Chicago: Best Things to Do & Top Attractions
Located in Illinois, this city is known for its bold architecture, deep-dish pizza, and significant contributions to jazz and blues music. It's also home to numerous museums, including the Art Institute and the Field Museum.
- Population
- 2.71 millions
- Size
- 606 square km
- Airport
- O'Hare – Int'l & 1 other
- Train Station
- Union Station
- Subway
- Yes
- Est. Visit Days
- 3 days
Overview
Chicago, located in the United States, is renowned for its impressive architecture, including the iconic Willis Tower and the neo-Gothic Tribune Tower. The city is a cultural hub, with a rich history reflected in its many museums and art scene, such as The Art Institute Of Chicago. Chicago also boasts a beautiful waterfront along Lake Michigan and is famous for its deep-dish pizza. However, the city is known for its harsh winters, which can be a deterrent for some visitors. Additionally, Chicago has a reputation for high levels of crime in certain areas, which may impact the experience of travelers.
Traffic & Transport
The city experiences significant traffic congestion, especially during peak hours, which can impact travel times. For tourists, the best way to navigate the city is by utilizing the extensive public transportation system, which includes buses and an iconic elevated train system known as the "L." Both are cost-effective and provide access to major tourist attractions. Another efficient option is to use ridesharing services, which are widely available and offer a convenient way to travel around. Biking is also a popular and eco-friendly choice, with numerous bike rental stations available throughout the city. For those preferring to use taxis, several reliable taxi companies operate in the city, including Yellow Cab and Flash Cab. Additionally, ride-hailing apps like Uber and Lyft are widely used and offer a convenient way to book a ride directly from your smartphone.
History
Originally inhabited by various indigenous tribes, the area was first settled by Jean Baptiste Point du Sable, a Haitian of African and French descent, in the 1780s. It became a significant transportation hub after the construction of the Illinois and Michigan Canal in the 1840s, linking the Great Lakes to the Mississippi River. The city rapidly grew during the 19th century, particularly after the arrival of the railroads, becoming a major center for meatpacking and steel production. The Great Chicago Fire of 1871 destroyed much of the city but led to a period of rebuilding and architectural innovation. In the 20th century, it was a key location for the civil rights movement and a center for jazz and blues music.
Itinerary Sample
Explore Chicago's highlights over three days with this simple itinerary:
– First day: Visit Millennium Park, see the Bean, and explore The Art Institute Of Chicago. Have dinner in the Loop.
– Second day: Tour the Museum Of Science And Industry, then walk along the Lakefront Trail.
– Third day: Explore the Willis Tower Skydeck, shop on The Magnificent Mile, and finish with a river cruise.
Near Excursion
This city offers several interesting day trips within a short drive. Here are some suggestions:
– Oak Park at 15 km: Visit Frank Lloyd Wright's home and studio, and explore historic architecture.
– Evanston at 20 km: Home to Northwestern University and beautiful lakefront parks.
– Naperville at 50 km: Enjoy the Riverwalk, Centennial Beach, and the Naper Settlement museum.
– Indiana Dunes National Park at 80 km: Explore sandy beaches, hiking trails, and diverse ecosystems.
– Milwaukee at 150 km: Discover the Milwaukee Art Museum, breweries, and the Harley-Davidson Museum.
Attraction
Known for its architecture, museums, and dynamic cultural scene, this city offers a variety of attractions for tourists.
– Millennium Park: Famous for the Cloud Gate sculpture, also known as "The Bean," and its outdoor concerts.
– Art Institute: Renowned for its extensive collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist paintings.
– Navy Pier: Features a Ferris wheel, shops, restaurants, and seasonal events along the waterfront.
– Willis Tower: Offers nice views from its Skydeck, including the glass-floored "Ledge."
– Museum Of Science And Industry: Interactive exhibits covering science, technology, and history.
– Magnificent Mile: A lively shopping district with high-end stores, restaurants, and historic landmarks.
Activity
In Chicago, travelers can enjoy architectural boat tours, unique food experiences, and diverse neighborhood explorations.
– Architecture Boat Tour: Explore Chicago's iconic skyline and learn about its architectural history from the river.
– Chicago Riverwalk: Stroll along the river, enjoy public art, cafes, and seasonal activities.
– Millennium Park: Visit the famous Cloud Gate sculpture (The Bean) and attend free concerts and events.
– Garfield Park Conservatory: Experience a vast collection of plants in a historic glasshouse.
– Chicago Pedway Tour: Explore the underground walkway system connecting various downtown buildings.
Cuisine
The city boasts a diverse food scene, known for its deep-dish pizza and a variety of other iconic dishes. Some of the city's most famous dishes include:
– Deep-Dish Pizza: Thick, buttery crust filled with layers of cheese, toppings, and chunky tomato sauce.
– Italian Beef Sandwich: Thinly sliced roast beef on a roll, often dipped in au jus and topped with giardiniera.
– Chicago-Style Hot Dog: All-beef frankfurter on a poppy seed bun, topped with mustard, onions, relish, tomato, pickle, and celery salt.
– Garrett Popcorn: A mix of caramel and cheese popcorn, known as the "Chicago Mix."
– Jibarito: Puerto Rican-inspired sandwich with fried plantains instead of bread, filled with meat, cheese, lettuce, and tomato.
– Rainbow Cone: Ice cream cone featuring layers of chocolate, strawberry, Palmer House, pistachio, and orange sherbet.
Shopping
The Magnificent Mile is a premier commercial district, offering a wide range of shopping options from high-end boutiques to popular retail chains. For a unique gift, consider purchasing a piece of Chicago-style deep-dish pizza-themed merchandise, such as a themed apron or oven mitt, available at local souvenir shops. Another great option is a box of Frango mints, a famous local chocolate delicacy, which can be found at Macy's on State Street. The city also hosts various art and craft fairs throughout the year, where you can buy original artwork or handmade goods from local artists. For sports fans, a jersey or memorabilia from one of the city's beloved sports teams makes a memorable gift.
Arts & Culture
The city boasts a remarkable arts scene, highlighted by institutions like the Art Institute, known for its impressive collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist works. The Museum of Contemporary Art offers exhibitions of new and experimental works. Annual events such as the Chicago Jazz Festival and Lollapalooza showcase a diverse range of music and cultural expressions. The city is also renowned for its contributions to modern architecture, with numerous tours and exhibits dedicated to exploring its innovative building designs.