When visiting the great city of Chicago, you can easily become overwhelmed with all the attractions and activities to choose from.
That's why we put together this succinct list of the very best Chicago activities to help you plan your itinerary, and order tickets if needed, before you get there so you can maximize your time in Chicago.
This list was compiled by people who have lived in Chicagoland for over 20 years. All activities and attractions below come highly recommended.
"This list of Chicago activities was very helpful when we planned our summer vacation. We weren't able to hit all of them in one trip, but we are already planning a return visit so we can check off a few more. We had such a great time partying in Chicago!"
The Field Museum
If you want to see Sue, the world's largest, most complete and undoubtedly the most famous Tyrannosaurus Rex, you must visit The Field Museum. What an amazing sight!
Shedd Aquarium
A Chicago icon and a leader in the zoo and aquarium profession for more than three-quarters of a century, don't miss Shedd Aquarium, home of the Beluga Whales.
Millenium Park
Since its opening in July 2004, Millenium Park has hosted millions of people, making it one of the most popular destinations in Chicago. See the hugely popular Cloud Gate sculpture, known to locals as "The Bean."
Lincoln Park Zoo
Located on the north side of Chicago, Lincoln Park Zoo has been a natural, free oasis for animal lovers for years. It's easy to forget that you are in a big city when surrounded by tropical rainforests and spacious savannas filled with awe-inspiring animals, including silver back gorillas and bald eagles.
Sears Tower
Standing at 1,450 feet and 110 stories high, Sears Tower is the tallest building in North America and the third tallest building in the world. When looking at the Chicago skyline from afar, the Sears Tower is easy to identify because it towers over every other building. You have not seen Chicago until you have seen it from the Sears Tower Skydeck. Simply breathtaking.
Dinner Cruises
Imagine celebrating a special occasion like Mother's Day or an anniversary on a Chicago Dinner Cruise. Or if you happen to be in town at the time, how about watching the July 4th fireworks or the Air and Water Show from one of these spectacular boats?
Navy Pier
Chicago's Navy Pier features over 50 acres of shops, restaurants, attractions, tour & dining ships, theatres and museums. Probably the most famous attraction there is the gigantic ferris wheel overlooking Lake Michigan.
Adler Planetarium
One of the most popular Chicago activities is to visit Adler Planetarium where you can participate in several interactive exhibits, including looking through a telescope.
Chicago Art Institute
The Chicago Art Institute is most famous for its collections of Impressionist, Post-Impressionist, and American paintings, including works by Monet and Renoir.
Chicago Trolley Rides
Jump on a Chicago Trolley Ride for an entertaining & informative tour as well as convenient, low-cost transportation to the city's most sought after shopping, dining, activities and attractions. Find details here along with other tour options, organized by season.
Hancock Observatory
Check out this view from the Hancock Observatory. The unique open air skywalk takes you right up the the edge, 94 stories above the Magnificent Mile.
Buy Discount Tickets
Now that you have learned about the most popular Chicago activities and attractions, want to find out the cheapest way to experience them first hand? Click here to learn how to buy Chicago Activity Discount Tickets.
Check out this video on must-see Chicago activities: