Chicago Historical past Museum
• Chicago Structure Basis
• Museum of Modern Artwork
• Frank Lloyd Wright House and Studio Tour
• Robie Home
• Historic Chicago South Shore Tour
• Grand Tour
• Panoramic and Scenic North Aspect Tour
• Chicago Theatre Tour
• Brookfield Zoo
• Bike and Roll Chicago
• Chicago Structure River Cruise
• Tall Ship WINDY
• Basic Lake Tour
• Lincoln Park Zoo Rides
For extra data and particulars, and to buy the Go Chicago Card, click on right here.
Now You Know What To Do in Chicago
One of many issues that makes Chicago such an pleasurable metropolis is that you may be surrounded by site visitors and skyscrapers one minute, and the following, end up enjoyable on the river or lakefront. All inside only a few minute’s drive.
There are limitless enjoyable issues to do in Chicago and hopefully this checklist gave you some inspiration in your subsequent journey. All I can say is be certain to provide your self sufficient time in Chicago, but when not, you could possibly all the time come again…
Don’t Miss Our Chicago Journey Video!
*Word, among the images on this article have been sourced on Shutterstock — a web site for locating royalty-free, skilled images and movies.
