Welcome to Chicago, a city with a heart as big as its skyscrapers, and a spirit that runs deeper than Lake Michigan.
When you visit Chicago, you visit one of the world's great cities, full of rich history and cultural experiences. But you also visit a tight collection of proud, diverse, and friendly neighborhoods, each with its own style and story.
Here, we've collected some of Chicago's greatest sights and experiences, from the magic of Millennium Park and its iconic Cloud Gate sculpture, to the family fun of Navy Pier, to the world-renowned Art Institute of Chicago. Get a taste of deep dish pizza and Chicago's best restaurants, and discover the music and performing arts that echo to every corner of the planet.
Come experience the heart of Illinois in Chicago. Your journey begins here.
"It's a bustling metropolis with the warmth of a small town; where the world already comes together every day to live and work and reach for a dream—a dream that no matter who we are ... we can make it if we try."
President Barack Obama
Things To Do in Chicago
Make it an unforgettable visit
There are countless activities, experiences, and things to do in Chicago. Here we've gathered just a few of the best. Plus, check out the events trending around Chicago this week and this month.
View masterpieces
Art Institute of Chicago Art Institute of Chicago
Explore the magic
Millennium Park Millennium Park
Enjoy family fun on the lakefront
Navy Pier Navy Pier
Discover something new (or old)
The Field Museum The Field Museum
Delve into the deep
Shedd Aquarium Shedd Aquarium
Shop, sightsee, and dine
The Magnificent Mile The Magnificent Mile
Catch a game
Chicago Cubs at Wrigley Field Chicago Cubs at Wrigley Field
Take in the view
360 Chicago - TILT 360 Chicago - TILT
Follow the sights
Chicago’s Second Shoreline Chicago’s Second Shoreline
Go on an architectural adventure
Architecture River Cruise Architecture River Cruise
Step out over the city
The Ledge at Skydeck Chicago The Ledge at Skydeck Chicago
Go green
Garfield Park Conservatory Garfield Park Conservatory
More Things to do in Chicago
Don't miss the excitement
Upcoming Events in Chicago
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Show more in category of Festivals & Fairs
Chicago Blues Festival
Millennium Park• Jun 06 – Jun 09
The Chicago Blues Festival shares the great Chicago-born music tradition with the world while shining a spotlight on the genre’s contributions to soul, R&B, gospel, rock… Read more about Chicago Blues Festival
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Show more in category of Museum & Gallery Exhibits
!Taíno Vive! Caribbean Indigenous Resistance at The National Puerto Rican Museum Chicago
The National Puerto Rican Museum Chicago• Jan 06 – Jun 16
The National Museum of Puerto Rican Arts and Culture will host “Caribbean Indigenous Resistance / Resistencia indígena del Caribe ¡Taíno Vive!” January 6 – June 16,… Read more about !Taíno Vive! Caribbean Indigenous Resistance at The National Puerto Rican Museum Chicago
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Show more in category of Festivals & Fairs
Chicago's Annual Pride Parade
Jun 30
Celebrate Chicago's LGBT community at the annual Pride Parade! The parade will feature floats, decorated vehicles and marching groups and more1 Read more about Chicago's Annual Pride Parade
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Show more in category of Festivals & Fairs
Chinatown Summer Fair
Jul 28 @ 10AM
This iconic event is one of the most ethnically unique outdoor events in Chicago and the Midwest. Attracting more than 40,000 people from throughout the region. Read more about Chinatown Summer Fair
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Show more in category of Family Fun
Chicago Chinatown Lunar New Year Parade
Feb 09 @ 1PM
Parade will feature traditional dragon and lion dancing teams, colorful floats, marching bands and marching groups. Read more about Chicago Chinatown Lunar New Year Parade
"It is hopeless for the occasional visitor to try to keep up with Chicago—she outgrows his prophecies faster than he can make them. She is always a novelty; for she is never the Chicago you saw when you passed through the last time."
Mark Twain
Where To Eat in Chicago
Dishing on deep dish - and more
Chicago's restaurants, bars, cafes, and other dining spots are the heart of America's culinary scene. Discover the must-try flavors and dining experiences of Chicago, from Michelin stars to the classic stars of the local scene.
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Keepers of the Flame
Some of Chicago's most innovative restaurants use live fire to create unique dining experiences. Read more about Keepers of the Flame
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Taste Chicago at a Local Food Hall
With more than 8,000 restaurants in Chicago, there’s no way you can try it all. But you can score a great sampling at a food hall. Read more about Taste Chicago at a Local Food Hall
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Top Cut Steakhouses in Chicago and Illinois
However you like it done, enjoy a fine steak at institutions in Chicago, the Chicago suburbs, and other towns in Illinois. Read more about Top Cut Steakhouses in Chicago and Illinois
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Chicago’s Best Bars for Whiskey Lovers
No matter if you prefer your bourbon neat, on the rocks or in the form of a classic co*cktail, these Chicago bars are a whiskey lover’s delight. Read more about Chicago’s Best Bars for Whiskey Lovers
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Chicago Rooftop Bars & Patios That Locals Love
Discover the Chicago rooftop bars and patios beloved by the locals.
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Chicago's Asian Food Hot Spots
Exploring three Chicago neighborhoods for authentic Asian food and cultural experiences. Read more about Chicago's Asian Food Hot Spots
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Secret Service
The covert legacy of Chicago’s Prohibition-Era speakeasies carries on in night spots new and old that play hard to get. Read more about Secret Service
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On the Waterfront: Dining on Lake Michigan
Where to eat in Chicago to drink in views of Lake Michigan. Read more about On the Waterfront: Dining on Lake Michigan
Chicago Restaurants and Other Places to Eat
"Chicago is a town, a city that doesn't ever have to measure itself against any other city. Other places have to measure themselves against it. It’s big, it’s outgoing, it’s tough, it’s opinionated, and everybody’s got a story."
Anthony Bourdain
Chicago Nightlife
WHAT TO DO AFTER DARK
Chicago has some of the nation’s best restaurants, a deep-rooted history of house, jazz and blues music, and a diverse theatre and comedy scene that’s full of talent.
Plan Your Night on the Town
Chicago Itineraries & Road Trips
Inspiration for Chicago adventure
Chicago is a city of endless stories. Whatever you do with your time here, it'll be unique... but these road trips and itineraries are a good start to planning your adventure.
Show more in category of Family Fun
Haunted Chicago
Sep 04, 2023
Experience why fall in Chicago puts the super in supernatural. Read more about Haunted Chicago
Show more in category of Family Fun
Family Field Trip to Chicago
Feb 27, 2023
No kid (or grown-up) can ever get bored in Chicago - there’s too much fun to be had! Like conquering your fear of heights at the top of a skyscraper.... Read more about Family Field Trip to Chicago
Made with Pride in Chicago
Dec 30, 2022
Chicago's more than the hog butcher and tool maker for the world. It's also the hatmaker for blockbuster movies, jean designer for ethical fashionistas, and fine chocolatier for chocolate lovers... Read more about Made with Pride in Chicago
Show more in category of Offbeat Illinois
Barks & Recreation in Chicago
Jul 17, 2022
Explore the dog-friendly activities, pick up a treat from a doggie bakery and stay at a dog-friendly hotel in Chicago.
Show more in category of From Local Experts
Adventure & Architecture for Couples in the Northwest Suburbs
May 29, 2021
Plan your getaway in Chicago's North Shore, with family-friendly activities in Glencoe, Glenview, Highland Park, Evanston, and Skokie. Everything from beaches, bowling, biking to great places to eat.
Show more in category of Family Fun
A Family-Friendly Summer Road Trip to Chicago
May 29, 2021
Chicago is the perfect destination for a family-friendly road trip, especially in the summertime. That’s when the city comes to life with one-of-a-kind adventures for all ages, from outdoor rock... Read more about A Family-Friendly Summer Road Trip to Chicago
Show more in category of Family Fun
Fun in Chicago Southland
Apr 09, 2021
Ready for a unique, family-friendly adventure? “Gramping” is the latest travel trend that brings grandparents and their grandchildren together. Mom and dad can relax at home while grandparents enjoy a... Read more about Fun in Chicago Southland
Show more in category of From Local Experts
Chicago Northwest: The Ideal Weekend Excursion
Apr 09, 2021
Whether you are visiting for a fun family weekend, a couple's retreat, or a friends getaway, the Chicago Northwest suburbs is a fantastic destination, bursting with exceptional restaurants, luxurious hotels,... Read more about Chicago Northwest: The Ideal Weekend Excursion
Show more in category of From Local Experts
Bro-cation in the Chicago Southland
May 29, 2021
Welcome to Chicago Southland, Gentleman! The home to 19 craft breweries, luscious golf courses and plenty of dude-approved attractions. Read more about Bro-cation in the Chicago Southland
The Great Literary Tour of Chicago
Feb 02, 2022
Explore museums and bookstores, stay in a hotel of a former publishing house, and visit the literary landmarks of Chicago. Read more about The Great Literary Tour of Chicago
Chicago Mixtape
Jan 01, 2023
Put your music taste on shuffle and tour Chicago’s live music venues. Rock out, embrace your dramatic opera side, or relive the jazz age. Read more about Chicago Mixtape
Gateway to Chicago's Chinese Culture
Jan 02, 2023
Explore Chinatown Chicago in 3 DaysImmerse yourself in Chinatown’s rich traditions year-round.
Read more about Gateway to Chicago's Chinese Culture
Show more in category of From Local Experts
Fresh Family Fun on Chicago's North Shore
Dec 01, 2023
Beaches, bowling, biking and being together are ingredients for a perfect family getaway in Chicago's North Shore. Read more about Fresh Family Fun on Chicago's North Shore
Show more in category of Chicago
Chicago’s Must-See Museums
Aug 01, 2016
Make it a museum weekend in the Windy City. Read more about Chicago’s Must-See Museums
Show more in category of Chicago
A Girl's Getaway Mini-Vacation in our Hometown of Chicago!
May 13, 2013
“I planned this getaway not with my ‘mom friends’, but with my little girls, ages 10 and 8 and my sister and niece, age 7.” Read more about A Girl's Getaway Mini-Vacation in our Hometown of Chicago!"I'd rather be a lamppost in Chicago than a millionaire in any other city."
William Hulbert
Getting To and Getting Around Chicago
Tips for transportation
By train, by car, by foot, by bus, by bike, and even by boat, journeying to the next stop on your Chicago adventure will be a pleasure. The only hard part will be figuring out how to leave...
Chicago Transport
Chicago Accommodation
Places to stay in Chicago
Looking for a Chicago hotel room? A vacation rental? A pet-friendly Chicago hotel? Maybe a taste of luxury? Check out our Chicago accommodation picks!
Places to Stay in Chicago
"Perhaps the most typically American place in America."
James Bryce
Chicago Icons
Deep Dish
Dishing on Chicago-Style Pizza
Theater
Chicago Theatre Scene
Architecture
City by Design
The Blues
Sweet Home Chicago Blues
"It’s a 106 miles to Chicago, we’ve got a full tank of gas, half a pack of cigarettes; it’s dark, and we’re wearing sunglasses."
Elwood Blues
Where To Go From Chicago
The journey has only just begun...
Chicago has enough experiences for a lifetime. But there’s even more for you to discover in Illinois beyond. Let Chicago be your starting point to further adventure.
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Things To Do in Rockford
Rockford greets visitors with a mix of history, art and natural beauty. Explore a nature museum featuring a T. Rex, stroll through Asian gardens and discover work from David Chihuly and Ansel Adams at at the Rockford Art Museum.
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Things To Do Near Starved Rock, Utica
Starved Rock State Park, with its serene waterfalls and beautiful lodge, offers a quiet retreat for visitors. Explore this lush forest, located just minutes from wineries, quaint shops and restaurants in Utica.
Things To Do Near Starved Rock, Utica -
Things To Do Near Gurnee
Just north of Chicago in Gurnee, you’ll find a nirvana of theme parks and shopping. Race down a roller coaster, splash through a water park and shop the largest outlet mall in Illinois, packed with more than 200 stores.
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Visit Great Rivers Country
In Western Illinois, adventure through historic nineteenth-century towns, sip wine in vineyards and explore everything from French forts to ancient civilizations.
Visit Great Rivers Country -
Visit Land of Lincoln
In Central Illinois, presidential history meets Americana. Visit towns that honor their legacies with museums, festivals and American-sized helpings of roadside nostalgia.
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Visit Trails to Adventure
Experience the beautiful scenery in the southernmost region of Illinois and Shawnee Forest Country. See it all as you hike, golf, and sip wine in quaint towns, state parks, and wineries.
Visit Trails to Adventure
