Things to do · Chicago, Illinois, US

Things to Do in Chicago

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Getting there
Most visitors fly into Chicago O'Hare International Airport, roughly 25 km northwest of downtown, or the closer Midway Airport about 11 km southwest; both offer frequent shuttle, train and rideshare connections to the Loop. Travelers from the Midwest often arrive by Amtrak’s Chicago Union Station, while interstate highways I‑90 and I‑94 provide easy road access. A handful of tourists also take Lake Michigan ferries from nearby Michigan ports, though that’s less common.
Who goes
Chicago welcomes around 55 million visitors annually, drawing a mix of business travelers, cultural tourists and food‑focused explorers. The city hums busiest in summer and around major conventions in spring, while winter weekdays tend to be quieter, especially after the holiday rush. Its diverse neighborhoods attract solo adventurers as well as families seeking museums, music and culinary scenes.
Budgeting
A careful traveler can expect to spend roughly $80–$120 per day (about ¥11,000–¥16,500), while a comfortable budget sits near $150–$250 (≈ ¥21,000–¥35,000), with lodging and dining taking the biggest slices. Public transit passes are a reliable way to stretch dollars, and buying a Chicago CityPass can shave off admission fees to top attractions. Estimate →

  1. Millennium Park

    park · 4.7 rating

    A world-famous downtown park featuring Cloud Gate ('The Bean'), Crown Fountain, and the Pritzker Pavilion. A must-see gathering place blending public art, architecture, and green space.

  2. The Art Institute of Chicago

    museum · 4.8 rating · $25

    One of the oldest and largest art museums in the United States, home to masterpieces spanning Impressionism, American art, and global collections. Travelers come to see iconic works like 'American Gothic' and 'A Sunday on La Grande Jatte'.

  3. United Center

    attraction · 4.7 rating

    Chicago's premier indoor arena and home to the Bulls (NBA) and Blackhawks (NHL), also hosting major concerts and events. Travelers visit for sports games, live shows, and the famous Michael Jordan statue.

  4. Cloud Gate

    monument · 4.7 rating

    A monumental polished stainless steel sculpture in Millennium Park, nicknamed 'The Bean,' reflecting the city skyline. Travelers visit to see and photograph one of Chicago's most iconic public artworks.

  5. Willis Tower

    landmark · 4.3 rating

    Willis Tower is one of the tallest skyscrapers in the Western Hemisphere, famous for its Skydeck and glass Ledge balconies. Travelers ascend for panoramic city and lake views.

  6. The Magnificent Mile

    neighborhood · 4.5 rating

    A famous stretch of Michigan Avenue lined with flagship stores, hotels, and landmarks. Travelers go for upscale shopping, dining, and iconic urban strolling.

  7. Griffin Museum of Science and Industry

    museum · 4.6 rating

    One of the largest science museums in the Western Hemisphere, featuring hands-on exhibits, a U-505 submarine, and immersive displays. Travelers visit for interactive science and technology experiences.

  8. 360 CHICAGO

    viewpoint · 4.5 rating · $30

    An observation deck near the top of the 875 North Michigan Avenue building offering sweeping views of the city and Lake Michigan, including a tilting glass feature. Travelers go for the panoramic skyline vistas.

  9. Wrigley Field

    stadium · 4.7 rating

    Historic home of the Chicago Cubs, built in 1914, with more than a century of baseball history.

  10. Field Museum

    museum · 4.5 rating · $27

    One of the world's premier natural history museums, home to Sue the T. rex and vast collections spanning anthropology, geology, and biology. A must-see cultural institution on Chicago's Museum Campus.

  11. Chicago Architecture Center

    museum · 4.7 rating

    Exhibits, models, and expert-led tours introduce Chicago’s celebrated architecture from a riverfront base on East Wacker Drive.

  12. Montrose Beach

    beach · 4.7 rating

    Chicago’s broadest popular beach pairs swimming and volleyball with bird habitat, water-sport access, and ample lakefront space.

  13. The Second City

    attraction · 4.6 rating

    A legendary improvisational comedy theater in Old Town that launched the careers of countless comedians and Saturday Night Live stars. Travelers come for live sketch and improv shows in an intimate setting.

  14. Chicago Riverwalk

    attraction · 4.6 rating

    A pedestrian promenade along the Chicago River lined with restaurants, bars, and public spaces. Travelers stroll, dine, and enjoy river and skyline views.

  15. North Avenue Beach

    beach · 4.6 rating

    A lively Lake Michigan beach known for its skyline panorama, ship-shaped beach house, volleyball, and summer water activities.

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