Login
Facebook
YouTube
WhatsApp
Twitter
There are several places to visit in Chicago, Illinois, otherwise known as the “Windy City,” which is one of the most vibrant metropolises. It is also the third-largest city in the United States with its worldwide celebrated architecture and landmarks. Located along the shores of Lake Michigan’s iconic skyline, it sets the stage for a city brimming with diverse experiences. The windy city offers lively neighbourhoods with personality, fabulous food, and good nightlife with beautiful calm landscapes of the parks and architectural rivers.
10 Popular Places To Visit In Chicago
Explore the city of Illinois, from popular parks to historical landmarks, and experience the real Chicago.
1. Millennium Park
Photo: Ken Lund / Wikimedia Commons
Chicago’s Millennium Park is an urban gem among other places to visit in Chicago with landmark famous public art, architecture, and green spaces. The famous “Cloud Gate,” a reflective, mirror-like sculpture by artist Anish Kapoor, is often referred to as “The Bean.” It provides unique photo opportunities and fascinating reflections of the city skyline. There’s also the Jay Pritzker Pavilion, an open-air concert venue that’s modern and designed by Frank Gehry. The peaceful Lurie Garden is a 24.5-acre park and a great space for unwinding, taking pictures, or having outdoor events, especially during the summer.
Location: 201 E Randolph St, Chicago, IL
Top Experience: Cloud Gate, concerts, and art installations
Timings: 6 AM – 11 PM
Entry Fee: None
2. Art Institute Of Chicago
Photo: miketnorton / Wikimedia Commons
The Art Institute of Chicago is home to the world’s largest art collection, established in 1879. You can see masterpieces such as Grant Wood’s American Gothic and Georges Seurat’s A Sunday on La Grande Jatte. The museum offers art from many cultures and historical periods, thereby, both classic and modern art under one roof. You can explore the architecture of the Modern Wing by Renzo Piano, which is stunningly beautiful, offering vast, airy spaces for contemporary exhibits. The Art Institute also boasts a glorious outdoor garden that invites a relaxing promenade between exhibitions.
Location: 111 S Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL
Top Experience: Iconic artworks, themed exhibits
Timings: 10:30 AM – 5 PM
Entry Fee: $25 for adults (discounts available)
3. Navy Pier
Photo: Serge Melki / Wikimedia Commons
Navy Pier is an exciting entertainment spot, along with other places to visit in Chicago along the shores of Lake Michigan. Stretching over 3,000 feet, it has a mix of attractions that includes the Centennial Wheel, with breathtaking views of the skyline of Chicago and seasonal fireworks. Also, there are many dining options and boat tours available, as well as family-friendly activities like the Chicago Children’s Museum. It is a beautiful place for day and night visits with frequent festivals, music performances, and a scenic lakefront ideal for photographing and views of the lake.
Location: 600 E Grand Ave, Chicago, IL
Top Experience: Centennial Wheel, lakeside dining, boat rides
Timings: 10 AM – 8 PM
Entry Fee: None, except for activities
4. Willis Tower Skydeck
Photo: Zakarie Faibis / Wikimedia Commons
The Willis Tower Skydeck, originally the Sears Tower, still stands tall in its place today and is a most-visited landmark due to the Skydeck located at the 103rd level. People can stand 1,353 feet above the streets to feel exhilarated on “The Ledge,” a glass box that protrudes from the building and has one of the breathtaking views. During clear days, you can view four states bordering this city. One of the best views seen from on top is at this location, making it an attraction for any local and tourist in search of stunning views and a spectacular adventure.
Location: 233 S Wacker Dr, Chicago, IL
Top Experience: The Ledge, 360-degree city views
Timings: 9 AM – 10 PM
Entry Fee: $30 for adults (discounts available)
5. Museum Of Science And Industry
Photo: zooey / Wikimedia Commons
One of the biggest science museums around the world, the Museum of Science and Industry, makes an interactive journey through the places to visit in Chicago for science and technology. Such incredible attractions include the U-505, a German submarine used during World War II, and the immersive experience of “Coal Mine.” The interactive exhibits on space exploration, genetics, and robotics make it an educational as well as an entertaining visit for families and science enthusiasts. With lively interaction, this museum is focused on sparking curiosity in any visitor of any age.
Location: S Lake Shore Dr, Chicago, IL
Top Experience: U-505 Submarine, interactive science exhibits
Timings: 9:30 AM – 4 PM
Entry Fee: $21.95 for adults (discounts available)
6. Lincoln Park Zoo
Photo: Daniel X. O’Neil / Wikimedia Commons
One of the nation’s oldest zoos, Lincoln Park Zoo offers free admission to a wide variety of animal exhibits set against the lovely backdrop of beautiful Lincoln Park. You can see lions, gorillas, reptiles, and farm animals in the “Farm in the Zoo,” designed to instruct children more about life on a farm. The Regenstein Centre for African Apes is very popular because it has interactive viewing areas where you can see gorillas and chimpanzees up close. It’s fun for all ages, with lush gardens and easily accessible pathways. The zoo also hosts seasonal events and is attractive throughout the year.
Location: 2001 N Clark St, Chicago, IL
Top Experience: Animal exhibits, gardens, free entry
Timings: 10 AM – 5 PM
Entry Fee: None
7. Chicago Riverwalk
Photo: Jax House / Wikimedia Commons
The Chicago Riverwalk is one of the city’s most beautiful promenades along the Chicago River, with breathtaking sights to explore other landmarks and places to visit in Chicago. Outdoor cafes, public art, and landscaped seating areas are also found throughout. It is a great place to take a stroll or dine near the water. Other things you can do is take a boat tour or rent a kayak to view it, passing by famous landmarks such as the Wrigley Building and Marina City. The Riverwalk is very well-lit at night, giving a very different atmosphere in which to view Chicago’s skyline.
Location: Downtown Chicago
Top Experience: Boat tours, riverside dining, skyline views
Timings: Open 24 hours
Entry Fee: Free (Activity fees vary)
8. Field Museum
Photo: Sea Cow / Wikimedia Commons
The Field Museum is one of the world’s great natural history museums, known for housing “Sue,” the world’s most complete T. rex skeleton, among many other great exhibits from dinosaurs to ancient civilisations. Here, ancient Egyptian artefacts, gemstones, and exhibits spread over biodiversity can also be observed. The museum has interactive exhibitions that make it a great place for families and history enthusiasts. It covers 480,000 square feet and is one of the biggest natural history museums in the world, opening its wonders to science and natural history.
Location: S Lake Shore Dr, Chicago, IL
Top Experience: Dinosaur exhibits, Egyptian artefacts, interactive displays
Timings: 9 AM – 5 PM
Entry Fee: $25 for adults (discounts available)
9. Grant Park And Buckingham Fountain
Photo: Kamria / Wikimedia Commons
Known as “Chicago’s Front Yard,” Grant Park covers 319 acres of land with leafy greenery, walking paths, and public art installations. Its centrepiece is the famous Buckingham Fountain, one of the largest fountains in the world, with a spectacular water display that is even more captivating in the evening when lit. The park annually hosts events such as the Chicago Blues Festival and the Taste of Chicago. This enormous park, with its beauty, is a peaceful place in the bustling city and is one of the favourite places to visit in Chicago among the locals and tourists.
Location: 337 E Randolph St, Chicago, IL
Top Experience: Buckingham Fountain, festivals, open green spaces
Timings: Open 24 hours
Entry Fee: None
10. Shedd Aquarium
Photo: pelican / Wikimedia Commons
Shedd Aquarium is the largest indoor aquarium located right on the shores of Lake Michigan. With more than 32,000 animals of 1,500 species, Shedd Aquarium offers visitors the unique marine life found around the world and some of the most popular exhibits, including the Caribbean Reef. This circular 90,000-gallon tank contains beautiful fish, sea turtles, and stingrays. The Oceanarium offers dolphin and beluga whale programs, while the Polar Play Zone takes pride in having engaging hands-on exhibits. Shedd Aquarium inspires a passion for marine conservation in every guest with engaging exhibits and educational programs.
Location: S Lake Shore Dr, Chicago, IL
Top Experience: Marine animal shows, interactive displays, unique species
Timings: 9 AM – 5 PM
Entry Fee: $39.95 for adults
The places to visit in Chicago make you think and explore, offering thousands of attractions to suit any kind of traveller. Chicago’s culture flows from parkland and green space to interactivity at museums. Its diverse population contributes to its different cultures. Pack your bags, bring your curiosity, and get ready to feel the dynamism and charm of this world-famous city with TripXL.
Cover Photo: Humbledumpty / Wikimedia Commons
