Cool Things to See and Do in Chicago

Chicago is home to world-class attractions, events, and culture. From its stunning skyline to its historic architecture, the Windy City offers something for everyone. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning for another visit, there’s always something new and exciting to do. Here are some of the best and most interesting cool things to see and do in Chicago.

Discover the Magnificent Mile

The Magnificent Mile is a vibrant stretch of Michigan Avenue spanning from the Chicago River to Oak Street. It is one of the most famous streets in the world, offering tourists and locals alike a wide array of shopping, dining, and entertainment options. The area is home to some of the city’s most iconic buildings, including the Wrigley Building, Tribune Tower, and the John Hancock Center. The Magnificent Mile is also home to luxury retail stores, high-end restaurants, art galleries, and some of the city’s best views of the Chicago skyline.

Hit the Beach

Chicago is home to 26 miles of beautiful sandy beaches along Lake Michigan. Whether you’re looking for a place to relax, enjoy a picnic, or take a dip in the lake, there’s a beach for every occasion. Popular beaches include North Avenue Beach, Oak Street Beach, and Montrose Beach. Be sure to check out the beach volleyball courts at North Avenue Beach, or take a stroll along the lakefront trail at Montrose Beach.

Explore the Art Institute of Chicago

The Art Institute of Chicago is one of the world’s premier art museums, home to an extensive collection of art from around the world. From ancient works to modern masterpieces, the museum offers something for everyone. There are also many special exhibitions and events throughout the year. Whether you’re an art enthusiast or just looking for something fun to do on a rainy day, it’s worth a visit.

Visit Millennium Park

Millennium Park is one of Chicago’s premier public spaces. Located in the heart of downtown, the park is home to a variety of attractions, including “The Bean” sculpture, Lurie Garden, and Pritzker Pavilion music venue. The park also offers a variety of free activities and events throughout the year, making it a great place for families and visitors alike.

Shop on State Street

State Street is one of Chicago’s oldest shopping districts and offers an array of shops and restaurants. Whether you’re looking for designer clothes, vintage finds, or local specialties, you’ll find it all here. Don’t miss popular stores like Macy’s and Carson Pirie Scott, as well as local favorites like Joffrey Tower and the Palmer House.

Take in a Cubs Game

No trip to Chicago is complete without taking in a game at Wrigley Field. Home to the Chicago Cubs since 1916, Wrigley Field is one of baseball’s most iconic stadiums and a must-see destination for any baseball fan. Enjoy some peanuts and cracker jacks while taking in all the action from your seat in the stands.

Sample Local Cuisine

Chicago is known for its amazing food scene, offering something for everyone from casual dining to upscale restaurants. Be sure to try some local favorites like deep-dish pizza and Italian beef sandwiches. Also be sure to check out some of the city’s award-winning restaurants like Alinea and The Purple Pig.

Tours of Chicago

For first-time visitors to Chicago, there are several great tour options available to get a feel for the city. A city tour can be a great way to get your bearings and get a feel for the city in just a few hours. These tours typically include stops at some of Chicago’s most iconic sights like Millennium Park, Navy Pier, Wrigley Field, and The Magnificent Mile.

If you want to explore some of Chicago’s neighborhoods in more depth, a neighborhood tour can be a great way to do that. These tours typically explore several different neighborhoods and offer an up-close look at what makes each one unique. Popular neighborhoods include Andersonville, Lincoln Park, Wicker Park, and more.

If you’re looking for something more off-the-beaten-path, an underground tour might be just what you need. These tours take visitors beneath the streets of Chicago for an exploration of the city’s hidden past. Learn about prohibition-era speakeasies and gangster hideouts as you get an up-close look at one of Chicago’s most fascinating eras.

No matter which tour option you choose, you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience when visiting Chicago.

Conclusion

Chicago is one of America’s most beloved cities and it truly has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for fine dining or great shopping opportunities, exciting nightlife or plenty of culture and history, you’ll find it all here in the Windy City. Don’t forget to take advantage of some of its amazing tours – there’s no better way to get to know this amazing city!

The Most Frequently Asked Questions About the Cool Things in Chicago

Chicago, known as the Windy City, is a lively destination that has something for everyone. The city boasts an impressive skyline with plenty of attractions to keep anyone entertained. Whether you’re a history buff, sports fan, foodie, or art enthusiast, there’s always something to see and do in Chicago. In this blog post, we answer some of the most frequently asked questions about the cool things in Chicago.

1. What are the best landmarks to see in Chicago?

Chicago is known for its awe-inspiring architecture, and some of the best landmarks in the city include:

The Willis Tower

Formerly known as the Sears Tower, it’s located in the heart of downtown Chicago and stands 110 stories tall. Visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the city’s skyline from the Skydeck on the 103rd floor.

The Chicago Water Tower

This historic limestone structure is one of the few buildings that survived the Great Chicago Fire of 1871. Not only is it a beautiful landmark, but it also houses exhibitions that explore the city’s history.

The Art Institute of Chicago

This world-renowned art museum is home to over 300,000 works of art, ranging from ancient Egyptian artifacts to contemporary masterpieces. It’s a must-visit for art lovers and cultural enthusiasts alike.

2. What are the best things to do in Chicago with kids?

If you’re traveling with little ones, here are some of the best family-friendly activities in Chicago:

The Shedd Aquarium

Home to over 32,000 aquatic animals, the Shedd Aquarium is an exciting destination for kids of all ages. Visitors can watch beluga whales, dolphins, and penguins in their habitats or explore the coral reef exhibit.

The Chicago Children’s Museum

Located at Navy Pier, the Chicago Children’s Museum is a fun and interactive museum designed for kids aged 10 and under. It’s full of interactive exhibits that teach children about art, science, and technology.

The Lincoln Park Zoo

This free zoo is home to over 200 species of animals, including lions, tigers, and bears. Visitors can watch animal feedings, explore the zoo’s exhibits, and take a ride on the endangered species carousel.

3. What are the best places to eat in Chicago?

Chicago is a foodie’s paradise, and there are plenty of restaurants serving delicious meals. Some of the top places to eat in the city include:

Giordano’s Pizza

This family-owned pizzeria has been serving up its famous stuffed pizza for over 40 years. It’s a must-visit for anyone looking for some of the best deep-dish pizza in the city.

The Purple Pig

Located on the Magnificent Mile, The Purple Pig is a Mediterranean-inspired restaurant that serves small plate dishes perfect for sharing. It’s a great place to grab a drink and some food after a day of sightseeing.

The Publican

This European-style beer hall is known for its pork-centric menu and extensive beer list. It’s a great place to grab a beer and a snack, or stay for a full meal.

4. What are the best museums to visit in Chicago?

Chicago is home to a variety of world-class museums, and some of the best ones include:

The Museum of Science and Industry

This hands-on science museum has over 400,000 square feet of exhibits and attractions. Visitors can learn about everything from space travel to the human body.

The Field Museum

Home to Sue the T-Rex, the Field Museum is one of the largest natural history museums in the world. Visitors can explore exhibits on dinosaurs, ancient Egypt, and much more.

The DuSable Museum of African American History

This museum is dedicated to preserving and sharing the history and culture of African Americans. It’s a must-visit for anyone interested in learning more about this important part of American history.

5. What are some free things to do in Chicago?

If you’re on a budget, there are still plenty of things to see and do in Chicago for free. Here are some of the best free activities in the city:

The Lincoln Park Zoo

As mentioned earlier, this free zoo is full of fun attractions and animals to see.

The Millennium Park

This public park is home to several iconic sculptures, including the famous “Bean.” It’s a great place to take photos and enjoy some fresh air.

The Navy Pier

Although there are plenty of paid attractions at the Navy Pier, visitors can enjoy the lakefront and people-watching for free.

In conclusion, Chicago is a vibrant and exciting city that has something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in history, architecture, food, or art, there are plenty of things to explore in this Windy City.