Deep-dish pizza, Chicago-style hot dogs, and the Willis Tower are just some of the most iconic things about Chicago - but this is not all. Birthplace of Electric Chicago Blues, home to the Chicago Bulls, jaw-dropping architecture, vibrant music scene, amazing food, and rich history make Chicago a city like no other.
Come here for a short visit and you will fall in love with this city. In this guide, we will explore the best things to do in Chicago.
- Take A Boat Tour & Explore Chicago Architecture
- Visit The Bean At Millenium Park
- Check Out Buckingham Fountain
- Take The Chicago Riverwalk
- Visit Navy Pier
- See Chicago From Above the Skydeck At Willis Tower
- Experience the Thrill: Catch a Chicago Bulls Game Live
- Catch the Summer Vibe: Experience a Cubs Game at Wrigley Field!
- Visit Lincoln Park Zoo
- Don’t Leave Without Trying Some Of The Most Famous Chicago Foods
- Visit The Biggest Starbucks In The World
- Spend a Relaxing Evening at Noyane Rooftop Bar
- More Things To Do In Chicago
Take A Boat Tour & Explore Chicago Architecture
Take a boat tour to explore Chicago architecture. This is perhaps the best way to explore the city's architecture. Most boat tours sail through the river's Main Branch, North Branch, and South Branch getting you around in places like Willis Tower, Wrigley Building, Tribune Tower, and more.
Here is a Full Breakdown of the Top 12 Sites to Visit in Chicago:
- The Rookery Building
- Chicago Cultural Center
- Wrigley Building
- Tribune Tower
- Willis Tower
- Robie House
- TheMART
- Marina City
- 875 N. Michigan Ave.
- One Illinois Center
- Aqua Tower
- The St. Regis
Visit The Bean At Millenium Park
Visiting Cloud Gate, commonly known as The Bean, is a must when in Millennium Park, as its reflective surface creates stunning views of the skyline and some funky photos to post on Instagram.
This iconic sculpture not only serves as a beautiful photo op but also invites visitors to interact with their surroundings in a unique way. While you're here, you can also explore Millennium Park, where you can find art installations and beautiful landscapes that create an inspiring atmosphere for visitors and locals alike.
Fun Fact: The Bean is made of 168 stainless steel plates, seamlessly welded together, and it weighs around 110 tons!
Check Out Buckingham Fountain
Another very popular destination in Chicago is Buckingham Fountain. The fountain is one of the largest in the world and is modeled after the Latona Fountain at the Palace of Versailles in France.
While in operation, Buckingham Fountain produces a major water display for 20 minutes every hour, featuring a central jet that shoots water up to 150 feet into the air. Major displays start daily at 9:00 a.m. and occur hourly, with a stunning light and music show beginning at dusk, culminating with the final display at 10:35 p.m. each evening.
Take The Chicago Riverwalk
The Chicago Riverwalk offers a picturesque setting for a stroll, lined with scenic views, vibrant cafes, and public art installations. The Riverwalk was designed to be a public space for recreation and relaxation, and it stretches for over a mile along the Chicago River, connecting several neighborhoods and attractions.
Navy Pier sits on top of the list when it comes to things to do in Chicago. It’s free and open to the public year-round. Stretching into Lake Michigan, this vibrant hub comes alive in the summer with fireworks, live music, and a variety of attractions like the iconic Centennial Wheel and the immersive FlyOver Chicago experience.
While you’re here, enjoy deep-dish pizza at Navy Pier, a true Chicago classic!
Even in fall and winter, the pier offers engaging events and activities for all ages, from the Chicago Children’s Museum to thrilling boat cruises on the lake.
See Chicago From Above the Skydeck At Willis Tower
If you had to pick just one of the many things to see and do in Chicago, the Skydeck at Willis Tower is it. Offering breathtaking panoramic views from 1,353 feet above the ground, this iconic attraction lets you experience the city like never before, with stunning vistas that stretch for miles in every direction.
The Skydeck features "The Ledge," a glass balcony that extends four feet outside the building, allowing visitors to step out and look straight down at the bustling streets below!
Experience the Thrill: Catch a Chicago Bulls Game Live
Become a Chicagoan for the night by experiencing a Chicago Bulls game, where the electrifying atmosphere of the United Center and the passionate fans create an unforgettable experience.
Whether you’re cheering for star players or enjoying the halftime entertainment, the excitement is palpable as you immerse yourself in the heart of Chicago's basketball culture.
Fun Fact: The Chicago Bulls were the first NBA team to win six championships in eight years, thanks to the legendary Michael Jordan and coach Phil Jackson in the 1990s!
Catch the Summer Vibe: Experience a Cubs Game at Wrigley Field!
Even if you're not a big sports fan, you must be here for the vibe at a Cubs game in Wrigley Field, one of the top things to do in Chicago. The electric atmosphere, buzzing with enthusiastic fans and the aroma of delicious ballpark snacks, creates a unique experience that goes beyond just the game. Whether you're enjoying the thrill of a home run or chatting with fellow supporters, a day at Wrigley Field is a quintessential part of the Chicago experience.
Visit Lincoln Park Zoo
Among the Chicago things to do and see, visiting Lincoln Park Zoo stands out as a captivating experience.
The zoo's specially designed animal exhibits are home to nearly 200 unique species from around the world, including critically endangered eastern black rhinoceroses and the once-thought-to-be-extinct Jamaican iguanas.
With its beautifully landscaped grounds and engaging displays, the zoo is perfect for families, couples, or solo explorers looking for a refreshing escape.
Don’t Leave Without Trying Some Of The Most Famous Chicago Foods
Because Chicago is very diverse you will find cuisines from around the world. Make sure not to miss out on these very iconic Chicago famous foods:
Chicago-Style Hot Dog
A true Chicago classic, the Chicago-style hot dog is a must-try. Served on a poppy seed bun and topped with mustard, onions, relish, a pickle spear, tomato slices, and sport peppers—never ketchup—this iconic dish embodies the city’s culinary pride.
Garrett Mix Popcorn
Garrett Mix popcorn combines the best of both worlds: the sweet, buttery flavor of caramel popcorn and the savory crunch of cheese popcorn. This addictive blend is a local favorite, perfect for snacking while exploring the city or as a delicious souvenir.
Deep Dish Pizza
Deep dish pizza is perhaps the most famous Chicago food, known for its thick, buttery crust and generous layers of cheese and toppings. Baked in a deep pan, it’s more like a savory pie, with rich tomato sauce crowning the creation—a hearty meal to savor!
Steakhouse Fare
Chicago is renowned for its top-notch steakhouses, where you can indulge in mouthwatering cuts of beef. From juicy ribeyes to perfectly cooked filets, the city's steakhouses offer an unparalleled dining experience that reflects its rich culinary heritage.
The Original Rainbow Cone
The Original Rainbow Cone is a unique and colorful ice cream treat that features layers of five different flavors: chocolate, strawberry, Palmer House (vanilla with cherries and walnuts), pistachio, and orange sherbet. A beloved summertime staple, it’s the perfect way to cool off while enjoying a taste of Chicago history.
Visit The Biggest Starbucks In The World
Among the top things to do in Chicago, visiting the Starbucks Reserve Roastery is a unique experience that every coffee lover should not miss. Located at 646 North Michigan Avenue, this stunning five-story facility spans 35,000 square feet, making it the largest Starbucks in the world, according to the World Record Academy.
While Starbucks originated in Seattle, you'll need to head to Chicago to immerse yourself in this expansive coffee paradise, which showcases rare Reserve coffees and innovative brewing methods.
The Roastery features beautifully designed spaces, including an on-site bakery, a bar for handcrafted cocktails, and immersive coffee experiences that engage all your senses. With its impressive scale and variety of offerings, this location sets itself apart from other Starbucks locations, including previous record holders in Tokyo and Shanghai.
Fun Fact: The Roastery includes a special "coffee experience" where visitors can learn about the roasting process and even sample exclusive blends that are unavailable elsewhere!
Spend a Relaxing Evening at Noyane Rooftop Bar
For a relaxing evening in Chicago, visit Noyane Rooftop Bar atop the Conrad Chicago. While it may not match the views of LondonHouse, Noyane offers a cozy ambiance with modern furnishings and a fire pit, perfect for unwinding.
The extensive drink menu features a variety of cocktails and wines, while the Japanese-Peruvian dishes are a must-try. Whether you're with friends or on a date, Noyane provides a memorable spot to enjoy the city.
More Things To Do In Chicago
We did warn you! Visit this city once and you will fall in love with it. If you’re one of the many people considering moving to Chicago and looking for movers, Collins Family Movers is here to save the day! Also, read our pros and cons of living in Chicago for a more detailed view of Chicago. Back to the best things to do in Chicago!
Visit Chicago Cultural Center: A Hub of Art and History
Located at the corner of Michigan Avenue and Randolph Street, the Chicago Cultural Center is a stunning neoclassical landmark featuring the largest Tiffany stained-glass dome in the world.
This vibrant venue hosts a wide array of free events, including concerts, theater productions, art exhibitions, and family activities. It is a must-visit for anyone looking to immerse themselves in the city’s rich cultural scene.
Museum Campus
Walking south from the fountain, you'll arrive at Chicago's Museum Campus, a picturesque area along Lake Michigan that houses three of the city’s most popular museums. Start your journey at the Field Museum, where you can explore thousands of natural history artifacts, including the largest dinosaur ever discovered. This beautiful green space is perfect for a day of learning and exploration.
Shedd Aquarium: Dive into Aquatic Wonders
Adjacent to the Field Museum, the Shedd Aquarium is one of the largest aquariums in the world, home to over 32,000 aquatic creatures. From majestic beluga whales and playful dolphins to fascinating stingrays and sharks, visitors can enjoy an unforgettable journey beneath the waves. It’s a perfect destination for families and marine enthusiasts alike!
Explore the Cosmos at Adler Planetarium
Just beyond the Shedd Aquarium is the Adler Planetarium, the first planetarium in the Western Hemisphere. Opened in 1930, it serves as a laboratory and classroom for all things celestial. Visitors can engage with interactive exhibits, enjoy live planetarium shows, and explore world-class collections, making it a fantastic stop for aspiring astronomers.
You Gotta Love The Blues
No visit to Chicago would be complete without experiencing its legendary music scene, and Buddy Guy’s Legends is a must-stop for blues lovers. Known for its live music every night, this club was founded by the Grammy-winning guitarist himself and features free acoustic shows during lunch and dinner. Immerse yourself in the soulful sounds that have made Chicago the home of blues.
