Chicago is a vibrant city with a rich cultural scene, incredible food, and stunning architecture. Here are 10 must-do activities when visiting the Windy City:
1. Visit Millennium Park & The Bean (Cloud Gate)
- Take a selfie with the iconic Cloud Gate (The Bean).
- Walk through the beautiful Lurie Garden.
- Catch live performances at Jay Pritzker Pavilion.
2. Explore Navy Pier
- Ride the Centennial Wheel for stunning lake and city views.
- Enjoy fireworks on Wednesdays and Saturdays (seasonal).
- Visit the Chicago Children’s Museum or catch a show at the Shakespeare Theater.
3. Admire the Skyline from Willis Tower Skydeck
- Step onto “The Ledge,” a glass balcony 1,353 feet above the ground.
- Experience breathtaking views of the entire city and beyond.
4. Take an Architecture River Cruise
- Learn about Chicago’s world-famous architecture while cruising the Chicago River.
- Perfect for first-time visitors to get a feel for the city’s layout.
5. Explore the Art Institute of Chicago
- See masterpieces like Van Gogh’s The Bedroom and Grant Wood’s American Gothic.
- Walk through the Thorne Miniature Rooms and the Modern Wing.
6. Stroll Down The Magnificent Mile
- Shop at high-end stores, including Nordstrom, Apple, and Gucci.
- Enjoy fantastic restaurants and historic landmarks like the Wrigley Building.
7. Experience the Museum of Science and Industry
- Walk inside a real WWII German submarine (U-505).
- Explore interactive exhibits, including a giant model train and a mirror maze.
8. Catch a Game at Wrigley Field
- Experience the electric atmosphere of a Chicago Cubs baseball game.
- If no game is on, take a guided tour of this historic ballpark.
9. Eat Deep-Dish Pizza & Chicago-Style Hot Dogs
- Try deep-dish pizza at Lou Malnati’s, Giordano’s, or Pequod’s.
- Grab a Chicago-style hot dog (no ketchup!) at Portillo’s or The Wiener’s Circle.
10. Walk Along the Chicago Riverwalk & Lakefront Trail
- Enjoy scenic views, bars, and restaurants along the Riverwalk.
- Rent a bike or take a stroll along the 18-mile Lakefront Trail by Lake Michigan.
