Chicago Travel Guide
Ready to embark on an adventure through the heart of the Midwest? Welcome to Chicago, the city that wears its history like a badge of honor, and its skyline like a work of art.
From the iconic Magnificent Mile, where shopaholics' dreams come true, to the architectural marvels that touch the sky, there are fun things to do in Chicago around every corner. And nothing should be higher on your itinerary than getting a selfie in the Bean.
But Chicago's heartbeat lies not only in its towering skyscrapers and impressive art. Seek out its hidden gems on tours of local favorites, or follow your nose to hole-in-the-wall joints for a taste of the city's best bites. The taste of a Chicago-style hot dog or deep-dish pizza might just be the highlight of your trip. In summer, the lakefront comes alive with picnics, paddleboats, and open-air concerts, and rooftop bars have views that'll leave you speechless.
Dive headfirst into all that and more, from must-see museums to Chicago's tastiest food tours, and let the Windy City blow you away.
Best places to visit in Chicago: top attractions you don't want to miss
They don't call it the Mecca of the Midwest for nothing. Illinois' largest city is also home to some of the country's most important sights. From must-visit landmarks and monuments to incredible art museums, the Windy City rewards visitors of all tastes. Get ahead of your trip with these 20 must-see attractions, covering everything from Al Capone's HQ and the Magnificent Mile to the world-famous Art Institute of Chicago.
Insider guides
19 fun and unique things to do in Chicago
It might be known as the Windy City for a different reason, but there are a so many fun things to do in Chicago that the city will blow you away. From cool activities like ballroom dancing and helicopter rides to more traditional experiences like carriage rides and touring incredible art museums, the city is awash with exciting things to add to your itinerary.
Best art museums in Chicago: discovering the city's artistic wonders
Chicago is known for its dedication to art and culture. The best art galleries in Chicago are known for housing world-famous paintings from renowned artists. The Art Institute of Chicago, for example, features paintings by Pablo Picasso.
Best museums in Chicago that are worth your time
The city of Chicago is a cultural hub, so it’s no surprise it has a huge variet of museums. Among them is the Field Museum, which is considered one of the best museums in Chicago for artifacts. Writers can also visit the American Writers Museum to see how the craft has helped shape the nation.
These are the top famous Chicago landmarks not to miss
From the skyscrapers that form its skyline to stunning parks and a state-straddling lake, there are many famous Chicago landmarks to explore. The Windy City’s network of waterways provides an excellent way to tour these spectacular attractions, especially if you visit Chicago in the summer. Cruising along the Chicago River on an architecture tour is a must-do — this is where the world’s first skyscraper was built, after all.
What to eat in Chicago: 12 must-try local delights
Food is an integral part of the history and culture of Chicago. When traveling to the city, you should add certain foods to your culinary bucket list. Some of the must-eat dishes in the city include Chicago-style hotdogs, fish and pork tacos, and donuts.
8 epic things to do in Chicago at night
The Windy City is known for its magnificent architecture, open green spaces, and delightful gastronomy scene, and it really comes alive after dark. Take in city views lit up from the water or a sky-high observation deck. Head to one of Chicago’s many sporting venues and cheer on the home team. Follow the footsteps of notorious gangsters like Al Capone and visit spooky haunts and hidden speakeasies. Or witness a dazzling fireworks display over Lake Michigan from a historic pier. Whatever your interest, this list of epic things to do in Chicago at night has you covered.
48 hours in Chicago
With ghosts, gangsters, donuts, and architecture, Chicago is a vibrant city teeming with excitement and entertainment. But how to narrow it down? We’ve created an itinerary that’ll send you to every corner of the city to indulge in local culinary delights and to experience music and art — and yes, baseball is an art to many. We’ve packed in some steps and pedals between meals to keep you moving, so rest up before you head out to Chi-Town, because you won’t want to miss a beat.