Chicago – What are the best things to do there?

As the windy city, Chicago is full of exciting things to do for people of all ages and interests. Many people go to Chicago for its many festivals, to enjoy its gorgeous panoramas from the amazing Willis Tower, or shows and musicals on Broadway in Chicago. It can seem overwhelming to pick out the perfect activities in this diverse and robust city, but don’t worry! Here’s a comprehensive guide to all the best things to do in Chicago.

Exploring the City:

No trip to Chicago would be complete without exploring some of the many iconic landmarks, like Navy Pier and Millennium Park, for which the city is renowned for. Take a walk along the magnificent Magnificent Mile and soak up the atmosphere. Stop by The Field Museum and its colossal dinosaur skeleton, Sue. Grab a drink sky-high atop the Skydeck at the Willis Tower and witness its amazing vistas.

Eating Out:

Chicago offers some of America’s finest culinary experiences. Famous for its deep-dish pizza and its Maxwell Street Polish sausage, Chicago is also home to some of the world’s most lauded chefs. Experience unique fusion dishes like hearty pierogi topped with some of the city’s famed hot-linking sausages. To discover some hidden gems on the culinary scene, consider taking a tour with the Avital Food Tours.

Shopping and Galleries:

For those craving a good shopping spree, check out some of the areas best boutiques at Lincoln Square or take a shopping tour of the West Loop to discover some hidden gems. Or if you’d rather channel your cultural side, check out some of Chicago’s leading art galleries like Monique Meloche Gallery or The Renaissance Society at the University of Chicago. Make sure to pay a visit to the city’s many public art works too – you can use The Chicago Public Art Map to find all of them!

Sports:

Chicago has no shortages of sporting activities either! Visit Soldier’s Field to watch the beloved Chicago Bears win a hard-fought game. Catch a lively hockey game and cheer on the Blackhawks. Or catch a baseball game and watch some of America’s greatest athletes in action, who bring it their all to every game!

Entertainment:

For night owls and entertainment seekers alike, Chicago offers many avenues for thrills. Up for a show? Catch a performance at The Second City comedy theater or a touring Broadway show at Broadway in Chicago. Stop by Grant Park, Navy Pier or another destination for an eloquent outdoor concert. Chicago also offers some great dance clubs, live bands, and other entertainment options that come alive during the summer months. In conclusion, there are so many things to do in Chicago, it can be difficult choosing just one activity! The city is full of museums, theaters, sports venues, restaurants, and more that make Chicago unique and one-of-a-kind. Whether you want to get a bird’s eye view of the city from the Willis Tower or try a Maxwell Street Polish Sausage, there’s always something exciting to do in this sprawling city!

Chicago – An Insider’s Guide to the Best Things to Do

Chicago, also known as the Windy City, is located in the northern part of Illinois, USA. It is one of the largest cities in the country and home to numerous cultural attractions, top-rated restaurants, renowned architecture, diverse neighborhoods and plenty of outdoor activities. As a tourist, there’s so much to see and do in Chicago that you may not know where to start. In this insider’s guide, we’ll take a closer look at some of the best things to do in this vibrant city and give you recommendations for attractions, dining spots, cultural experiences, local history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions.

Top Attractions

Millennium Park – This park is a must-visit for anyone exploring Chicago. It offers a stunning view of the city skyline and is home to some of the city’s most iconic attractions, including the famous Cloud Gate sculpture. This stainless-steel sculpture is shaped like a bean and is an excellent spot to take photos.

The Art Institute of Chicago – This renowned museum is one of the oldest and largest in the country. It features a vast collection of fine art from ancient times to the present day, including works by famous artists such as Picasso, Monet, and Van Gogh.

Skydeck Chicago – For panoramic views of the city, head to the Skydeck Chicago. This observation deck is located on the 103rd floor of the Willis Tower and offers a unique and unforgettable view of the Chicago skyline.

Dining Spots

Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria – Chicago is famous for its deep-dish pizza, and Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria is the perfect place to experience it. This famed pizza joint serves a variety of deep-dish pizzas that are sure to please any palette.

The Purple Pig – The Purple Pig is a popular spot in Chicago, thanks to its delicious Mediterranean-inspired menu. Here, you can indulge in a variety of small plates, cured meats, and artisanal cheese.

Au Cheval – If you’re a burger fan, you won’t want to miss a visit to Au Cheval. This restaurant has consistently been rated one of Chicago’s best burger joints, with its mouth-watering creations including a double-decker cheeseburger and a bacon-and-egg topped burger.

Cultural Experiences

The Chicago Theatre – This beautiful theatre opened in 1921 and has been the jewel of the Chicago theatre district ever since. It features an iconic marquee that has become synonymous with the city.

The Chicago Riverwalk – The Chicago Riverwalk is a pedestrian walkway along the Chicago River. It’s a great spot to take a stroll, have some food and drinks, or catch a boat tour along the river.

The Second City – This improv comedy troupe has produced some of the biggest names in comedy, including Tina Fey, Stephen Colbert and Steve Carell. Catch a show at their comedy club or enroll in one of the many improv classes they offer.

Local History

The Field Museum – The Field Museum is a natural history museum that houses over 24 million specimens, including Sue, the world’s largest and most complete T-Rex skeleton.

The Chicago History Museum – The Chicago History Museum offers exhibits and collections that tell the story of the city’s development over the years. Here, visitors can learn about everything from Chicago’s early settlements to its Great Fire of 1871.

The Magnificent Mile – This is one of Chicago’s most popular shopping destinations, but it’s also a great place to learn about the city’s history. Many of the buildings on the Magnificent Mile were constructed in the 1920s and 1930s, and showcase beautiful architecture that tells the story of the city’s past.

Off-The-Beaten-Path Suggestions

Garfield Park Conservatory – If you’re looking for a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city, head to the Garfield Park Conservatory. This indoor botanical garden covers over 4.5 acres and features a wide variety of plants and flowers.

Pilsen Murals – Pilsen is a Chicago neighborhood known for its colorful murals that line the streets. Take a stroll through the neighborhood and discover these vibrant works of art.

Alfred Caldwell Lily Pool – This tranquil spot located in Lincoln Park is a hidden gem. It was designed by famous landscape architect Alfred Caldwell and is home to a variety of lilies, frogs, and turtles.

Chicago is a city that has something for everyone. From its iconic attractions like Millennium Park and The Art Institute of Chicago, to its famous deep-dish pizza and vibrant neighborhoods, there’s plenty to see and do. With this insider’s guide, you’ll be able to experience some of the best that Chicago has to offer, including off-the-beaten-path suggestions that will make your trip truly unforgettable.