Chicago, United States

A Great Lakes city of bold architecture, deep-dish pizza, lakefront parks, and jazz.

🏛️ Sights & Attractions in Chicago

Millennium Park — Millennium Park is a public park in the Loop community area of Chicago, Illinois, United States, operated by the Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE). The park, opened in July 2004, is a prominent civic center near the city's Lake Michigan shoreline that covers a 24.5-acre (9.9 ha) section of northwestern Grant Park. Featuring a variety of public art, outdoor spaces and venues, the park is bounded by Michigan Avenue, Randolph Street, Columbus Drive and East Monroe Drive. In 2017, Millennium Park was the top tourist destination in Chicago and in the Midwest, and placed among the top ten in the United States with 25 million annual visitors.
Willis Tower Skydeck — The Willis Tower, formerly and still commonly referred to as the Sears Tower, is a 110-story, 1,451-foot (442.3 m) skyscraper in the Loop of Chicago, Illinois, United States. Designed by architect Bruce Graham and engineer Fazlur Rahman Khan of Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM), it opened in 1973 as the world's tallest building, a title that it held for nearly 25 years. It is the third-tallest building in the Western Hemisphere, as well as the 26th-tallest in the world. Each year, more than 1.7 million people visit the Skydeck, the highest observation deck in the United States, making it one of Chicago's most popular tourist destinations. Due to its height and location, the tower is visible from a great distance. The building has appeared in numerous films and television shows set in Chicago.
Navy Pier — Navy Pier is a 3,300-foot-long (1,010 m) pier on the shoreline of Lake Michigan, located in the Streeterville neighborhood of the Near North Side community area in Chicago, Illinois, United States. The pier encompasses over 50 acres (20 ha) of shops, restaurants, live theaters, family attractions, parks, gardens, and exhibition facilities. Navy Pier is one of the top destinations in the Midwestern United States, drawing over nine million visitors annually. It is one of the most visited attractions in the Midwestern United States, and is Chicago's second most visited tourist attraction.
Art Institute of Chicago — The Art Institute of Chicago is a private, nonprofit art museum in Grant Park, Chicago, Illinois, United States.
Cloud Gate — is a public sculpture by artist Anish Kapoor that is the centerpiece of Grainger Plaza at Millennium Park in the Loop community area of Chicago, Illinois, United States. Constructed between 2004 and 2006, the sculpture is nicknamed "The Bean" because of its shape, a na
Shedd Aquarium — Shedd Aquarium is a public aquarium in Chicago, Illinois, United States. It is one of the oldest continually operating non-governmental aquariums in the U.S.
Field Museum — The Field Museum of Natural History is a private–public natural history museum in Chicago, Illinois, and is one of the largest such museums in the world. The museum is popular for the size and quality of its educational and scientific programs, as well as its extensive scientific specimen and artifact collections.
Wrigley Field — is a ballpark on the North Side of Chicago, Illinois, United States. It is the home ballpark of Major League Baseball's Chicago Cubs, one of the city's two MLB franchises. It first opened in 1914 as Weeghman Park for Charles Weeghman's Chicago Whales of the Federal
Lincoln Park Zoo — Lincoln Park Zoo, also known as Lincoln Park Zoological Gardens, is a 35-acre (14 ha) zoo in Lincoln Park in Chicago, Illinois. The zoo was founded in 1868 and is one of the oldest zoos in the United States. It is also one of a small number of zoos to offer free admission. The zoo is an accredited member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA). In 2019 it also became an accredited arboretum.
Museum of Science and Industry — The Museum of Science and Industry is the largest science museum in the Western Hemisphere, housed in the 1893 Palace of Fine Arts in Hyde Park. Interactive exhibits include a WWII submarine, a coal mine, a 40-foot tornado, and a Boeing 727.
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🥾 Trails & Hikes in Chicago

Lakefront Trail — The Chicago Lakefront Trail is an 18-mile paved path along Lake Michigan from Hollywood Avenue to 71st Street, passing beaches, parks, museums, and the skyline, one of the best urban bike trails in the US.
Chicago Riverwalk — Walk the 1.25-mile Chicago Riverwalk along the south bank of the Chicago River from Lake Shore Drive to Lake Street, passing cafes, bars, public art, and boat launches with views of the skyline.
Lincoln Park loop — Walk the loop through Lincoln Park, Chicago's largest park at 1,200 acres, with the zoo, conservatory, Nature Boardwalk, and North Pond, along the lakefront from North Avenue to Diversey.
Burnham Harbor walk — Walk around Burnham Harbor near Soldier Field, with views of the harbor, Museum Campus, and the skyline, a pleasant waterfront loop popular with joggers.
Museum Campus stroll — Walk the Museum Campus, a 57-acre lakefront park connecting the Field Museum, Shedd Aquarium, and Adler Planetarium, with views of the lake and the Chicago skyline.
North Avenue Beach — Walk or bike along North Avenue Beach, one of Chicago's most popular beaches, with a beach house, volleyball courts, and views of the skyline and Navy Pier.
Jackson Park trail — Walk the trails of Jackson Park, a 500-acre park on the South Side designed by Frederick Law Olmsted for the 1893 World's Columbian Exposition, with the Garden of the Phoenix and Wooded Island.
Northerly Island loop — Walk the loop around Northerly Island, a 91-acre peninsula that was Chicago's first airport, now a nature preserve with prairie, trails, and views of the skyline and Lake Michigan.
Bloomingdale Trail — The Bloomingdale Trail (The 606) is a 2.7-mile elevated rail-trail through Logan Square, Humboldt Park, Wicker Park, and Bucktown, with access parks, public art, and community gardens, Chicago's version of the High Line.
Montrose Point Bird Sanctuary — Walk the Montrose Point Bird Sanctuary, a 13-acre nature preserve on the lakefront that is one of the best birdwatching spots in the Midwest, with over 300 species recorded during migration.
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🏖️ Beaches in Chicago

Beach in Chicago — a local beach in Chicago in the Near North Side area with room to spread out, gentle waves, and sunset views along the shore.
Arthur Ashe Beach — Arthur Ashe Beach is a South Side lakefront beach in the South Shore neighborhood, with a beach house, sports courts, and views of the skyline, named after the tennis legend.
Rainbow Beach — Rainbow Beach is a South Side beach in the South Shore neighborhood, with a beach house, swimming area, and views of the lake, popular with local families.
Margaret Burroughs Beach — Margaret Burroughs Beach, a sandy stretch in Chicago in the Douglas area known for its relaxed atmosphere and clear water for swimming.
South Shore Beach — South Shore Beach, a laid-back beach in Chicago in the South Shore area with warm sand, shallow entry, and nearby casual food options.
Montrose Beach — Montrose Beach, a waterfront escape in Chicago in the Lake View Township area good for swimming, beach walks, and a quiet break from the city.
Humboldt Beach — Humboldt Beach, a waterfront escape in Chicago in the West Town area good for swimming, beach walks, and a quiet break from the city.
Ardmore Hollywood (Osterman) Beach — Ardmore Hollywood (Osterman) Beach, a laid-back beach in Chicago in the Lake View Township area with warm sand, shallow entry, and nearby casual food options.
Montrose Dog Beach — A waterfront area in Chicago, in the Lake View Township area with open sea views and a mix of sand and rock along the shore.
No Access in Chicago — A scenic stretch of coastline near Lake View Township in Chicago, with rocky and sandy sections good for walking and exploring.
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🍽️ Restaurants in Chicago

Alinea — Alinea is a three-Michelin-star restaurant in Lincoln Park by chef Grant Achatz, a pioneer of molecular gastronomy, offering a multi-course tasting menu that is one of the most acclaimed dining experiences in the world.
Lou Malnatis — Lou Malnati's Pizzeria is a Chicago deep-dish pizza institution since 1971, with locations across the city, serving butter-crust deep-dish pizza with chunky tomato sauce and mozzarella cheese.
Gibsons Bar — Gibsons Bar & Steakhouse in the Gold Coast is a classic Chicago steakhouse, known for its massive portions, aged steaks, and old-school atmosphere, with a popular bar scene.
Girl and the Goat — Girl and the Goat is a West Loop restaurant by Top Chef winner Stephanie Izard, serving bold, global-inspired dishes in a lively, open-kitchen setting, one of Chicago's most popular restaurants.
Purple Pig — The Purple Pig is a Mediterranean-inspired restaurant on the Magnificent Mile, serving small plates of charcuterie, cheeses, and pork dishes with a wine-focused bar, a Michelin Bib Gourmand winner.
Pequods Pizza — Pequods Pizza is a legendary deep-dish pizza restaurant in Lincoln Park, known for its caramelized cheese crust that forms around the edge of the pan, a local favorite.
Portillos — Portillo's is a Chicago fast-casual chain famous for its Italian beef sandwiches, Chicago dogs, and chocolate cake, with locations across the city, the original is in Villa Park.
Smoque BBQ — Smoque BBQ is a popular Texas-style barbecue restaurant in Irving Park, known for its brisket, pulled pork, ribs, and mac and cheese, with lines out the door at lunch.
The Publican — The Publican is a West Loop restaurant focused on pork, oysters, and beer, with a communal table, an extensive beer list, and a Michelin Bib Gourmand, one of Chicago's most beloved restaurants.
Next Restaurant — Next Restaurant is a West Loop restaurant by Grant Achatz that changes its entire menu every three months, exploring different cuisines and eras, with tickets sold in advance.
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🍸 Bars & Nightlife in Chicago

The Aviary — The Aviary is a Michelin-starred cocktail bar by Grant Achatz in the West Loop, with innovative drinks served in custom glassware, a kitchen-style bar, and a reservation-only speakeasy called The Office downstairs.
Three Dots and a Dash — Three Dots and a Dash is a tiki bar in River North entered through a speakeasy-style alley, with over 100 rums, elaborate tiki cocktails, and a tropical atmosphere, one of Chicago's most popular bars.
The Violet Hour — The Violet Hour is a pioneering craft cocktail bar in Wicker Park, with a luxurious, no-phones interior, classic and creative cocktails, and a focus on hospitality, one of America's best cocktail bars.
Cindys Rooftop — Cindy's Rooftop is a rooftop bar atop the Chicago Athletic Association hotel on Michigan Avenue, with views of Millennium Park, the lake, and the skyline, serving seasonal cocktails and American cuisine.
Broken Shaker Chicago — Broken Shaker is a rooftop bar atop the Freehand Chicago hotel in River North, with craft cocktails, a pool, and views of the city, the Chicago branch of the Miami original.
The Berkshire Room — The Berkshire Room is a cocktail bar in River North's the Acme Hotel, with a focus on classic cocktails, a speakeasy atmosphere, and a "dealer's choice" menu where you describe your preferences.
Scofflaw — Scofflaw is a gin-focused cocktail bar in Logan Square, with over 100 gins, classic and creative cocktails, and a cozy, rustic interior with a patio, one of Chicago's best cocktail bars.
Lost Lake — Lost Lake is a tiki bar in Logan Square by the team behind Scofflaw, with elaborate tiki drinks, a tropical atmosphere, and a hidden speakeasy called the Drifter in the back.
Delilahs — Delilah's is a legendary whiskey bar in Lincoln Park since 1992, with over 700 whiskeys, punk and metal on the jukebox, and a gritty, rock-and-roll atmosphere.
The Empty Bottle — The Empty Bottle is a legendary live music venue and bar in Ukrainian Village, hosting indie, rock, and jazz bands since 1992, with cheap drinks and a gritty, authentic atmosphere.
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🎯 Activities & Tours in Chicago

Chicago Explorer Pass: 35+ Things To Do - Includes 360 CHICAGO — Access top Chicago attractions, tours and activities with Go City's Explorer Pass. Save on entry to your choice of up to seven top things to do. Hop-on a Big Bus tour for an introduction to the city, check out the panoramic views from the 103rd floor at SkyDeck Chicago or 94th fl
Flyover in Chicago — The Flyover experience takes 30 minutes from beginning to end. First, on-the-ground stories connect you with the spirit of the Windy City. Then, you’ll discover Chicago from a whole new perspective, as Flyover transports you over, around and through remarkable locations. You'll e
Chicago River 45-Minute Architecture Tour from Magnificent Mile — Experience Chicago's legendary architecture and the exceptional architects who created this ever-changing legacy for all to admire. This family-friendly introduction to the Windy City's rich history and architectural heritage features highlights from Wendella's full-length archit
Chicago Architecture River Cruise — Experience the stunning beauty of Chicago on a captivating cruise along the historic Chicago River. This architectural tour takes you down the main branch of the river, up the north branch to the East Bank Club, and then south past the iconic Willis Tower (Sears Tower) to the his
Original Chicago Architecture Interiors Tour: Dazzling Interiors — UPDATE 2024: Don't be fooled by the copycats out there offering shady copies of our award-winning tours for $1 cheaper! There's only one company that's exclusively offered interiors-themed tours in Chicago for more than a decade, and that's INSIDE CHICAGO WALKING TOURS. Our "Worl
Chicago's Chinatown Food and Walking Tour — Chicago's Chinatown: Few neighborhoods in America combine such delicious cuisine with fascinating history. Join Bobby’s Bike Hike & Food Tours, whose food tours have ranked Top 10 in America by USA Today & Top 20 in the world by Tripadvisor, for a day of interesting stories and s
Chicago in a Day Walking Tour: Food, History & Architecture — Immerse yourself in Chicago's rich history and vibrant culinary scene on this captivating walking tour. Discover the city's iconic architecture and Prohibition-era charm while indulging in delectable local cuisine. From deep-dish pizza to hidden gems, savor the flavors of Chicago
Chicago Architecture Center River Cruise aboard First Lady — The Chicago Architecture Center River Cruise aboard Chicago's First Lady has long been the gold standard among all Chicago tour experiences, and is the only Chicago architecture boat tour led by highly trained expert docents. On this 90-minute cruise, you will enjoy an overview o
360 CHICAGO Observation Deck Admission — The best views of Chicago can be yours at 360 Chicago Observation Deck! Perched 94 stories above the Windy City in the former John Hancock Building, 360 Chicago provides commanding views of Lake Michigan and Chicago’s towering skyscrapers. Located in the heart of downtown on Mich
Downtown Chicago Walking Pizza Tour — This tour is just a short walk through great Chicago neighborhoods starting near Navy Pier and the Magnificent Mile, and then heading into the Gold Coast & River North. Compare two American pizzas vs. two Italian pizzas to understand how pizza evolved as an immigrant food. Explor
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🏨 Hotels & Stays in Chicago

The Langham, Chicago — Luxury eco-certified hotel in Mies van der Rohe tower with Chuan Spa, Travelle restaurant, and river views.
Waldorf Astoria Chicago — Luxury hotel connected to a shopping center near Oak Street Beach with full-service spa and fine dining.
Four Seasons Hotel Chicago — Luxury hotel near Michigan Avenue with full-service spa, 24-hour health club, and lake views.
InterContinental Chicago Magnificent Mile by IHG — Historic luxury hotel renovated in 2023 near Water Tower Place with two restaurants and a steam room.
LondonHouse Chicago, Curio Collection by Hilton — Luxury hotel at the Chicago Riverwalk with LH Spa, two restaurants, and rooftop bar with river views.
Best Western Grant Park Hotel — Mid-range hotel across from Grant Park with free breakfast, indoor pool, and walking distance to Museum Campus.
The Godfrey Hotel Chicago — Upscale boutique hotel with rooftop lounge, fitness center, and modern rooms in River North near Magnificent Mile.
Freehand Chicago — Boutique hotel in a 1927 building with Broken Shaker bar, cafe, and shared plus private rooms near Water Tower Place.
Riu Plaza Chicago — Great care is taken to ensure guests experience comfort through top-notch services and amenities. Experience the wonders of Chicago (IL) with ease by utilizing the services provided at taxi.Effortlessly plan your daily activities and travel requirements with concierge service, luggage storage and sa...
HI Chicago Hostel — At the hostel, discerning guests can also enjoy on-site culinary facilities like shared kitchen tailored to their preferences....
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