Things To Do In Old Town Chicago

Old Town Chicago is one of the most vibrant and exciting cities in the United States. The city is renowned for its unique blend of old and new, offering visitors a unique blend of cultural and historical attractions, as well as a lively nightlife and entertainment scene. With its historic architecture and beautiful lakefront, Old Town Chicago is a great place to spend a weekend or long vacation. Whether you’re looking for an exciting nightlife experience or a relaxing day taking in some of the city’s renowned sights and attractions, here are some of the best things to do in Old Town Chicago.

Exploring the Historic Architecture

One of Old Town Chicago’s main attractions is its historic architecture. The city is home to some of the oldest buildings in the United States, dating back to the late 19th century. Many of these buildings have been lovingly restored and are now open to the public. Visitors can take in the stunning views of the cityscape from atop the many iconic skyscrapers or wander through the charming cobblestone streets, taking in the old-world ambiance of this bustling urban center.

In addition to admiring these breathtaking buildings, visitors can also explore some of Old Town Chicago’s history by taking a guided tour. These tours typically feature stops at some of the city’s iconic attractions, such as the John Hancock Center, Sears Tower, and Wrigley Field. Tourists can also learn about some of the city’s most famous figures, such as the great architect Louis Sullivan and philosopher Jane Addams.

Exploring Navy Pier

Navy Pier is one of Old Town Chicago’s most popular attractions, and for good reason. Spanning out over Lake Michigan, this iconic pier is home to a variety of restaurants, shops, and entertainment venues. Visitors can take in views of the lake from atop the Ferris wheel or wander through the many interactive exhibits. Navy Pier also hosts a variety of musical performances, festivals, and cultural events throughout the year. A must-see for anyone visiting Old Town Chicago.

Touring the Magnificent Mile

The Magnificent Mile is one of Old Town Chicago’s most iconic destinations. Running along Michigan Avenue, this renowned strip offers visitors a variety of shopping, dining, and entertainment options. Along the mile-long stretch, visitors can explore upscale boutiques, high-end department stores, and award-winning restaurants. The Magnificent Mile also features a variety of cultural attractions, such as the Museum of Contemporary Art and John G Shedd Aquarium.

Taking in a Show at Steppenwolf Theatre

Steppenwolf Theatre is one of Old Town Chicago’s premier entertainment venues. This award-winning theater company has been performing for over four decades and offers productions ranging from classic plays to cutting-edge works. Whether you’re looking for a light-hearted comedy or an intense drama, Steppenwolf Theatre has something for everyone.

Sample Local Cuisine

There are plenty of amazing restaurants in Old Town Chicago for visitors to choose from. From classic Chicago deep dish pizza to fine dining options featuring local and international cuisine, there is something for everyone. For an authentic taste of the city, head to Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria for some delicious deep dish pizza or Chicago Classic Italian Beef for a classic Italian beef sandwich. For more upscale dining options, check out The Gage, which offers classic American fare with a modern twist.

Explore Nature at Lincoln Park Zoo

Lincoln Park Zoo is one of Old Town Chicago’s most beloved attractions. This family-friendly zoo is home to over 1000 animals from all over the world, including lions and tigers, gorillas and chimpanzees, penguins and flamingos. In addition to exploring the various animal habitats, visitors can also take part in educational activities such as guided tours and animal shows.

Popular Tours in Old Town Chicago

In addition to exploring Old Town Chicago’s attractions on your own, there are also some popular tours that visitors can take to get a more comprehensive experience of the city. Here are two popular tours that explore some of Old Town Chicago’s highlights:

Chicago Architecture River Cruise

Sit back and enjoy views of some of Old Town Chicago’s most iconic buildings on this 90-minute guided tour along the Chicago River. A knowledgeable guide will provide commentary on some of the city’s most famous structures, including the Wrigley Building, Willis Tower, and Merchandise Mart. The cruise will also take you past some of the city’s lesser known architectural gems, giving you a better understanding of Old Town Chicago’s fascinating history. Book a Chicago Architecture River Cruise here.

Old Town Food Tour

Experience what it’s like to be a local on this 3-hour food tour through Old Town Chicago. You’ll sample some of the city’s best cuisine while learning about local culture and neighborhood history from your knowledgeable guide. The tour will take you through some of the city’s oldest neighborhoods, giving you an up-close look at the city’s iconic architecture while you savor delicious bites from local eateries. Book an Old Town Food Tour here.

Conclusion

Old Town Chicago is one of America’s most exciting cities, offering visitors a unique blend of history and culture with plenty of activities to explore. From admiring historic architecture to taking part in interactive activities at Navy Pier, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant city. For an unforgettable experience exploring some of Old Town Chicago’s top attractions, consider booking one of the popular tours outlined above. Whether you’re looking for an exciting nightlife experience or a relaxing day out taking in some of the city’s renowned sights and attractions, there are plenty of things to do in Old Town Chicago that are sure to make your visit unforgettable.