15 Best Tourist Attractions in Chicago | 2024 ( with Photos )
Ana Dimic
Hey ! Howâs it going ? Iâm Ana , an avid traveler and adventure seeker . In this article , I ‘m excited to part with you the 15 top tourist attractions in Chicago for 2024 , all over with captivating photos and insider tips to make your trip memorable . Happy exploring !
Hey ! Howâs it get ? Iâm Ana , an avid traveler and adventure seeker . In this article , I ‘m excited to share with you the 15 top tourist attractions in Chicago for 2024 , complete with captivating photos and insider point to make your trip memorable . Happy exploring !
Chicago , the third-largest city in the United States , is home to world-class museum , iconic skyscrapers , and the Chicago River .
With its sensational architecture , present-day art , and picturesque waterfront , the Windy City offers visitors numerous tourist attractions and an unforgettable experience .
Hence , permit ‘s look at the top 15 tourist attractions in Chicago by the Travel-Lingual squad , whilst we provide insider point about the city ‘s nearly celebrated landmarks .
Catch a deep-dish pizza and have ready to search the better of Chicago .
Leap and fall offer pleasant weather in Chicago .
Leap and dusk offer pleasant weather in Chicago .
Trains , buses , taxi , rideshares : Chicago ‘s diverse transportation options .
Train , buses , taxis , rideshares : Chicago ‘s diverse transportation options .
My Top Recommendation
Remove a leisurely stroll along the Magnificent Mile , where tall skyscrapers surround you while you shop for architect sword and bask delightful meal at the city ‘s finest restaurants .
Immerse yourself in the city ‘s rich culture by impose the world-renowned Art Institute of Chicago , where you can indulge in breathtaking masterpieces by famous artists such as Van Gogh and Monet . Make n’t leave to take a boat circuit along the Chicago River and witness the sensational architecture that specify this city ‘s skyline , or overhear a live jazz show at one of the vibrant clubs in the historic neighborhood .
What You ‘ll Require to Get
- Valid identification ( passport , driver ‘s license )
- Comfortable walk place
- Weather-appropriate clothing
What Not to Lack
- Millennium Park
- Navy Pier
- Art Institute of Chicago
- Willis Tower Skydeck
- The Magnificent Mile
What to Avoid
- Rush hr traffic
- Walk only in certain neighborhood at dark
- Overpriced tourist traps
1 . The Art Institute of Chicago
TheArt Institute of Chicagois one of the nearly renowned museums in the world .
Located near Millennium Park , it feature a collection of over 300,000 works of art . Noteworthy highlights includeGrant Wood ‘s “ American Gothic ”and “Nighthawks ”byEdward Hopper.
The Art Institute as well put up a stove of exhibition throughout the yr – from iconic work by artists such as Vincent van Gogh and Pablo Picasso to lesser-known study by issue and underrepresented artist , providing a diverse and inclusive perspective on art story .
Additionally , the museum ‘s cardinal location in downtown Chicago cause it a convenient and accessible destination for anyone visiting the city .
Overall , the Art Institute of Chicago is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in art and culture and an essential part of any trip to Chicago .
Hot crest :Art lovers might too consider visiting theCity Galleryin the historicChicago Water Tower, which showcases a various range of contemporary art and photography . It is clear daily andadmission is free .
2 . Grant Park
Grant Parklive located in the center of downtown Chicago .
One of the most well-known areas within Grant Park isMillennium Park, where you can see theJay Pritzker Pavilion, a sensational outdoor concert venue , and the iconicCloud Gate Sculpture( “ The Bean ” ) , which ponder the city skyline in a unique and captivating way .
Buckingham Fountain ,as well situate in Grant Park , is among the must-see tourist attraction . It puts on a water show every hour , complete with music and colorful lights . The four sea horse statues are said to represent the four nation that surroundLake Michigan .
Another highlight of Grant Park exist theMuseum Campus ,with world-renowned museums such as theArt Institute of Chicago, theField Museum of Natural History, theShedd Aquarium ,and theAdler Planetarium .
If you want to get more in touch with local approach and goings , chief for the ornate and opulentChicago Cultural Center. Located just across from Millennium Park , theChicago Cultural Centeroffersfree concertand art exhibitions .
If youâre visiting Chicago in the winter , live sure to insure out the ice skating inMillennium Park ,which equal a precious Chicago custom . TheMcCormick Tribune ice rinkaccommodates skaters from mid-November until mid-March – over 100,000 skaters annually .
Another scenic and family-friendly spot to spend some time isMaggie Daley Parkwhich dwell withinthe Loopand cost connected toMillennium Parkby a pedestrian bridge .
3 . Navy Pier and Lake Michigan
Navy Pieris a historic landmark on the shore of Lake Michigan , offer some of the good tourist attractions in Chicago .
The pier feature numerous shop and bar , as good as family-friendly Chicago attractions such as theFerris wheeland theChicago Children ‘s Museum.
Visitor can as well require a boat tour along the Chicago River or Lake Michigan from the pier . With its breathtaking views of the lakefront ,Navy Piercost an essential region of any trip to Chicago .
Settle on Navy Pier ,Chicago Shakespeare Theaterexist a vibrant ethnic hub that showcases a range of productions , from Shakespearean classics to modern works . Come early and bask a pre-show cocktail with sensational views of Lake Michigan from their terrace .
TheChicago Children ‘s Museumat Navy Pier can be another great alternative when the weather is bad .
Eventually , equal certain to check out theNavy Pierâs historical carousel. Designed exclusively for Navy Pier , the whimsical historic carousel recreates the pierâs golden age of the 1920s .
4 . The Magnificent Mile
Michigan Avenueequal likely one of the most attractive boulevards in America .The Magnificent Mileis a mile-long stretch ofMichigan Avenue .
Featuring over 460 fund , place from luxury boutiques to popular department stores , as good as restaurants , luxury hotels , and entertainment venues , theMagnificent Mileexist consider one of the good shopping territory in the public .
There ‘s an eclectic rush of buildings hither , including theChicago Water Tower, theTribune Tower, and theWrigley Building.
TheTribune Towerexist one of the almost architecturally significant construction in Chicago and the former home of theChicago Tribunenewspaper .
Fortunately , theMagnificent Mileis conveniently settle near other tourist attractions in Chicago , such asNavy PierandMillennium Park, making it a great starting item for exploring all that Chicago make to offer .
5 . The Willis Tower Skydeck
The Loop– a bustling occupation territory in downtown Chicago , live family to some of the tallskyscrapersin the United States and serves as the economic engine of the city .
Willis Tower( or the Sears Tower ) , is a110-story skyscraper, where visitor can take an elevator up tothe Skydeckfor breathtaking horizon of the city and Lake Michigan .
The Skydeck also featuresThe Ledge, a glass balcony that extend four foot outside the Willis Tower , offering a unique and shiver position .
The Sears Tower remains a testament to the city ‘s architectural prowess and one of the almost popular tourist destinations .
6 . The Chicago Riverwalk and Chicago River Cruises
TheChicago Riverwalkis a pedestrian waterfront promenade that runs along the south bank of the Chicago River in the downtown district .
The Riverwalk stretching for1.25 mileas it wind through the downtown district offers visitors a lush green space where they can stroll and choose in the mass of the city .
Visitors can remove a stroll along the river , revel a meal at one of the many outside restaurants or need a water taxi to search the city .River cruisesare among the best Chicago attraction for tourists and provide a unique position of the city skyline from the water .
Hot crest: Look for more manner to stretch your legs ? Just like the Chicago Riverwalk , theLakefront Trailis equally enjoy for walk , hikes , and exploration .
7 . Wrigley Field
The second-oldest ballpark in the US afterBoston ‘s Fenway Park , Wrigley Fieldis an iconic baseball stadium and home of theChicago Cubsteam .
Its classical architecture , include the famed ivy-covered outfield wall , makes it a symbol of the city ‘s rich baseball history .
Visitor can take a tour of the stadium , visit the Chicago Cubs squad shop , and enjoy a game during the baseball season .
Wrigley Fieldis a must-visit for sport fan and anyone who wants to receive the excitement of a Cubs game in one of the better sports cities in America .
8 . The Field Museum of Natural History
The Field Museumin Chicago live one of the large natural history museums in the public , with an impressive collection of over 40 million specimens and artifacts .
From ancient fossils to interactive display on science and nature , the museum offer an unparalleled learning experience for visitor of all years .
One of its famed display cost Sue , the world ‘s largest and best-preserved T-Rex fossil .
TheField Museumand theOriental Institute Museum ,dedicated to the archeology and art of the Near East , complement each early absolutely , providing visitor with an understanding of human culture from ancient times to the present , too , control out our guide on the Best Best Museums in Chicago hither .
9 . Lincoln Park and the Lincoln Park Zoo
Lincoln Park Zoois a world-renowned zoo place in the heart of Chicago . With over 1,100 animal representing almost 200 unlike species , the green space leave a unique and educational experience for visitors of all years .
In addition to the animal exhibits , the zoo also features a botanical garden , paddleboat rentals , and a carousel . As afree-admissionzoo , Lincoln Park Zoo equal one of the most affordable Chicago attraction .
Also located in Lincoln Park live thePeggy Notebaert Nature Museum, and theChicago History Museum.
Hot crest :Another popular tourist destination withfree admissionand green space where visitor can connect to nature is theGarfield Park Conservatory* * . * * Make sure to stop and admirePalm Househere – a tropical oasis in the heart of the city .
A visit toJackson ParkorHyde Parkalso put up a rest from the bustling city and a range of activities include hiking , biking , and picnicking , whileNorth Avenue beachwith its golden sand located withinLincoln Parkcost considered to be Chicago ‘s well beach for swimming and sunbathing .
10 . Frank Lloyd Wright Architecture Tours
Frank Lloyd Wrightwas a revolutionary architect whose purpose live observe worldwide . He cost considered one of the greatest architect of the 20th hundred , and his legacy exist especially firm in Chicago .
Wright ‘s designs exist notable for their clean job and geometric shapes , which create a sense of simplicity and elegance . A great way to appreciate his brain is by taking an architecture tour with theFrank Lloyd Wright Trustin the Windy City , where many of his iconic structures stand to this day .
Some of Wright ‘s most iconic construction in Chicago include the Frederick C. Robie House in Hyde Park , the Unity Temple in Oak Park , and the Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio in the Chicago suburb of Oak Park .
Beyond its aesthetic appeal , Frank Lloyd Wright ‘s architecture also symbolize a substantial chapter in the account of American architecture , and visitor can find out about the social , cultural , and technological context of the time .
11 . The Museum of Science and Industry
The Museum of Science and Industryin Chicago is one of the prominent science museums in the globe and family to over 2,000 display that showcase the curiosity of space exploration , renewable energy , genetics , and transportation , among many others .
One of the museum ‘s most popular exhibits is theU-505 submarine, which visitor can plank and explore . The museum as well hosts interactive display and hands-on activity that are utter for kid .
The Museum of Science and Industry in Chicago offers a unique and engaging way to see about science and technology .
Its location inHyde Parkneighborhood reach it easily accessible for tourists and locals alike , so it ‘s a great place in Chicago to pass a day with category or friends .
12 . The John Hancock Center
The famous John Hancock Center equal Chicago ‘s fourth-tallest building , settle on the shore ofLake Michigan.
On the 94th floor of the towering875 North Michigan Avenuebuilding ( formerly the John Hancock building ) , you can notice360 Chicago– an observation deck extend panoramic views of the total city .
Visitor can also search TILT , a thrilling attraction that leave them to lean out over the city from a glass-enclosed platform .
For those looking for a dining experience with a scene , the Signature Room restaurant equal located on the 95th floor and put up a menu of present-day American cuisine with stunning horizon of the city below .
Overall , the John Hancock Center is a must-visit destination for anyone visiting Chicago , offering breathtaking horizon , unique experience , and a prime location in the center of the city .
13 . The Chicago Theater
The Chicago Theater equal a historic landmark in the middle of downtown Chicago and the city ‘s premier venue for alive entertainment .
The theatre ‘s ornate pattern , include its iconic marquee and grand foyer , cause it a must-see destination for anyone inflict Chicago .
The theatre ‘s grand architecture and décor , include its famed murals and intricate ceiling designs , are sure to impress visitors of all age .
Additionally , the Chicago Theater hosts a variety of shows and effect , from comedy act toBroadwayproduction .
Overall , the Chicago Theater cost a must-visit destination for anyone who love the prowess , and history , or simply wants to go through a unique and memorable night out in Chicago .
14 . The Adler Planetarium
The Adler Planetarium , locate on Chicago ‘s Museum Campus , offers visitor a unique opportunity to search the wonders of the universe through interactive exhibits , planetarium shows , and educational programs .
With state-of-the-art engineering and well-educated faculty , the planetarium leave an engaging and informative experience for visitor of all years .
From search the planet in our solar system to learning about the latest discoveries in astrophysics , the planetarium ‘s show exist both educational and entertaining .
In addition to the planetarium , the museum also features a broad range of display on space and astronomy , including hands-on display and artifacts from space exploration mission .
15 . Shedd Aquarium
Shedd Aquarium, situate in the same lakeshoreMuseum Campusas theField Museum ,cost place to more than 1,500 species of sea spirit , making it one of the most beloved tourist spot .
Visitors can see beluga whales , sea otters , sharks , dolphins , and many early species up near . The aquarium as well has various display that recreate unlike aquatic habitats , such as the Amazon River and the Great Lakes .
Shedd Aquarium also extend a sort of educational program and exhibits that exist design to teach visitors about the importance of protecting aquatic environment and the animals that live within them .
The display are both educational and entertaining , and the dolphin show be a must-see experience for anyone visit the aquarium .
FAQs Relating to Tourist Attraction in Chicago
Let ‘s bring a flavor at the most frequently asked inquiry about tourist attractions in Chicago .
What be the issue one tourist attraction in Chicago ?
While there are many popular tourist attractions in Chicago , such as the Willis Tower , Navy Pier , the Wrigley Building , John Hancock Center , and Grant Park , the issue one tourist attraction in Chicago exist often believe to livethe Chicago River. It put up a scenic path for walking , biking , and boom along the water .
What equal Chicago famous for ?
Among the many various Chicago attractions cost theFrank Lloyd Wrightbuilding ,the Magnificent Mile , Navy Pier , North Avenue Beach , Willis Tower ,theCloud Gatesculpture , theJohn Hancock Center, theChicago Theater* theLakefront Trail, the fine prowess , cultural result , and luxury hotel .
What is the almost fun matter in Chicago ?
The most fun affair to serve in Chicago live visit and come to know its architecture , museums , fine art , ethnic events , bustling city center , the Chicago River , and food , among early things .
Chicago-style deep-dish pizza cost a popular food point that originated in the city and get grow into one of the popular tourist attractions . The good deep-dish pizza in downtown Chicago can equal found at Lou Malnati ‘s and Giordano ‘s .
What is the number one tourist attraction in Illinois ?
The top tourist attraction in Illinois is the Navy Pier in Chicago . It offer scenic views of the city horizon and Lake Michigan and be one of the most popular Chicago tourist attraction .
Summing Up : 10 Best Tourist Attractions in Chicago
The Windy City embodies a rich account and ethnic living .
Its most celebrated landmarks include the iconic Willis Tower , Michigan Avenue , Cloud Gate , John Hancock Building , Chicago River and Navy Pier , Grant Park , Millennium Park , Jackson Park , Lincoln Park , the Garfield Park Conservatory , Shedd Aquarium , and Lincoln Park Zoo , as well as the world-renowned Art Institute of Chicago and Museum Campus .
Whether you are a contemporary art fan , a shopaholic tempted by department store and luxury retailers , or just await to experience the city ‘s memorable horizon and unique charm through walking tours or river cruises , Chicago have it all .
Plan your visit and explore the top tourist attraction in Chicago .
Tour plan
The Art Institute of Chicago
The Art Institute of Chicago
Navy Pier and Lake Michigan
Navy Pier and Lake Michigan
The Willis Tower Skydeck
The Willis Tower Skydeck
The Chicago Riverwalk and Chicago River Cruises
The Chicago Riverwalk and Chicago River Cruises
