Things to Do in Chicago During the Day

Chicago is one of the most iconic cities in the United States, and it is known for its diverse culture, skyline, and nightlife. But there is also a lot to see and do during the day in the Windy City. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or simply want to explore something new, here are some of the best things to do in Chicago during the day.

A Brief History and Introduction to Chicago

Chicago is the third-largest city in the United States, with a population of over 2.7 million people. It is located on the southwest shore of Lake Michigan and has a rich history that dates back to the early 1800s. Before Europeans arrived in the area, it was home to a Native American tribe known as the Potawatomi. The city was established in 1833 and quickly grew into a major industrial center, thanks to its proximity to the Great Lakes and its strong railroad network.

Today, Chicago is a major tourist destination, drawing millions of visitors each year. It is known for its iconic skyline, which is punctuated by the Willis Tower (formerly known as the Sears Tower) and other skyscrapers, as well as its stunning lakefront and stunningly diverse culture. It is also home to some of the world’s best museums, restaurants, and attractions.

1. Visit Millennium Park

Millennium Park is one of Chicago’s most popular attractions and is located in the heart of downtown. It features a variety of public art installations, gardens, and other attractions. The centerpiece is the reflective Cloud Gate sculpture (also known as “The Bean”), which is made up of 168 stainless steel plates and acts as a mirror for the Chicago skyline. The park also features an outdoor concert venue, an ice-skating rink, and the Lurie Garden.

2. Explore Navy Pier

Navy Pier is another popular attraction in Chicago. It is a 3,300-foot-long pier located on the shore of Lake Michigan and is home to a variety of shops, restaurants, and attractions. One of the most popular attractions at Navy Pier is its ferris wheel, which offers breathtaking views of the city skyline. You can also enjoy boat rides along Lake Michigan or take a ride on the carousel.

3. Take a Tour of Wrigley Field

Wrigley Field is one of the most iconic stadiums in baseball history and it’s located in Chicago’s North Side. It has been home to the Chicago Cubs since 1916, making it one of the oldest stadiums in Major League Baseball. Fans can take advantage of the Wrigley Field tour, which will take them through the dugout, clubhouse, press box, and field. At the end of the tour, you can also get a chance to hit some balls in the batting cages or take pictures with statues of former Cubs players like Ernie Banks and Ron Santo.

4. Visit The Art Institute of Chicago

The Art Institute of Chicago is one of the world’s most prestigious art museums, and it has an impressive collection that includes works from Van Gogh, Monet, Rembrandt, and Picasso, among others. The museum also offers a variety of special exhibits throughout the year. In addition to viewing artwork, visitors can also take part in art classes or join guided tours of the museum.

5. Take a Stroll Along The Magnificent Mile

The Magnificent Mile is a stretch of North Michigan Avenue that runs from Oak Street to the Chicago River. It is home to some of the city’s most iconic landmarks, including Tribune Tower, Tribune Building, and Water Tower Place. Along this stretch of road are some of Chicago’s best shopping areas, restaurants, and hotels. It’s also a great place to people-watch, as it’s usually bustling with locals and tourists alike.

6. Admire The City Skyline From The Skydeck

The Skydeck at Willis Tower (formerly known as Sears Tower) offers some of the best views of Chicago’s stunning cityscape. Located on the 103rd floor of this iconic building, visitors can stand on The Ledge (four glass boxes jutting out from the side of the building) for an unforgettable view of the city below. You can also take part in interactive exhibits on the history of Willis Tower or take part in a virtual reality experience that takes you through some of Chicago’s most iconic landmarks.

7. Take a Boat Ride Along The Chicago River

The Chicago River runs through downtown Chicago and offers some great views of the city skyline from its waters. You can take part in an architecture boat tour along the river or opt for a relaxing dinner cruise at night. There are also smaller riverboats that offer more intimate tours and experiences with smaller groups.

8. Visit The Garfield Park Conservatory

The Garfield Park Conservatory is one of the largest conservatories in North America and it contains eight distinct greenhouses that showcase some of the world’s most exotic plants and flowers. Visitors can explore pathways lined with exotic species or take part in educational programs offered by the conservatory throughout the year. The conservatory also hosts seasonal events like butterfly houses in summer and holiday displays in winter.

9. Go Shopping on State Street

State Street is one of Chicago’s premier shopping destinations and it’s home to some of the city’s best stores and restaurants. From department stores like Macy’s to specialty boutiques like American Apparel, there’s something for everyone here. Don’t forget to check out State Street’s legendary neon signs too!

10. Explore Garfield Park

Garfield Park is located on Chicago’s West Side and it’s one of the city’s largest parks. It features many attractions like an outdoor amphitheater, an indoor field house, an observatory, and an indoor pool complex. You can also explore its lagoons by canoe or kayak or visit its Conservatory for some educational programs throughout the year.

Popular Tours To Book During Your Visit To Chicago

One way to get acquainted with all that Chicago has to offer is to take one of many popular tours available throughout the city. Here are two popular tours you can book during your visit:

Architecture Boat Tour

The Architecture Boat Tour gives visitors an up-close look at some of Chicago’s most iconic landmarks from aboard a boat cruising along Lake Michigan or up The Chicago River. This tour provides an understanding of how architecture has evolved over time in this city thanks to its knowledgeable guides who provide insight into each building’s unique history and design features. You’ll be able to admire some of Chicago’s most famous structures such as Millennium Park’s Cloud Gate sculpture (aka ‘the Bean’), Navy Pier’s Ferris Wheel, William Wrigley Jr.’s Field (home to The Cubs), Tribune Tower, Water Tower Place, and more while making your way along this 90-minute guided tour. Tickets for this activity can be found on Viator.

Chicago Food Tour

Chicago is known for its delicious food offerings ranging from deep dish pizza to Italian beef sandwiches to hotdogs ‘dragged through the garden’. On this food tour you’ll get to sample some local fare from different neighborhoods throughout Chicago such as Chinatown, Little Italy, University Village/Little Italy, Greektown, Pilsen among many others while your knowledgeable guide shares anecdotes and tips about these areas throughout your three-hour experience. This culinary adventure allows you to try classic dishes such as deep dish pizza, Italian beef sandwiches, tamales and more while exploring different areas around town on this delicious tour! Tickets for this activity can be found on GetYourGuide.

Conclusion

Chicago is one of America’s greatest cities, with something for everyone to enjoy during their visit regardless if they’re visiting for business or leisure purposes. From exploring Navy Pier or taking an Architecture Boat Tour along Lake Michigan or The Chicago River, there are many things to do during your day-time visit to this vibrant city! We hope you’ve enjoyed this guide to things to do in Chicago during the day and we hope you have a great time exploring all that this city has to offer!