9 Best Things to Do in Chicago, IL: Chicago Attractions, Museums, & More (+ Map)
(Updated: 2023)
Chicago – the Windy City and the third-largest metropolis in the U.S.A - is a stunning city that houses some of the best art and culture in the States. From thriving shopping districts to Chicago art museums to the unforgettable nightlife there is never a lack of things to do while in Chi-town. Below is a list of the best things to do while visiting Chicago.
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Photo by Greg Rakozy of Unsplash
1. Get panoramic views of the city from 360 Chicago
See the sprawling city of Chicago from new heights by heading up a whopping 94 floors to the observatory floor of the 360 Chicago. From over 1000 feet in the air, you are privy to panoramic views of Chicago.
If you purchase the Chicago CityPass, you will get access to the 360 Chicago Observation Deck plus 2 more top Chicago attractions. Book your Chicago CityPass here.
Location: 875 N Michigan Ave 94th floor, Chicago, IL 60611, United States - Get directions on Google Maps
2. Shop on the Magnificent Mile
Once you’re done taking in spectacular views of the city, the next logical place to go is the famed Magnificent Mile that sits right below the 360 Chicago. The Mag Mile is a 13-block stretch of Avenue that houses hundreds of boutique shops, quirky stores, as well as renowned bars and restaurants.
Location: Get directions on Google Maps
3. Take a selfie at Cloud Gate
Perhaps the most iconic landmark for Chicago is the mirror-like, metallic bean that sits in Millennium Park, Cloud Gate. This art installation is one of the first things that people flock to see once they land in Chi-town.
Location: 201 E Randolph St, Chicago, IL 60602, United States - Get directions on Google Maps
4. Visit the Medieval Torture Museum
If you’re looking for a more off-the-beaten-track type of activity while in Chicago then take a trip down to the largest interactive historical museum in America. The Medieval Torture Museum is an expansive gallery of dungeons and torture chambers displaying actual medieval torture devices. It is a thrilling experience, to say the least.
Location: 177 N State St, Chicago, IL 60601, United States - Get directions on Google Maps
5. Cruise along the river and take in Chicago’s skyline
Chicago is famed for its stunning skyline of architecturally beautiful skyscrapers and one of the best ways to experience the wonderful view is while on a cruise ship sailing down the waterways intersecting the city.
Here are some cruise companies you can book with:
Alternatively, you can book your tour through agencies like Viator.
6. Spend an afternoon at the Navy Pier
The Navy Pier is a lake-front pier that houses enough entertainment to fill an entire afternoon or evening. From funhouses to rides to bars and restaurants there is never a shortage of fun at the Navy Pier.
Location: 600 E Grand Ave, Chicago, IL 60611, United States - Get directions on Google Maps
7. Spoil your tastebuds with a Chicago Pizza tour
If there is one dish synonymous with the ‘Windy City’ it’s Chicago Pizza. Although deep dish Chicago pizza is embroiled in internet debate as to its authenticity as pizza there is no denying the deliciousness of a slice.
Here are a few great pizza tours you can book!:
Alternatively, you can book your curated Chicago pizza tour through Viator.
8. Experience culture at the Museum of Contemporary Art, Chicago
Chicago’s Museum of Contemporary Art is often overlooked in favor of other Chicago art museums, but this contemporary rendition packs a punch in terms of exhibits and eye-catching architecture. The museum holds the title of being one of the largest art venues on the entire planet.
Location: 220 E Chicago Ave, Chicago, IL 60611, United States - Get directions on Google Maps
Photo by Emily Ziegelmeyer of Unsplash
9. Hear thrilling tales on the Chicago Gangsters and Ghosts walking tour
If you want a more unconventional history of Chicago then ditch the usual walking tour and instead opt to join this laid-back 2-hour walk, touring famous spots where brazen crimes were committed by the Chicago mob. Book your tour here.
Location: 71 East W Wacker Dr, Chicago, IL 60601, United States - Get directions on Google Maps
What else shouldn’t you miss when visiting Chicago?
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