Exploring the Windy City: Things to Do in Chicago

The city of Chicago is one of the most vibrant and exciting cities in the United States. Located on the shores of Lake Michigan, it is the third-largest city in the US and home to nearly three million people. With its distinct skyline, deep-dish pizza, and iconic attractions, it’s no wonder why Chicago is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country. From its world-renowned museums and art galleries to its lively nightlife, there is something for everyone in the Windy City.

A Brief History of Chicago

Chicago was first settled by Europeans in the early 19th century. The city was first incorporated in 1837, and by 1857 it had become the largest city in the Midwest with a population of over 100,000. The city continued to grow rapidly in the late 19th century and early 20th century, becoming a major industrial center and the second-largest city in the US by 1900. In the early 20th century, Chicago became a major hub for immigrant communities from Europe, particularly from Poland, Lithuania, and Russia.

In the mid-20th century, Chicago was a major center for African American culture and music, with its famous jazz clubs, blues clubs, and other music venues. By the late 20th century, Chicago had become an important financial center and is now home to some of the world’s largest companies, such as Boeing and United Airlines.

Things to Do in Chicago

When visiting Chicago, there are endless possibilities for things to do. No matter what your interests are, there is something for everyone. From museums and galleries to parks and theaters, here are some of the top attractions in Chicago:

Explore the Magnificent Mile

The Magnificent Mile is one of Chicago’s most iconic attractions. This stretch of Michigan Avenue is lined with luxurious shops and high-end restaurants, as well as stunning views of the city skyline. Whether you’re looking for a fancy dinner or just a quick snack, you’ll find it on the Magnificent Mile. You can also find world-class shopping here. From high-end boutiques to international brands, you’ll find something for everyone on the Magnificent Mile.

Visit Millennium Park

Millennium Park is one of the most popular attractions in Chicago. This 25-acre park is located in downtown Chicago and features a variety of activities and attractions. The park is home to the iconic Cloud Gate sculpture, which is also known as “The Bean” because of its shape. There are also numerous gardens, public art installations, and other attractions to explore. Millennium Park also hosts a variety of free concerts and performances throughout the year.

Stroll Along Navy Pier

Navy Pier is a 3,000-foot long pier located in downtown Chicago on Lake Michigan. It is one of the most popular attractions in Chicago and is home to a variety of shops, restaurants, bars, and attractions. One of the highlights of Navy Pier is its ferris wheel, which offers stunning views of the city skyline. Navy Pier also hosts numerous festivals throughout the year such as The Taste of Chicago, Summer Fireworks Series, Winter WonderFest, and more.

Shop at Shedd Aquarium

Shedd Aquarium is one of the most popular attractions in Chicago. This world-class aquarium is home to more than 32,000 aquatic animals from around the world, including dolphins, beluga whales, penguins, and more. The aquarium also features numerous interactive exhibits that allow visitors to get up close with these amazing creatures. Shedd Aquarium also offers a variety of educational programs for children and adults alike.

Experience Skydeck Chicago

Skydeck Chicago is an observation deck located on top of Willis Tower in downtown Chicago. Standing 1,353 feet tall, Skydeck Chicago offers stunning views of the city skyline from its glass balconies that extend 4.3 feet from the side of the building. Skydeck Chicago also features interactive exhibits that provide visitors with a unique experience that can’t be found anywhere else.

Popular Tours in Chicago

In addition to exploring all that Chicago has to offer on your own, there are also countless organized tours that you can take to get a more guided experience. Here are two popular tours in Chicago:

Architecture River Cruise Tour

One of the best ways to explore Chicago is by taking an architecture river cruise tour. This 90-minute tour takes you along the Chicago River past some of the city’s most iconic landmarks such as Navy Pier, Willis Tower, and Wrigley Building. Along the way, you’ll learn about the history and architecture of each building from your knowledgeable guide. The tour also includes a stop at the iconic DuSable Bridge for spectacular views of downtown Chicago. To book this tour, click here.

Museum of Science and Industry Tour

The Museum of Science and Industry is one of the most popular attractions in Chicago. This museum features more than 35 interactive exhibits that explore scientific topics such as biology, physics, engineering, space exploration, and more. The museum also features an impressive array of historic artifacts such as a WWII submarine and an original Wright Brothers plane. Visitors can also explore an indoor rainforest with live animals and a 3D theater that tells stories about science through stunning visuals and sound effects. To book this tour click here.

Conclusion

No matter what your interests are, there is something for everyone in Chicago. From museums and galleries to parks and theaters, there are countless activities to explore in this exciting city. Whether you’re looking for an adventure or some time to relax, you’ll find it in Chicago. Don’t forget to check out some of the organized tours for an even more guided experience!