THE 10 BEST Things to Do in Chicago, IL - 2024 - Yelp

Things to Do in Chicago, IL

The first thing you should know about this city is that Chicagoans love it. We don’t blame them—there’s the architecture, the pizza, the culture. Known for its amazing food from all over the world and love of sports, there’s always something fun to do. Whether you spend the day at the Art Institute of Chicago or Millennium Park, you’re in for a treat. Its bustling neighborhoods and scenic Lake Michigan views make Chicago a destination not to be missed.

"What can I say!?!! About this place! I enjoyed it each time I came for a visit. It's ..."more

"Field Museum was the first museum stop in our Chicago trip! We unknowingly spent 3 h..."more

"I believe there is construction going on right now but other than that, this place is..."more

"I am an average person that knows like 10 things about art (maybe). This was really C..."more

"Fantastic Quesabirria! Birria Ramen was spot on as well! Service was great and quick!"more

"I LOVE En Hakkore 2.0, some of my favorite casual dine in restaurants that I always r..."more

"Didn't this used to be a Corner Bakery?? What an UPGRADE. Lol We came here for a Val..."more

"My husband and I had to try this destination spot. We bought general tickets and got ..."more

Top Attractions in Chicago, IL

"This is a great resource for many different tours of the super architecture in the Ch..."more

"I am an average person that knows like 10 things about art (maybe). This was really C..."more

"I believe there is construction going on right now but other than that, this place is..."more

"A simple, spectacular art piece in Millennium Park for locals and tourists to enjoy. ..."more

"What a GREAT lake.....haha. After a few beers at neighborhood Chicago bars, we headed..."more

Itineraries in Chicago, IL

No matter what your reasons for visiting the city—or who you’re traveling with—you’re sure to find plenty of fun things to do in Chicago that will suit your style. Here are three custom itineraries to help you on your way.
1695 reviews

The Family Traveler

Chicago has tons of family-friendly activities. The Shedd Aquarium delights kids of all ages. With 5 million gallons (and a few sharks) in its tanks, families can take in all kinds of aquatic exhibits, from the Great Lakes to the Polar Play Zone, with hands-on activities and an underwater viewing gallery. Near the aquarium is the Field Museum, where kids can ponder the universe and journey into the past through exhibits on Ancient Egypt and dinosaurs. Sports-loving families may enjoy an outing to the Cubs’ Wrigley Field to tour one of the nation’s oldest ballparks. Families with kids who don’t mind a little extra travel should consider heading to the Brookfield Zoo in the western suburbs, which is accessible by train and bus. Notable residents include dolphins, rhinos, penguins, polar bears, zebras and more.

Insider Tips:

Located within Chicago’s limits, Lincoln Park Zoo is free and open to the public 365 days a year. Kids can spot pythons, African Painted Dogs, and monkeys, to highlight a few.,On Thursday nights, the Chicago Children’s Museum at the popular Navy Pier is free. Their interactive exhibits invite kids to splash in the WaterWays, become a butterfly in Very Eric Carle and build wooden structures at Skyline.,When parents need a break, consider retreating to Little Beans Cafe, an indoor playspace and cafe near Lincoln Park, where the stroller set can run around and the adults can recharge over coffee.
50 reviews

The Culture-Seeking Traveler

Of course you can’t miss the world-famous institutions of the Museum Campus, but those who want to discover Chicago’s cultural and architectural offerings should also visit Museum Campus South, which is south of downtown in an area dubbed the Culture Coast and comprisees a cluster of seven museums and cultural centers. Highlights include Frank Lloyd Wright’s famed Robie House, the DuSable Museum of African American History, and the Museum of Science and Industry. Design fans should consider taking the train to Oak Park, the leafy Chicago suburb, to see Wright’s home and studio. A walking tour of the neighborhood provides insight into the Prairie School of architecture as well as close-up views of other homes Wright designed.

Insider Tips:

If you make the easy trek to Oak Park, consider stopping by Ernest Hemingway’s birthplace, which is just a few minutes away from the train stop.,The Chicago Symphony Orchestra performs over 100 times a year in their hometown, making them easy to catch. They also host “Once Upon a Symphony” to help the preschool set learn about classical music.,Known for its blues and improvisational comedy scenes, Chicago is home to many theaters, music halls, and comedy clubs—which means you don’t have to stop enjoying the city’s culture when the sun sets.

The Budget Traveler

With its plentiful outdoor spaces, it’s easy to sightsee in Chicago on a budget. Meander through Grant Park, the city’s 319-acre “front yard,” or along the Riverwalk to gain a sense of the city and its buildings without paying any admission fees. The Chicago Cultural Center, a stunning building with a Tiffany dome, hosts free performances throughout the year. The Clarke House Museum, a pre-Civil War home that’s free for all, gives a glimpse of what life was like in Chicago in the 1800s.

Insider Tips:

Garden lovers take note: the Chicago Botanic Garden is free, though there is a fee for parking. Amble through their English Walled Garden, Bonsai collection, greenhouses filled with rare and tropical plants, and more.,Architecture aficionados should know it’s possible to go on a self-guided tour of Oak Park’s most notable homes. Just search around online to find a route.,Walkers, cyclists, runners and others looking to enjoy the outdoors should check out The 606, a former elevated train line that was converted into a 2-plus-mile park. It links Chicago’s transportation-focused past to its present status as an accessible city ripe for exploration.

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