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Bucket List: Top 12 Best Things to See and Do in Chicago, Illinois, USA
Chicago is well-known for its architecture, cuisine, and mobsters. It’s famed for its museums and cultural treasures, making it a tourist hotspot. Last but not least, Chicago is well-known for its professional sports teams. There’s a spectator sport for every season in the Windy City, no matter what sport you favor. It is ethnically multicultural, with significant Mexican and Polish populations. This urban area’s natural environment is diverse, green, and pleasant, albeit snowy in winter.
Things to do in Chicago
This article will take you on a tour of the city’s top attractions, from those just driving in for a weekend getaway to the most sophisticated tourists. Here are the top 15 Best Things to Do in Chicago.
Experience a memorable day cruise at Chicago Architecture River Cruise
A day on the Chicago Architecture River Cruise is an unforgettable journey through the heart of the city’s skyline. As the boat glides along the Chicago River, expert docents share engaging stories about the evolution of the city’s architecture, from historic Beaux-Arts landmarks to sleek modern skyscrapers.
The open-air deck offers unobstructed views, perfect for photos and quiet moments of awe. You’ll learn how innovative engineering reversed the river’s flow and shaped urban design worldwide. Gentle breezes, sparkling reflections on the water, and the layered cityscape create a relaxing yet inspiring atmosphere.
It’s both an educational experience and a scenic escape, leaving you with a deeper appreciation for Chicago’s architectural legacy.
Enjoy a historical tour of the Gangsters and Ghosts Tour in Chicago
Step into the shadowy past of Chicago with the Gangsters and Ghosts Tour, a walking experience that blends true crime and chilling folklore. Over the course of the tour, guides recount gripping tales of Prohibition-era mobsters, secret speakeasies, and infamous figures like Al Capone, bringing the city’s Roaring Twenties underworld vividly to life.
You’ll stand outside historic buildings where rival gangs once clashed and hear stories of betrayals, bootlegging, and daring escapes. As night falls, the focus shifts to haunted history, exploring eerie legends, unexplained happenings, and ghostly sightings reported in century-old landmarks.
It’s an atmospheric journey through crime, mystery, and the darker side of Chicago’s storied streets.
Embrace your creative spirit at BYOB Spray Paint ‘n’ Sip at Studio W.I.P. Chicago
Tap into your inner artist at the lively BYOB Spray Paint ’n’ Sip experience at Studio W.I.P. in Chicago. This hands-on workshop invites you to explore the bold, expressive world of spray paint art in a relaxed, judgment-free environment.
Whether you’re a total beginner or a seasoned creative, guided instruction helps you master layering, stenciling, blending, and galaxy-inspired effects on canvas. Bring your favorite drinks, gather friends, and let the music and vibrant atmosphere spark your imagination.
All materials are provided, so you can focus on experimenting with color and technique while creating a one-of-a-kind masterpiece. It’s more than just a class—it’s a social, immersive art experience that encourages self-expression, connection, and pure creative freedom in the heart of the city.
Explore the Museum of Science and Industry
Located in Hyde Park along Lake Michigan, the Museum of Science and Industry is one of the largest science museums in the world. Housed in the last remaining building from the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition, it blends historic grandeur with hands-on discovery.
Visitors can descend into a captured German U-boat, explore a full-scale coal mine, and marvel at a five-story tornado in the Science Storms exhibit. The museum’s interactive galleries invite guests to experiment with robotics, genetics, space travel, and sustainable technology. Families especially enjoy the intricate model railroad and seasonal exhibitions.
With immersive displays and live demonstrations, the museum transforms complex scientific ideas into engaging experiences, inspiring curiosity and innovation in visitors of all ages while celebrating Chicago’s rich legacy of industry and ingenuity.
Admire the landscapes of Chicago at the 360 Chicago Observation Deck
Perched 1,000 feet above the Magnificent Mile inside the iconic 360 Chicago Observation Deck at the former John Hancock Center, this sky-high vantage point delivers sweeping, unforgettable views of the Windy City. Floor-to-ceiling windows frame a dramatic panorama of glittering skyscrapers, historic architecture, and the shimmering expanse of Lake Michigan stretching toward the horizon. On a clear day, you can see four states from this remarkable perch, watching sailboats trace delicate lines across the blue water far below.
As the sun sets, Chicago transforms into a radiant tapestry of light, with landmarks like Willis Tower and Millennium Park standing out against the glowing skyline. Interactive exhibits enrich the experience, sharing stories of Chicago’s bold architecture and vibrant neighborhoods. Whether you visit by day for crisp, far-reaching views or at night for a romantic cityscape, 360 Chicago offers a breathtaking perspective that captures the spirit, scale, and beauty of this dynamic metropolis.
Visit and have fun at the Millennium Park.
Visit Millennium Park in Chicago for a lively mix of art, architecture, music, and outdoor fun. This iconic downtown destination welcomes visitors with open green lawns, striking modern design, and a vibrant atmosphere year-round. Snap a selfie at the famous reflective Cloud Gate sculpture, often called “The Bean,” and admire the city skyline mirrored across its surface.
Relax in the peaceful Lurie Garden, where colorful blooms and native plants create a calm escape from busy streets. During summer, enjoy free concerts and movie nights at the Jay Pritzker Pavilion, or cool off at Crown Fountain, where playful water displays delight children and adults alike. In winter, lace up your skates at the McCormick Tribune Ice Rink for a magical experience beneath sparkling lights.
Whether you’re picnicking, exploring public art, or simply strolling scenic pathways, Millennium Park offers unforgettable moments in the heart of the city.
Experience lifelike skydiving at Chicago-Lincoln Park Indoor Skydiving
Experience lifelike skydiving at iFLY Indoor Skydiving – Chicago Lincoln Park, where state-of-the-art vertical wind tunnels make you feel like you’re free-falling without ever leaving the ground. After a short safety briefing and gearing up, you step into a powerful wind chamber that simulates the sensation of jumping from thousands of feet up, riding a cushion of air with winds reaching high speeds.
Expert flight instructors are right beside you, guiding your body position so you can learn to hover, move, and control your flight just like in real skydiving. This thrilling adventure is accessible to almost everyone — no prior experience or parachutes are needed — and is suitable for kids and adults alike. The combination of hands-on coaching, the rush of defying gravity, and the joy of flight creates an unforgettable experience that’s fun, exhilarating, and surprisingly realistic.
Take a memorable and delicious food trip on the Chicago Favorites Ultimate Food & Walking Tour.
Take a memorable and delicious food trip on the Chicago Favorites Ultimate Food & Walking Tour in Chicago, where iconic flavors and neighborhood history come together in one unforgettable experience. This guided adventure leads you through the heart of downtown, often around landmarks like Millennium Park and the scenic Chicago Riverwalk, blending sightseeing with generous tastings.
Savor a classic deep-dish pizza, piled high with rich tomato sauce and gooey cheese, and bite into an authentic Chicago-style hot dog loaded with all the traditional toppings. Indulge in Italian beef sandwiches, perfectly seasoned and dipped, and sample gourmet popcorn that captures the city’s sweet-and-savory spirit. Along the way, knowledgeable guides share insights into Chicago’s culinary roots, architecture, and cultural traditions.
Perfect for first-time visitors and longtime locals alike, this tour offers a flavorful introduction to the city’s diverse food scene. Come hungry—you’ll leave satisfied, inspired, and with a true taste of Chicago’s legendary favorites.
Explore the Lincoln Park Zoo
Lincoln Park Zoo in Chicago is one of the oldest and most beloved zoos in the United States, offering free admission year-round. Nestled along the shores of Lake Michigan, the zoo blends beautifully landscaped gardens with historic architecture and modern animal habitats. Visitors can observe a diverse range of wildlife, from majestic lions and playful primates to reptiles, birds, and farm animals in the family-friendly Farm-in-the-Zoo area.
The Regenstein Center for African Apes and the Kovler Lion House are especially popular exhibits, offering immersive environments that support animal well-being and education. Beyond animal viewing, the zoo features walking paths shaded by mature trees, seasonal events, and interactive learning opportunities for children and adults alike.
Its urban setting creates a unique experience where skyscrapers rise in the background while nature thrives in the foreground, making it a peaceful escape within the bustling city.
Admire the artistic pieces at the Art Institute of Chicago
At the Art Institute of Chicago in Chicago, art unfolds across centuries and continents in a series of unforgettable encounters. Strolling through its grand galleries, you’re greeted by luminous Impressionist masterpieces—soft light shimmering on water lilies, Parisian streets alive with movement. Iconic American works like Grant Wood’s American Gothic stand with quiet intensity, while bold modern pieces challenge perception through color and abstraction.
In the contemporary wing, striking installations and thought-provoking sculptures invite reflection on identity and society. The museum’s global collections are equally captivating: intricate Japanese prints, serene Chinese ceramics, and richly detailed African masks reveal artistic traditions shaped by culture and history.
Even the building itself feels like art, from its majestic lion guardians to the light-filled Modern Wing. Each room offers a new perspective, encouraging visitors not just to observe, but to feel—wonder, curiosity, nostalgia, and inspiration blending into a memorable cultural experience.
Take a walk through the Chicago Riverwalk
A walk along the Chicago Riverwalk in Chicago is a lively blend of architecture, water, and city energy. Stretching along the south bank of the Chicago River, the Riverwalk offers a front-row view of the city’s striking skyline—glass towers reflecting sunlight by day and glowing warmly at dusk.
As you stroll, you pass outdoor cafés, wine bars, and casual eateries with patios that sit just steps from the water. Kayaks glide past, tour boats cruise under historic bridges, and the rhythmic hum of the city surrounds you without overwhelming the calm of the river. Public art installations and landscaped seating areas invite you to pause and take in the scene.
The Riverwalk feels both relaxed and vibrant—a place where office workers, tourists, and locals mingle. Whether you’re enjoying a coffee, watching boats drift by, or simply admiring the architecture, it’s one of Chicago’s most scenic urban experiences.
Visit the indoor aquarium of Chicago, the Shedd Aquarium.
Located along the shores of Lake Michigan in downtown Chicago, the Shedd Aquarium is one of the largest and most renowned indoor aquariums in the world. Opened in 1930, this historic attraction blends grand neoclassical architecture with immersive, modern exhibits. Inside, visitors can explore diverse aquatic habitats, from the vibrant coral reefs of the Caribbean to the icy waters of the Arctic.
The Abbott Oceanarium is a highlight, featuring dolphins, beluga whales, sea otters, and penguins in expansive, naturalistic environments. In Wild Reef, guests come face-to-face with sharks and colorful tropical fish swimming through a recreated Philippine reef. The Amazon Rising exhibit showcases piranhas, anacondas, and other rainforest species, offering a glimpse into South America’s biodiversity.
Interactive displays and daily animal presentations make the experience engaging for all ages. With its stunning lakefront setting and extraordinary marine life, the Shedd Aquarium offers an unforgettable journey beneath the surface of the world’s waters.
Visit the first planetarium in the United States, Adler Planetarium.
Perched on the shores of Lake Michigan, the Adler Planetarium is a shining beacon for space enthusiasts and curious minds alike. Opened in 1930, it was the first planetarium in the United States and remains one of Chicago’s most iconic cultural institutions. Its striking Art Deco building offers sweeping views of the city skyline, creating a memorable setting before you even step inside.
Visitors can explore immersive sky shows in the state-of-the-art Grainger Sky Theater, where dazzling projections transport audiences across the universe. Interactive exhibits invite guests to pilot spacecraft, learn about black holes, and trace humanity’s evolving understanding of the cosmos. The historic Atwood Sphere allows small groups to experience a realistic night sky demonstration, just as early visitors once did.
Blending history, science, and hands-on discovery, the Adler Planetarium inspires wonder about our place in the universe.
Experience a serene day at the Garfield Park Conservatory.
A serene day at the Garfield Park Conservatory unfolds like a quiet journey through living art. Morning light filters through the soaring glass ceilings of the Palm House, casting gentle patterns on winding paths lined with towering palms and lush tropical foliage.
The air feels warm and humid, scented faintly with earth and blooming orchids. In the Fern Room, delicate fronds unfurl beside a trickling lagoon, creating a peaceful rhythm that invites you to slow your steps. Moving into the Desert House, sculptural cacti stand in striking contrast, bathed in bright sunlight that highlights their intricate forms.
Outside, seasonal gardens burst with color, and butterflies drift lazily among the flowers. Benches tucked into leafy corners offer space for reflection, reading, or quiet conversation. By afternoon, the conservatory feels like a sanctuary—an urban oasis where the bustle of Chicago fades, replaced by calm, greenery, and the simple pleasure of being surrounded by nature.
Swim and relax at the North Avenue Beach
At North Avenue Beach in Chicago, summer unfolds against a striking skyline backdrop. Set along the shores of Lake Michigan, this lively beach blends city energy with a refreshing lakeside escape. Swimmers wade into cool, often brisk waters while lifeguards watch from bright stands. The sandy shoreline stretches wide, perfect for sunbathing, beach volleyball, or simply stretching out with a book as gulls drift overhead.
The view is unmistakably Chicago: sailboats dot the horizon, and the Hancock Center rises in the distance. Early mornings feel calm and restorative, ideal for a peaceful swim as the sun glints off the water. By afternoon, the beach buzzes with joggers, cyclists, and families enjoying the lake breeze. After a dip, visitors relax at the beach house or stroll along the Lakefront Trail. Whether you come for exercise or leisure, North Avenue Beach offers a classic Chicago summer experience.
Our Top Hotel Picks for Chicago
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Chicago Travel and Tour Packages
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Read:
- The Ultimate List Of The Best Hotels In Chicago, USA
- 5 Hidden Gem Museums In Chicago
- 10 Of The Biggest Chinatowns In The US
