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
15 Food Trucks in Chicago to Seek Out
There is just something about dining at the food trucks in Chicago that makes this sidewalk dining experience so enjoyable. Maybe it’s a sense of rebellion against sit-down restaurants, maybe it’s quality fast-food service, maybe it’s taking advantage of the...
Oak Park & Forest Park Restaurants – Madison Street
Madison Street, which runs thru Oak Park and Forest Park, is full of boutiques, antiques, restaurants, bars and anything else under the sun. With the holidays coming up, this street is a festive place to do your holiday shopping, and eat some fabulous food. Their...
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 Chicago Comedy Clubs
It is truly hard to beat the feeling of genuine laughter; humor takes many forms and can happen at any moment throughout the day. Some days lack a lot more humor than others – the reason is that you are most likely missing out on these amazing Chicago comedy clubs....
Bacon Havens – Chicago’s Bacon Bars Go All Out
Chicago was once known as one of the bacon capitals of the world. Back in the day, much of the pork in the U.S. of A. came from Chicago. Maybe that is one of the reasons that bacon bars exist in this land– a homage to the yesteryears. Or, maybe I need to stop being...
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...
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...
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...
The Chicago New Restaurant Rundown of 2014
This is a city of fierce competition. For a Chicago new restaurant to stand out above other new venues, as well as match or surpass well-established names, is a feat of its own. There were many openings last year, but these 15 restaurants have broken through the mold...
Top 10 Rooftop Bars Chicago Floats Up To
Going out for a night on the town is what most people look forward to all week. The only thing better than that is a night out above the town! Chicago’s summer weather should be enjoyed to the fullest while it is around. Outdoor seating with a skyline view can really...
Where To Get Bottomless Mimosas Chicago Brunches?
Some days nothing kickstarts you like a hearty meal accompanied by a little champagne and orange juice. That means that one of the bottomless mimosas Chicago brunches is literally calling your name! There are a handful of solid options that will help you get your fix...
Top 10 Chicago Riverside Restaurants – Pub to Posh
The most fitting way to enjoy summer is to spend as much time as possible outside. These riverside restaurants make it easy to enjoy a variety of cuisine and a multitude of beverages. Whether you are on your lunch break, scouring for happy hour specials, have a hot...
Top 10 Chicago Distilleries
Chicago distilleries are at the forefront of micro-distillation. With establishments ranging from very traditional to modern influenced, each and every distillery has something unique to offer. On top of just enjoying their bottled spirits, the majority of the...
Top 10 Beaches In And Around Chicago
Summer is almost over and after Labor Day, Chicago beach season officially ends – however, we often get an extended summer so it’s never a bad time to take a jog down by the waterside. There are several different beaches in Chicago – and here are some recommendations...
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...
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...
Spas in Chicago – The Ultimate Relaxation List
Life can take a toll on the body and mind – especially while living in the bustling city of Chicago. Luckily, spas in Chicago aim to relieve the stress and release the tension to help you get back to living life to the fullest. From massages to facials, and everything...
Top 10 Chicago Vegetarian Restaurants – Eliminate Meat, Not Flavor
Chicago vegetarian restaurants offer many forms of cuisine– from takes on meat dishes to full blown Mexican food and so much more in-between. Being a vegetarian doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor and only eating celery– which seems to be a common misconception. In fact,...
Best Wings in Chicago – Top 13
Wings are a sacred meal. They are messy, delicious, mainly eaten with friends and beer, and taste even better when sports are streaming across the screen. If you are going to support your favorite teams, then also support your tastebuds by letting them indulge in the...
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...
Chicago Photography Guide – Galleries / Shops / Classes
In this large city, there are plenty of opportunities for Chicago photography. You may be an enthusiast, professional, or maybe you just really enjoy looking at photographs. Keep in mind, there are a handful of great options for galleries, shops, and schools – but the...
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...
Must See Chicago Summer Attractions for When You’re Short On Time
Taking a road trip to Chicago or just trying decide how to spend your lazy days of summer? Chicago is a popular place to visit when the weather gets warm, but whether you’re familiar with the area or are a first time visitor, be careful when driving into and around...
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...
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 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...
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...
Cooking Classes in Chicago – Be Iron Chef not Chef Boyardee
While eating out and exploring the extensive amounts of phenomenal restaurants in Chicago is insanely enjoyable– there is perhaps a better way to try new cuisine; cook it for yourself. There are a good amount of options for cooking classes in Chicago. They range from...
Best Burger in Chicago – 15 Mouthwatering Choices
Seeking out the best burger in Chicago can be an overwhelming task. You can scrounge through Yelp, ask your neighborhood shop keeper or start with these recommendations and see if you learn of anywhere else on your travels. The neighborhoods of Chicago that have the...
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...
The Best Juice Bar Chicago Squeezes Into? Here Are 10
Juicing is a great and easy way to obtain your daily intake of fruits and vegetables. Avoid the shops that load their drinks with sugar – the best juice bar Chicago offers can be found at any one of these locations. Juice Bar Chicago Guide: Vegetarian Express – $...
Top 6 Things To Do In Chicago During Christmas
If anyone knows how to celebrate the holidays, it's Midwesterners. More specifically, it's Chicagoans. Every year during Chicago's winter wonderland, visitors are drawn like magnets to the city's festive energy. It seems everyone wants to visit Chicago during...
Riot Fest – the Good, the Bad & the Muddy
Riot Fest is perhaps the oddest duck of the major Chicago summer music festivals. It feels something like a combination of Pitchfork, early 90s Lollapalooza, Warped Tour, and the Gathering of the Juggalos– thanks to its diverse, often random, lineup and collection of...
The WingFest Winner Is In & It’s Not A Chicago Native
The search for the best chicken wing is a never ending journey for wing connoisseurs. Once you think, for that brief second, that you have found the best wings and your appetite is suddenly satisfied in each and every way you are wrong. With the sudden realization...
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 Chicago Food Tours – Foodies’ Heaven
Chicago is a city known for its culinary diversity, but trying to experience it all can be overwhelming and expensive. Food tours offer a great way to experience the city, and there are a lot of them available throughout our great city. Guided tours will take you...
15 Ooey Gooey Grilled Cheese Must Haves in Chicago
Grilled Cheese has come a long way since I was flipping them in a pan, or even worse, a microwave in my younger years. The big question may be, is grilled cheese really grilled cheese once you add vegetables and meat to it? The answer to that is yes, yes it is. The...
Top 10 Things To Do At Shedd Aquarium Chicago
Whether you are just visiting the Windy City or you have lived here your whole life, an afternoon spent at Chicago’s Shedd Aquarium will be an experience you’ll never forget. Resting on the outskirts of Lake Michigan, the Shedd Aquarium is as close to Sea World as you...
Top 10 Nightclubs In Chicago
Chicago, of course, is renowned for its night life, offering chic hangout spaces, trendy dive bars, great dance clubs, and everything in between. The options are often overwhelming, though. Are you looking for a great night out over the weekend? Here are our choices...
Top 10 Restaurants In Chicago
Chicago is full of great spots to eat, and when we sat down to make this list, we knew it could draw some controversy. In fact it did among the staff here – but we powered through and came up with these as a consortium. This is a general list of a variety of types of...
Top 10 Casinos In and Around Chicago
Gambling is still not permitted in the city of Chicago, but you'd don't have to go to a seedy backroom controlled by the mafia if you're looking to get in on some Vegas action. There are many casinos not far from the city these days; here are a few of our favorites,...
Top 10 Chicago Arcades
Chicago arcades seemed to have disappeared long ago. However, if you look close enough there are still a handful in existence. They range from the traditional arcade game focus, to more expansive ones that focus on mini golf, laser tag, and bumper cars. Sometimes we...
Top 10 Late Night Restaurants Chicago Indulges In
Finding a place to eat late at night can sometimes be a struggle. With a growling stomach, all you really want is some food and your bed. These are some of the best late night restaurants Chicago stumbles to; the diverse offerings should please anyone. Five Faces Ice...
Humana is Bringing Health and Nutrition to Taste of Chicago
Humana to present healthy mocktail challenge featuring WXRT DJ Mary Dixon and ‘Check, Please!’ host Catherine De Orio on July 9 Health and well-being company Humana Inc. (NYSE: HUM) will showcase its largest ever list of healthy food items through its signature Humana...
Go Karts Chicago – The Top 4 Tracks
Being behind the steering wheel and being able to push the pedal to the floor can be one of the most exhilarating feelings in the world. Not everyone has the means to build a racecar; luckily these four venues can get you on a track in race-prepped karts that will...
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 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...
Patios are Starting to Open Up in Chicago
This is a sign– a sign of everything great to come the next handful of months. Sitting outside on a patio just makes food taste better and beer more refreshing. While a few locations are still a few weeks out from opening, others have embraced the weather and opened...
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...
Top 5 Breakfast Places in Chicago
Let's face it, whether it's an early morning breakfast, or brunch after an evening out, there's nothing more fun than hitting a great spot in Chicago for breakfast or brunch. With lots of great places to chose from, we compiled a list that we know will not disappoint...