Must Go Places In Chicago

Chicago, the third largest city in the United States, is one of the most diverse and vibrant cities in the country. Imbued with history, culture and modernity, Chicago has something for every traveler. From museums and galleries to award-winning restaurants and iconic architecture, Chicago is a city that stands up to its nicknames: The Windy City, the City of Big Shoulders, and the Second City. This city guide will take you through some of the must-go places in Chicago, as well as tours and activities that will make your visit unforgettable.

History and General Information

Chicago was founded in 1833, when a small group of settlers built a trading post near the mouth of the Chicago River. From then on, the city has grown to become a major hub for industry, commerce, finance and culture. It is now home to nearly three million people and is considered one of the most important cities in the Midwest. With its stunning skyline, world-class museums, iconic theaters, diverse neighborhoods, and delicious restaurants, it is easy to see why Chicago is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country.

Museums and Galleries

Chicago is home to some of the best museums and galleries in the world. From classic art collections to modern creative works, there’s something for everyone in Chicago. Some of the most popular museums include:

• The Art Institute of Chicago: Located in Grant Park, this world-renowned museum features works from masters such as Monet, Cezanne and Van Gogh.
• Museum of Contemporary Art: Situated along Lake Michigan in Streeterville, this museum features works from modern masters such as Warhol, Lichtenstein and Rothko.
• Field Museum: Located near Lake Shore Drive in the heart of downtown Chicago, this museum is home to numerous historical artifacts and exhibits.
• Adler Planetarium: Founded in 1930, this is one of the oldest planetariums in the world and is a great place to explore the wonders of outer space.
• Shedd Aquarium: Located along Lake Michigan on the Museum Campus, the Shedd Aquarium is home to more than 32,000 aquatic animals.

Restaurants and Nightlife

Chicago is known for its diverse dining scene and vibrant nightlife. The city has numerous award-winning restaurants serving up cuisines from around the world. From classic steakhouses to inventive sushi bars, there’s something for everyone in Chicago. The city is also home to a vibrant nightlife scene with numerous bars, clubs and lounges. Popular neighborhoods such as Wrigleyville, Lincoln Park and River North are all great places to explore the city’s nightlife.

Iconic Architecture

Chicago is home to some of the most iconic buildings in the world. From art deco skyscrapers to modern masterpieces, the city’s skyline is a sight to behold. Some of the most famous buildings include:

• The Willis Tower: formerly known as Sears Tower, this 1,451-foot-tall building is the second tallest building in North America.
• Wrigley Building: Located along Michigan Avenue near the Chicago River, this iconic building was built in 1920 and is one of the city’s most recognizable landmarks.
• John Hancock Center: This 100-story building is one of the most recognizable structures in all of Chicago.
• Aqua: This 82-story building is one of the most unique structures in the city and stands out among its more traditional counterparts.

Popular Activities

Chicago is known for its numerous activities and attractions. From music festivals to sports events, there’s something for everyone in Chicago. Popular activities include:

• The Magnificent Mile: Located along Michigan Avenue from Oak Street to the Chicago River, this 1.2-mile stretch is home to some of Chicago’s best shopping and dining.
• Navy Pier: This 3,000-foot-long pier jutting out into Lake Michigan offers stunning views of downtown Chicago and is home to numerous attractions.
• Millennium Park: Located in Grant Park, this 25-acre park features a variety of attractions such as The Bean sculpture and Lurie Garden.
• Lincoln Park Zoo: This 35-acre zoo is home to more than 1,200 animals from around the world.

Tours

Chicago is home to numerous tours that will give you an inside look at some of its most famous attractions. Here are two popular tours that offer a unique experience:

Segway Tour

This two-hour Segway tour will take you through some of Chicago’s most iconic sites. You’ll ride along Lake Michigan and visit landmarks such as Millennium Park and Navy Pier. Your guide will provide interesting facts about each location as you glide through the city. At the end of your tour, you’ll have plenty of photos to remember your experience.

Bike Tour

Explore Chicago on two wheels with this bike tour. You’ll get an up close look at some of Chicago’s most famous sites such as Lincoln Park Zoo and The Magnificent Mile. Your guide will provide interesting facts about each location as you ride along beautiful Lake Michigan. At the end of your tour, you’ll have plenty of stories and photos to remember your experience.

Conclusion

Chicago is one of America’s most vibrant cities with something for everyone. From iconic monuments to award-winning restaurants, there’s no shortage of things to do in this great city. Whether you’re looking for an educational experience or just want to explore all that this city has to offer, there’s always something new to discover in Chicago. So grab your passport and head off on an adventure to explore all that this great city has to offer!