Top 10 Best Things To Do In Chicago

Looking for the best things to do in Chicago, Illinois? You've come to the right place!

Famous for its hot dogs, deep dish pizzas and jazz music, Chicago is a city of culture, amazing food, tourist attractions and music. You can visit the Museum to learn more about its heritage and culture, go to a local music event or dine at one of the many amazing restaurants to treat your senses. Not a moment will be spent dull in this Midwestern metropolis as it has dozens of activities and fun things to offer.

To make choosing what to do easier for you, we have put together a list and description of the Top 10 Best Things To Do In Chicago.

1o. Lakefront Trail — Starting off our list of thebest things to do in Chicago, Illinois is the Lakefront Trail. The 18 mile long trail is a great way to experience the amazing Chicago lakefront. It stretches from the 71st street on the South to the Hollywood Avenue on the North. You can walk, jog or cycle on the trail while taking in the beauty of the sparkling blue water. There are also many beaches accessible along the trail so feel free to stop over for a break or to witness the breathtaking sunset. Just watch out for the cyclists flying down the trail thinking they are in a triathlon.

9. Wrigley Field — Obviously, the main attraction in the historic stadium is baseball. However, if you are a fan...well, you are in for a treat. But even if it is not baseball season or if you are not a fan, you can enjoy other attractions. Like go out for a picnic at the park at Wrigley or tour the Friendly Confines. The Wrigley Field stadium also has to offer some great food from some top Chicago chefs. Lastly, the stadium also hosts concerts of famous artists and offers other events in the warmer months.

8. Jackson Park — Located on Chicago’s South Side in the Woodlawn community area, Jackson Park is an urban park spread on 600 acres. It was designed by famous landscape architects Frederick Law Olmsted and Calvert Vaux. It was chosen for the World’s Columbian Exposition back in 1893. Though many of the original structures were destroyed by fire or moved. The park is still a popular tourist attraction and is ideal for many outdoor activities like golf, tennis, walking, jogging or cycling etc.

7. Garfield Park Conservatory — The Garfield Park Conservatory is not only one of the largest in the world but also boasts revolutionary architecture. It opened its doors in 1908 and was described as “landscape art under glass”. Its prairie waterfall, a water and stone element inside a glass structure, is a must see. It is spread over 1.6 acres and holds 120,000 plants which represent 600 species. It is free, other than a small donation request made at the entrance, and is open throughout the year. It also has flower shows for each of the four seasons.

6. Montrose Beach — Montrose Beach is one of the most popular areas in the city and definite mention of our list of the best things to do in Chicago, Illinois. It has amazing amenities ranging from free Wi-Fi, Jet Ski & kayak rentals etc. The north end of the beach is a reserved and fenced area especially for dogs, so not just you but your furry friend can enjoy the beach as well. There are plenty of food options available too from tacos, elotes and fruit to The Dune with a delicious menu and live music.

5. The 606 — Named after the first three digits of every Chicago zip code, the 606 is an abandoned elevated rail railway track. It runs through Logan Square, Wicker Park, Humboldt Park and Bucktown. The 2.7 miles long path is now used as a quick way for traveling east and west on the North side. It is particularly famous for connecting several parks and public art installations. You will find several cyclists, joggers, strollers and people walking on the 606. It is a great way to explore many parks and art installations rather than visiting each individually.

4. Lincoln Park Zoo — Spread over an area of 35 acres, the Lincoln Park Zoo is one of the last free zoos in the country and has approximately 1,200 animals. It is a great place to connect with animals from all around the world, from mammals like zebras, lions, tigers to birds like flamingos, parrots, penguins and reptiles like alligators, snakes, turtles etc. It also hosts a number of seasonal events to keep the place buzzing like Summer Wine Fest, Craft Brews or outdoor yoga sessions etc.

3. Millennium Park — Famous for its free concerts and art installations, Millennium Park is a very famous spot for the public. The park is spread on an area of 24.5 acres. The center of the park is the Jay Pritzker Pavilion, which holds the city’s largest concerts and events. The outdoor art installations in the park are also a major tourist attraction. Like the Cloud Gate by Anish Kapoor or the Crown Fountain by Jaume Plensa etc.

2. Art Institute of Chicago — The Art Institute of Chicago houses a permanent collection of more than 300,000 artworks. These are displayed across the sprawling complex in halls and galleries. It is home to classic paintings like Nighthawks by Edward Hopper and American Gothic by Grant Wood. From ancient Greek sculptures to Japanese prints, you will find everything here. The Modern Wing consists of a more contemporary collection of art and displays the museums architecture and design collection. In the lower level of the museum is the Thorne Miniature Room featuring 68 recreations of American, European and Asian architecture and furniture. After all the art viewing, you can grab a bite at the Terzo Piano while taking in the views of Millennium Park.

1. Willis Tower Skydeck — At the top of our list of best things to do in Chicago is the Skydeck! Also known worldwide as the Sears Tower, it's Skydeck is the perfect way to view more of Chicago at once than you can on a walking tour. The epic views from the 103rd floor make it a major attraction. Visitors can see as far as 50 miles out and four states from the Skydeck. And if you are feeling a little dare devilish you can go on the Ledge and enjoy the views from 1,353 feet above ground. You can also learn more about the city’s landmarks and history from wall exhibits.

Thanks for taking a look at our list of the Top 10 Best Things To Do In Chicago. We hope these tourism ideas assist you in finding many fun things to do in the Windy City!