Things to Do Indoors in Chicago

Chicago is one of the most vibrant cities in the United States and a popular tourist destination. Located on the shores of Lake Michigan, Chicago is home to almost 3 million people and is the third most populous city in the US. Boasting an array of iconic cultural attractions, dynamic nightlife, and unique dining experiences, Chicago is a city that has something for everyone.

Chicago is a city that has something for everyone, but what if you’re looking for something to do indoors? Whether you’re a tourist visiting for the first time or a local looking for something to do indoors, there are plenty of great things to do in Chicago. From museums, galleries, and theaters to shopping, indoor activities, and more, here are some of our favorite things to do indoors in Chicago.

Explore Chicago’s Iconic Museums

Chicago is home to some of the most iconic museums in the country, including the Art Institute of Chicago, the Field Museum, Museum of Science and Industry, Shedd Aquarium, and more. Each of these museums has something different to offer and provides an opportunity to explore and learn about the city’s culture and history.

The Art Institute of Chicago is one of the most beloved museums in the city. Located in Grant Park on Michigan Avenue, the Art Institute features over 300,000 works of art from around the world, ranging from ancient artifacts to modern masterpieces. The museum is also home to some of the world’s best fine art collections and features works from famous artists like Monet, Degas, van Gogh, Cezanne, and Picasso.

The Field Museum is another iconic museum located in Chicago’s Museum Campus. Spanning over 250,000 square feet and featuring over 35 million specimens and artifacts, the Field Museum is a must-see for any visitor. The museum showcases different cultures from around the world and offers visitors a chance to explore ancient civilizations, ecology and wildlife.

The Museum of Science and Industry is another must-see in Chicago. This interactive museum offers something for everyone and features hundreds of hands-on exhibits and educational activities. Located on the city’s historic Jackson Park, the Museum of Science and Industry features everything from robotics to rockets and offers visitors a unique chance to explore science in a fun and exciting way.

The Shedd Aquarium is another popular attraction located on the city’s Museum Campus. This aquarium features over 8,000 animals from all over the world, from sharks to penguins. Visitors can explore habitats from all over the world and get an up close look at some of the planet’s most fascinating creatures.

Shop Til You Drop

Chicago is also home to some of the best shopping in the country. From luxury boutiques to trendy vintage stores and thrift shops, there’s something for everyone in the Windy City.

The Magnificent Mile is one of the most iconic shopping destinations in Chicago. Located on Michigan Avenue near the city’s Gold Coast neighborhood, the Magnificent Mile is home to some of the world’s most famous retailers like Apple, Bloomingdale’s, Neiman Marcus, and Saks Fifth Avenue. The Magnificent Mile also features dozens of restaurants, cafes, and bars making it a perfect spot for a day out shopping.

Water Tower Place is another popular shopping destination located in downtown Chicago. This seven-story mall features more than 100 stores ranging from high-end boutiques to discount retailers like H&M and Forever 21. The mall also features a variety of restaurants, cafes, and entertainment spots making it a great place to spend an afternoon shopping or enjoying a meal.

Chicago also has a vibrant vintage scene with tons of great thrift shops and vintage stores around the city. Located in Wicker Park and Lincoln Park are two of the city’s best vintage stores: Rebel Rebel Vintage Clothing and Re/Done Vintage Boutique. Both of these stores feature an amazing selection of vintage clothing from every era as well as accessories like hats, jewelry, and more.

Catch a Show at a Theater

Chicago is well known for its vibrant theater scene with dozens of incredible venues around the city offering everything from Broadway shows to comedy performances and more.

The iconic Chicago Theater is one of the most popular venues in the city. Located on State Street in downtown Chicago, this historic theater has been host to some of the world’s best performers and offers everything from concerts to comedy shows.

The Second City is another popular venue located in Old Town. This theater company specializes in sketch comedy and improvisation shows featuring some of Chicago’s best comedians. This venue also hosts improv classes if you’re looking for a chance to get up on stage yourself!

The Steppenwolf Theatre Company is another popular spot for theater lovers located in Lincoln Park. This theater company has been producing some of Chicago’s best plays since 1974 and features everything from classics to new works by local playwrights.

Visit Popular Attractions Indoors

Chicago is home to some amazing attractions that can be enjoyed indoors as well as outdoors. From famous sports stadiums to popular observation decks and more, here are some of our favorite attractions in Chicago that can be enjoyed indoors:

The Willis Tower Skydeck is one of the most popular attractions in Chicago. Located on the 103rd floor of Willis Tower (formerly known as Sears Tower), this observation deck offers breathtaking views of downtown Chicago as well as an up-close look at Lake Michigan and its shoreline. Admission tickets include access to The Ledge – four glass balconies extending out 4.3 feet from the observatory – offering an even more stunning view of the city below.

The United Center is one of Chicago’s most iconic sports venues and home to NBA team The Chicago Bulls and NHL team The Chicago Blackhawks. This stadium offers plenty of great indoor attractions with guided tours that offer an up-close look at team locker rooms as well as an opportunity to explore behind-the-scenes areas like press boxes and luxury suites.

The Museum of Contemporary Photography is another great indoor attraction located on Michigan Avenue near Millennium Park. This museum offers visitors a chance to explore some of the world’s best contemporary photography as well as educational programs and classes on photography techniques.

Book a Tour at Viator

If you’re looking for something unique to do indoors in Chicago, why not book a tour? Viator offers plenty of great tours all over Chicago ranging from walking tours to beer tastings and more. Book a Classic Lakefront Tour for an up-close look at some of Chicago’s most iconic landmarks like Navy Pier or take a walking tour through downtown Chicago’s neighborhoods like The Loop or Lincoln Park for an inside look at what makes these areas so special.

Book an Activity at GetYourGuide

Another great way to explore Chicago is by booking activities through GetYourGuide. GetYourGuide has plenty of great activities available all over Chicago including everything from river cruises to bike tours and more. Experience Chicago’s food scene with a pizza tour or explore its incredible architecture with an architectural boat tour – whatever you’re looking for GetYourGuide has something for everyone!