The magnificent city of Chicago is home to some of the world’s finest attractions, including museums, skyscrapers, and local hotspots that are worth a visit for both locals and tourists. As one of the leading communities in the United States, Chicago is home to some of the most magnificent, once-in-a-lifetime attractions. While there are numerous locations to visit in Chicago, you must prioritize attractions on your next excursion.
12 Best Places in Chicago
Millenium Park
Recognized for hosting concerts and festivals, this is one of the most popular Chicago attractions that embodies the weekend spirit of the city. As you stroll through this 25-acre park in the evening, you’ll encounter intriguing sculptures and contemporary installations. Millenium Park is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Chicago.
Chicago Institute of Art
The Art Institute must be included on any list of Chicago’s most magnificent attractions, as it contains a collection of more than 300,000 works of art. Even if you are not an art expert, the exquisite Greek sculptures, Japanese prints, and stained glass installations will quickly convert you into an admirer. In addition, one can dine at the Art Institute’s Terzo Piano restaurant, which provides breathtaking views of Millennium Park.
Riverwalk
When it comes to Chicago tourism, a meander along the Riverwalk is required. One can admire the city lighting along the Chicago River while choosing from a variety of taverns, pubs, and restaurants for dinner. The Riverwalk is home to some of Chicago’s finest restaurants, and the city’s other incredible destinations are readily accessible via water taxi.
Navy Pier
The Navy Pier offers a Giant Ferris Wheel, a beer garden, and live entertainment for a relaxing evening. If you are pondering what to do in Chicago, you can listen to live music on the pier or watch a classic play at the renowned Chicago Shakespeare Theatre. The Navy Pier is one of the finest locations to visit in Chicago due to its many restaurants and take-out options.
John Hancock Observational Complex
The John Hancock Observatory, also known as 360 Chicago, provides a panoramic view of the city from a height of 1,000 feet, making it a must-see attraction. Take TILT, which will ’tilt’ you from the 94th floor, and indulge in a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Being the only location from which you can see up to five states and the infamous Lake Michigan, this is one of Chicago’s most popular spots.
The Cloud Gate, Chicago
The renowned Cloud Gate is a magnificent work of art that is unquestionably one of the top Chicago attractions. It is the ideal location for a photograph, and since Instagram’s inception, it has been a favourite among visitors from all over the world. This amusing installation functions as a house of mirrors and is an absolute must-see for anyone visiting Millenium Park.
The Prominent Mile
You are not done with Chicago until you have visited the Magnificent Mile, its commercial district. Find the finest selection of fashion retailers and top-tier stores at this lively location, where one can also participate in the summertime Magnificent Mile Shopping Festival. In addition, the Magnificent Mile Lights Festival is a must-attend event in the city. Devote an entire day and savor the cosmopolitan experience at one of the top Chicago attractions.
Zoo at Lincoln Park
There are so many locations to visit in Chicago that you will not be disappointed. Especially if you are a fan of nature and animals, a visit to the renowned Lincoln Park Zoo will bring back childhood memories. This prominent location in the heart of the city and surrounded by skyscrapers and structures is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Chicago.
Chicago Historical Society
This museum is an integral element of Chicago’s tourist attractions, as it contains over 20 million artefacts. Those who are interested in history will find an abundance of sites to visit in this museum. Whether it’s the interactive model of the Hancock Building or the actual story behind the Great Chicago Fire, there is much more to this museum than meets the eye, making it one of the best locations to visit in Chicago.
Glessner House, Chicago
The Glessner House is one of the most visited architectural sites in Chicago and a well-known landmark in the state of Illinois. There are a variety of legends associated with this enduring structure, while the museum housed within contains incredible collections of 19th-century life. The Glessner House, an inspiration for domestic architecture, is a sanctuary waiting to be explored by visitors.
Imperial Fountain
As a one-of-a-kind installation in the city, this fountain is a 50-foot glass block that projects images of residents through a strategically located outlet at the mouth of the installation. Located in Chicago’s Millenium Park, this 21st-century art is one of the city’s most magnificent attractions. Make careful to capture the screen in the midst of Spring and Fall, as water effects are only active during those seasons.
Shedd Aquarium, a very renowned Chicago tourism attraction, is located near Lake Michigan. This indoor aquarium, one of the largest in the world, is a great place to spend an afternoon with your family, particularly your children. Over 1500 species of mammals and fish, including beluga whales and white-sided dolphins, make this one of the most thrilling places to visit in Chicago.
Buckingham Fountain
This extraordinary fountain is situated in the middle of Grant Park and was inspired by the Art Deco style. It is operational during the day’s prime hours and illuminates enchantment at night. As 15,000 gallons of water travel around to create stunning patterns, this fountain becomes a must-see for all tourists searching for Chicago landmarks.