The Ultimate Guide to Chicago Activities This Weekend

Chicago is a vibrant, bustling metropolis that is one of the most visited cities in the United States. With its unique blend of culture, architecture, music, art, and entertainment, Chicago is a city with something for everyone. From its iconic skyline to its world-class museums, there is no shortage of activities to check out in the Windy City. Whether you’re looking for a fun-filled weekend with the family or a romantic getaway with your significant other, Chicago has something to offer everyone.

Chicago is often referred to as the “City of Big Shoulders” due to its rich history and culture. Founded in 1833, Chicago quickly rose to prominence as a hub for transportation, trade, and industry in the Midwest. The city experienced rapid growth throughout the 19th and 20th centuries and today is home to nearly 3 million people, making it one of the largest cities in the US. Chicago is known for its iconic skyline, which consists of some of the world’s tallest and most recognizable buildings, including the Willis Tower (formerly the Sears Tower) and John Hancock Center.

The city has something for everyone, from its vibrant food scene to its exciting nightlife. With over 250 theater companies and 7,300 acres of parks and beaches, there is plenty to do outdoors. Other popular attractions include Navy Pier and Millennium Park, which offer breathtaking views of Lake Michigan and skyline. Music lovers can also enjoy a range of jazz and blues clubs throughout the city. With its unique blend of culture and attractions, Chicago is an ideal destination for tourists visiting for the first time.

The Magnificent Mile

One of the best things to do in Chicago is to explore the Magnificent Mile. This one-mile stretch along Michigan Avenue is home to some of the city’s best shopping, dining, and entertainment. The Magnificent Mile is also home to many iconic landmarks such as the Tribune Tower, John Hancock Center, and Wrigley Building. As you stroll along this stretch of Michigan Avenue, you’ll find high-end boutiques, luxury retailers, world-renowned restaurants, and landmark hotels. It’s also a great place to people watch as you take in the sights and sounds of this bustling boulevard.

Museums

Chicago is home to some of the world’s best museums, including the Art Institute of Chicago, Field Museum of Natural History, Museum of Science and Industry, and Shedd Aquarium. These institutions offer visitors a chance to explore a wide range of exhibits from ancient artifacts to modern art to interactive educational exhibits about science and nature. Each museum has its own unique charm, giving visitors plenty of options for a day spent learning about history and culture.

Architecture

Chicago is renowned for its impressive architecture. This reputation is due in part to its long list of “firsts” such as the first skyscraper ever built—the Home Insurance Building—and the first steel-framed building—the Manhattan Building. The city’s architecture continues to evolve today with modern skyscrapers dotting the skyline like impossibly tall sentinels. A great way to explore this unique aspect of Chicago is on an architecture tour. These tours provide an in-depth look at the city’s history and architecture with knowledgeable guides who will take you through some of Chicago’s most iconic buildings.

Dining & Drinking

Chicago is known for its vibrant food scene and world-class restaurants. Whether you’re looking for upscale fine dining or a casual eatery, you’ll find something for everyone. From pizza joints to steakhouses to hip bistros, Chicago has it all. The city also boasts an impressive selection of craft breweries and bars if you’re looking for a night out on the town.

Outdoor Activities

Chicago offers plenty of outdoor activities for those looking to get out and explore nature in the city. From biking or running along Lake Michigan to exploring Navy Pier or Millennium Park, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the outdoors in Chicago. You can also take a stroll along one of the city’s many trails or visit one of the many green spaces such as Lincoln Park or Grant Park.

Sports

Chicago is home to a number of professional sports teams including the Cubs (MLB), Bulls (NBA), Bears (NFL), Blackhawks (NHL), Fire (MLS), and Red Stars (NWSL). Fans can enjoy watching their favorite teams play at iconic venues such as Wrigley Field, Soldier Field, United Center, and Guaranteed Rate Field. Attending a game at one of these venues is sure to be an unforgettable experience that you won’t soon forget.

Book an Architecture Tour

To get an up-close look at some of Chicago’s most iconic buildings, consider booking an architecture tour. On this tour, knowledgeable guides will take you through some of the city’s most beloved landmarks such as Tribune Tower, John Hancock Center, and Wrigley Building. You’ll get an in-depth look at these iconic structures as well as insider information about their histories. An architecture tour is a great way to learn about the city while getting an up-close look at some of its most beloved landmarks. Book an Architecture Tour here.

Book a Food Tour

Chicago is renowned for its vibrant food scene. To get an insider’s look at some of the city’s best restaurants, consider booking a food tour. On this tour, you’ll get to explore some of Chicago’s most popular eateries while learning about their histories and unique offerings. You’ll also get to sample some of their best dishes so you can experience all that Chicago has to offer without having to commit to one restaurant for an entire meal. A food tour is a great way to sample some of Chicago’s best fare while learning about its vibrant food culture. Book a Food Tour here.

Book a Brewery Tour

Chicago is home to some of the best craft breweries in the country. To sample some of these craft beers consider booking a brewery tour. On this tour, you’ll get an up-close look at some of Chicago’s most beloved breweries while learning about their brewing processes and unique offerings. You’ll also get to sample some of their best beers so you can experience all that Chicago has to offer without having to commit to one brewery for an entire evening. A brewery tour is a great way to experience all that Chicago has to offer while sampling some of its best beers. Book a Brewery Tour here.

From exploring iconic landmarks such as Tribune Tower and Wrigley Building on an architecture tour to sampling some of Chicago’s best beers on a brewery tour, there is no shortage of activities to check out in the Windy City this weekend. Whether you’re looking for a fun-filled family outing or a romantic getaway with your significant other, Chicago has something for everyone. With its unique blend of culture, architecture, music, art, and entertainment, it won’t be hard to find something exciting to do this weekend in the Windy City!