There are limitless issues to do in Chicago and the town stunned us (in a great way) with its bustling downtown core, expansive inexperienced areas, trendy artwork shows, Michelin-starred eating places and charming neighbourhoods!
Irrespective of your age or journey fashion, you’ll discover sights and actions in Chicago that can pique your curiosity. It’s no marvel the town is firmly on the checklist of the 101 greatest locations to go to within the US.
We just lately spent per week within the Windy Metropolis and will have lingered for much longer. With so many thrilling issues to do in Chicago (and eat!), attempt to give your self not less than 5 days to discover.
And, opposite to perception, this metropolis is definitely probably the greatest locations to go to in January on account of having so many indoor sights and wonderful festivals throughout that point.
On this article, I’m going to checklist not solely the plain issues to do in Chicago, however a few of the extra off-track websites and experiences that we had — and extremely advocate.
Word: Don’t miss our journey video of Chicago on the finish of this submit!
Prime 25 Should-Expertise Issues To Do in Chicago
Right here’s my information for the highest 25 issues to do in Chicago throughout your subsequent journey after being proven across the metropolis by a bunch of locals and the Chicago Tourism Board.
1. Stroll – All over the place!
I needed to put this primary on the checklist.
Taking transport is an effective way to get across the metropolis, however by strolling, you’ll have the ability to expertise the entire in-between bits that makes Chicago so nice.
Plus, you’ll have the ability to burn off a few of these energy you’ve consumed after consuming so nicely!
Gaze up on the towering skyscrapers within the downtown space, or saunter down quiet streets in one of many 77+ surrounding neighbourhoods.
There aren’t any actual hills in Chicago, the sidewalks are nicely taken care of and also you don’t want to fret about falling off any uneven curbs. In the event you get drained, name an Uber or hop on the practice.
2. Attend a Competition
Chicago is thought for internet hosting many, many festivals.
There are too many to checklist right here, however in case you’re excited by music, meals, vogue, movie, sports activities, tradition, flowers and all the things in between, you’ll discover a competition that you just take pleasure in.
Through the summer season months, don’t miss these occasions:
1. Style of Chicago
This meals/music competition has been operating since 1980 and is the most important meals competition on the earth!
Right here you’ll take pleasure in delicacies from across the globe — Indian, Thai, American, Caribbean, Mexican, European, and rather more.
The grounds at Grant Park are free to enter, however you buy tickets to trade for pattern parts of meals, or full meals.
A strip of 14 tickets will run you $10 and a taster portion of meals will price you about 6 tickets.
Ensure you deliver your personal water although as a result of 500mL of bottled water on the competition will price you $8! Click on right here to be taught extra concerning the Style of Chicago, which is held in July.
2. Windy Metropolis Smokeout
For BBQ, beer and nation music followers, this competition is one you don’t need to miss!
I actually really feel like this is without doubt one of the greatest issues to do in Chicago in the summertime and it was in all probability our favorite competition throughout our 5-day go to.
There’s a grandstand right here that hosts the primary music performances, plus one other smaller stage in direction of the again. Wander round and let your nostril information you in direction of billowing people who smoke, the place 20+ pitmasters from across the nation grill up tender meat.
There’s no scarcity of succulent, smokey ribs, tasty brisket, pit-roasted pork, and grilled rooster at this occasion.
Additionally, be sure to pattern a few of the craft beers on faucet, lots of that are from Chicago. I like to recommend the IPAs from Moody and Tongue and Goose Island. Click on right here to be taught extra concerning the enjoyable Windy Metropolis Smokeout occasion, which is held in July.
3. Grant Park Music Competition
In the event you’re into classical music, refrain, orchestras and FREE concert events, then don’t miss this one.
Seize a garden chair or a blanket, pack a picnic and a few wine and head right down to Millennium Park on the Jay Pritzker Pavillion.
This classical music competition is held yearly for 10 weeks from June to August and has been for greater than 80 years. Click on right here to be taught extra concerning the Grant Park Music Competition.
4. Chicago Blues Competition
Extremely, that is one other free competition in Chicago!
Not solely is entrance free, but it surely’s the most important music competition within the metropolis. Head right down to Millennium Park for the weekend of Jun 8 – tenth and benefit from the present. (extra about Blues music in #22 on this checklist).
3. Go On an Structure River Cruise
Even when structure actually isn’t your factor, don’t miss the Chicago Structure River Cruise.
Chicago has quite a few towering skyscrapers, and smaller warehouses alongside the Chicago River, all of which have a narrative.
Moderately than guessing for your self, the information on the boat tour will provide you with some historical past and describe the design fashion, all whilst you sip on a beer and benefit from the sunshine.
We joined the Chicago Structure Basis Heart River Cruise aboard Chicago’s First Woman and loved the journey. The information supplied glorious info, there was a rest room and a bar on board and the ship was fairly snug. The tour is extremely rated on TripAdvisor.
There are quite a few firms to go together with. Shoreline Sightseeing is one other extremely rated possibility.
4. Get a Chook’s Eye View (some of the wonderful issues to do in Chicago!)
After you’ve seen Chicago by foot and by boat, it’s time to get an aerial view of the town.
A helicopter trip is on just about everybody’s bucket checklist and after flying excessive above Chicago on a sundown journey, I can say that this really is one thing you don’t need to miss.
Along with 5 different individuals (plus the pilot), you’ll don a headset and soar above Chicago, passing by the Lakefront, Navy Pier and extra. The pilot supplies details about the buildings down beneath and can reply any questions you could have.
I actually assume that this is without doubt one of the greatest worth issues to do in Chicago. A sundown flight in a helicopter over Chicago is value each penny and is one thing you’ll always remember. Click on right here to be taught extra and to guide this tour
*Professional-tip: deliver a GoPro digital camera or some type of fish eye lens to your smartphone, because it’s laborious to get selfies in such a contained house.
5. Go To An Escape Room
Escape rooms have turn out to be one among our favourite issues to seek out in new cities whereas touring or on vacation. Fortunately Chicago has some epic escape rooms to expertise.
At The Escape Sport in Chicago, you may check out 5 totally different rooms with quite a lot of themes and issue ranges. One of many coolest units in an escape room ever is the “Mission: Mars” escape room. Be part of with others or guide all spots for a personal expertise. Costs begin at round $45.
Click on Right here to guide on-line now.
6. Go to The Neighbourhoods
As I mentioned above, there are over 77 neighbourhoods in Chicago, every with its personal vibe and issues to do. Being downtown is nice, however attempt to go to a couple of of the totally different neighbourhoods in Chicago.
Our favorite was Pilsen, which was as soon as a predominantly Slavic neighborhood, however because the 1960’s it has been dwelling to many Hispanic residents, largely Mexicans.
Amongst different issues, Pilsen affords brilliant road artwork, Mexican meals, the Nationwide Museum of Mexican Artwork and the Thalia Music Corridor.
Ensure you go to the Mexican museum right here to be taught concerning the present problem of gentrification that has effects on Pilsen and another elements of Chicago.
Wander round at your personal tempo and benefit from the ‘hood.
Cease in at Leaping Bean for espresso, Canton Regio for Mexican meals (and BYOB!), and Michelin starred Dusek’s Board & Beer for tasty delicacies and beers. 3 – 4 hours in Pilsen is loads of time to discover most of the again streets and funky outlets.
Different fascinating communities embrace:
- Close to West Aspect: providing implausible restaurant decisions, boutique outlets and road artwork (take a look at Randolph Avenue and Fulton Market), that is the foodie hotspot. Take a look at Michelin starred Woman and The Goat restaurant and have a espresso on the fashionable Soho Home.
- Wicker Park / Bucktown: identified for classic outlets, craft cocktails and chilled out spots, spend a day right here procuring, eating and trying out the 606 which runs by way of these neighbourhoods (extra on the 606 at #10 on this checklist). Seize a brew from MapRoom Taphouse, or cool off with an Italian Ice from Miko’s.
- Logan Sq.: an space with a powerful sense of neighborhood and assist of native companies…with a facet of hipster vibes, craft beer and dwell music. Right here you’ll discover a few of Chicago’s greatest eating places, don’t miss Fats Rice (Macanese fusion) and Mi Tocaya Antojeria (Mexican delicacies).
- Lincoln Park: a mixture of metropolis and nature, Lincoln Park affords an enormous inexperienced house full with a lakefront path and sandy seashores. On this neighbourhood you may hearken to blues music, social gathering all night time lengthy, buy groceries at fashionable boutiques, or seize a motorbike and trip the paths. Strive a hotdog from Wiener’s Circle (extra on that at #9 on this checklist) and a few Korean rooster at Crisp.
- Andersonville: this enjoyable space is dwelling to one among Chicago’s largest homosexual communities, and is thought for being a various a part of the town. Go to the theatre, devour a tasty burger at Little Unhealthy Wolf and sip on a craft beer from Hopleaf.
- Edgewater: If you find yourself right here, you might also need to take a look at the New York Trapeze Faculty for a fairly loopy expertise the place you really get to see what it’s prefer to be a member of cirque for your self!
7. Dangle Above the Metropolis
Conquer your fears and head to the SkyDeck Observatory on the Willis Tower (Sears Tower) and luxuriate in wonderful views of Chicago.
This is without doubt one of the hottest points of interest within the metropolis, and for good cause! There are 4 glass containers (ledges) protruding from the highest of the Willis Tower the place you may stroll out on 1.5 inches of glass.
On a transparent day, you may see Chicago, plus the three neighbouring states of Indiana, Wisconsin, and Michigan. This is without doubt one of the most Instagrammed spots within the metropolis, and some of the well-liked issues to do in Chicago.
I’m personally fearful of heights and was in a position to stand (and sit) on this platform.
In the event you’re nervous as nicely, know that you’ll be able to inch your method out at your personal tempo and you may have one foot on “strong” floor and one on the field if it makes you’re feeling extra snug. Click on right here to be taught extra and guide tickets for the SkyDeck Expertise.
8. Do a Cheese Pull
Inevitably, in your quest for issues to do in Chicago, you’ll hear lots of speak (and debate) about the perfect pizza in Chicago, however, after sampling a pair, we’ve come to the conclusion that our favorite was Giordano’s.
Now, there are quite a few different locations that we didn’t get to strive, so I counsel occurring a hunt for the perfect pizza and seeing what you give you.
Giordano’s affords made to order deep dish and skinny crust pizzas — taking round 45 minutes to 1 hour to cook dinner.
The pizzas listed here are tasty, however most significantly, the cheese is extremely stringy, supplying you with that final Instagram cheese pull picture. This is without doubt one of the greatest locations to eat in Chicago.
9. Discover The Lakefront Path
When you’ve obtained your fill of the town, probably the greatest issues to do in Chicago to get some recent air is to move to the lakefront.
At 494 kilometers lengthy and 190 kilometers huge, Lake Michigan is the most important of the Nice Lakes and is definitely the sixth largest freshwater lake on earth.
Taking a look at it, you’d be forgiven for considering that it’s really extra of an ocean than a lake because it even has tidal shifts.
The Lakefront Path is an uninterrupted, 29 kilometers (18 miles) lengthy, pedestrian-only route. It’s the right place for biking, rollerblading, jogging, or strolling.
Alongside the way in which, you’ll move by stunning seashores, excellent for laying down a towel and going for a swim. Take a look at Kathy Osterman Seashore and Montrose Seashore.
To get right here, hop on an Uber and select some extent alongside the path that you just’d prefer to be dropped off at. I like to recommend arriving at Kathy Osterman Seashore and biking to Lincoln Park. This brings me to #9…
10. Hire a Divvy Bike
Divvy Bikes are an effective way to discover Chicago — particularly alongside the vehicle-free Riverwalk, 606 walkway, and the Lakefront path.
These shared bikes are reasonably priced and make for a singular method of getting across the metropolis. Whether or not you need to simply get from level a to level b, or spend a day biking round, these bicycles are an important transportation possibility.
Hire your self a Divvy bike at one of many stations round Chicago and set off to discover the Lakefront Path at your personal tempo.
With Divvy bikes, you may hire for half-hour ($3) or 24 hours ($15), and decide up and drop off at totally different places across the metropolis.
Obtain the Divvy app to be taught the place to seek out bike stations, and whether or not or not there are any bikes at present docked there.
*Professional-tip: there aren’t any baskets on the entrance of the bikes, only a bungee wire, so ensure you deliver a backpack or one thing to place your water and sunscreen in.
11. Get Insulted Whereas Consuming a Sizzling Canine
Chicago has quite a few iconic meals and snacks, one among which is, in fact, a scorching canine! Eaten at ball video games, tailgate events, BBQs and on the road, sampling a Chicago fashion canine whilst you’re here’s a should.
In the event you’re searching for a hotdog with a facet of sass, profanity, and heckling, then be sure to go to The Wiener’s Circle in Lincoln Park.
Through the day, it’s a fairly chilled out place, however after 8:00pm and nicely into the night time, it’s a joint that you just in all probability don’t need to deliver your youngsters to.
The employees right here make enjoyable of patrons, throwing curse phrases and insults at everybody who enters! It’s all in good enjoyable although and everybody laughs at one another, and themselves. This establishment has been right here for over 30 years, and continues to be going sturdy.
Questioning the place to remain in Chicago?
We stayed within the ideally situated Loews Lodge Downtown, and had been simply steps to the river, Magnificent Mile, Navy Pier and extra.
There’s a wonderful rooftop bar and lounge space (excellent for a sundowner) and the onsite journey themed “ETA” restaurant serves up tasty, seasonal meals. The rooms are luxurious and comfy and supply wonderful views – both of the cityscape or the Navy Pier.
In the event you’re feeling energetic, head right down to the health club or for a swim within the 75-foot lengthy lap pool, and in case you’d fairly loosen up, head to the calming spa. The employees listed here are heat, welcoming and extremely useful! Click on right here to be taught extra concerning the lodge and to guide a room.
12. Wander Alongside the 606
The 606 is to Chicago what the Highline is to New York, and at solely 5 years outdated, it’s one of many latest issues to do in Chicago.
As soon as an deserted railway line, this raised path and inexperienced house is now a spot for Chicagoans to cycle, jog, stroll, skateboard, or rollerblade away from the site visitors – from 6:00am to 11:00pm.
Named after the shared zip code prefix of this space of Chicago, the 606 is situated within the neighbourhoods of Logan Park, Humboldt Park, Bucktown and Wicker Park and spans 4.3 kilometers (2.7 miles).
That is one other good spot to hire a Divvy bike! Click on right here to be taught extra concerning the 606 and to see a map of the world.
13. Tilt Over The Metropolis
Yet one more adrenaline-inducing factor to do in Chicago!
The “Tilt” is situated on the 360 Chicago Statement Deck on the North Michigan Avenue Constructing (John Hancock Heart). If you wish to see the town from 314m (1,030 toes) above the bottom, whereas tilting over the constructing to the streets beneath, then that is the trip for you.
Mainly, you stand towards a glass wall going through outwards. Holding onto handles, the glass wall then extends and tilts downwards supplying you with wonderful views of the streets and buildings beneath.
In the event you’re feeling uncomfortable, don’t fear, you’re free to step again away from the glass at any time.
In the event you simply need to go to the 94th ground for a drink and to benefit from the unbelievable sundown views over the town, that’s additionally doable. Tilting is simply an added attraction. Click on right here to be taught extra and to buy tickets for the Tilt.
14. Chow Down on Some Popcorn
Popcorn is one among Chicago’s hottest snacks, so earlier than you say “consuming popcorn shouldn’t be thought of probably the greatest issues to do in Chicago”, strive Garrett’s and also you’ll notice why it’s on the checklist.
This gourmand popcorn store is situated throughout the town and affords varied flavours — almond caramel crisp, cheese, butter, cashew caramel, macadamia caramel…or blended.
I like to recommend the combination of caramel crisp and cheddar cheese. Candy and savoury! Click on right here for places.
15. Hangout By The Chicago River
The Chicago River snakes its method by way of the town and up till 2016, there wasn’t a method for pedestrians to stroll alongside the river financial institution.
As of late, you may take pleasure in the brand new riverwalk which runs for two kilometers (1.25 miles) from Lakeshore Drive to Lake Avenue, giving locals and guests the chance to stroll, run, dine and loosen up alongside the river.
This walkway is a good addition to the town. Not solely are you able to take pleasure in some vehicle-free train, take a look at the general public artwork and benefit from the surrounding structure, however there are quite a few locations to eat and drink!
Pull up a chair, play some video games, or watch the boats go by on the Island Social gathering Hut (beers $7.50, cocktails $14). Seize a glass of wine and a few appetizers and folks watch at Metropolis Vineyard, or devour some BBQ whereas having fun with dwell music at Tiny Tapp.
16. Store ’til You Drop
As with most huge cities on the earth, Chicago is dwelling to an unbelievable procuring scene. From high-end vogue and cute boutiques to low-cost retailers and chains, there’s a store for you in Chicago.
The Magnificent Mile spans 8 metropolis blocks from Michigan Avenue Bridge to Oak Avenue and is without doubt one of the prime spots for procuring within the metropolis.
Right here you’ll discover designer outlets similar to Burberry, Chanel, Giorgio Armani and Ralph Lauren, standing subsequent to the shops of Saks, Bloomingdale’s, Nordstrom, Macy’s and Neiman Marcus.
Combined in with all of those stand-alone outlets, you’ll discover 3 malls providing souvenirs, toys, sporting items, make-up, and naturally, clothes.
Lastly, after your bank card has taken a beating, pop into one of many many eating places, cafes or bars and seize a chew. For one thing slightly extra upscale, don’t miss Prime Chef season 15 winner, Joe Flamm’s restaurant, Spiaggia.
The “Magazine Mile” is your one-stop store for all the things you may presumably want.
17. Experience a Ferris Wheel
The Navy Pier is a prime landmark within the metropolis and is a good place to benefit from the skyline, go for a stroll, see the Crystal Gardens, watch a film, see a fireworks show, and naturally, trip the Ferris wheel.
Enjoyable truth: George Washington Ferris invented the Ferris wheel, and the primary one was constructed for the Chicago World’s Honest in 1893. Entrance to the Navy Pier is free, however if you wish to trip the Ferris wheel, it prices $15.
18. Paddle a Kayak
City kayaking is without doubt one of the hottest issues to do in Chicago. After you’ve joined the structure boat tour and realized all concerning the buildings, why not seize your self a kayak and paddle at your personal tempo?
There are a couple of firms within the metropolis that supply kayaking excursions on the Chicago River, or on Lake Michigan. However, in case you really feel like going solo, it’s also possible to hire a kayak at an hourly fee of round $25. Take a look at Water Riders or Kayak Chicago for extra particulars.
19. Hire a Boat (probably the greatest issues to do in Chicago with associates)
If Kayaking isn’t your factor, it’s also possible to hire electrical boats and do a self-drive journey up and down the river. That’s proper, you get to be the captain! The boats are straightforward to drive, identical to a golf cart.
The unbelievable factor concerning the fleet on the Chicago Electrical Boat Firm is that they’re all zero emissions. The boats can maintain between 10 – 12 individuals and the speed is from $150 – $215 / hour.
While you divide that worth amongst a bunch of individuals, it actually is an effective deal. See the Chicago Electrical Boat Firm for particulars. This is without doubt one of the most unusual issues to do in Chicago with associates.
20. Dine On Rib Eye and Wine
Chicago has one of many hottest meals scenes within the nation. Even in case you don’t think about your self a complete foodie, you’ll be impressed with the delicacies on supply within the metropolis.
In the event you’re searching for a succulent lower of beef, complemented with a sturdy glass of pink, in a non-pretentious, but elegant environment, then ensure you add RPM Steakhouse to your consuming itinerary. This is without doubt one of the greatest locations to eat in Chicago.
Not solely is the menu seasonal and different, however the service right here is on level. Plus, in case you’re not into steaks, there are lots of different choices on the menu together with salads, seafood and rooster.
I extremely advocate the hamachi crudo, Mediterranean octopus, the rib eye, lobster, huckleberry cheesecake and chocolate cake. Yum!
21. Discover The Avenue Artwork
Chicago’s artsy facet is prevalent in its many public museums, galleries and park sculptures, however in case you’re right into a extra bohemian, graffiti fashion of artwork, you’ll need to seek for a few of the cool road artwork scattered across the metropolis.
You’ll discover quite a few murals within the Pilsen neighbourhood, plus a couple of dotted round Logan Sq. and Bucktown.
The B_line hall within the Fulton Market meatpacking district has been just lately revived and is now stuffed with vibrant illustrations. Spanning a mile, the partitions beneath the elevated B_line practice tracks have been changed into spectacular items from artists all over the world.
This space is a good instance of an open-air artwork gallery. Wander down West Hubbard Avenue between Peoria and North Ogden Ave. to seek out the paintings. To be taught extra, take a look at the Instagram web page.
22. Sip On Some Craft Beer
You don’t need to be a hipster to take pleasure in an icy chilly glass of craft beer, and what higher place to take action than in Chicago, a metropolis that loves its beer.
In keeping with this submit, there are at present 72 breweries within the metropolis and 132 within the suburbs!
Clearly, you received’t have the ability to go to all of them on a brief journey to Chicago, however positively take a look at the IPAs, Ales, Stouts and Lagers on supply at these craft breweries and taprooms: Revolution Brewing, Goose Island and Moody Tongue.
One other nice craft beer bar is the aptly named Map Room in Bucktown which has flags from all over the world, and over 200 beers from varied nations. Have enjoyable wandering round and having fun with the perfect bars in Chicago!
23. Go to The Parks
There are quite a few inexperienced areas in Chicago, and tons of spots the place you may lay down a blanket and luxuriate in a picnic within the solar. There are over 500 parks throughout the metropolis limits, however be sure to take a look at these ones:
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- Millennium Park: dwelling to the Cloud Gate / Bean sculpture, artwork and exhibition reveals, concert events, out of doors exercises, out of doors concert events and eating.
- Maggie Daley Park: this activity-filled park affords a climbing wall, playground, skating ribbon (ice within the winter, cement in the summertime), mini-golf, tennis courts and rather more.
- Lincoln Park: situated within the neighbourhood of the identical identify, Lincoln Park affords quite a few lakeside biking trails, seashores, museums, eating places and a cultural middle. This park is 1,208 acres (489-hectares) so ensure you give your self a while to discover and loosen up.
*Word: Grant Park really encompasses Millennium Park, Maggie Daley Park, Buckingham Fountain and the Museum Campus.
24. Take pleasure in a Night time At The Theatre
Touted because the theatre capital of the USA, there are over 250 theatre firms in Chicago! From comedies and musicals to ballets and orchestras, there’s a plethora of performances to see within the metropolis.
Within the downtown / Loop space, take a look at the Broadway reveals on the Oriental Theatre, concert events on the Auditorium Theatre and well-liked musicals on the CIBC Theatre.
In the event you’re into comedies and improv, take a look at The Second Metropolis which is the place the likes of Chris Farley, Invoice Murray, Tina Fay and Steve Carrell began out.
25. Take heed to Blues
For a enjoyable night time out in Chicago, I like to recommend trying out a Blues membership. This distinctive style of music originated in Mississippi in the course of the slave instances within the 1800s, and whereas these days are over, the soulful music has remained.
The explanation Blues music is so well-liked in Chicago is because of the Nice Migration of African-Individuals from Mississippi, Alabama and Louisiana.
Most of the individuals who fled the southern states (on account of racial discrimination) selected Chicago in hopes that they might discover industrial work and a happier life. With them, they introduced their wonderful music.
Take a look at Kingston Mines, Home Of Blues, Buddy Man’s Legends and B.L.U.E.S. Most of those locations additionally serve up tasty southern-inspired delicacies.
Enjoyable truth: though blues music didn’t originate in Chicago, again within the 1980’s Home Music was created by DJ’s and producers in underground golf equipment. The following time you’re dancing to digital music, bear in mind, you could have Chicago to thank for these beats!
BONUS: 26. Watch a Sport
Chicago is dwelling to skilled sports activities groups and relying on which era of the yr you go to, ensure you attend a recreation.
Whether or not you’re into hockey, soccer, soccer, baseball or basketball, Chicago has an expert staff on supply. Many of those groups have received championships, however the preferred sports activities within the metropolis are by far baseball and soccer.
For baseball followers, head to Wrigley Discipline for a Cubs recreation, or to Assured Price Discipline for a White Sox recreation (click on the hyperlinks to see ticket costs). If soccer is your factor, make your approach to Soldier Discipline for a Bears recreation.
For hockey, cheer on the Chicago Blackhawks on the United Heart. For basketball followers, The Chicago Bulls play on the United Heart, whereas the WNBA staff Chicago Sky is at Wintrust Area.
The Chicago Fireplace and Chicago Pink Stars soccer groups play on the Toyota Park venue.
Sports activities are an enormous a part of life in Chicago and Chicagoans are very enthusiastic about their groups.
Take pleasure in a dwell recreation alongside these superior followers, or share within the camaraderie at one of many many sports activities bars. Watching sports activities with a hotdog and beer in hand is without doubt one of the prime issues to do in Chicago for positive.
Bonus: 27. Gaze Up at The Fireworks
Through the summer season months from Might 26 – September 1, the Navy Pier places on a spectacular present.
Make your method right down to the pier on Wednesdays (9:30pm) and Saturdays (10:15pm) and benefit from the fireworks present, synchronized to music.
Watch the sky mild up whereas sitting on the pier, or from a ship on the river or lake. This is without doubt one of the greatest issues to do in Chicago in the summertime. Click on right here to be taught extra and to see the schedule.
Bonus: 28. Be part of a Free Strolling Tour
Strolling excursions are a superb approach to get a fast and informative introduction to cities all over the world. We’ve joined strolling excursions in Medellin, Tirana, Berlin, Edinburgh, Florence and Rome (to call a couple of), and it’s at all times been an incredible expertise.
In Chicago, the guides are locals and are very educated about their metropolis. Count on to be taught concerning the historical past of Chicago, the assorted buildings, and the place to eat and drink — all whereas being entertained by nice storytellers.
You’ll be able to select from structure excursions in varied elements of the town, at totally different instances of the day. This is without doubt one of the greatest budget-friendly issues to do in Chicago.
The excursions are typically round 2 hours lengthy, which is nice because it doesn’t take up your entire day. As a bonus, the excursions are “free” and also you’re solely anticipated to offer a tip in case you’re proud of the service.
It’s extra of a “pay what you want” state of affairs. Click on right here to be taught extra about Free Excursions By Foot.
Getting Round Chicago
Fortunately, although Chicago is a sprawling metropolis of just below 3 million individuals, the environment friendly transportation programs make getting round straightforward and stress-free, with elevated rail traces supplying you with glorious views of the town whilst you trip.
Getting from the Airport to Downtown Chicago
Taking public transport (CTA – Chicago Transit Authority) from the airport is essentially the most budget-friendly possibility. It’s additionally very easy.
The Blue Line runs 24 hours from the O’Hare Airport to downtown Chicago. The journey takes about 40-45 minutes and the associated fee is $5 (much less when you’ve got a vast trip move which you’ll be able to decide up on the airport and at merchandising machines across the metropolis).
In the event you’re arriving on the Chicago Halfway Worldwide Airport, you may hop on the Orange Line for a 20-25 minute trip to the downtown loop space.
To pay for these journeys, buy a Ventra card from one of many merchandising machines on the airport practice stations, at Ventra Merchandising Machines, or over 1,000 Ventra Retailers across the metropolis.
You should purchase 1 journey, 1 day or 3-day tickets. The machines settle for money, credit score or debit. Click on right here to be taught extra concerning the transport choices from the Chicago airports to the downtown space.
Getting Round Chicago
When you’re within the metropolis, the perfect methods to get round Chicago are by strolling and biking, or by practice, bus and rideshare.
You’ll want to determine what number of instances you assume you’ll take the CTA buses or trains, after which buy the suitable Ventra Card.
In the event you assume you’ll solely trip the practice or bus a few instances, it can save you cash by buying particular person rides (normally $2.50) and pay as you go.
1 Day CTA Go for $10
3 Day CTA Go for $20
7 Day CTA Go for $28
For maps of the assorted practice traces within the metropolis, click on right here.
Uber and Lyft are the preferred rideshare firms in Chicago and are continuously utilized by locals and guests.
I like to recommend downloading the Uber and Lyft apps so you may simply get round and luxuriate in the entire issues to do in Chicago.
Google Maps additionally lets you name trip shares immediately from the app, so you may resolve if you wish to stroll the gap, cycle, use public transport or name an Uber.
Metropolis Attraction Passes in Chicago
Since there are such a lot of wonderful points of interest and issues to do in Chicago, you’ll need to think about buying an points of interest move. There are 2 most important low cost playing cards obtainable:
1. CityPass Chicago
This move consists of:
- Shedd Aquarium – Precedence Entry
- Skydeck Chicago – Quick Go
- The Discipline Museum – VIP Entry
- Museum of Science and Business OR 360 CHICAGO Statement Deck – Specific Entry
- Adler Planetarium – VIP Entry OR Artwork Institute of Chicago – Quick Go
The price of the CityPass is $106 for adults and $89 for kids aged 3 – 11, and it’s legitimate for 9 consecutive days.
In the event you had been to go to the entire points of interest listed above with out the CityPass, it might price you $217.90.
You must first resolve what number of points of interest you need to go to whereas in Chicago and work out if the CityPass is best for you. Click on right here to be taught extra and to buy the move.
2. Go Chicago Card
The Go Chicago Card is totally different from the CityPass in that you’re granted free entry to 25 points of interest throughout a set interval.
As with the CityPass, you’ll want so as to add up the points of interest you propose to go to and see if this low cost card is value it. Select between these passes:
“All You Can Do in…”
1 day – $109 for adults, $69 for youths.
2 days – $154 for adults, $109 for youths.
3 days – $184 for adults, $129 for youths.
5 days – $219 for adults, $149 for youths.
By my calculations, in case you had been to go to the SkyDeck ($24), 360 Chicago ($23), Artwork Institute of Chicago with Quick Go ($35), the Ferris Wheel on the Navy Pier ($15) and the Structure River Cruise ($43), then the associated fee can be $140.
This makes the 1 day move worthwhile — and it’s solely $14 shy of the price of the 2-day move.
These are the included points of interest within the Go Chicago Card:
• SkyDeck Chicago
• 360 CHICAGO
• Discipline Museum (Admission plus one particular exhibit )
• Hop-On Hop-Off Large Bus Chicago: 1-Day Traditional Tour
• Artwork Institute of Chicago – Quick Go Admission
• Museum of Science and Business
• Adler Planetarium
• Chicago Kids’s Museum
• Navy Pier Centennial Wheel and Rides
• LEGOLAND® Discovery Heart
• Chicago Historical past Museum
• Chicago Structure Basis
• Museum of Up to date Artwork
• Frank Lloyd Wright House and Studio Tour
• Robie Home
• Historic Chicago South Shore Tour
• Grand Tour
• Panoramic and Scenic North Aspect Tour
• Chicago Theatre Tour
• Brookfield Zoo
• Bike and Roll Chicago
• Chicago Structure River Cruise
• Tall Ship WINDY
• Traditional Lake Tour
• Lincoln Park Zoo Rides
For extra info and particulars, and to buy the Go Chicago Card, click on right here.
Now You Know What To Do in Chicago
One of many issues that makes Chicago such an pleasurable metropolis is which you could be surrounded by site visitors and skyscrapers one minute, and the subsequent, end up stress-free on the river or lakefront. All inside only a few minute’s drive.
There are limitless enjoyable issues to do in Chicago and hopefully this checklist gave you some inspiration to your subsequent journey. All I can say is be sure to offer your self sufficient time in Chicago, but when not, you may at all times come again…
Don’t Miss Our Chicago Journey Video!
*Word, a few of the pictures on this article had been sourced on Shutterstock — a web site for locating royalty-free, skilled pictures and movies.
