Guide to Visiting Chicago for the First Time

Chicago is a thriving metropolis that has something for everyone. From its iconic architecture and world-class museums to its bustling nightlife, there’s plenty to keep you busy during your trip. Whether you’re visiting the city for a weekend or a few weeks, you’ll have plenty of options to choose from when it comes to activities and attractions.

Chicago is the third largest city in the United States, with a population of over 2.7 million people. It is located on the western edge of Lake Michigan and is known for its iconic skyline, which includes the iconic Willis Tower (formerly known as the Sears Tower), the John Hancock Center, and the Tribune Tower. The city is also home to many world-class cultural institutions, such as the Art Institute of Chicago, the Field Museum of Natural History, the Shedd Aquarium, and the Museum of Science and Industry.

The city’s history dates back to the early 1800s, when it was founded by Jean Baptiste Point du Sable, a trader of French-African descent. Today, Chicago is a major economic center and a hub for transportation and logistics. It is also home to a diverse and vibrant culture that has been shaped by its many immigrant populations over the years. Known for its deep dish pizza, Chicago-style hot dogs, and other local delicacies, it is a great destination for food lovers.

When it comes to entertainment, Chicago has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for live music venues, comedy clubs, art galleries, or nightlife hotspots, there’s no shortage of options. The city is also known for its many major sports teams, including the Chicago Bears (NFL), the Chicago Bulls (NBA), the Chicago White Sox (MLB), and the Chicago Blackhawks (NHL).

No matter what time of year it is, there’s always something interesting to do in Chicago. In the summertime, you can enjoy the city’s many outdoor festivals and activities. In the wintertime, there’s no better place to watch a game or take in some of the city’s Christmas lights.

Things to Do in Chicago

When visiting Chicago for the first time, there are plenty of things to do to keep you busy. Here are some of our recommended activities:

Explore the City’s Iconic Architecture

Chicago is known for its iconic architecture and its many landmarks. Some of the most well-known buildings include the Tribune Tower, the Wrigley Building, and Marina City. You can take a guided tour around some of these iconic buildings or even take an architectural boat tour down the Chicago River to get a better view of some of these impressive structures.

Visit Navy Pier

Navy Pier is one of Chicago’s most famous landmarks. Located on Lake Michigan, Navy Pier is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. The pier offers plenty of activities for visitors to enjoy, from shopping and dining to sightseeing and entertainment. During your visit, don’t miss out on taking a ride on the iconic Centennial Wheel for stunning views of Lake Michigan and the city skyline.

Explore Millennium Park

Millennium Park is a 25-acre public park located in the heart of downtown Chicago. The park features gorgeous gardens, fountains, and sculptures, as well as an outdoor amphitheater where you can enjoy free music and dance performances throughout the year. Some of the park’s most popular attractions include The Bean (aka Cloud Gate) sculpture and Lurie Garden.

Take in Some Art

Chicago is home to some of the world’s best art galleries and museums. If you’re looking to take in some culture during your visit, make sure to check out the Art Institute of Chicago which houses an impressive collection of art from all over the world. Other notable museums include the Museum of Contemporary Art and the Museum of Science and Industry.

Experience Local Cuisine

Chicago is known for its delicious local cuisine. From classic deep dish pizza to classic hot dogs and Italian beef sandwiches, there’s no shortage of delicious dishes to try during your visit. Make sure to check out some of the city’s classic eateries such as Portillo’s, Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria and Giordano’s Pizza for some delicious grub.

Popular Tours in Chicago

When it comes to taking in all that Chicago has to offer, there are plenty of tours available that make it easy to explore the city like a local. Here are two popular tours that we recommend:

Chicago Classic Bus Tour

This hop-on hop-off bus tour is a great way to explore Chicago at your own pace. The tour includes stops at all of the city’s most popular attractions such as Navy Pier, Millennium Park, The Bean sculpture, and more. The tour also includes audio commentary in several languages so you can learn more about each spot along your journey. Book a Chicago Classic Bus Tour here!

Chicago Food Tour

This walking tour takes guests on a culinary journey through some of Chicago’s most delicious neighborhoods. During this three-hour tour, you will get to sample some of Chicago’s classic dishes such as deep dish pizza and Italian beef sandwiches while learning about the city’s rich food culture. Book a Chicago Food Tour here!

No matter what you choose to do during your visit to Chicago, you’re sure to have an unforgettable time exploring this vibrant city. From its iconic architecture and world-class museums to its bustling nightlife scene and delicious local cuisine, there’s something for everyone in Chicago.