The 45 best Chicago attractions

What is it? This enormous greenhouse in Garfield Park is among the largest conservatories in the United States. It provides a home for some 600 species of plants (most of which aren’t indigenous to the region).

Why go? Make sure to secure a (free!) reservation online and then stop by to admire the gigantic trees that fill the Palm House, or the Jurassic Park-evoking Fern Room, designed to show you what Illinois may have looked like millions of years in the past. 

Don't miss: In the warmer months, be sure to make time to explore the sprawling outdoor gardens too. 

What is it? Located in downtown Chicago, The Art Institute is a great art museum that is home to more than 300,000 artworks that span centuries.

Why go? Here, you can find some of the world’s most iconic paintings like Georges Seurat’s A Sunday on La Grande Jatte (which you may have seen in the cinematic classic Ferris Bueller’s Day Off), Edward Hopper's Nighthawks and Grant Wood's American Gothic. Afterwards, explore the stunning Modern Wing, itself a work of art by architect Renzo Piano, or special exhibitions like Life and Afterlife in Ancient Egypt, featuring artworks and artifacts spanning 3,000 years.

Don't miss: The regular Drop-In Sketching event, where attendees can learn drawing techniques from a teaching artist (free with museum admission).

What is it? One of the most popular places to spend time outdoors in the city, Millennium Park really is vast, covering a massive 24.5 acres. 

Why go? Millennium Park hosts well-known pieces of public art and a long list of special events, including free concerts and movie screenings in the summer—plus it’s also very good for a nice sit-down. Snap a requisite selfie in front of the hulking Cloud Gate (a.k.a. "The Bean"), take a walk to the Boeing Galleries, go for a stroll through the serene Lurie Gardens or relax on the lawn in front of the Frank Gehry-designed Jay Pritzker Pavilion.

Don't miss: The city's free outdoor public art walking tour, which begins outside the Chicago Cultural Center and ends in Millennium Park.

What is it? The Maggie Daley Park Ice Skating Ribbon is a premier winter destination that reimagines the traditional ice rink as a multi-sensory experience.

Why go? The ribbon offers a dynamic alternative to the typical circular skating rink, making it a must-do for both romantic dates and family outings.

Don't miss: Catch the sunset or the city lights reflecting off the ice for the best photo opportunities in the park.

What is it? An architectural marvel that packs a hotel, a swimming pool-turned-event venue and several bars and restaurants.

Why go? After operating for over 100 years as an exclusive, members-only private club, Chicago Athletic Association opened its door to the public in 2015. Stay in one of the 241 luxury boutique rooms—throwbacks to the club rooms of athletic associations long gone. From the unparalleled view of Millennium Park and Lake Michigan at Cindy’s rooftop restaurant to more great food and drink at Cherry Circle Room and even Shake Shack, there’s no shortage of options. Find access to everything you need and more in this wonderfully restored 1890s building.

Don't miss: We have a feeling you'll love the Drawing Room, a cozy, dimly lit bar that serves as the perfect wintertime escape.

What is it? The observation deck on the 103rd floor of the third tallest building in the U.S. 

Why go? If you're looking to see more of Chicago than you'd be able to take in on a walking tour, the Skydeck is your best bet. The main attraction, The Ledge, features glass boxes hanging out over the building, offering a thrilling experience and even better views from 1,353 feet off the ground.

Don't miss: Before you head up to the Skydeck, you can also explore a collection of interactive experiences at the lower-level museum that celebrate the history and culture of Chicago.

What is it? In 1893, this huge natural history museum was created to become the home to biological and anthropological collections. And, fun fact: It has more dinosaur bones and ancient artifacts than any other institution in Chicago.

Why go? Take a trip here and be transported back in time. Here, you'll find a recreation of an ancient Egyptian tomb, stand beneath a towering skeleton of Máximo the titanosaur, or encounter Chicago's most famous prehistoric resident, SUE the T. Rex, the physically largest and most complete T. Rex fossil skeleton ever found. Fuel your passion for discovery with dinosaurs, ancient artifacts, cultural insights and groundbreaking science.

Don't miss: A general admission ticket gets you access to plenty of the Field Museum’s most famous exhibitions, but upgrading to a Discovery or All-Access Pass will also grant you admission to a 3D movie. 

What is it? Interactivity is the name of the game at the Griffin Museum of Science and Industry, a long-running Hyde Park institution and the largest science center in the Western Hemisphere. It boasts such attractions as a mirror maze, a simulated tornado and an entire WWII-era U-505 submarine.

Why go? Step inside a building that dates back to the World’s Columbian Exposition of 1893 and explore exhibits that depict a Chicago street circa 1910 and a massive model railroad that depicts the 2,200-mile journey from Seattle to Chicago. 

Don't miss: Experience the forces of nature—including a 40-foot tornado—firsthand with the Science Storms exhibit.

What is it? This Museum Campus staple is the home to thousands of aquatic creatures from all around the world, including adorable rockhopper penguins, a truly impressive selection of sharks and a giant Pacific octopus.

Why go? Watch tropical fish swim through a 90,000-gallon aquarium in the gigantic Caribbean Reef exhibition or pony up some extra cash to have a face-to-face encounter with a penguin, otter or an adorable beluga whale.

Don't miss: Jazzin' at the Shedd, a weekly summer concert series on the Aquarium's scenic lakeside terrace, where attendees can dance, drink and enjoy a great view of the Navy Pier fireworks.

What is it? Bill Murray, Tina Fey, Stephen Colbert and Joan Rivers are just a few of the famous folks who honed their talents onstage at this theater devoted to sketch and improvised comedy.

Why go? You’ll see some of the most talented rising comedic talents (and maybe a couple future Saturday Night Live cast members) on the Second City’s Mainstage. If you want to learn more about improv, stand-up or sketch writing, you can sign up for a class at the Training Center.

Don't miss: When you're done getting your laughs out, stroll down North Avenue for a nightcap at Old Town Ale House, a favorite haunt among Second City alumni John Belushi, Bill Murray and Chris Farley

What is it? The first planetarium in the Western Hemisphere, the Adler Planetarium has been a sight to see since it opened in 1930. Situated at the edge of museum campus, it's also a great spot to get unbeatable views of the city. 

Why go? Equipped with a Sky Theater, 70-foot-diameter dome and telescope that lets you see celestial objects trillions of miles away, there few attractions quite like this one. Try to schedule your visit Wednesday evenings when you can explore the stars (and the museum) for free.

Don't miss: If you can't make it down to Museum Campus, check out ‘Scopes in the City—free telescope observation sessions popping up throughout Chicagoland.

What is it? Navy Pier is a popular spot for tourists to flock to, and it stretches out into the waters of Lake Michigan. It's also home to a 200-foot Ferris wheel, Chicago Children's Museum, plentiful dining options and more.

Why go? This is a great place to bring the whole family along to, as there's something to do for everyone. You can take a ride on the Ferris wheel, take a boat tour or catch a show at the Chicago Shakespeare Theater.

Don't miss: End your visit with a drink at the world's largest rooftop bar, Offshore, located on Navy Pier's East End.

What is it? It's located smack dab in the middle of Lincoln Park, and is home to more than 1,000 animals, including lions, bears, apes and red pandas! 

Why go? You don't even need to open your purse to come here, as it's the only remaining free zoo in Chicago, so just walk right in! It's a great place to take the kids to and requires very little planning. They even offer parties for adults at night, if that's your thing. 

Don't miss: Don't forget to admire the Zoo's landscape. While the animals are—naturally—its main draw, it's also an accredited arboretum bursting with over 850 plant species.

What is it? Unveiled by the Chicago Cubs at the start of the 2017 season, Gallagher Way is a vibrant public plaza located directly adjacent to Wrigley Field.

Why go? Gallagher Way offers the ultimate destination for those who want to experience the energy of Wrigleyville without necessarily being inside the Friendly Confines. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly atmosphere, a place to grab a drink or a spot to catch the local buzz, you'll find it all here. 

Don't miss: Throughout the winter, Gallagher Way transforms into Winterland, a holiday market complete with ice skating and holiday movie screenings.

What is it? This is Chicago’s version of NYC's High Line,  a 2.7-mile stretch of an abandoned elevated rail line. It has now been revamped into a pedestrian path that connects Logan Square, Humboldt Park, Bucktown and Wicker Park.

Why go? Try coming here for a run, or even take a bike along and quickly get around to many different neighborhoods, with more than a dozen entrance and exit points along the route. You'll see some great art on your journey.

Don't miss: Build your own 606 bar crawl by visiting as many of the trail's neighboring watering holes as your heart desires.

What is it? Spanning nine floors in the heart of the South Loop, this architectural landmark serves as a comprehensive resource hub, featuring expansive book collections, state-of-the-art computer labs, and versatile community meeting rooms.

Why go? From its red-granite exterior adorned with colossal owls to its soaring interior galleries, the library offers a stunning escape for travelers and locals alike to immerse themselves in art, innovation and civic pride—all for free.

Don't miss: The Winter Garden: A breathtaking, light-filled atrium on the library's ninth floor that's perfect for reading or reflection.

What is it? This iconic Chicago museum mainstay is a destination for cutting edge exhibitions and programming. It hosts one of the largest collections of contemporary art in the United States.

Why go? Take in a constantly shifting lineup of exhibitions, including touring shows from the likes of Takashi Murakami and Kerry James Marshall, or stop by the MCA Store, where you'll find everything from ceramics made by local artists to apparel from internationally-renowned designers.

Don't miss: Tuesdays on the Terrace, a summertime series of free conteporary jazz performances on the MCA’s Anne and John Kern Terrace Garden.

What is it? A mellow dive bar with an impeccable jukebox and floor-to-ceiling, wall-to-wall oil paintings of political figures, locals and celebrity regulars.

Why go? Arguably hitting its apex of fame thanks to Anthony Bourdain's 2016 visit to the bar for Parts Unknown, Old Town Ale House has become something of a pilgrimage for Bourdainophiles. The Ale House has gathered plenty of other honors since its 1958 opening, though—like being crowned Roger Ebert's favorite bar in the city.

Don't miss: While local artist Bruce Elliott's oil paintings bedecking every wall are certainly an appealing draw, don't leave without admiring the smoke-stained mural on the bar's east wall—a snapshot of a bygone age.

What is it? One of the oldest Chinese-American communities in the country.

Why go? Explore a variety of Asian businesses, learn about Chinese culture by checking out a museum or have a picnic in a beautiful park when you visit Chinatown. There’s no shortage of things to do and you can easily spend an entire day wandering the South Side neighborhood. Best of all, a seemingly endless wealth of restaurants are at the ready to help you refuel once you’re worked up an appetite, so prepare to feast on dumplings, noodles, barbecued meats and much more. 

Don't miss: Whatever you do, stop for a round at Nine Bar, Chinatown's first cocktail bar (hidden in the back room of Moon Palace Express). 

What is it? The Riverwalk provides a pedestrian path along the city’s most popular waterway as it hugs the banks of the main branch of the Chicago River. It’s lined with restaurants, bars and gathering spaces.

Why go? The waterside walkway allows you to observe some of the city’s most gorgeous architecture from a new perspective. 

Don't miss: Warm up and grab a bite at Beatnik on the River, a boho-chic restaurant offering tropical plates and breathtaking views.

What is it? This epic 18-mile trail stretches all the way from Hollywood Avenue to 71st Street. On it you'll find walkers, runners and cyclists, braving the cold and getting their daily exercise.

Why go? Come prepared for photo opps: When temperatures drop low enough to freeze the shoreline of Lake Michigan, the trail is transformed into a living snow globe.

Don't miss: Veer off the Trail around Belmont Avenue to visit the AIDS Garden, which orbits “Self Portrait,” a 30-foot sculpture by iconic artist and activist Keith Haring.

What is it? Home of Chicago's pro basketball and hockey teams, as well as big-ticket pop acts. 

Why go? You can't see Michael Jordan play at the United Center anymore (though you can get a picture in front of his statue in the venue's public atrium), but this West Side arena still hosts plenty of stars. During basketball and hockey season, the venue serves as home turf for the Bulls and the Blackhawks—two of the city's biggest pro sports teams. It's also a destination for major pop and rock concerts, including acts like U2, Drake and Madonna.

Don't miss: Instead of fighting the masses for a post-game Uber, wait out the crowd with a "cheezborger" at Billy Goat Tavern.

What is it? Cultural events and the arts are the focus of this public building, which also happens to contain the world’s largest stained glass Tiffany dome.

Why go? There’s always something happening in the Chicago Cultural Center, including free concerts in the Preston Bradley Hall and art exhibitions on the third floor. Best of all, you’ll never have to pay admission.

Don't miss: Want to snag a souvenir? Stop by Buddy, a shop showcasing local artists.

What is it? Sitting right at the top of the towering 875 North Michigan Avenue building (formerly the John Hancock Center), this observation deck places you 1,030 feet in the air. On a clear day, visitors can see four different states (Illinois, Indiana, Wisconsin and Michigan).

Why go? If you want to do more than just take a really good look at the view then you should probably test your mettle on 360 Chicago’s TILT attraction, which dares guests to not freak out as the observation deck is tilted (duh) out over the busy streets below. If you’ve got a fear of heights, this may not be for you.

Don't miss: Take your vinyasa flow to new heights with 360 Sky Yoga, a weekly sky-high yoga event.

What is it? A hundred-year-old theater in the heart of downtown.

Why go? From Aretha Franklin to Frank Sinatra, some of the biggest names in the world have performed at this legendary, 3,600-seat theater. You can catch all types of concerts and stand-up sets here every week.

Don't miss: If you’re more interested in the history side of things, book a tour that lets you explore the venue and even stand on the historic stage!

What is it? Stretching from the Chicago River to Western Avenue in Pilsen, the walls of an old railroad embankment host a vibrant and evolving outdoor gallery of murals by prominent and emerging artists. Revered local artists including JC Rivera and Hebru Brantley have left their mark on the artistic corridor.

Why go? Don't get us wrong—museums are a great place to soak in the culture of a city. However, the public art scene in Pilsen gives a full taste local expression. Check back in every once in a while to see any new additions.

Don't miss: If you can't get enough Latino art, visit Pilsen's National Museum of Mexican Art, one of the largest Latino cultural organizations in the U.S. 

What is it? This Uptown cocktail lounge is a fixture of Chicago’s live jazz scene and has been slinging drinks since before Prohibition (Al Capone and other gangsters used to hang out at the Green Mill—his associate ‘Machine Gun’ Jack McGurn was even a part-owner).

Why go? Once you’ve snapped a picture of the iconic Green Mill marquee, head inside, order a cocktail and take in a set from some of the city’s top jazz musicians. The music typically goes late—weekdays it shuts at a whimsical 1:11am—but you’ll usually need to show up early if you want to score a good seat.

Don't miss: Come through on a Friday for The Paper Machete, a weekly “live magazine” featuring journalists, actors, comedians and musicians offering idiosyncratic reports on the news of the day. 

What is it? This beloved two-screen Lakeview movie house doesn’t usually show the latest blockbusters, but that’s kind of the charm. What it does offer is a beautifully curated selection of films in a vintage theater with clouds projected on its ceiling.

Why go? The Music Box is one of the best spots in town to see movies that don't typically make it to the multiplex. Think arthouse releases, documentaries and foreign language films.

Don't miss: The Music Box also houses a comfortable lounge and garden, perfect for killing some time before or after a film.

What is it? Humboldt Park is one of the biggest stretches of green space on Chicago’s West Side. And it’s a good one, filled with lagoons, pedestrian paths, wide-open fields and a boathouse.

Why go? While famous for its summer festivals, Humboldt Park takes on a serene, Narnia-like beauty during the winter. It is the perfect destination for those seeking quiet reflection or active winter recreation.

Don't miss: Head to the Boat House Terrace for a stunning, elevated vantage point to see the snow-dusted lagoons stretching toward the skyline.

What is it? This house is widely considered to be the greatest example of architect Frank Lloyd Wright's signature Prairie-style architecture. It was inspired by the flat Midwestern plains when it was constructed in 1910.

Why go? It's free to admire the building from outside, but if you want to get the full experience, snag a ticket for a tour offered by the Frank Lloyd Wright Trust. You can go inside and see the original art glass accents, restored furniture and a fireplace that divides the home's living and dining areas.

Don't miss: After your visit, stroll through the stacks at Seminary Co-op Bookstore and treat yourself to a pastry at Plein Air Café, a French atelier-inspired coffee shop in the same building.

What is it? A nearly 200-foot-high Ferris wheel.

Why go? You won't find many sights that can rival the ones from Centennial Wheel, which received a major upgrade in 2016 for Navy Pier's 100th anniversary. Riders are treated to 360-degree views of the skyline and Lake Michigan while sitting in enclosed, climate-controlled gondolas.

Don't miss: Continue your aerial adventures with Navy Pier's Flyover Chicago—an immersive virtual reality experience that lets you soar above the city's skyline.

What is it? Located in the Latino neighborhood of Pilsen, this cultural institution hosts one of the country’s largest collections of Mexican art—and admission is always free.

Why go? Inside the permanent Nuestras Historias exhibition, you’ll see work from famous artists like José de Páez and Miguel Cabrera as well modern pieces by Chicago-based talent such as muralist Héctor Duarte and imagist Errol Ortiz.

Don't miss: Visit during the fall to explore the museum's annual exhibition “Día de Muertos: A Celebration of Remembrance.”

What is it? Situated in a tiny house on a nondescript industrial corridor is one of Chicago's smallest and most hallowed independent music venues.

Why go? It can be difficult to reach this tucked-away spot via public transportation, but it is worth it for the cheap beer, fresh sounds and DJs dropping nostalgia, from Prince to Devo.

Don't miss: Park at the bar and order yourself the Hideout's signature cocktail, The Wooden Leg—a blend of Maker's Mark, bitters and tonic water coined by singer-songwriter (and former Hideout bar manager) Kelly Hogan.

What is it? This Chicago Landmark is a gem of the Park District, with over 70 sprawling acres of natural greenery and butterfly garden. Once an ornate country club to the surrounding South side communities, the regal interior has a solarium, formal dining room and theater. 

Why go? The amenities and activites at the cultural center are some of the best in the city. Practice your swing on the nine-hole golf course or plan the perfect picnic on the nearby lawns.

Don't miss: Stay updated on the myriad enrichment classes offered by the Center, including dance, music, textile art and ceramics. 

What is it? Founded in 1961 by educator and artist Margaret Taylor Burroughs, the DuSable Museum is the country's oldest independent African American museum. The museum is named for Jean Baptiste Point DuSable, a Haitian trader who is considered the first permanent resident of Chicago, and holds more than 15,000 pieces. Pay a visit to see paintings, sculptures, print works and historical memorabilia relating to the history, contributions and experiences of African and African American people.

Why go? The DuSable Museum hosts a variety of exhibitions focusing on national, local and global Black history and culture, as well as timely programming—current highlights include the child-friendly exhibition “The Many Colors of Us” and “The Harold Washington Story,” which chronicles Harold Washington's accomplishments in politics and activism.

Don't miss: Follow the DuSable Museum on Instagram to stay updated on their packed events calendar, including lunch and learns, community barbecues, concerts and more. 

What is it? You might know Jackson Park best for the fact that it served as the site of the World’s Columbian Exposition of 1893. It's also a great place to visit to get lost in nature, without even having to leave the city.

Why go? Take a walk through the Garden of the Phoenix and see Yoko Ono's stunning Skylanding sculpture. Or head over to the iconic Statue of the Republic at the intersection of Hayes and Richards Drives. 

Don't miss: If you’re really looking for a ramble, take a detour to the nearby Midway Plaisance Park, which leads to Washington Park.

What is it? Back in 1971, artist Ricardo Alonzo and local volunteers from the West Town Community Art Center filled a stretch of Hubbard Street in the West Loop with vivid murals on environmental themes as a street art project. Now, with curator and managing director Levar Hoard at the helm, local artists have been working to restore and reimagine this open-air street art gallery since 2019.

Why go? There are many incredible places to view street art in Chicago, but The B_Line, which runs along West Hubbard Street roughly between Racine and Halsted, is diverse, vivid and a clash of past and present—you'll see some of the original works alongside newer landmarks, including a powerful tribute to late Chicago rapper Juice WRLD.

Don't miss: Take a short walk south to enjoy the spoils of Fulton Market, including Time Out Market—one bustling space that encompasses the best food, drinks and culture that Chicago has to offer.

What is it: Once upon a time this museum was just the stodgy old Chicago Historical Society, which let you sift through thousands of archived photographs and curio. That library still exists, but joining it are several permanent and temporary exhibits, the largest of which is Chicago: Crossroads of America, a treasure trove of fascinating historical objects, including a chunk of the original Fort Dearborn.

Why go? If you want an in-depth look at the people, places and things that make Chicago what it is today, the History Museum is well worth a visit.

Don't miss: Keep an eye on the CHM's events calendar and snag a ticket to one of the city's fastest selling walking tours.

What is it? This destination houses exhibits about the growth and preservation of this historic South Side neighborhood, site of the 1894 Pullman Strike and other important moments in U.S. labor history.

Why go? Back in the 1880s, businessman George Pullman built a company town to house employees for his eponymous railroad sleeper car company. The town was annexed into Chicago at the turn of the 20th century, and the industrial complex has since been designated a National Monument.

Don't miss: Swing by the Visitors Center on the first Sunday of every month for a guided tour.

What is it? An immersive museum filled with brain-bending experiences.

Why go? Part of a chain of trippy “edutainment” destinations founded in Zagreb, Croatia, the Museum of Illusions is tailor-made for social media. Loaded with more than 80 exhibitions, the interactive experience reveals how your eyes can deceive your brain. Visitors can craft quirky, symmetrical versions of themselves in hilarious poses; dangle from a second story window of a classic Chicago home; and snap mind-boggling photos by swapping different body parts. 

Don't miss: A ten-minute walk from the Museum of Illusions lands you at Cindy's, Time Out's top rooftop restaurant in Chicago. 

What is it? An interactive experience based around art and technology that encourages guests to reconsider the world around them.

Why go? The WNDR Museum is the home of Chicago's largest infinity mirror room, LOVE IS CALLING, created by Japanese artist Yayoi Kusama. After you snap a selfie inside of it, check out more one-of-a-kind art installations, including a room dedicated to the work of artist Keith Haring and a hallway that features a light-up floor.

Don't miss: If you're looking to bask in some super sweet kitsch, check out “Life is ̶M̶e̶s̶s̶y̶.̶,” a cake-themed mosaic installation by Chicago artist Anna Lasbury.

What is it? Goose Island, one of Chicago's oldest craft breweries, produces many of its beloved beers at this facility. It also contains a barrel aging warehouse and a sleek taproom where visitors can pop in for a drink.

Why go? Whether you’re after a fresh-poured Goose Island beer or on the lookout for a rarity (including the sought-after Bourbon County Stout and its many variants), you can grab a seat in the Fulton Street brewery's taproom or patio. 

Don't miss: For the real hops heads out there: Book yourself a ticket for a tour and tasting, which also includes a complimentary custom glass and taproom discounts.

What is it? A world-famous theater company that stages some of the city's most thrilling, provocative productions.

Why go? The juggernaut that’s home to maybe the world’s most celebrated stage acting ensemble (paging Gary Sinise, John Mahoney, Laurie Metcalf, Martha Plimpton, William Petersen…) is probably what most people outside Chicago think of when they hear “Chicago theater.” From famous basement origins has risen a major institution, where three venues house a lineup of new and classic plays and, in the new 1700 Theatre, more eclectic performances.

Don't miss: One of the city's best remote working spots is Front Bar—a coffee bar by day and cocktail bar by night stationed in Steppenwolf's lobby.

What is it? The Chicago Architecture Center is a nonprofit organization that uses architecture as a means for discussing history, politics, storytelling and more.

Why go? In 2018, the Chicago Architecture Center moved into its new riverfront headquarters, which appropriately boasts views of skyline institutions like the Wrigley Building and Tribune Tower. The stunning venue serves as a museum with two floors of fascinating exhibits. Inside, you'll find an interactive scale model of Chicago that depicts more than 4,200 structures plus super-sized models of tall buildings from around the globe and a preview of what Chicago could look like in 2050.

Don't miss: The CAC's River Cruise, which has been celebrated internationally for its breathtaking views and storytelling prowess. It's also one of Time Out's favorite boat tours in the city.

What is it? A stunning 17.44-acre park in Chinatown.

Why go? Originally a railroad yard, Ping Tom Memorial Park is named for the Chinatown resident who was the leading force behind the creation of this community space. Thanks to its location directly next to the Chicago River, the park is a popular spot for kayaking. The most recent addition to the park is a state of the art fieldhouse, which houses a gymnasium, fitness center and an indoor pool. 

Don't miss: Instead of pedaling or driving to the park, take in skyline views aboard the Chicago Water Taxi.