Chicago: A Tourist’s Guide To The Windy City

Chicago is a city with a rich and vibrant history, and it’s no surprise that it’s one of the most popular tourist destinations in the United States. From its iconic architecture to its diverse culture and world-class nightlife, Chicago has something for everyone. With its world-class museums, shopping, and dining, Chicago is a city that will keep you coming back for more. Whether you’re a first time visitor or a returning visitor, there are plenty of touristy things to do in Chicago. This guide will show you just some of the many highlights that this great city has to offer.

History of Chicago

Chicago is the third largest city in the United States, with a population of nearly 3 million people. It is located on the southwestern shore of Lake Michigan, one of the five Great Lakes. The city was founded in 1833 by a group of settlers from New York, led by John Kinzie. The city grew quickly, and by the mid-19th century, it had become an important commercial and industrial center. It was during this period of growth that many of Chicago’s iconic buildings were built, including the Willis Tower (formerly known as the Sears Tower) and the Chicago Water Tower.

Throughout its history, Chicago has been a major hub for immigrants from all over the world. Today, the city is home to people from numerous ethnic backgrounds and cultures, including African Americans, Hispanics, Asians, and Europeans. This diversity is reflected in the city’s cuisine, music, and art.

Things To Do In Chicago

Chicago is filled with attractions for tourists and locals alike. From its world-class museums to its stunning architecture and bustling nightlife, there’s something for everyone in this great city. Here are some of the top touristy things to do in Chicago:

Explore Art Institute of Chicago

The Art Institute of Chicago is one of the most famous art museums in the world. Located in downtown Chicago, it is home to an extensive collection of paintings, sculptures, photographs, and other artwork from around the world. Notable works include works by Monet, Cezanne, Picasso, and Van Gogh. The museum also houses an extensive contemporary art collection and regularly hosts special exhibitions.

Visit Navy Pier

Navy Pier is an iconic attraction along Lake Michigan. It is home to numerous attractions including a Ferris wheel, an IMAX theater, restaurants, shops, and even a lakefront beach. Navy Pier also hosts several festivals throughout the year including the popular Chicago Air & Water show.

Experience Willis Tower Skydeck

Willis Tower (formerly Sears Tower) is one of the most recognizable landmarks in the city. Its Skydeck offers breathtaking views of the city from its 103rd floor observatory. Visitors can also take advantage of the free-standing glass balconies that allow you to get an even closer look at the view below!

Go Shopping On Michigan Avenue

Known as “The Magnificent Mile,” Michigan Avenue is one of Chicago’s premier shopping destinations. Here you’ll find everything from luxury stores like Prada and Gucci to more budget-friendly retailers like H&M and Macy’s. This stretch of road is also home to numerous restaurants and cafes, making it perfect for a day of shopping and dining.

Explore Millennium Park

Millennium Park is one of Chicago’s most beloved public spaces. Located in downtown Chicago, this park is home to numerous sculptures, gardens, fountains, an ice rink, and even an outdoor concert venue. The park also offers stunning views of Lake Michigan and the city skyline.

Tours In Chicago

There are many tours available in Chicago for tourists who want to explore the city in a unique way. Here are two popular tours that visitors should consider when visiting the Windy City:

Chicago Architecture Tour

The Chicago Architecture Tour gives visitors an inside look at some of the city’s most iconic buildings. Through this tour, visitors can learn about the history and design of some of Chicago’s most famous structures including the Willis Tower (formerly Sears Tower), the Art Institute of Chicago, and more. The tour also includes a stop at one of the city’s famous viewing points overlooking Lake Michigan and the skyline. Book a Chicago Architecture Tour here.

Chicago Food Tour

Chicago is home to a wide variety of international cuisines and flavors. On this tour, visitors can sample some of the best dishes that the city has to offer from Italian beef sandwiches to deep dish pizza. The tour takes visitors through some of the city’s most iconic neighborhoods including Wicker Park and Chinatown. Along the way, visitors can learn about the history and culture of these neighborhoods as well as sample some delicious local dishes. Book a Chicago food tour here.

Conclusion

Chicago is an amazing city with plenty to offer tourists looking for a memorable experience. From its iconic architecture to its diverse culture and world-class nightlife, there are plenty of touristy things to do in this great city. Whether you’re looking for art and culture or just want to have fun exploring all that this wonderful city has to offer, there’s something for everyone here in Chicago!