{"id":1109,"date":"2023-12-08T03:48:26","date_gmt":"2023-12-08T03:48:26","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/alltripsstore.com\/29-of-the-best-things-to-do-in-chicago\/"},"modified":"2023-12-08T03:48:26","modified_gmt":"2023-12-08T03:48:26","slug":"29-of-the-best-things-to-do-in-chicago","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/alltripsstore.com\/ar\/29-of-the-best-things-to-do-in-chicago\/","title":{"rendered":"29 of the Best Things to do in Chicago"},"content":{"rendered":"
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There are few cities more spectacular than Chicago. Nestled on the banks of Lake Michigan, Chicago has everything from sandy beaches and luxury shopping districts to vibrant cultural scenes and art galleries and there is something for everyone. <\/p>\n

The Windy City is a fabulous year-round destination for those who crave art, culture, adventure, world-class restaurants, and hotels. From fancy shops like Tiffany & Company on Michigan Avenue to quiet neighborhoods like Andersonville and Hyde Park, the city of Chicago offers an unequaled travel experience. With so much to see and do in Chicago, it\u2019s hard to fit it all in one trip! Here are my favorite things to do in Chicago, including where to eat!<\/p>\n

Best Things to Do in Chicago<\/h2>\n
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Chicago is a very walkable city, especially in downtown areas like the Loop, River North, and along the Magnificent Mile. Chicago is bike-friendly, with many bike lanes and trails, especially along the Lakefront Trail. The city\u2019s bike-sharing program, Divvy, offers an easy and affordable way to rent a bike for short trips. To get downtown from the airport, book a private airport transfer <\/p>\n

Part One \u2013 Things to Do in Downtown \/ Waterfront<\/h2>\n

Looking for more information on Chicago? Read our article about the Best Places to Stay in Chicago. <\/p>\n

1. The Bean \u2013 Millennium Park and the Cloud Gate<\/h2>\n
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The Bean at Millennium Park is perhaps one of the most iconic sculptures in Chicago, or at least that\u2019s how most visitors describe it. It\u2019s actually named the \u201cCloud Gate\u201d, created by the world-famous sculptor Anish Kapoor. Visit the beautiful Millennium Park to take advantage of a wonderful photo op with The Bean. Its gleaming mirrored finish makes a beautiful backdrop as it seems to distort the city\u2019s skyline creatively.<\/p>\n

Other Things to Do at Millennium Park<\/h3>\n
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Millennium Park isn\u2019t just about seeing Cloud Gate, there are plenty of things to do to make it a day out. In winter, enjoy ice skating at the McCormick Tribune Ice Rink and in the warmer months, the rink is transformed into a rock-climbing wall.<\/p>\n

While at Millennium Park, you can\u2019t miss the magnificent Crown Fountain and its two 50-foot glass towers bordering the reflecting pool. The Crown Fountain towers showcase video projections of Chicago faces and life. You\u2019ll also find rotating public art installations in the park. <\/p>\n

Keep an eye out for two designs by architect Frank Gehry. Jay Pritzker Pavilion is a state-of-the-art outdoor concert venue hosts a variety of music events, including the Grant Park Music Festival, free concerts, and movie screenings in the summer. The BP Pedestrian Bridge is a winding bridge that provides a unique pedestrian route from Millennium Park to Maggie Daley Park and offers great views of the park and the city.<\/p>\n

Book this Segway tour \u2013 <\/strong>perfect for first-time visitors to Chicago, where you\u2019ll visit Millennium Park, Grand Park, and the famous Buckingham Fountain. <\/p>\n

2. Stroll the Chicago Riverwalk<\/h2>\n
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Take a stroll along the Chicago River downtown on the Chicago Riverwalk. The Chicago Riverwalk is a 1.25-mile-long path that runs through downtown Chicago. There are shopping, dining, and museums along the path. Plus, it is easy to catch a boat tour from the Riverwalk to take in the sites in comfort. <\/p>\n

Start your day with this Yoga Riverwalk Tour. This Yoga-inspired walking tour combines sightseeing and wellness. Follow your guide along the Chicago River Walk while hearing about its history and famous architecture, all while stretching and doing meditative exercises. <\/p>\n

3. Chicago Architecture River Cruises<\/h2>\n
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One of the best things to do in Chicago is to tour the city on the Chicago River. The Chicago Architecture River Cruise, also included with the CityPASS, is one of the top attractions in the city. Chicago, known for its rich architectural history, is home to some of the world\u2019s most iconic buildings and world-famous architects. You can book it in advance here. <\/p>\n

4. Chicago River Boat Tour<\/h2>\n
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If the architectural history of downtown Chicago isn\u2019t your thing, you can book a shorter 45-minute boat tour of the Chicago River. This family-friendly boat tour with live commentary along the Chicago River is tailored to entertain the whole family and shorter to keep the kid\u2019s attention. <\/p>\n

If you are looking for more things to do in Chicago with kids, the Chicago Children\u2019s\u00a0Museum is another fun to for the kids. A riverboat tour is a great way to take in the skyline and the city\u2019s architecture while enjoying a pleasant trip through Chicago. <\/p>\n

5. SkyDeck Chicago at Willis Tower<\/h2>\n
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To get unparalleled views of the Chicago skyline, suburbs, and Lake Michigan, visit the Skydeck Chicago perched high atop the Willis Tower (formerly known as Sears Tower). <\/p>\n

If you\u2019re feeling adventurous, hang over the city on the ledge, a glass enclosure with floor-to-ceiling windows and a transparent floor. You\u2019ll feel like you\u2019re floating 103 floors above it all. Visiting the iconic Willis Tower will teach you about Chicago\u2019s history and architecture. <\/p>\n

Make sure to download the Willis Tower Skydeck Chicago Mobile App to show famous Chicago Landmarks. The Skydeck Pass gives you express entry to The Ledge, Free Wifi, and Theater presentation. <\/p>\n

6. Art Institute of Chicago<\/h2>\n
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In the center of Grant Park, on the famous Michigan Avenue, The Art Institute of Chicago is an architectural masterpiece is easily accessible with the Chicago CityPASS. Just walk between the two lion statues and step into a fantastic collection of art worldwide. <\/p>\n

The Art Institute of Chicago was voted the #1 Museum in the World by Trip Advisor, and it\u2019s easy to see why when you gaze at masterpieces by Chagall, Matisse, and Georgia O\u2019Keefe. Located in the Loop community of Chicago\u2019s Central Business District, there are plenty of things to see in this area.<\/p>\n

Get your skip-the-line tickets for the Art Institute in advance, where you\u2019ll enter 30 minutes before the museum opens to meet your guide and see iconic pieces by Picasso, Salvador Dali, and Andy Warhol. The Art Institute of Chicago has one of the world\u2019s greatest collections of impressionist art. You can book with peace of mind for a full refund should you cancel within 24 hours of the activity. <\/p>\n

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Best Money Saving Tip for Chicago<\/h3>\n

On our last visit, we took advantage of CityPASS to get VIP access to some of the city\u2019s most famous landmarks (and saved a lot of money)! <\/p>\n