Chicago, the windy city is the third most populated city in the United States and the most populated city of Illinois, U.S. Hub to art lovers and foodies subsequently. Watch the Chicago Air and Water Show or watch the stars and Planets in the Planetarium. Here you can go around unusual museums or Art Institutes housing a few of the most famous artists like Pablo Picasso.
10 Best Things to Do in Chicago (Illinois)
This city of skyscrapers has large Parks with major attractions that you just can’t miss out like the stunning Buckingham Fountain. You can stroll in the zoo and see animals you would have never seen before like Polar bears or penguins. Don’t forget to enjoy the local Italian or American cuisines as well as get a tour of Chinatown and savor their authentic Chinese.
This is a city of quite a few free admissions even at great attractions, and this is above all why you can miss these. Let’s get down to the list of 10 best things to do in Chicago, Illinois, U.S.
1. River and Lake Cruises
You can take a ride through Lake Michigan along River Chicago. You can choose from their packages varying from speedboat rides to calming cruise that will leave you awestruck.
Get a good view of the Chicago gorgeous skyline in an open boat with your family. You can always take a cab but none at all will give that pleasant view and experience of the architecture of the city except a cruise. There are about 40 landmark sightseeing you just can miss out.
From the many cruise options a few like Chicago River Architecture, Odyssey Chicago River or Shoreline Sightseeing Classic Lake tour. Finally all that you dreamt seeing those movies to get a cruise ride will be fulfilled in Chicago, Illinois. Take the tour before sunset, although you can stay up and catch the magnificent sunset.
2. Skydeck Chicago
A view like none other. You will get a spectacular view of the State and three neighboring states. This 442-metre tower is one of the tallest buildings in Illinois.
Step on the Ledge if you can. The 4.3feet Ledge glass balcony is 1353 above, in the air attached to the Skydeck. It’s the best and most thrilling to do in Chicago, Illinois. Hold your breath when you look down at the city through the glass.
3. Food Tours
Chicago is hub for great mouth-watering food in America. When in town you should explore the local spots as well. Although you can also opt for state famous Lou Mitchell and Twin Anchors these are amazing nonetheless, so are the local places.
Incredible options like varieties of beef sandwiches or wholesome Pizzas are undeniably great snacking options even for a dinner date. You can also get down at Chinatown to get taste the authentic Chinese food.
4. Art Institute of Chicago
Art Institute of Chicago, Illinois has been gracing the city since past 150 years. Situated in Chicago’s Grant Park, the museum sees a huge crowd every day. It is one of the oldest and largest museums of the States and certainly the most attractive.
It houses some of great art works by greatest artists of all times like Pablo Picasso’s ‘The Old Guitarist’, Georges Seurat’s ‘A Sunday on La Grande Jatte’ and others. There are occasional, temporary art works put on exhibition in the museum. But the permanent pieces sum up to 300000 of art.
You will see beautiful African and Indian art works apart from Native American and American art works. You can also see art works showcasing ancient Egyptian, Greek, Roman and other 4000 years collections.
It also boasts of pottery, jewellery and other works that are well kept. The museum also houses a few famous mummies. This is definitely one of the amazing and best things to do in Chicago, Illinois.
5. Grant Park
Grant Park is a serene place right in front of Lake Michigan in the middle of the chaotic city lights. The Grant Park, downtown Chicago is spread over a vast area of 319 acres of land. Named in honor of the former President of the U.S., the park has seen several extensions.
A few festivals and annual occasions are hosted in this open ground. One of the greatest attractions is the magnificent Buckingham Fountain, a sight to behold. Although for a short duration the water display will leave you awestruck.
Millennium Park situated in the north-western side of the Park that has a great artistic touch to it. Other attractions include the Art Institute of Chicago, Museum Campus Chicago. You will also find the Soldier Field here.
You can also do Skating in the Skate Plaza or have a round of Tennis match in the tennis court. This Park is the most sort after place for the locals and definitely a must go for tourists.
6. Chicago Culture Center
The Chicago Culture Center was inaugurated in the last decade of 19th century under the architects C.A. Coolidge and Robert C. Spencer. Initially served as the Public Library of Chicago till 1991. Modelled in a neoclassical design the interior and high ceilings will blow your mind. The Tiffany dome in Preston Bradley hall is a must see.
Every year the Chicago Cultural Center, Illinois hosts around 1000 programmes, public events and exhibitions of visual and performing arts along with literary arts.
If you are lucky you might be there the same day as some free public event, that take place frequently in the Culture Center.
7. Museum of Science and Industry
The Museum of Science and Industry, Chicago Illinois is situated in Jackson Park, Hyde Park neighbourhood. It was initially the Palace of Fine Arts built in 1893 but later evolved to Field of Natural Museum before becoming the Museum of Science and Industry finally in 1933 owing to an Exposition.
Sights like German U-505 submarine will draw your attention as well as the Pioneer Zephyr, a diesel locomotive ranging back from the 1930s that are on display. You will also see the first Boeing to enter commercial service the enigmatic Boeing 727. A few fighter planes that were a part of WWII are also on display.
The Museum attracts a huge crowd every year and is open on all days, although the entry fee was free but they have started charging in recent past years.
8. Lincoln Park Zoo
The Lincoln Park, Chicago has been open to visitors since 1868. The zoo is spread over a vast area of 37 acres. It houses and nourishes around 1000 animals. In the midst of a urban city this zoo doesn’t fail to provide proper environments for its animals and has in-house arrangements for the cold months.
The major attractions are African penguins and Polar bears that you probably can’t see at other zoos. Of the other animals in zoo are African Apes. The commonly found ostriches are also housed here, you will see in the zoo include charismatic giraffes, gazelles amongst other animals.
The zoo has no entry fee and open round the year except a few national holidays.
9. Adler Planetarium
Another of the major attractions in Grant Park, Illinois is the Adler Planetarium. Dating back to 1930 the Adler Planetarium is a must for solar system or science enthusiasts. America’s first Planetarium and an incredible place to be and admire the wonders that’s beyond the naked eyes.
You can see the mysterious Planet nine, other planets and a few other sightings above the atmospheric blanket. You will also be briefed about the Telescope and other equipment. It is going to be an out-of-the-world experience.
10. Chicago Air and Water Show
After enjoying exquisite and brain whacking museums it’s time to sit back and enjoy the Chicago Air and Water show. It was first done in 1959 and still remains a favourite for tourists as well locals. The best thing about the show is it’s free, calling for even more attention. This happens to be the largest free show in whole of United States.
Takes place above Lake Michigan, above the North Avenue Beach. You will see line up of Supersonic jets. Other events include skywriting and sky-diving and few other activities.
The Army or Air Force put on the shows, like the U.S Air Force Thunderbirds and others as well.
Conclusion
From quite a few museums like Museum of Contemporary Art, Oriental Institute Museum, and Museum of Science and Industry to the beaches or riverfronts. You can stroll around North Avenue Beach or grab appetizing snacks from the food hub.
You can also go over or under the Michigan Avenue Bridge over the Chicago River. It is a bascule bridge officially known as DuSable Bridge appears quite enthralling as the double-deck opens and shuts. This fun-packed city is a must-visit.