Chicago is a vibrant city with a rich history and plenty of attractions to explore. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned local, there's always something new to discover. But if you are first time in Chicago there are things you must do and places you must see. From iconic landmarks like the Willis Tower and Navy Pier to hidden gems like the Lurie Garden, our ultimate guide has you covered with the best things to do in Chicago.
Visit the Skydeck at Willis Tower
This iconic landmark, formerly known as Sears Tower, offers stunning views of the city from 1,353 feet above ground. It held the title of the tallest building in the world for 25 years after its completion in 1973 until it was surpassed by the Petronas Towers in Kuala Lumpur in 1998. It remains one of the most famous landmarks in Chicago and a symbol of the city's architectural prowess. The Willis Tower stands at a height of 1,450 feet (442 meters) and has 110 floors. It is a true marvel of engineering and was designed by architect Bruce Graham and structural engineer Fazlur Rahman Khan.
The Skydeck, located on the 103rd floor of the Willis Tower, offers breathtaking views of the city and its surroundings. Step out onto the glass ledge for a thrilling experience and photo opportunity. It is a good starting point to explore Chicago since you will get the idea how big and beautiful this city really is. On a clear day, the Skydeck provides stunning 360-degree views that stretch across Lake Michigan and encompass the city's skyline, neighborhoods, and even neighboring states.
The Willis Tower's Skydeck is a popular tourist attraction, drawing millions of visitors each year. Due to its popularity, it's recommended to plan your visit in advance to avoid long queues. So be sure to book your tickets in advance.
Take a stroll along the Chicago Riverwalk
The Chicago Riverwalk is a picturesque promenade along the Chicago River that stretches for 1.25 miles (2 kilometers) in downtown Chicago. It offers a vibrant and scenic urban experience, with beautiful views of the river, stunning architecture, outdoor cafes, and recreational activities. The Riverwalk consists of several distinct sections, each with its own unique atmosphere and offerings. These sections include The Marina Plaza, The Cove, The River Theater, The Water Plaza, The Jetty, and The Boardwalk. As you walk along the Riverwalk, you'll find a variety of cafes, bars, and restaurants with outdoor seating. It's a great opportunity to enjoy a meal or a drink while taking in the scenic views and watching boats sail by.
The Riverwalk is a hub for boat tours that explore the Chicago River. You can join an architecture boat tour, which provides a fascinating narrated journey through the city's renowned architecture and history. It's a fantastic way to learn about Chicago's iconic buildings from a unique perspective. You can also rent kayaks or paddleboards to explore the river on your own, or simply sit on one of the benches and watch people go by. Additionally, you'll find areas for fishing, cycling, and even yoga classes during the summer months.
The Riverwalk is beautifully illuminated at night, with colorful lights reflecting on the water and highlighting the surrounding architecture. A nighttime stroll offers a different ambiance and showcases the city's skyline in a captivating way.
Explore Millennium Park
Millennium Park is a vibrant public park located in the heart of downtown Chicago. It spans 24.5 acres (10 hectares) and offers a variety of attractions, art installations, and recreational spaces.
One of the most iconic features of Millennium Park is the Cloud Gate sculpture, colloquially known as "The Bean." Designed by artist Anish Kapoor, this massive stainless steel sculpture reflects the city's skyline and the park's surroundings. Visitors love taking photos with its distorted reflections and exploring the unique perspectives it offers.
After taking the photo with “The Bean” take a stroll through the Lurie Garden. Situated within Millennium Park, Lurie Garden is a beautifully landscaped area that showcases a variety of native plants and flowers. It offers a serene oasis in the midst of the city, with winding pathways, seating areas, and a stunning view of the Chicago skyline.
Next go to the Crown Fountain which is an interactive sculpture designed by artist Jaume Plensa. It consists of two glass block towers that display digital videos of Chicago residents' faces. Visitors can enjoy wading in the shallow reflecting pool at the base of the towers, and during the summer months, the faces displayed on the towers also appear to spout water.
If you want to sit down for a while and rest try to catch a free concert or movie at the Jay Pritzker Pavilion. The Jay Pritzker Pavilion is an outdoor concert venue designed by architect Frank Gehry. It hosts a range of performances, including classical music concerts, outdoor movie screenings, and cultural festivals. The distinctive design features curved stainless steel ribbons and a state-of-the-art sound system.
With so much to see and do, Millennium Park is a great way to spend a day in Chicago without spending a dime.
Explore the Art Institute of Chicago
The Art Institute of Chicago is one of the oldest and largest art museums in the United States, with a collection that spans over 5,000 years of human creativity. From ancient artifacts to contemporary works, the museum has something for everyone. The museum's collection is extensive and diverse, encompassing more than 300,000 artworks. Explore masterpieces by artists like Claude Monet, Vincent van Gogh, Pierre-Auguste Renoir, and Georges Seurat. Discover iconic works by American artists such as Grant Wood's "American Gothic," Edward Hopper's "Nighthawks," and Georgia O'Keeffe's paintings. View artworks by Pablo Picasso, Henri Matisse, Jackson Pollock, Andy Warhol, and other prominent modern and contemporary artists. The museum also offers a variety of tours and programs for visitors of all ages.
Take a stroll along the Lakefront Trail
The Lakefront Trail is a 18.5-mile path that runs along Lake Michigan, offering stunning views of the city skyline and the water. Whether you're walking, jogging, or biking, the trail is a great way to get some exercise and take in the sights. Along the way, you'll pass by some of Chicago's most iconic landmarks, including Navy Pier and the Museum of Science and Industry. And best of all, it's completely free!
Head to Navy Pier
Navy Pier is a popular tourist destination and entertainment hub located on the shoreline of Lake Michigan in Chicago. First take a ride on the iconic Ferris wheel, also known as the Centennial Wheel. It offers stunning views of the city skyline and Lake Michigan. After that you can go to Chicago Children's Museum. It is a perfect place for families. The Chicago Children's Museum provides interactive exhibits and activities designed to engage and educate kids of all ages. You can also enjoy a performance by the acclaimed Chicago Shakespeare Theater, known for its innovative productions and diverse repertoire.
Navy Pier is a hub for boat tours and sightseeing cruises that allow you to explore Lake Michigan and the Chicago River. You can choose from architecture cruises, fireworks cruises, or leisurely boat rides to admire the city's skyline and landmarks from a unique perspective.