Chicago is one of our favorite cities in the US, but we may be biased after living there for 5 years. When you visit in the summer, it’s hard to beat. It has everything you could ask for in a city vacation: museums, five-star dining, shopping, and waterfront views. We already discussed our top places to eat in Chicago (check out that blog post in the link at the bottom of the page), now let’s talk about our recommendations for the top 10 things to do in the city!
go on an Architecture River Cruise
The architecture river cruise was one of our favorite things to do when people visited us while living in Chicago. We’ve done it a few times and it never gets old! Even if you aren’t into architecture, this is one to check out.
Book here: https://cruisechicago.com/
Walk the Lakefront Trail
A great way to get views of the city for free. I recommend starting at North Avenue Beach and walking towards Oak Street Beach. Make sure you walk out to the North Avenue Beach Pier for the best view!
Eat great food
One of the things we miss most about living in Chicago is the food. Anything from deep dish to Michelin-star restaurants, there’s something for everyone!
visit the Museums
If you’re traveling with kids (although great for adults too!) check out the Field Museum, Shedd Aquarium, Museum of Science and Industry, or the Adler Planetarium. If you’re more into art and are traveling without little ones, explore the Art Institute of Chicago. Looking for something free to do with kiddos? Although not a museum, the Lincoln Park Zoo is free for everyone all year long!
walk around the north pond sanctuary
A personal favorite. Take in views of the city on the bridge over Lincoln Park Zoo’s South Pond.
get a drink on a Rooftop Bar
What’s more Chicago than drinking an overpriced cocktail on a rooftop? Go for at least one! Popular options include Cindy’s Rooftop and The J. Parker.
shop the Magnificent Mile
Thirteen blocks of shopping, restaurants, hotels, and famous buildings from Oak Street to the Chicago River. Make sure to caffeinate at the Starbucks Roastery, It’s the largest Starbucks in the world with four stories to explore!
Visit the John Hancock Center
Before or after shopping, head to the 94th-floor observation deck of the John Hancock building to get aerial views of downtown and over Lake Michigan. Technically lower level viewing than the Willis Tower, but I’m partial to the lake views you get at John Hancock.
Book here: https://360chicago.com/?utm_source=GMBlisting&utm_medium=organic
See a show
Check out Broadway in Chicago! I’d recommend Hamilton (yes, it really is that good).
Navy Pier
Is it touristy? Yes. But so are a lot of things worth doing in Chicago. If you’ve done it once I don’t think you need to do it again. But if you’ve never seen it you should spend a little time walking along the pier! The Centennial Wheel (a giant Ferris wheel) is a great way to see the skyline and lake views. If you have kids there are a lot of other rides and games to check out.
Check out our other Chicago posts:
https://followthefischers.com/best-places-to-eat-in-chicago/
