Things to Do in Chicago
Plan your days in Chicago, your way
Morning coffee at Intelligentsia in Logan Square, the neighborhood still waking around you, the baristas serious about their craft. Walk the Lakefront Trail to the Museum Campus, the Shedd Aquarium's rotunda worth the entry, the lake on three sides. Lunch at Publican Quality Meats, a sandwich and a pickle plate at the counter. Afternoon in Wicker Park, browsing the bookstores and vintage shops without urgency, the people-watching its own entertainment. Dinner at Girl & the Goat, the vegetable dishes as celebrated as the meat, the atmosphere lively but not loud. One perfect view from the Signature Lounge, one great meal, one neighborhood to call yours for the night.
Top attractions and places to eat in Chicago
Millennium Park
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.
park · 4.7 rating
The Art Institute of Chicago
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'.
museum · 4.8 rating · $25
United Center
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.
attraction · 4.7 rating
Cloud Gate
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.
monument · 4.7 rating
Willis Tower
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.
landmark · 4.3 rating
Pequod's Pizza
Pizzeria known for cast-iron pan pizza with a caramelized cheese crust.
restaurant · 4.4 rating
The Magnificent Mile
A famous stretch of Michigan Avenue lined with flagship stores, hotels, and landmarks. Travelers go for upscale shopping, dining, and iconic urban strolling.
neighborhood · 4.5 rating
Gene’s & Jude's
Hot dog stand known for its minimalist Chicago-style Depression Dog and fresh-cut fries.
restaurant · 4.7 rating
Lou Malnati's Pizzeria
Longtime Chicago deep-dish pizza chain known for its buttery crust and fresh mozzarella.
restaurant · 4.4 rating
Portillo's Chicago – Canal and Taylor
Chicago chain known for its Chicago-style hot dogs, Italian beef sandwiches, and chocolate cake.
restaurant · 4.2 rating
Griffin Museum of Science and Industry
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.
museum · 4.6 rating
360 CHICAGO
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.
viewpoint · 4.5 rating · $30
Wrigley Field
Historic home of the Chicago Cubs, built in 1914, with more than a century of baseball history.
stadium · 4.7 rating
Field Museum
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.
museum · 4.5 rating · $27
Superdawg Drive-In
Classic drive-in known for its Chicago-style hot dogs served in a distinctive box.
restaurant · 4.5 rating