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 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,...
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...
Adrenaline Guide to Aerial Extreme Sports in Chicago – Skydiving + More
For some, blasting across Lake Michigan on a jetski– or meeting up with those random Tinder matches that seem like there is a 91% chance that it was not them in their photos– does not quite provide the sense of adrenaline that they crave. For some, they must take 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 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 – $...
The 8 Best Vegan Restaurants Chicago Has To Offer
The lifestyle choice of eating vegan is not always the easiest to commit to, especially if you find yourself eating out a lot. Fortunately, Chicago is a very vegan-promoting city, even amidst the sidewalk vendors and pizza parlors. There is an extensive list of...
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...
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...
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...
Unique Things To Do In Chicago – Get Out There
Chicago has its very glamorous side that you seen strewn across the travel marketing ads, but it also has many attractions off of the beaten path. Spending your time immersed in some of the unique things to do in Chicago can really change your perspective on...
Top 10 Illinois State Parks For Camping – Get Out There
Illinois State Parks offer a wide variety of options that can be found no where else in the state. Spending a few days camping is the perfect way to experience what they have to offer to the absolute fullest. Scuba diving, rock climbing, fishing, hunting, mountain...
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...
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...
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...
Best Family Friendly Restaurants in Chicago
Chicago may be known for its very high-end dining experiences– but that isn’t necessarily the best situation for everyone. In fact, some ritzy locations don’t even allow babies and/or children. Fortunately, for the ones that want to skip the babysitter and treat the...
Top 10 Chicago BBQ Joints
When you think about Chicago food, it s typical for the mind to conjure images of deep-dish (and thin crust) pizzas, hotdogs, and all ranges of Italian fare probably not barbeque. But believe it or not Chicago is knee-deep in a full out Barbeque renaissance these...
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...
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...
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....
Poutine Chicago – Canada’s Gift to the City
Poutine Chicago options are beginning to expand, from the traditional ways that originated in Canada, to some of the most exquisite ways that you could ever imagine eating fries, cheese-curds, and gravy. When eggs, brisket, pulled pork, or even prime rib are added...
Top 10 Places To Get A Hot Dog In Chicago
Chicago is known for its incredible food, but that recognition doesn’t just come from the Windy City’s many fine dining establishments. In fact, some of Chicago’s most memorable food can be found at locally owned and operated hot dog stands. For the perfect lunch or...
7 Ways You Didn’t Expect To Spend Valentines Day In Chicago
The traditional candle-lit dinner with chocolates, flowers and stuffed animals is cute and all– but elevate your Valentines Day this year. Don’t celebrate the same way adolescents are. Turn up the heat. Snag your significant other, your best friends or even go alone...
Camping Near Chicago – Cook County Forest Preserves
Chicago may be filled with city parks to give you quick dosages of nature, but if you are looking to immerse yourself a little deeper– you may not have to travel as far as you think. Camping near Chicago, in Cook County to be exact, does not only make for a quick road...
Chicago Coffee Shops without Wifi – It’s Okay to Disconnect
There was once a time when people went to coffee shops either alone to decompress or to meet up with friends to converse over caffeine– think Central Perk coffee shop from the show friends. Now people tend to visit coffee shops to sit on their computers, tablets or...
10 Grueling Chicago Food Challenges for the Brave
These Chicago food challenges are pretty intense. They evoke the feelings of excitement, jealousy, anxiousness, confidence, doubt, competitiveness. There is something uniquely satisfying about being able to finish a dish that was created with the notion in mind that...
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...
Complete List of Farm to Table Chicago Restaurants
*This list appears to be a constant work in progress, which is actually perfect! We have been contacted a couple times to have places added to this list. It is great to see that people are passionate about these types of restaurants and will take the time to make sure...
Get Sophisticatedly Sloshy This St Patrick’s Day
St Patrick’s Day is a very relevant holiday in Chicago– being the deep rooted Irish community that resides in the city. It is seen by many as a time to wear green or fear being hurt, stuff your face with brats and beef and probably end up blacking-out and waking up...
Best Holiday Decorated Chicagoland Bars & Restaurants
The atmosphere of the Christmas season is truly something special. Finding your way into a holiday decorated venue can completely turn your day around. Kick out the Scrooge and embrace phenomenal food and fantastic festive surroundings. Ann Sather 909 West Belmont...
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...
What is the deal with Divvy? Chicago Bike Rental Service
Divvy Review, From a Traveler’s Perspective: The streets are crowded and parking is expensive. Owning a vehicle in the heart of downtown Chicago is not always the most convenient thing. Public transportation and taxis are great, but sometimes being outside is...
Top 22 Bloody Marys In Chicago– You Won’t Believe Some
Bloody Marys are one of those drinks that can made in many different way– which is why people have such split reviews on bars and restaurants that serve them. Some like it spicy, some mild and don’t get me started with garnishes. Every place listed is notable in their...
Top 10 Irish Pubs in Chicago
St. Patrick's Day is a big event in Chicago, and to help you celebrate, the Luck of the Irish in Chicago, we've assembled a Top 10 list, with a little something for everyone! From authentic, to affordable, this list has it all! Top 10 Irish Pubs Chicago #1 The...
Top 5 Ways to Experience Chicago Sights Outside of a Car
The majority of us spend a good portion of our lives in a vehicle. The convenience factor is huge, but it can take so much away from our surroundings. Chicago is a city rich in culture and sights; many of which can be easily missed while stuck in traffic. Eliminate...
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...
Top 5 High-End Chicago Car Rental Services
Sometimes life is about indulging in the finer things. Whether you are on a trip, want to test out a new vehicle before you buy, or just want to cruise around in something flashy for the day, these five high-end Chicago car rental services know just what it takes to...
10 Best Jefferson Park Restaurants – Poland to Mexico with a Hint of Irish
Chicago’s northwest side is rich in heritage and loaded with flavor. Many Jefferson Park restaurants embrace the Polish side of the community, but you can find quality cuisine from all nationalities in the area. With a true neighborhood feel, many of these restaurants...
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...
Best Margaritas Chicago Mixes Up – Top 10
Perhaps one of the only things that competes with ice cream on a hot summer day is a large glass, or pitcher, of margaritas! For exquisite margaritas Chicago offers a great variety of quality options. Best Margaritas Chicago Provides: Las Palmas – Mexican / Latin...
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...
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...
Best Chicago Tourist Attractions – Incredibly Popular For A Reason
Traveling to Chicago is quite an experience. Chicago tourist attractions are spread throughout the city, but many of the main ones are found right in the downtown area and along the waterfront. We may have lists already covering some of the best places to visit in all...
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...
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....
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 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...
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...
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...
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 Chilaquiles For A Chicago Mexican Breakfast
Chicago Mexican breakfast options are a welcome change to the traditional fifteen stack of pancakes and twelve-egg omelets that are large enough that you could wrap yourself in it. The primary reason to crave south of the border before noon is chilaquiles. ‘What are...