Chicago is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, welcoming more than 50 million visitors per year. It is no wonder why – the Windy City has a ton of things to see and do, with fun for all ages! Museums, boat tours, shopping, dining, and lots of history make Chicago a bustling tourist capital.
With so much to see and do, visiting Chicago is a bucket list topper for many people. If you are planning a trip to Chicago soon, keep reading for everything you need to see and do on your trip.
1. Visit the Willis Tower
The Willis Tower, previously known as (and to many, still called) the Sears Tower, is a can’t miss experience on a trip to Chicago. The Willis Tower has long been a key component of the Chicago skyline ever since its construction. More than just a cool building, the Willis Tower will let you view Chicago from every angle.
Elevators rush you to the top for the Skydeck experience. Glass ledges allow you to step out of the building and look straight down 1,353 feet to the streets below. The windows face every direction so you can really admire the city.
2. Check Out Navy Pier
An iconic part of Chicago’s skyline, Navy Pier really comes to life in the summer. Jutting out into Lake Michigan, the pier features rides, games, food, shopping, music, and fun all day.
Ride the iconic Centennial Wheel while you are there. Did you know the first ferris wheel ever invented was built in Chicago for the 1893 Colombian Exhibition? Modeled after the original, the Centennial Wheel offers amazing views of the lake and of the city skyline, and it is well worth riding.
3. Do a Boat Tour
Some of Chicago’s most historically and culturally significant buildings are situated on the waterfront. Between the lake and the Chicago River that flows through downtown, the best way to see Chicago’s amazing architecture is on a boat. No dealing with cars, bikes, or people, and unobstructed views of the waterfront properties makes this an amazing way to see it all.
Boat tours can vary widely by budget and comfort, from rustic, crowded barges to extravagant dinner cruises. For a truly luxurious Chicago boat tour on a private yacht, take a ride on Adeline’s Sea Moose. You’ll see it all, have amazing dining and drinks, hear about the history from knowledgeable staff, and all without having to deal with overcrowding.
4. Visit Shedd Aquarium
The Shedd Aquarium is one of the largest and most reputable aquariums in the United States. Home to thousands of different animals and multiple interactive exhibits, the Shedd Aquarium is perfect for a day out with your family. You and your family will be able to see animals from every corner of the globe, from the Great Barrier Reef to the cooler polar climates of the Arctic.
With partners around the world, Shedd puts animal conservation and wildlife rehabilitation first. Learn all about the work Shedd does year-round while seeing the amazing animals that call Shedd Aquarium home.
5. Reflect in Millennium Park
This park in downtown Chicago is full of gardens, exhibitions, and outdoor events. But what Millennium Park is best known for is The Bean, a massive reflective bean sculpture.
The Bean, also known as Cloud Gate, is one of the most iconic tourist sites in Chicago, and for good reason! This enormous bean-shaped art installation reflects the city, the lights, the park, the sky, and you, giving you the perfect sense of Chicago. You can walk right up and touch the bean, walk underneath the arch, and take pictures from every angle.
This iconic sculpture is definitely worth a walk through the park. There is nothing else like it on Earth!
6. Visit the Amazing Museums
Chicago is well known for its incredible museums.
The Art Institute of Chicago is well known for its impressive collections and exhibits. If you aren’t as big a fan of the classics, check out the Museum of Contemporary Art.
The science museums really shine in Chicago.
The Field Museum, conveniently located right next to the Shedd Aquarium, is a massive collection of anthropology and biology exhibits. It is also home to Sue, the largest and most complete T. Rex skeleton ever found.
The Museum of Science and Industry is perfect for families and science enthusiasts. Dozens of interactive demonstrations cover the floors of the Museum. There is something for everyone here, from submarines to coal mine simulations to a controlled tornado.
In the same block as the Field Museum and Shedd Aquarium, you will find Adler Planetarium. The planetarium offers immersive projections of the sky and lots of information about space, making this the perfect day out for the space enthusiast in your life.
7. Shop the Magnificent Mile While Visiting Chicago
The Magnificent Mile of Michigan Avenue is a shopping addict’s dream come true. Dozens and dozens of stores line the street, from small boutiques to high-end luxury stores. Gucci, Burberry, Bloomingdale’s, and more all have large stores along the mile.
Restaurants and experiences dot the Magnificent Mile, so there are always things to do. If you are a coffee fan, the world’s largest Starbucks is located on the Magnificent Mile, serving beverages and food that isn’t offered at any other Starbucks stores.
Plan Your Trip Today!
Chicago has something for everyone! From incredible museums, shopping, water activities, and skyscrapers, you will be sure to find something to make your vacation memorable.
The Windy City is sure to be the trip of a lifetime! If you are visiting Chicago soon, make sure to hit everything on this list to ensure you have the best trip ever.
