Chicago Cool Things To Do – An In-Depth Guide For Tourists

Chicago is one of the most beautiful cities in the United States and it is full of things to do and see. From its iconic skyline to its amazing street art, and from its delicious food to its thriving nightlife, Chicago has something for everyone. Whether you are visiting for the first time or a returning visitor, here is an in-depth guide to help you make the most out of your trip to Chicago.

Experience the Iconic Skyline

The first thing that comes to mind when you think of Chicago is its iconic skyline. The city is home to some of the most breathtaking skyscrapers in the world, including the Willis Tower, the John Hancock Center, and the Aon Center. To get the best view of the skyline, you can head to the Skydeck in the Willis Tower, the 360 Chicago Observation Deck in the John Hancock Center, or the Signature Room at the 95th on the 95th floor of the John Hancock Center. All of these offer stunning views of the city and its surroundings.

Explore the Magnificent Architecture

Apart from its stunning skyline, Chicago is also renowned for its architecture. The city is home to numerous iconic buildings and structures, such as the Tribune Tower, the Rookery Building, and the Chicago Cultural Center. To get a better understanding of the city’s architectural history, you can take a guided tour of the city. There are numerous companies that offer these tours, such as Chicago Architecture Center, Chicago Detours, and Architecture Tours Chicago.

Experience the Thriving Arts and Culture Scene

Chicago has a vibrant and thriving arts and culture scene. The city has numerous museums, galleries, theaters, and music venues, such as the Art Institute of Chicago, the Museum of Contemporary Art, the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, the Lyric Opera of Chicago, and the Chicago Theatre. The city also has a number of festivals and events throughout the year, such as the Chicago Blues Festival, the Chicago Jazz Festival, the Chicago International Film Festival, and the Chicago Pride Parade.

Discover the Delicious Food Scene

Chicago is also renowned for its incredible food scene. The city is home to some of the best restaurants in the world, such as Alinea, Girl & The Goat, and Lula Cafe. The city also has numerous specialty food stores and markets, such as the Chicago French Market and the Randolph Street Market. And if you’re looking for something more casual, Chicago is home to some of the best pizza, hot dogs, and Italian beef sandwiches in the world.

Experience the Thriving Nightlife Scene

Chicago also has a vibrant and thriving nightlife scene. The city is home to numerous bars, clubs, lounges, and music venues, such as The Violet Hour, The Green Mill, and Smart Bar. There are also numerous festivals and events throughout the year, such as the Lollapalooza Music Festival, the Chicago Jazz Festival, and the Chicago Blues Festival.

Additional Tips

When visiting Chicago, it’s important to be aware of the local laws and regulations. Make sure to bring proper ID if you plan on drinking alcohol and be aware that the legal drinking age in Chicago is 21. Also, remember to dress for the weather. Chicago is known for its cold winters and hot summers, so make sure to bring appropriate clothing for each season. Finally, it’s important to be aware of the local transportation options. There are numerous options, such as taxis, buses, trains, and ride-sharing services.

Chicago is an incredible city filled with amazing things to do and see. From its iconic skyline to its amazing architecture, its delicious food to its thriving nightlife, Chicago has something for everyone. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, this guide will help you make the most of your trip to Chicago.

Discover the Best-Kept Secrets of Chicago: An Insider’s Guide

Chicago is a city packed with world-renowned attractions like the Navy Pier, the Magnificent Mile, and the Willis Tower. But as a local, I know that there is so much more to this city than the popular tourist hotspots. In this guide, I will showcase hidden gems and share stories that will make your visit to Chicago unforgettable.

Discover the Hidden Gems

When visiting Chicago, most people will explore the Loop, stroll around Millennium Park, and marvel at the Bean. However, hidden in plain sight are some interesting spots that are often overlooked. One such area is Pilsen, a vibrant neighborhood rich in Mexican culture. Pilsen has many striking murals and colorful street art displays worth discovering. You can also find art galleries and artisanal shops that showcase the talents of local artists.

Another hidden gem is the Oakwood Cemetery. Though it might be a bit macabre, this historic and serene space is the final resting place of some of the city’s most influential residents, including gangster Al Capone’s victims. You can also visit the graves of activists, artists, and politicians, gaining an insight into Chicago’s complex history through their stories.

Delight in Chicago’s Vibrant Food Scene

Chicago is a city that takes its food seriously and has a diverse culinary scene. While deep-dish pizza and Chicago-style hot dogs are world-famous, the food in Chicago can offer a lot more than these specialties. The city boasts a range of authentic ethnic fare, including Korean, Caribbean, and Afro-Latin cuisine.

One absolute must-visit dining spot is the Purple Pig, a bustling and lively restaurant that serves up Mediterranean-inspired small plates. The signature roasted pork shank with pickled cherry peppers is a must-try.

For a truly local experience, head to a “Polish Triangle.” The area focused around Division St, Ashland Ave, and Milwaukee Ave boasts many famous eateries serving delicious pierogis and kielbasa sausages.

Engage in Chicago’s Vibrant Culture

We Chicagoans are incredibly proud of our city’s culture. Our world-renowned museums, such as the Art Institute of Chicago, are only the beginning. The city offers a ton of exciting cultural events throughout the year.

If you visit in late August, you can witness the city’s largest street festival, the North Coast Music Festival. This musical extravaganza tries to integrate art and technology along with live music and draws thousands every year.

Another must-see is the National Museum of Mexican Art in Pilsen, which houses a vast collection of more than 10,000 pieces of art. The collection includes original works by globally recognized artists such as Diego Rivera.

Get Lost in Chicago’s Fascinating History

Chicago has played a fascinating role in America’s history, having been the site of many significant events, from the Great Chicago Fire to the World Fair of 1893. The city is packed with historic sites that offer a glimpse into Chicago’s storied past.

One such site is the Museum of Science and Industry. Built-in 1933, this magnificent museum showcases various exhibits showcasing the technology and scientific advancements in agriculture, medicine, and energy.

The Old Chicago Water Tower, located off Michigan Avenue within the Magnificent Mile, is one of the few buildings to survive the Great Chicago Fire of 1871. Visitors can witness the stunning architecture while browsing through the contemporary art pieces in the gallery upstairs.

Experience Chicago’s Unconventional Side

While Chicago has many well-known tourist gems, visitors can find some truly unusual experiences by venturing off the beaten path.

If you’re feeling adventurous, try a kayaking tour through the city’s scenic waterways and even glide through the underground tunnels of the city.

Or try a chocolate tour of the city, trying specialty chocolate dishes while learning about the history of chocolate and how it came to land in Chicago.

Summary:

Chicago is a vibrant city that has something to offer for everyone. While visiting top tourist attractions is a must-do, Chicago has much more to uncover. From undiscovered gems and diverse cuisine to artistic traditions and surprising history, Chicago’s unconventional side is worth discovering. Hopefully, this insider’s guide will help you plan your visit to Chicago while giving you a local’s perspective on this magnificent city.