Chicago Unraveled: Your Ultimate Tourist Information Hub
Thu Nov 23 2023
After years of exploration and discovery, Chicago remains a vibrant destination overflowing with art, culture, cuisine, history and modern amenities. Home to the world-famous Willis Tower - the second tallest building in the Western Hemisphere - renowned educational institutions such as The University of Chicago and 10 Fortune 500 companies; it's no surprise that millions flock to this outstanding city each year for work or pleasure.
As an experienced traveller who has explored multiple cities around the world many times over, I have personally visited dozens of tourist attractions throughout my visits to Chicago.
Here you will find all you need know about planning a trip to âThe Windy City' â where its most popular sites are located; what activities are available around the local areas; plus insider recommendations for discovering hidden gems off-the-beaten track.
With 86 million visitors visiting annually and many iconic landmarks included on an unforgettable day or two out exploring â from Navy Pier to Millennium Park â your upcoming journey is sure to be filled with fun!
Key Takeaways
- Chicago has been voted the Best Big City in the U.S for the seventh year running by Condé Nast Traveler's 2020 Reader's Choice Awards - offering travelers a mix of architectural marvels, cultural attractions and vibrant entertainment options!
- Visitors can immerse themselves in local culture with unique events including live musical performances, artisan markets and cozy fire pits or attending traditional German Christmas markets throughout Chicagoland suburbs.
- With excellent shopping options, world-class attractions such as Millennium Park and Navy Pier waiting to be explored â plus special deals offered via Travelocity and Costco - every trip plan is possible here in Americaâs heartland!
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Chicago: The Ultimate Tourist Destination
From Michelin-starred restaurants to one-of-a-kind attractions, Chicago offers travelers the perfect blend of culture, outdoor fun and historical landmarks that make it a premier tourist destination.
Voted Best Big City in the U.S.
Chicago has been crowned the Best Big City in the U.S for an impressive seventh consecutive year, according to rankings by Condé Nast Traveler's 2020 Reader's Choice Awards! This vast Midwestern metropolis is revered around the globe for its mix of architectural marvels, cultural attractions, and vibrant entertainment options - making it a favorite among tourists.
From iconic attractions like The Field Museum of Natural History and The Art Institute of Chicago to hot spots such as Navy Pier and Wrigley Field - Chicago offers something special for everyone looking to explore Americaâs heartland in style.
A visit here places you at the center of artistry, technology, festivals, heritage culinary delights and excellent shopping opportunities. Take each day as it comes or use your time exploring one or more unique neighborhoods that dot this vibrant cityscape â endless possibilities await!
Holiday events and activities
Chicago lights up during the holiday season, and visitors of all ages flock to the city for its world-renowned holiday traditions that transform the Windy City into a magical winter wonderland.
Visitors can choose from a dazzling program of activities including ice skating, axe throwing, live musical performances, artisan markets and cozy fire pits â with new events always popping up.
And donât miss out on 11 ongoing holiday events across Chicagoâincluding The Christkindlmarket in Lincoln Park Zoo which is an open-air Christmas market boasting many wooden huts offering traditional crafts and goods.
Top tourist attractions according to Michelin Guide
Chicago is home to a multitude of attractions that are sure to delight travelers of all backgrounds and interests. As voted Best Big City in the U.S by Travel + Leisure Worldâs Best Awards, Chicago won't disappoint for those seeking a unique array of cultural escapes.
According to Michelin's Must Sees Chicago guide, some key attractions include Millennium Park's iconic Cloud Gate art installation sculpted from 168 stainless steel plates which reflects the surrounding skyline like no other experience; The Art Institute of Chicago, known for its permanent collection and annual special exhibitions related to Impressionism; Field Museum showcasing global collections dating back 4 billion years ago - ideal for both adults and kids alike! With more than 70 miles long Lake Michigan waterfront parks offer endless options such as strolling through world-class gardens at Garfield Park Conservatory or relaxing on beaches amidst stunning views across Navy Pier and Shedd Aquarium with its remarkable displays featuring beluga whales, sharks turtles plus special events nearly every day â be assured there will never be a dull moment here!
Things to Do, See, and Experience in Chicago
From exploring the unique neighborhoods of the city to immersing yourself in its local culture, Chicago offers a wealth of exciting activities and attractions for visitors to enjoy.
Explore unique neighborhoods
Chicago is a diverse and vibrant city, and its vast array of thriving neighborhoods are no exception â each one packs an eclectic mix of attractions, dining, arts & culture experiences.
From the famed Millennium Park to the historic Crown Fountain, there is plenty to explore in downtown. Take a stroll along the Chicago Riverwalk or visit Tribune Tower and view pieces of history from across seven continents embedded around the building's exterior.
Shopping at Magnificent Mile isnât just for tourists; locals often find must-have items there too! Art enthusiasts will be especially excited for Anish Kapoor's Cloud Gate sculpture known as 'The Bean', located in Millenium Park, while music lovers should check out Green Mill Jazz Club - one of Americaâs longest running club established since 1910.
Immerse yourself in local culture
Chicago is an incredible melting pot of cultures, spread across all 77 neighborhoods. Each neighborhood has its own unique flavor - whether theyâre multicultural areas boasting the flavors of the Caribbean and Latin America or cozy Midwestern enclaves like Beverly that have been around since Chicago's beginning.
Visitors should take their time to experience all that Chicago has to offer, from iconic music clubs and dive bars in Wrigleyville to delicious street food in Pilsen and hipster favorite shops along Damen Avenue.
There are numerous opportunities for visitors looking to immerse themselves in local culture â from attending one-of-a-kind events including Millennium Park's Annual BeyoncĂ© Music Festival or outdoor screenings at Navy Pier; watching a professional sports game with a sold-out crowd; experiencing classic theater at The Victory Gardens Theater or participating in the pulse of live music found somewhere unexpected every night â thereâs something for everyone who visits Chicago! Additionally, after Thanksgiving each year you can find traditional German Christmas markets throughout Chicagoland suburbs such as Naperville where guests enjoy bratwurst cooking on an open fire pit while browsing festive items sourced locally only days before Christmas day.
Attend upcoming events and festivals
Chicago is a city teeming with exciting events and activities for tourists to enjoy. From the best-in-class film, music, art, and cultural festivals matter of hours throughout every season â there is something interesting going on in Chicago all year round.
The Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events (DCASE) organizes over 2000 high-quality (~240 words) free exhibitions, concerts, theatrical performances , dance events as well as hundreds of programs that celebrate the rich culture and creativity found across Illinoisâ largest metropolis.
These yearly annuals offer an abundance of options from which to choose - whether you want to delve into the galleries at Grant Park or spend your time dancing away at Lollapalooza - there are activities available around almost every corner! Visitors can also experience exclusive live screenings such as Cinema/Chicagoâs series that will be running through late May 2021; this unique program offers one-night only previews from some of gastronomy's greatest filmmakers hosted in various screening venues like Pritzker Pavilion and Auditorium Theatre.
Not forgetting about marathons too! In spring 2021 Ice Age: Collision Course will host its second edition with more than 20 miles filled up with exciting ice sculptures showing off the beauty of winter sport.
Create your own Chicago style
Chicago is a city filled with history, culture and energy. Itâs also the perfect place for visitors to craft their own unique take on the iconic Windy City flavor - something that is definitely a must-do while in town.
From exploring some of Chicagoâs hip, vibrant neighborhoods to soaking up its music, art and architecture attractions, visitors will find plenty of ways to tap into what makes this city tick.
For starters, why not check out one of over 200 micro-neighborhoods scattered throughout the city? Such districts offer everything from food trucks serving tasty grub to street festivals celebrating art or technology - plus cool boutiques selling local crafts and goodies â so it doesnât take much effort at all to become an honorary âlocalâ whether you're here just for sightseeing or relocating altogether!
Planning Your Trip to Chicago
With the right resources and insider tips, you can easily craft your own personalized Chicago vacation itinerary that fits within your budget and delivers an unforgettable experience.
Find the best deals for hotels, flights, and more
Planning a trip to Chicago can seem like a daunting and costly task. Travelocity offers specially curated vacation packages that will save visitors money by bundling flights and hotels together, making it easier to get the best rates and plan out their time in the city more efficiently.
Furthermore, for Costco members there are additional savings available on flights, hotels, and rental cars when booking through Travelocity. Utilizing technology is essential when planning pan affordable vacation - stay up-to-date with notifications about live events as well as breaking news from CBS2 Chicago.
Knowing whatâs going on in the area throughout your stay could very well help you find exclusive deals or attractions such as free admission days at certain sites throughout the city! Do take advantage of researching ahead of time so that you can create an itinerary suited specifically to yourself or your family's interests while also maximizing quality without maxing out your budget.
Get insider tips and stay in the know
Visiting a new place can be overwhelming, but it doesnât have to be. A little research and insider knowledge goes a long way when you're navigating an unfamiliar destination. To make the most of your time in Chicago, do some digging beforehand; youâll want to keep up with the latest entertainment options for music, theater or comedy venues, conferences and local gatherings happening throughout the city each month.
Check out exclusive reports from CBS2 Chicago for breaking news on events, openings or special happenings around townâif you subscribe online they even offer browser notifications! Additionally, take advantage of discounts like Go Chicago passes that often give exclusive access to various attractions throughout the city at discounted rates.
Prepare ahead of time so that once here nothing is missed while exploring this amazing city!
Create your ultimate Chicago bucket list
Chicago is known for its incredible architecture, vibrant culture, and delicious food. With so much to do in the Windy City it can be overwhelming to plan a visit â that's why creating an ultimate Chicago bucket list is essential! Start your planning by researching must-see attractions like the Adler Planetarium and Museum of Science and Industry or unique experiences like The Ledge at Willis Tower or Marina City Towers.
Make sure you catch a ballgame at Wrigley Field, attend a show at Jay Pritzker Pavilion, explore the cityâs cultural institutions such as the Chicago Architecture Center and Yayoi Kusamaâs Infinity Mirrors exhibit.
And no trip to Chicago would be complete without tasting all its iconic dishes like deep dish pizza and hot dogs!
Research upcoming events happening during your stay in advance such as festivals, theater shows, art exhibits featuring work from iconic artists from Frank Gehryâs Robie House to modern talent showcased in The Museum of Contemporary Art (MCA).
Utilize a Go Chicago Pass for attractions
The Go Chicago Pass is a great way to save big on all of the best attractions Chicago has to offer. This pass provides access to over 25 top attractions including the famous Art Institute of Chicago and Lincoln Park Conservatory, saving you time and money along your journey.
With this convenient tour option, visitors can choose from 3, 4 or 5 attractions depending on their needs. It also includes a handy booklet with extra discounts at different shops around town so you donât miss out on any savings opportunities.
Furthermore, there are no blackout days so youâre guaranteed admission whenever it works for your schedule! By using this pass, travelers can customize their experience according to what sights theyâd like to see while getting discounted rates that wouldnât be available anywhere else â making it an excellent choice for anyone looking for maximum value without sacrificing quality sightseeing experiences!
Where to Stay in Chicago and Final Thoughts
Discover the best spots to stay for a memorable and energizing trip in Chicago and donât forget to check out featured events when youâre here!
Top recommended hotels
Chicago draws a wide range of travelers each year, and where you stay in the city is just as important to your overall experience. The Peninsula Chicago, The Langham, Waldorf Astoria Chicago, and Four Seasons Hotel are among some of the best hotels for luxury accommodations.
Notably featured amongst Condé Nast Traveler readers' top selections in the 2023 Readers' Choice Awards for their top-notch services and amenities that outshine any typical accommodations.
For example, guests at The Peninsula can indulge at its grand restaurant overlooking Millennium Park or relax with an afternoon tea service featuring delicate pastries and fragrant blends.
Meanwhile Those seeking sophistication without compromising comfort should book a suite at The Langham on Wacker Drive for floor-to-ceiling views of downtown Chicago along with signature Afternoon Tea timepieces.
When staying Luxury awaits guests who check into Waldorf Astoria located close to Grant Park or reserve suites at Four Seasons which offers award-winning restaurants like Allium popular among locals and visitors alike.
Grab an attractions pass for a better experience
Making the most of your visit to the Windy City doesnât have to break the bank. An attractions pass can be an economical way for tourists to get admission to multiple Chicago-area destinations at a discounted rate, allowing them to save more and do more during their stay.
A popular example is Go City's Chicago Explorer Pass, which provides access to up 3, 4 or 5 attractions from a total selection of nearly 30 options. This allows toursimers complete flexibility in choosing what sites they want to explore while receiving unbeatable savings â often up 50% when compared with buying tickets separately.
Go Chicago also offers All-Inclusive passes that give entry into five top chapters such as The Field Museum Art Institute of Chicago and 360 CHICAGO Observation Deck over a set number of days.
Stay updated with latest news and weather
Before you embark on your trip to Chicago, it's important to stay up-to-date with the latest news and weather. Bad weather can have an effect on flights, road conditions, and other travel plans; ensuring that you have access to the cityâs most current information is key in making sure your activities remain safe and enjoyable.
For current local news coverage check out CBS2 Chicago for reporting from all across Chicagoland.
When it comes to daily forecasts, The Weather Channel or AccuWeather are great tools for viewing snapshots of what it will be like when visiting various parts of the city; whether its a sunny day at Wrigley Field watching the Cubs play ball or admiring architecture at The Rookery Building â always make sure you check ahead so that time in Chicago is spent wisely!
Don't miss out on breaking news and events from CBS2 Chicago
For travelers visiting Chicago, staying informed about the latest news and events is essential for having an enjoyable experience. From breaking news updates to first alert weather forecasts, CBS2 Chicago provides comprehensive coverage of all topics important to visitors.
With exclusive reporting on asylum seekers in shelters and holiday travel as well as upcoming events or attractions like the ballgames at United Center or Amazon drivers' warehouse protests, keeping up-to-date with whatâs going on can ensure you don't miss out on any of the city's offerings during your trip.
With timely stories ranging from previews of local art galleries and museums including The Art Institute of Chicago, The Richard H Driehaus Museum, The Stony Island Arts Bank to detailed guides featuring budget hotels in town or tips on navigating around Fenway Park and Wrigley Field â getting your information from CBS2 is a great way to stay connected while traveling through ChiTown.
Conclusion
Chicago is truly a destination like no other; from its stunning urbanscape and lively arts and music scene, to its diverse culture and iconic landmarks, this legendary city continues to captivate visitors with its endless offerings.
From exploring unique neighborhoods, attending one of the many festivals or special events held throughout the year, or simply taking in all that Chicago has to offer, there's something for everyone in this vibrant Midwestern metropolis.
With excellent shopping options, world-class attractions such as Millennium Park and Navy Pier waiting to be discovered right around every corner - planning your trip here could likely provide you with memories that will last a lifetime!
