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Chicago, United States
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Must-include attractions sorted by popularity
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Most popular attractions in Chicago, United States
1. Millennium Park
Lakeside landmark mixing iconic public art, striking architecture and open green space. Wander under Cloud Gate, stroll Lurie Garden, and catch free concerts.
2. Cloud Gate
Polished sculpture that frames Chicago's skyline and street life. Walk beneath the Bean, capture warped skyline selfies, and watch people interact.
3. Navy Pier
Lively lakefront pier with sweeping skyline and lake views. Rides, restaurants, seasonal events and scenic waterfront walks await.
Book a FREE walking tour in Chicago, United States
The best way to experience a city with a local tour guide.
Tip: We strongly recommend a free walking tour on your first day to get to know the city with a local guide. They usually cover all main attractions and you can ask for personal recommendations based on your interests for the next days. Book early as spaces fill up fast!
4. Art Institute of Chicago
World-class collection spans ancient to modern art, drawing art lovers and curious travelers. Wander Impressionist galleries, see American Gothic, and enjoy rotating exhibitions.
5. Willis Tower
Sweeping city views from one of America's tallest towers make an unforgettable skyline stop. Step onto the Skydeck Ledge for a stomach-dropping look 1,353 feet down.
6. Shedd Aquarium
Massive variety of marine life on Chicago's lakefront, with immersive indoor and outdoor habitats. Walk reef tunnels, watch feeding demos, and see marine mammal viewing at the Oceanarium.
7. Field Museum
See Sue the T. rex and world-class natural history collections up close. Explore dinosaur skeletons, ancient cultures, and interactive science exhibits.
8. Adler Planetarium
Explore America's first planetarium, with historic telescopes and sweeping Lake Michigan views. Enjoy immersive sky shows, hands-on exhibits, and rooftop photo ops.
9. Lincoln Park Zoo
Free entry and waterside parkland make Lincoln Park Zoo an easy Chicago highlight. Walk close to polar bears, big cats, farm animals, and seasonal lights.
10. Wrigley Field
Step into Wrigley Field for classic baseball atmosphere and ivy-covered outfield charm. Cheer with passionate fans and capture skyline photos from the rooftops.
11. Chicago French Market
Find global flavors under one roof on the Chicago River. Sample fresh produce, street food, and artisanal treats while chatting with local vendors.
Additional popular things to do in Chicago, United States
Curated tours, tickets, and activities recommended by travelers
Traditional Sweet Dishes
Rainbow Cone
Introduced in 1926 at the Original Rainbow Cone shop, it stacks five flavors in a single cone in a colorful, layered presentation that locals line up for year-round.
Chicago-style Caramel Popcorn (Garrett Popcorn)
Garrett Popcorn's caramel crisp and the signature "Chicago Mix" that pairs caramel with cheddar cheese is a beloved local snack that became a city symbol and gift item.
Frozen Custard
Thicker and richer than ice cream, frozen custard has been served at Chicago's neighborhood stands since the early 20th century and is a summertime staple enjoyed plain or in concrete shakes.
Traditional Savory Dishes
Chicago-style Deep-Dish Pizza
Characterized by a tall, buttery crust and layers of cheese, toppings, and chunky tomato sauce on top, deep-dish pizza was popularized in Chicago in the 1940s and remains a must-eat for visitors.
Chicago-style Hot Dog
A true Chicago dog is an all-beef frankfurter on a poppy seed bun topped with yellow mustard, chopped onions, neon green relish, tomato, pickle spear, sport peppers, and celery salt, and never ketchup.
Italian Beef Sandwich
Thinly sliced roast beef soaked in seasoned au jus and piled on an Italian roll, often topped with giardiniera or sweet peppers, this sandwich grew out of Chicago's Italian neighborhoods in the mid-20th century.
Traditional Beverages
Jeppson's Malört
This intensely bitter wormwood-based liqueur became a local rite of passage in Chicago, famous for its abrasive flavor and loyal cult following.
The South Side (cocktail)
Originating in Chicago during Prohibition or shortly after, the South Side mixes gin, lemon or lime juice, simple syrup, and fresh mint for a crisp, refreshing cocktail.
Goose Island 312 Urban Wheat Ale
Brewed in Chicago by Goose Island, 312 Urban Wheat Ale captures the city's craft beer boom and is named after the area code for downtown Chicago, making it a local favorite.
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Day trips
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Brewery tours, lakefront, museums and a lively downtown.
Google MapsStarved Rock State Park, Illinois
Scenic canyons, waterfalls and hiking along the Illinois River.
Google MapsGalena, Illinois
Historic 19th century town, boutique shops and bluff views.
Google MapsLake Geneva, Wisconsin
Resort town on a lake, boating, beaches and lakeside dining.
Google MapsIndiana Dunes National Park, Indiana
Sandy beaches, dunes and trails on Lake Michigan.
Google MapsComments (9)
Avoid restaurants on the main tourist strips, walk a couple blocks into Pilsen or Logan Square for authentic, cheaper meals.
Skip buying single bus fares, get a Ventra card or multi-day pass from the train station machines, it saves money and time.
Four days felt just right for the highlights, but I wish I'd had time to explore more neighborhoods and smaller galleries.
Nightlife surprised me, low-key bars with live music and no cover charges. Food trucks at night saved my budget.
Cold in March, bring layers and a warm coat. Locals are friendly and trains run late, but museums get packed by noon.
Getting there
Airports
Train stations
Amtrak national routes, regional services; key hub for long distance trains
Metra commuter lines to north, west and northwest suburbs
From O'Hare, take the CTA Blue Line to downtown; from Midway, take the Orange Line. Use Metra for suburbs.
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