What to Do in Chicago Today

Chicago is a vibrant and bustling city, located in the northern part of the United States. It is renowned for its cultural diversity, world-famous attractions, and stunning skyline. With its historic architecture, vibrant nightlife, and endless activities for everyone, it’s no wonder why Chicago is a beloved tourist destination. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or are looking for something to do on a day off, this guide will help you discover the best of what Chicago has to offer today.

History of Chicago

Chicago was founded in 1833 by a group of investors led by William B. Ogden. It was first known as Fort Dearborn, and was built as a trading post along the Great Lakes. The settlement quickly grew in size and population, and by 1837 Chicago was incorporated as a city. The city’s location along the Great Lakes made it an important transportation hub, fueling explosive growth in the 19th century. By the end of the 19th century, Chicago had become a major industrial center and was home to a diverse population. In the 20th century, it became a major financial center and cultural hub.

Today, Chicago is the third most populous city in the United States. It is home to 2.7 million people and is one of the most diverse cities in the country. It’s renowned for its many world-class attractions such as the Willis Tower, Navy Pier, Millennium Park, and the Art Institute of Chicago. It is also home to several professional sports teams, including the Chicago Bulls, Bears, White Sox, and Cubs.

Things to Do in Chicago Today

Chicago is a city full of culture, entertainment, and adventure. Here are some ideas for things to do today in Chicago.

Explore Navy Pier

Navy Pier is one of Chicago’s most popular tourist attractions. Located on the shores of Lake Michigan, it’s home to a variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment. There’s something for everyone here – from boat cruises and carousels to rides and interactive exhibits. At night, the pier glows with lights from the Ferris wheel and giant swings, making it a great spot for photos or just enjoying a spectacular view of the city skyline.

Visit Millennium Park

Millennium Park is one of Chicago’s most beloved attractions. Located in downtown Chicago, it’s home to 25 acres of gardens, public art, skating rinks, playgrounds, and pavilions. The centerpiece of the park is “The Bean” – a giant metallic sculpture that reflects the city skyline in its mirrored surface. Millennium Park also features several music venues, including the Jay Pritzker Pavilion and Harris Theater.

Take a Stroll Along The Magnificent Mile

The Magnificent Mile is an iconic stretch of shops, restaurants, and hotels in downtown Chicago. Stretching from North Michigan Avenue to Oak Street Beach, it’s a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. Here you’ll find some of the city’s most luxurious stores and restaurants as well as iconic landmarks such as Tribune Tower and the Wrigley Building. Take a stroll along the Magnificent Mile and soak up the energy and beauty of downtown Chicago.

Go Shopping at The Loop

The Loop is an area in downtown Chicago that has become renowned for its shopping and dining options. Here you’ll find an impressive array of stores ranging from high-end fashion boutiques to popular retail outlets. There are also plenty of restaurants offering everything from quick bites to fine dining experiences. Whether you’re looking for something special or just browsing for fun, The Loop is sure to have something for everyone.

Tour The Field Museum

The Field Museum is one of Chicago’s most beloved institutions. Located on the shores of Lake Michigan, it’s home to millions of artifacts from around the world. Here you can explore dinosaurs, ancient cultures, and special exhibitions from around the world. From kids to adults, there’s something here for everyone – making it a perfect way to spend an afternoon in Chicago.

Go to a Show at The Second City

The Second City is one of Chicago’s most iconic comedy venues. Founded in 1959, it has launched the careers of some of the world’s most famous comedians such as Bill Murray, Tina Fey, Stephen Colbert, and many more. Today it still features some of the best comedy shows in town – making it a great way to experience some of Chicago’s vibrant nightlife scene.

Popular Tours in Chicago

In addition to these activities, there are also many great tours available for those looking for a more immersive experience in Chicago. Here are two popular tours that will give you an insight into this amazing city:

Chicago Architecture River Cruise

Take an unforgettable journey through Chicago’s architectural history on this fascinating river cruise tour. This 90-minute tour takes you along the historic Chicago River where you’ll get an up-close look at some of the city’s most iconic landmarks such as Willis Tower, Merchandise Mart, and more. You’ll learn about the history behind each building as your guide shares interesting facts along the way. This tour is perfect for those looking to get an in-depth exploration of Chicago’s architectural history while enjoying stunning views of the city skyline. Book a Chicago Architecture River Cruise here.

Museum of Science & Industry Tour

Explore one of Chicago’s top tourist attractions on this two-hour tour of the Museum of Science & Industry (MSI). Your knowledgeable guide will lead you through more than 40 exhibits featuring robotics, transportation technology, chemistry experiments, and much more. You’ll learn about MSI’s incredible history as you explore its many interactive displays that offer something for everyone from kids to adults. The tour culminates with a visit to the U-505 submarine – one of only four captured WWII German submarines in existence today. Book a Museum of Science & Industry Tour here.

With so much to do in Chicago today, you won’t be short on activities! Whether you’re looking for an adventure or just want to explore one of America’s most beloved cities – there’s something here for you! From Navy Pier to Millennium Park to The Second City – there’s something new around every corner waiting to be discovered!