So you’re coming to Chicago, and looking for things to do? We’re glad you’re here and this article represents the collaborative efforts of the staff here at The Chicago Traveler :: we want you to enjoy our great city. With that in mind, here are the Top 10 Things to Do in Chicago.
Pro Sports :: If Chicago is known for anything, it’s passion for our sports teams. Whether it’s Da Bulls or Da Bears, the Cubs, Sox or Blackhawks, you’re sure to enjoy “our boys.” In fact, some of what makes seeing a game in Chicago so much fun is watching and hanging out the spectators rather than the game itself.
You’ll know what we’re talking about if you sit in the bleachers at Wrigley and drink an Old Style with 5,000 of your closest neighbors. Speaking of Wrigley, some of the best places to watch the game aren’t even inside The Friendly Confines. The Wrigely rooftops are incredible in the spring and summer and offer preferred service to guests and groups. In addition, the Wrigleyville area itself has some of the coolest bars in the city :: all outfitted with big screen HDTVs showing the games live. Read reviews of the top betting sites for USA residents at BettingSitesUSA.net and find out where you can bet on the Cubs online.
Deep Dish :: Yes, of course we’re going to mention the pizza. We recently wrote out Top 10 Pizza Places In Chicago article, but there is a lot more to it than just great eats. Many visitors spend an entire week on a Chicago pizza tour. It’s a great way to see some of Chicago’s best neighborhoods while seeing for yourself just who makes the best pie :: you may even begin to like some of our thin crust offerings as well :: say it ain’t so!! By the way, there’s a lot more to pizza outside of the crust – it’s the sauce that really makes the pie! Tell us what you think.
Michigan Avenue :: If you’re into shopping, then Michigan Avenue is your destination in Chicago. But there area also other great areas that we like to browse when we can and one of them is Wicker Park. If you’re into vintage clothing, Wicker Park is the place to start. Another great place to find cool stores is Oak Street, which is pretty close to the Mag Mile. There you’re find men’s and women’s fashions, as well as kids. There are also some nice bridal shops and salon and spa.
Navy Pier :: One of the best ways to enjoy the beauty of Lake Michigan, the Navy Pier has become a major attraction for Chicago visitors over the last century. With dozens of shops, restaurants, live-theater attractions, IMAX, botanical gardens, and more, there’s easily an entire day’s worth of experiences right here.
Shoreline Sightseeing :: To really see Chicago from a different angle, Shoreline Sightseeing is the way. They offer tours of Lake Michigan, which provide phenomenal views of the Chicago skyline. If you want to get up close and person, take a river tour (Architectural Tour in-particular) to learn the history of the industrial giants towering over you. If you want a quick, yet enjoyable jaunt’ skip the yellow taxis and utilize their water taxis to get across town.’It’runs every half-hour between Navy Pier and the Sears Tower, Michigan Avenue, and the Shedd Aquarium.
The Second City Theater :: Having become major center of comedy every since its inception in 1959, the Second City Theater is known for being the comedy venue where legends like Bill Murray, John Belushi, Chris Farley, Dan Aykroyd, Stephen Colbert and others cut their teeth on improv comedy. There’s no better place to see rising comedy stars than here.
Millennium Park :: A monumental downtown park filled with modern sculpture and art, Millennium Park is a must-see; besides, nobody should visit Chicago without seeing the Bean.
Willis Tower :: Formerly known as the Sears Tower, going to the top and overlooking the city is an experience unlike any other. Except maybe the Hancock building, which will let you do it for free so long as you buy a drink when you get to the top.
Shedd Aquarium :: With more than 22,000 species of fish, amphibians, and other water creatures, Shedd is the largest indoor aquarium in the world.
Museum of Science and Industry :: Set on a beautiful campus overlooking Lake Michigan, the Museum of Science and industry is filled with things like America’s only complete German U-Boat, the Smart Home of the future, and a full-sized Curiosity rover.
Live Theater :: From comedy, to Broadway in Chicago, to Shakespearian theater, and experimental projects, Chicago never has a lack of live-performances to amaze you.
More Places & Things
TOP 10 Chicago Sushi Restaurants
If you’ve got a taste for raw fish and the many ways it can be prepared, you may be interested to know which the top sushi places in Chicago are. Each has its own unique décor and personality. They’re about as different from each other as night from day, but Sushi...
Top 10 Chicago Restaurants With A View
Some of Chicago’s best food can be found in ‘ma & pa’ restaurants and even on the sidewalk. To make your evening of dining out a true experience, a magnificent view of Chicago’s skyline is almost a must. These Chicago restaurants should be on everyone’s bucket-list....
Fishing in Chicago – 25 Spots for Tight Lines
It’s not required to drive hours to lakes around the state when you can go fishing in Chicago. While it may not be the same as escaping from the hustle and bustle of the city into some place a little more quiet and serene, it’ll definitely help to satisfy your need...
Cocktail Bars Chicago Sips In – Master Mixologists
Wine is good, beer is even better, but sometimes nothing quite does it like a quality crafted cocktail. Fortunately, there are plenty of fantastic cocktail bars Chicago can choose from. Chicago is equipped with venues of ultimate sophistication and class, to dive bars...
Top Five Chicago Bars to Watch the Stanley Cup Playoffs
Unless you’re living under a rock, if you’re in Chicago, you know the Stanley Cup Playoffs are going on. And if you want to head out to cheer your Blackhawks on, check out one (or more) of our favorite places to watch the hockey games. 1. Emerald Loop. This downtown...
Top 10 Attractions In Chicago Kids Will Enjoy
Chicago is already a massive world of adventure for us adults; imagine what it is like for children. Skyscrapers seem that much larger and so do the slices of famous Chicago pizza. Luckily, many establishments have realized this and have created attractions in Chicago...
Chicago’s Little Italy Restaurants – Italian on Taylor Street
Taylor Street is well known as the Chicago Little Italy (also University Village); however, over the years it has expanded from only having Italian influence. Fortunately, in the midst of barbecue and Mexican restaurants, some of the best Italian restaurants in...
Top 10 Chinese Restaurants In Chicago
Chinese restaurants are gems hidden in plain view. Every once in awhile I get a craving so hard that I must go find some fluffy steamed rice, chicken, and soy sauce. When that utter desire hits you next, and only Chinese food can suppress the feeling, these ten...
Top 10 Pizza Places In Chicago
Chicago is known for many things: towering skyscrapers, gorgeous lakefront, Al Capone, sometimes questionable politicians, and of course, food. Chicago offers some of the best eats in the country, especially when it comes to pizza. There s no other place in the world...
10 Chicago New Years Bashes For $25 or less!
Taking a step into the New Year does not mean that you need to spend your annual salary to celebrate. Chicago New Years bashes are found on every corner at every price range. However, entertainment can be had for very little commitment from you. You can even snag a...
Top 10 Chicago Farmers Markets
Not much accents warm weather better than being outside and indulging in great, fresh, local food. Chicago farmers markets provide a relaxing, friendly atmosphere to pick up some of the best produce around and potentially hear live music while indulging in a freshly...
Perfect First Date Ideas – Get Out of the Bar
Those words come across your screen, “Hey there, how would you like to meet up on Saturday?” Your heart pounds a little harder, your palms start sweating, and your mind races into a thousand different directions. After you come back down to the real world again and...
Aerial Sightseeing Chicago – Hot Air Balloons & Helicopter Tours
Going above and beyond to see sights is not necessarily just a figure of speech. Actually lifting off of the ground to experience aerial sightseeing Chicago, whether that be via hot air balloon or a helicopter– it will put the scale of Chicago into an entirely new...
Chicago Haunted Houses – Are You Prepared?
Halloween is a time that many people look forward to each year. It is a reason to dress up in ridiculous costumes, get together with friends and enjoy themselves. For others, it is a time for family– and obtaining an absurd amount of candy in the traditional form of...
Bike Chicago – Your 2-Wheel Guide
Are you the type of person that likes to enjoy life on just two-wheels? Chicago is becoming a model city as far as being bicycle friendly. This guide covers all of the essential to pedaling around the city and surrounding areas. We also provide you will other great...
Explore Illinois Wineries – They Are Everything You Want
When thinking of Illinois, you may think craft breweries and distilleries– but probably not wineries. You have been missing out. To get the full experience you must go beyond just wine tasting Chicago areas– the best experiences are at the actual Illinois wineries. ...
Top 10 Chicago Walking Tours – Get Fit – See The City
Chicago is one of the most famous cities in America. The Windy City is known for its dynamic past, culture, history, and food. Many visitors come away from Chicago with pleasant memories of the popular deep dish Pizza. Another thing that Chicago is known for is its...
Top 10 Things To See At The Field Museum of Natural History
Get off the couch, gather up the family, and go explore the Field Museum of Natural History in Chicago. One of the many exciting institutions that makes up the city’s museum campus, the Field Museum offers great attractions for families and school groups. Here are...
10 Places to Go in Chicago
Of course in Chicago we haven’t had the best weather. The past couple of days haven’t been bad, but we are certainly not done with winter. So come along with me as I plan out my points of interest for the year. Some of these I have been to and really enjoyed like a...
16 Best Nachos in Chicago – Irresistible Crunch & Loaded Flavors
It seems like, more often than not, when I go out for the night with a group, we end up starting dinner with a heaping plate of nachos. They really are the perfect way to feed a small army if you aren’t counting your calories. That is why we set out to find the best...
Top 10 Chicago Food Trucks
Sitting down at a restaurant is not always the most convenient way to grab a bite to eat and fast food is not always appetizing. Chicago food trucks roam throughout the city to offer a welcome change to the normal food options. Beware, once you find a truck that you...
10 Yoga Studios That Center Chicago – Find Your Place
Yoga has been growing in popularity immensely over the last handful of years, especially. With many people seeking it out solely as a form of exercise, there are many studios opening that also treat it as exercise, rather than the classical form of yoga which involves...
The Best Chicago Parks To Escape To
The cityscape is a great place to explore, but with everything a break is needed from time to time. Chicago parks offer a diverse amount of atmospheres that all hold something unique. From sandy beaches to sculptures and conservatories, you will surely be able to find...
Top Chicago Breweries & Their Most Popular Beer
Chicago breweries produce some of the best and most unique beer in the land. Beer is a nectar that has the power to not only tantalize tastebuds, but also to bring people together. These breweries produce some of the most popular in Chicago. While not all of them are...
Forest Park Bars – Madison Street Is Flowing With Beer & Wine
Forest Park, Illinois is known well for neighborhood dining, but in the past it was known for its many Irish pubs. In fact, Forest Park has its own St. Patrick’s Day parade which is quite popular. Some of the Irish pubs and as some like to call, the “old-man” bars...
10 Unique Bars Near O Hare Airport
Many times when travelers are visiting Chicago and staying in hotels near O Hare Airport or the Rosemont Commercial District, they wind up visiting bars either at the airport, in their hotels or the commercial district very close by. They never venture out to...
10 Affordably Fun Stops For St Patrick’s Day
Ahh, the green season is upon us once again. St Patrick’s Day is one of Chicago’s most dear holidays. Everyone becomes Irish for a week and enough whiskey is taken back to make John Jameson proud. The river flows green, as well as the beer. Corned-Beef is not in short...
Best Asian Restaurants In Chicago’s NW Suburbs
If you live in the city and love Japanese and Korean food, you may consider visiting the northwest suburbs. Many Japanese and Korean companies have made Schaumburg and Hoffman Estates their North American Headquarters. As a result, neighboring suburbs have a large...
BYOB Chicago Restaurants – Top 10 In The City
Spending an evening dining out is an enjoyable way to pass the time – especially when in good company. On top of food prices, alcohol can quickly make the bill escalate. Fortunately there are numerous BYOB Chicago restaurants to choose from. Being able to indulge in...
North Avenue Chicago – Restaurant Row
This strip of North Avenue Chicago, between Oak Park Avenue and Thatcher Avenue, is a vibrant strip of fantastic dining. Lined with some of area’s best restaurants– the dining scene in this part of Chicago and the Western Suburbs is diverse as well as delicious....
Uno Chicago Grill / Pizzeria Uno
I've written about quite a few pizza places here in Chicago, but you can't talk about deep-dish pizza without giving homage to the original: Uno Chicago Grill, better known as Pizzeria Uno. (The new name evolved from the new menu, which includes 'hip and intense new...
Roller Derby Chicago – The Local Leagues
If you trace history back to the late 1800’s, you may be surprised to find that there are roller derby Chicago origins. That is correct, roller derby was essentially formed in Chicago – although, it has evolved over the years. During the 1930s is when roller derby as...
Experience the Amazing City of Chicago on a Boat Cruise!
Summer in Chicago means lots of boats on our big, beautiful lake and long, winding river. When I have company in from out of town, be it friends or family, we often head downtown so I can show off our awesome city on a boat tour. Here are the boat companies I’ve...
Breakfast Pizza in Chicago – Forget About Deep Dish
Eating breakfast pizza in Chicago does not have to mean cold deep dish from the night before or even ordering a deep dish before noon. Eating pizza for breakfast means that you’ll be taking in a deliciousness of ingredients that are reminiscent of a hearty,...
15 of the Best Pancakes in Chicago – Cake for Breakfast
Sometimes in the morning nothing is more satisfying than a simple, quintessential breakfast. Nothing tends to fit the bill more perfectly than a plate of some of the best pancakes in Chicago– especially after an aggressive night. Yes– French toast is bomb and it...
Top 21 Monday Specials Chicago Can Look Forward To
Mondays seem to be one of the most hated things that have ever existed. Rather than despised, they should be celebrated. Set the mood for the rest of the work week by going out and enjoying these Monday specials Chicago provides to its good patrons. From here on out...
Top 10 Tapas Chicago Venues
Going out to eat should be an experience, something that you can make a night of. Small plates of gourmet dishes eaten amongst friends is the perfect reason to check out these tapas Chicago venues. Tapas Valencia Tapas Valencia is an award winning Spanish tapas venue...
Top 10 TV Shows Set In Chicago
Filmmakers looking for an interesting setting for their television or film have long been drawn to the Second City; with a rich history, dynamic setting, and a famously cosmopolitan culture, Chicago has strong cinematic appeal across a variety of genres. Over the...
Find Your NFL Team At These Chicago Sports Bars
Some traditions require you to sit in the exact same spot on your couch if you want your team to trump the competition' others require one of the Chicago sports bars packed with familiar colors. Many bars are equipped with NFL Sunday Ticket, which will expand your...
Top 10 Things To See At The Art Institute of Chicago
The Art Institute of Chicago is a world-class art museum with some of the finest collections in the country. No matter what your tastes are ' or even if you don’t know a lick about art ' make sure to visit this amazing museum in the heart of downtown Chicago right...
Top 10 Mouthwatering Italian Beef Sandwiches in Chicagoland
As with many things in Chicago– people have very strong opinions about their favorite teams, music and food. Italian beef has become a staple in Chicago. I still remember my first– it was homemade and completely soaked through the bun with all of the hot goodness...
Top 10 Chicago Events That Come With Spring
The winter months can often be pretty brutal in Chicago. Many days are spent hibernating rather than enjoying everything that the city has to offer. When April and May finally make their way around again, everyone is surprised that they did not freeze to death and...
Top 5 Country Bars & Clubs In Chicagoland
Chicago is an epicenter of the music scene in this day and age. Any band worth their salt knows that if they're going on a nationwide tour they need to get to the Windy City at least once. Chicagoans are a diverse musical crowd and there are plenty of places...
Top 10 Water Parks In Chicago For Summer Fun
With hot weather, comes the need for two thing: outdoor fun and a way to cool off. Spending your day at one of the water parks in Chicago or the area is really one of the most enjoyable ways to do it. Wether you are looking for a quick visit or willing to head to...
Chicago Fine Dining On A Budget– It Does Exist
There are a lot of secrets in the dining world, but one of the most well-kept secrets are culinary school restaurants. Since Chicago is a big dining town, there are many. If you are looking to have a Chicago fine dining experience on a budget, these places would fit...
The Best Pho Chicago Warms Up With – Vietnamese Perfection
Pho is somewhat of a miracle in a bowl. It has this way of bringing comfort into your life when you didn’t even know that you needed to be comforted. If you happen to find yourself sick or a little hungover, Pho can speed up the healing process. Whether you are...
Top 10 Buffets In Chicago – All You Can Eat
Sometimes being unrestricted is much needed. The buffets in Chicago aim to lift limitations and let you choose your own boundaries. Buffets do not always have to be traditional style, as you will see, some of the buffets in Chicago are quite exquisite with their...
11 Best Chicago Disc Golf Courses – In the City & Beyond
Disc Golf remains somewhat of a niche sport. It has definitely grown in popularity over the years and professional series do exist, but there is still a good amount of people who have never played it or don’t know much about it. Fortunately, for the people that do...
Couples Massages in Chicago – Relax Together
Relationships have many feels attached to them. Perhaps the best feel is the feeling of relaxation– wait, isn’t it suppose to be love? Yeah, the best is love– then relaxation. Setting you and your number one up for couples massages is a way to experience love and...
Top 10 Magnificent Mile Attractions
Chicago’s Magnificent Mile is almost like the yellow-brick-road of downtown. The Michigan Avenue District boasts some of the best shopping, entertainment, dining, and lodging options in the entire city. It is a mecca for Chicago attractions. While the streets are...