Things To Do in Chicago, Illinois

Three square blocks of open lakefront complete with a Ferris Wheel, outdoor music pavilion and ice skating rink.

Field Museum

One of America's premier natural history museums, the Field's "Live over Time" exhibit now houses "Sue," the largest and most complete Tyrannosaurus rex ever discovered.

Museum of science and Industry

The museum is  the Western Hemisphere's largest science museum located in a single building.

Art Institute of Chicago

This Renaissance structure, guarded by two bronze lions at its entrance, holds one of the world's great art collections, including the trademark "American Gothic." 

Sears Tower

A ride to the top of North America's tallest building gives you a panoramic view of the architecture, neighborhoods and lake that make Chicago unique.

Navy Pier

Chicago's top tourist attraction offers 50 acres of parks, gardens, shops, restaurants, cultural attractions and a 150-foot Ferris wheel.

Shedd Aquarium

The recreated environments of the Amazon River and Philippine coral reefs at the Shedd Aquarium are only outdone by its newest exhibit, "Wild Reef - Sharks at Shedd," one of the largest and most diverse shark exhibits in North America.

Wrigley Field

One of America's smallest, oldest, and best-loved ballparks, Wrigley is home to the Chicago Cubs.

John Hancock Center

Visitors to Chicago's third tallest building can visit the 94th-floor observatory for a spectacular view of the city.

Lincoln Park Zoo

Established in 1868, this 35-acre, beautifully landscaped zoo is one of America's last free-admission zoos. The Great Ape House has one of the best assemblages of gorillas and chimpanzees in the world.

In business for more than 150 years, Chicago's signature department store operates its flagship branch on State Street. The famous building is a favorite for  shoppers and browsers.

Chicago Cultural Center

This center houses three attractions in one - a visitors' center, the Museum of Broadcast Communications and a performance venue.

Magnificent Mile

This upscale shopping district on North Michigan Avenue sparkles during the holiday season with the Magnificent Mile Lights Festival, featuring street sales, holiday music and entertainment.

Chicago Architecture Foundation

The foundation's two locations are both in unique Chicago structures - the Hancock Building and the Santa Fe Building.

American Girl Place

At this boutique that also sells books and clothing, the real star is the one-and-only, complete line of American Girl dolls.

Alder Planetarium and Astronomy Museum

The Adler has a prime location on the lake, but keeps its eyes on the stars.

Museum of Contemporary Art

This museum's contemporary yet classical design keeps the focus on the art, not the building.

Robie House

This Frank Lloyd Wright masterpiece, completed in 1909, is a premier example of his Prairie School design.

Chicago Historical Society

This museum brings the Second City's long and colorful history to life, with exhibits on everything from the Great Fire of 1871 to the city's rich background in sports.

Buckingham Fountain

Chicago's landmark is considered one of America's finest fountains due to its Beaux-Arts-style landscape design, finely wrought bronze sculpture and innovative use of technology.