The Ultimate Guide to the Chicago Millennium Park Self Guided Walking Tour

If you’re visiting Chicago and looking for a unique way to explore the city, then the Millennium Park Self Guided Walking Tour is the perfect option for you. This tour allows you to explore the park on your own time, without the rush of a group tour. Using just your smartphone, you can experience the park at your own pace, stopping and starting whenever you like. In this guide, we’ll take you through everything you need to know about this tour, from the highlights and must-see spots to how to book the tour and what’s included.

Overview of the Tour

The self-guided tour of Millennium Park starts at the Millennium Park Welcome Center. Here, you’ll launch the app on your phone, and the tour will start automatically. You can start the tour whenever you want, and it’s available in perpetuity, so you can take it whenever you like. The tour is all about going at your own pace, stopping and starting as you like. With the app on your phone, you’ll learn all about the park’s highlights, including “The Bean,” Lurie Garden, Crown Fountain, Nichols Bridgeway, and more. With your GPS cueing your audio experience, you’ll enjoy the flexibility to explore the park on your own terms.

Highlights of the Tour

Millennium Park is one of the most popular destinations in Chicago, and for a good reason. Here are some of the highlights you’ll see on the tour:

The Bean (Cloud Gate)

“The Bean” is the highlight of the park and is one of the most famous landmarks in Chicago. This iconic sculpture is made up of 168 stainless steel plates and stands 33 feet tall. You’ll learn about the history of the Bean and the inspiration behind its design.

Lurie Garden

Lurie Garden is a five-acre garden that features a variety of plants and flowers native to the Midwest. You’ll learn about the different plants and how they work together to create a beautiful landscape.

Crown Fountain

The Crown Fountain is a unique interactive fountain that features two 50-foot towers with video displays. You’ll learn about the history of the fountain and its unique design.

Nichols Bridgeway

The Nichols Bridgeway is a pedestrian bridge that connects Millennium Park to the Art Institute of Chicago. You’ll learn about the history of the bridge and the stunning views of the city it offers.

Booking the Tour

Booking the Millennium Park Self Guided Walking Tour is easy. You can book the tour through Viator using the following link: book the tour here. Once you’ve booked the tour, you’ll receive a link to download the Tour Guide App by Action and a password for your tour.

What’s Included

When you book the self-guided tour of Millennium Park, you’ll get access to the Tour Guide App by Action on your phone. The app offers a hands-free experience, with stories playing automatically by GPS. You can also get help any day by calling, chatting, or emailing the tour operator. The tour is flexible, so you can use it any day and at any time. It also never expires, so you can use it on your next trip to Chicago.

Book Your Tour Now

The Millennium Park Self Guided Walking Tour is an excellent option for anyone visiting Chicago. You get to explore the park on your own terms, without the rush of a group tour. With the app on your phone, you’ll learn all about the highlights of the park and the history behind them. Book the tour today and experience the beauty of Millennium Park on your next trip to Chicago!

FAQ: Discovering Chicago

Chicago, the vibrant and bustling “Windy City,” is a top destination for tourists worldwide. Whether you’re here for a short stay or long-term living, there’s always something to do in Chicago. From its historic landmarks to its world-renowned museums, sprawling parks, and tantalizing cuisine, Chicago promises an unforgettable experience. Here are some frequently asked questions about Chicago to help you get started on your journey in this great city.

1. What is the best time to visit Chicago?

Chicago boasts four unique seasons, each offering a different environment and experiences. Summers from June to September are the most popular as the city’s numerous gardens, beaches, and outdoor activities thrive in the sunshine. In December, Chicago transforms into a winter wonderland with dazzling holiday lights, ice skating, and cozy holiday markets. Spring and fall offer mild temperatures and the perfect opportunity to enjoy the city’s architecture, art, and great restaurants.

2. What are the top tourist attractions in Chicago?

Chicago is home to many world-class attractions, including the following:

The Magnificent Mile

The Magnificent Mile is a shopping district located in downtown Chicago, known for its upscale stores, vibrant nightlife, and excellent dining scene.

Millennium Park

Millennium Park is located in the heart of Chicago and offers stunning architecture, art installations, gardens, and breathtaking views of the city.

The Art Institute of Chicago

One of the country’s largest art museums, the Art Institute of Chicago houses an impressive collection of art from around the world, including the famous “American Gothic” painting.

The Field Museum

The Field Museum showcases some of the world’s most historic and largest dinosaur collections, alongside exhibitions on ancient civilizations and natural history.

The Willis Tower Skydeck

Located in the heart of downtown Chicago, the Willis Tower Skydeck offers visitors a bird’s eye view of the city from the highest viewpoint in the Western Hemisphere.

3. What are some unique experiences to have in Chicago?

Deep Dish Pizza

Chicago is known globally for its deep-dish pizza. Giordano’s, Lou Malnati’s, and Gino’s are some of the most popular pizzerias.

The Chicago River

Take a boat tour of the Chicago River and enjoy the architecture of the city from a different perspective.

Chicago-Style Hot Dog

Try a hot dog from one of Chicago’s famed hot dog stands like Portillo’s, Superdawg, or Gene and Jude’s, and get it dressed in mustard, onions, relish, pickle, tomato, and celery salt.

Navy Pier

Located on Lake Michigan, Navy Pier features stunning views of the lake, outdoor activities, rides, restaurants, and more.

4. What should I pack for my trip to Chicago?

Chicago’s weather can change on a dime, so it’s crucial to prepare for all seasons. In the summer, bring clothing that is lightweight and comfortable for hot temperatures and humidity. During the fall and spring, it’s best to have layers to stay comfortable in changing temperatures. In the winter, pack warm clothing, a heavy coat, gloves, and a hat to keep you comfortable in the freezing temperatures.

5. How can I get around Chicago?

Chicago is famous for its public transit system, the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA), which consists of elevated trains, buses, and subways that run throughout the city. The city is also bike-friendly, and there are many bike-sharing programs available. Taxis and ride-sharing apps, such as Uber and Lyft, are also readily available.

6. Can I explore Chicago on a budget?

Yes, Chicago is a city that is rich in free activities and affordable attractions. Museums like the Museum of Contemporary Photography and the Chicago Cultural Center are free to the public. Enjoy a stroll in some of the city’s many parks, like Lincoln Park or Millennium Park. And you can’t miss the free Lincoln Park Zoo. Experience the city’s architecture with a self-guided walking tour, and take a bike tour of the city’s neighborhoods. With a little planning and some tips from locals, you can experience all that Chicago has to offer without breaking the bank.

Summary

Chicago, the Windy City, offers a wonderful mix of attractions, activities, and experiences, no matter the season. From exploring Millenium Park to indulging in the famous deep-dish pizza and taking in stunning views from the Willis Tower Skydeck, there is always something to do in Chicago. Whether you’re on a budget or traveling in style, make sure to pack for the weather and use a mix of transit options to get around this vibrant city.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Chicago

Are you planning a trip to the Windy City anytime soon? Chicago is famous for its architecture, deep-dish pizza, and its stunning skyline. There are plenty of things to see and do in this bustling city, but with so many options, it can be difficult to know where to begin. In this post, we’ll provide you with a step-by-step guide to help you make the most of your time in Chicago.

1. Visit the Willis Tower

The Willis Tower is one of Chicago’s most iconic buildings. It was the tallest building in the world when it was completed in 1973 and is still an awe-inspiring sight. One of the most popular attractions at the Willis Tower is the Skydeck, which is located on the 103rd floor. From here, you can get stunning views of the city and even see four states on a clear day. Be sure to book your tickets online in advance or arrive early to avoid long lines.

2. Check Out The Magnificent Mile

The Magnificent Mile is a shopper’s paradise. This upscale shopping district stretches for 13 blocks and features everything from luxury brands to department stores. But it’s not just about shopping – the Magnificent Mile is also home to a variety of restaurants, theaters, and museums. A great way to explore the area is to take a walk down Michigan Avenue, which is the main street that runs through the Magnificent Mile.

3. Take a Riverboat Tour

Chicago is known for its amazing architecture, and one of the best ways to see it is from a boat tour. The city offers a variety of riverboat tours that take you past some of the city’s most impressive buildings, such as the Wrigley Building, the Tribune Tower, and the Willis Tower. You’ll also get to learn more about the city’s history and its most famous architects.

4. See a Show at the Chicago Theatre

The Chicago Theatre is an iconic landmark that has been around since 1921. It’s one of the few remaining historic theaters on State Street, which was once known as The Great White Way, in reference to the number of neon lights that lined the street. Today, the theater hosts a variety of shows, from concerts to Broadway plays, and is a must-see for anyone who loves live entertainment.

5. Visit the Art Institute of Chicago

The Art Institute of Chicago is one of the oldest and largest art museums in the United States. It features an impressive collection of art from around the world, including works by some of the most famous artists in history, such as Vincent van Gogh, Pablo Picasso, and Grant Wood. Be sure to set aside plenty of time to explore the museum – it’s a massive building with over 1 million square feet of space.

6. Eat Deep Dish Pizza

No visit to Chicago is complete without trying the famous deep-dish pizza. This iconic dish is a Chicago staple and comes with a thick, buttery crust, loads of cheese, and your choice of toppings. Some of the best places to try deep-dish pizza include Giordano’s, Lou Malnati’s, and Pequod’s.

7. Explore Millennium Park

Millennium Park is one of Chicago’s most popular attractions, and for good reason. The park is home to a variety of public art installations, including the famous Cloud Gate sculpture, also known as “the bean”. You’ll also find the Jay Pritzker Pavilion, which hosts outdoor concerts and events throughout the year. Be sure to grab a photo in front of the bean and take a stroll through the park’s beautiful gardens.

8. Visit the Museum of Science and Industry

The Museum of Science and Industry is one of the largest science museums in the world. It features a variety of interactive exhibits and displays that cover everything from space travel to the human body. Some of the museum’s top attractions include the U-505 submarine exhibit, the Mirror Maze, and the Science Storms exhibit, which features a 40-foot tornado.

9. Catch a Game at Wrigley Field or Guaranteed Rate Field

Chicago is a sports town, and catching a game while you’re in town is a must. Whether you’re a Cubs fan or a White Sox fan, there’s nothing quite like the experience of watching a game in one of Chicago’s legendary ballparks. Wrigley Field is the home of the Chicago Cubs and is known for its classic ivy-covered walls, while Guaranteed Rate Field is where the Chicago White Sox play.

10. Go on a Food Tour

Chicago is famous for its food, and one of the best ways to experience it is on a food tour. There are a variety of food tours available that take you to some of the city’s top eateries, featuring everything from deep-dish pizza and hot dogs to Mexican food and craft beer. It’s a great way to sample a little bit of everything and discover some new favorite restaurants.

Book Your Tour Now

Chicago is a vibrant and exciting city with plenty to see and do. Whether you’re interested in art, culture, food, or sports, there’s something for everyone in the Windy City. Follow this guide and you’re sure to have an unforgettable trip to Chicago.