Did you know that more than 54 million people visit the windy city of Chicago, Illinois each year?
Chicago is a fun place to explore if you enjoy checking out museums, new restaurants, and shopping centers.
If you are planning a trip to Chicago, there are a few things that you must put on your itinerary.
Continue reading to discover the best things to do in Chicago whether you are just visiting or moved there!
Visit the Art Institute
If you are looking for fun things to do in Chicago, you should visit the Art Institute located at Grant Park.
Chicago’s art institute is filled with a variety of artwork from different periods. You can find inspiration from this artwork or just walk around to take in the beauty. The best part about the art institute is that there are plenty of hands-on activities for children to take part in.
This art museum specializes in 19th-century French paintings and 20th-century paintings. There is also a lot of sculpture work that can be found. If you find artwork that you like, you can take photos of the art, just be sure that your flash is kept off.
Head to Millennium Park
If you are moving to Chicago, you should consider finding a place near Millennium Park.
Millennium Park is free to enter and has plenty to explore. Many people recommend going there to get pictures in front of the famous Cloud Gate. You can also relax and have a picnic at the Lurie Garden or Crown Fountain. This park is packed with street performers that are entertaining to watch and many sights to see.
You can find out more about homes in this area if it is a place you want to reside. Millennium Park is a safe place to explore and live near.
Check Out Christmas Around the World
Since the early 1940s, Chicago has come up with a way to honor Christmas traditions from all over the world.
While you are going to Chicago sightseeing spots, be sure to visit the Museum of Science and Industry. This museum has more than 50 trees up on display, each focusing on a different culture. Christmas Around the World is a fun activity to do with the family around the holidays.
Not only will you get the chance to learn about other cultures’ practices, but you will also be able to take in the beautiful sights. After you make this stop, you can always check out the large Christmas tree located in the Chicago Loop!
Spend Time at the Museum of Science & Industry
A smart travel guide for Chicago includes the Museum of Science and Industry.
This museum is located in a beautiful and historic building that will impress you before you even walk inside. This museum is filled with so much to look at, that it could take days to view all of the exhibits. The Museum of Science and Industry focuses on innovation and exploring creativity.
If you have the kids with you on your trip or want to get out of the house, this is the perfect activity. You can explore technology advancements, industrial achievements, and so much more. You can find this museum in Jackson Park, located between Lake Michigan and The University of Chicago.
Whether you are a fan of science and innovation or not, this museum is engaging and fun to explore.
Catch a Game at Wrigley Field
If you are a big baseball fan, you should look into getting tickets to a Chicago Cubs game!
The Chicago Cubs play at the famous Wrigley Field, located on the North Side of Chicago. While watching the game, you can take in the historical pieces of the field such as the scoreboard, ivy, and architecture. There are many places near the field to grab a drink and food before or after a game.
Many people suggest going to a game that occurs during the day so that you have other time to explore the area.
Navy Pier
Are you looking for a fun place to take the kids and be near the water?
Navy Pier is one of the top destinations to visit in Chicago. This pier is packed with food vendors, events, and rides for kids to enjoy. There are plenty of restaurants and stores to check out on the pier that will expose you to something different.
It is a good idea to grab a jacket if you are headed to the pier. Since the pier is off of Lake Michigan, it is exposed to high winds and cool breezes. You won’t regret carrying a jacket with you if you go on the Ferris wheel at the end of the pier either!
Keep your camera nearby and your eyes open, as there are also many street performers putting on a show in this area.
Magnificent Mile
If you are looking for a place to go shopping and get fine dining, the Magnificent Mile is the perfect place to head to.
This mile stretch is one of the top 10 destinations in the world to shop and dine at. With all of the cultural influences in the area, you can try some of the most exotic foods. There are also excellent-rated hotels to stay at and plenty of entertainment for the evenings.
The Magnificent Mile is kid-friendly, but more directed towards adults. The mile is packed with fancy bars and stores to explore when you want to take a break.
Enjoy These Things To Do in Chicago
Depending on when you go, there are many things to do in Chicago to keep busy.
Chicago is packed with impressive museums that you won’t be able to spend enough time in. After your stops at the museum, you can head to Millennium Park for a relaxing afternoon. Chicago is a perfect destination for families and friends to explore.
Don’t forget to grab your jacket, as the winds coming off of Lake Michigan are strong and cool.
Be sure to check out our blog for more articles about visiting Chicago and traveling to big cities in the US!