Things to Do in Downtown Chicago

As one of the most exciting cities in the world, downtown Chicago is filled with an array of activities and sights to keep you entertained. From iconic architecture to world-class museums, there are countless ways to experience the city. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing stroll along the lakefront or an adrenaline-filled adventure, downtown Chicago has something for everyone.

History of Downtown Chicago

Situated along the shore of Lake Michigan, the downtown area of Chicago has long been a major center of commercial and cultural activity in the Midwest. Founded in 1837, the city quickly grew into a bustling metropolis, becoming a hub of transportation and industry. In the late 1800s, Chicago was home to some of the most iconic structures in the nation, including the world’s first skyscraper, the Home Insurance Building. The city was also a major center for culture and entertainment, attracting some of the country’s top performers and artists.

Today, downtown Chicago continues to be a major hub for commerce and culture. The area is home to world-renowned museums, iconic architecture, and vibrant nightlife. With a population of over 2.7 million people, this bustling city is one of the most visited cities in the nation. From luxury shopping to delicious cuisine, downtown Chicago has something for everyone.

Popular Attractions

Downtown Chicago offers an array of attractions to explore. From world-class museums and iconic architecture to vibrant nightlife, there is something for every kind of traveler. Here are some of the most popular attractions in downtown Chicago:

1. Millennium Park

Millennium Park is one of the most iconic attractions in downtown Chicago. Located in Grant Park, this 25-acre public park features a range of sculptures and public art pieces, along with lush gardens and fountains. Visitors can explore the park’s iconic Cloud Gate sculpture, or take a stroll through the Lurie Garden, an expansive garden featuring more than 1,500 species of plants, trees, and shrubs.

2. The Magnificent Mile

The Magnificent Mile is one of the city’s most popular shopping districts. Located on North Michigan Avenue, this vibrant district is home to some of the world’s most luxurious stores and restaurants. Visitors can explore iconic department stores such as Nordstrom’s and Macy’s, or stroll through one of the area’s many boutique shops.

3. Navy Pier

Navy Pier is a popular destination for families visiting downtown Chicago. Located on Lake Michigan, this 3,000-foot pier features an array of attractions such as carnival rides, restaurants, and shops. Visitors can take a ride on the iconic Ferris wheel or take in views of the city from atop the 150-foot tall swings. Navy Pier also hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including concerts and art festivals.

4. The Art Institute of Chicago

The Art Institute of Chicago is one of the nation’s premier art museums. Located in Grant Park, this museum features an extensive collection of artwork from around the world. Visitors can explore iconic works such as Claude Monet’s Water Lilies, as well as take in views from the museum’s observation deck overlooking Millennium Park and Lake Michigan.

5. The Theater District

The Theater District is one of downtown Chicago’s best destinations for theater and entertainment. Located in the heart of downtown, this vibrant district is home to a variety of theaters offering shows for all ages. Visitors can catch a Broadway production at the Cadillac Palace Theater or take in a show at one of the area’s smaller theaters such as Second City or Steppenwolf Theatre Company.

Things to Do

Downtown Chicago offers an array of activities for visitors to enjoy. From lakefront strolls to adrenaline-filled adventures, here are some of the best ways to experience downtown Chicago:

1. Take a Stroll Along the Lakefront

One of the best ways to experience downtown Chicago is to take a stroll along Lake Michigan’s shoreline. This 26-mile stretch is filled with scenic views and plenty of spots to explore. Visitors can take a walk along Navy Pier or explore one of the area’s many beaches such as North Avenue Beach or Oak Street Beach.

2. Explore Iconic Architecture

Downtown Chicago is home to some of the most iconic structures in the country. Visitors can explore iconic buildings such as Willis Tower or take in views from atop John Hancock Center’s observatory deck. Other must-see structures include Tribune Tower and Frank Lloyd Wright’s Robie House.

3. Shop Till You Drop

Downtown Chicago offers an array of shopping opportunities for visitors to explore. From luxury shopping on The Magnificent Mile to bargain hunting at State Street’s stores, there are plenty of ways to find that perfect item. Visitors can also explore one of the area’s many markets such as Randolph Street Market or Maxwell Street Market for unique finds.

4. Go for an Adrenaline-Filled Adventure

Downtown Chicago offers plenty of ways to get your adrenaline pumping. From kayaking on Lake Michigan to taking a zip line tour through The Loop, there are plenty of activities to get your heart racing. Some other popular activities include rock climbing at Vertical Endeavors or go-karting at K1 Speed.

5. Enjoy Delicious Cuisine

Downtown Chicago is home to some delicious cuisine options for visitors to savor. From classic deep dish pizza at Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria to savory steak dishes at Morton’s The Steakhouse, there are plenty of restaurants to choose from throughout downtown. Visitors can also explore one of the area’s many food halls such as Revival Food Hall or The Ogilvie Food Hall for unique cuisine options from local chefs.

Tours

1. Architectural Cruise on the Chicago River

Explore downtown Chicago from a different perspective with an architectural cruise along the Chicago River. This two-hour tour will take you past some of the city’s most iconic buildings such as Tribune Tower and John Hancock Center while providing narration about each building’s history and architecture from a knowledgeable guide. As you cruise down the river, you’ll also get stunning views of downtown Chicago’s skyline and Lake Michigan’s shoreline. Book your Architectural Cruise on the Chicago River here.

2. Pedway Tour

Explore downtown Chicago’s underground Pedway with a guided tour that takes you through five miles of tunnels beneath The Loop business district. This two-hour tour will take you past bustling subway stations, historic train stations, and much more while providing interesting facts about each location from your knowledgeable guide. This tour also provides access to some areas that are not typically open to visitors such as City Hall’s basement and office buildings’ lobbies and connecting tunnels between buildings. Book your Pedway Tour here.

3. Around Town Architecture Tour

Discover some of downtown Chicago’s most iconic architecture on this three-hour tour through The Loop business district and other nearby areas such as Old Town and Lincoln Park. During this guided tour, you’ll get up close and personal with some of the city’s most famous landmarks such as Willis Tower and Wrigley Building while learning about their history from an expert guide. This tour also includes stops at some lesser-known locations including skyscrapers, churches, and other hidden gems around town. Book your Around Town Architecture Tour here.

Conclusion

Downtown Chicago is a must-visit destination for any traveler looking for an exciting cultural experience filled with iconic attractions and activities for all ages and interests. From taking a stroll along Lake Michigan’s shoreline to exploring one of the city’s many museums, there are countless ways to experience downtown Chicago’s culture and history firsthand. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing day exploring iconic architecture or an adrenaline-filled adventure, there are plenty of things to do in downtown Chicago that will make your trip unforgettable!