Top 10 Best Things to do in Chicago with Family or Couple

Chicago is the third-largest city in the United States, located in the state of Illinois on the shores of Lake Michigan. The city is known for its architecture, culture, food, and sports teams. The city has a rich history and culture, and there’s always something new to discover. Chicago, also known as the “Windy City,” is a vibrant city with plenty of attractions and things to do.

Here are some of the best things to do in Chicago:

1. Visit Millennium Park

Millennium Park is one of the top attractions in Chicago and a must-visit for any traveler. Located in downtown Chicago, it is a 24.5-acre park that features stunning art installations, beautiful gardens, and iconic landmarks. One of the most famous landmarks in Millennium Park is Cloud Gate, also known as “The Bean.” Another popular attraction in Millennium Park is the Crown Fountain, designed by artist Jaume Plensa. In addition to these landmarks, Millennium Park also features the Jay Pritzker Pavilion, an outdoor concert venue designed by architect Frank Gehry, where free concerts are held during the summer months.

2. See the skyline from the Willis Tower

The Willis Tower (formerly known as the Sears Tower) is one of the most iconic landmarks in Chicago and a popular tourist attraction. It was once the tallest building in the world and is still the tallest building in the Western Hemisphere. The observation deck on the 103rd floor of the Willis Tower, called the Skydeck, offers incredible views of the Chicago skyline and Lake Michigan. The Skydeck is open year-round, and visitors can enjoy the views during the day or at night.

3. Take a stroll along Navy Pier

Navy Pier is a popular tourist destination in Chicago, located on the shores of Lake Michigan. The pier is a hub of entertainment, dining, shopping, and attractions, making it a great place to spend an afternoon or evening.
One of the highlights of Navy Pier is the Ferris wheel, which offers spectacular views of the lake and the city skyline. It’s one of the tallest Ferris wheels in the world and has enclosed, temperature-controlled gondolas that provide a comfortable ride in any weather. There are also other amusement park rides, including a swing ride and a carousel.
Another popular attraction on Navy Pier is the Chicago Shakespeare Theater, which features performances of classic and contemporary plays. Things to do in Chicago with children visit the Chicago Children’s Museum. Navy Pier is a fun and lively destination in Chicago, offering something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for entertainment, food, shopping, or just a stroll along the lakefront, it’s definitely worth a visit.

4. Visit the Art Institute of Chicago

The Art Institute of Chicago is a world-renowned art museum located in downtown Chicago, Illinois. It is home to an extensive collection of over 300,000 works of art, ranging from ancient artifacts to contemporary pieces. Once you arrive, you can explore the museum’s many galleries and exhibits, which include works by famous artists such as Vincent van Gogh, Pablo Picasso, and Grant Wood. The museum also has a vast collection of American art, including pieces from the 18th and 19th centuries.
The Art Institute of Chicago is a must-visit destination for art lovers and anyone interested in exploring the rich cultural history of Chicago.
If you are planning a visit, you can start by checking the museum’s website for hours of operation, admission fees, and any special exhibitions or events that may be happening during your visit. The website also provides information on the museum’s collection, including highlights and tours.

5. Explore the Chicago Riverwalk

The Chicago Riverwalk is a popular pedestrian trail that runs along the south bank of the Chicago River in downtown Chicago. The Riverwalk spans from Lake Shore Drive to Lake Street, covering a total of 1.25 miles. Some things you can do and see while exploring the Riverwalk such as Take a stroll, Enjoy outdoor dining at restaurants and cafes, Take a boat tour, Attending event concerts, festivals, and other community events.

6. Catch a game at Wrigley Field

Wrigley Field is an iconic stadium located in the Lakeview neighborhood of Chicago, and it’s the home of the Chicago Cubs baseball team. Here’s what you can expect when catching a game at Wrigley Field Pre-game activities Before the game, you can visit the surrounding neighborhood, known as Wrigleyville, which has plenty of bars, restaurants, and souvenir shops. You can also take a tour of Wrigley Field, which offers behind-the-scenes access to the stadium and its history. The atmosphere Wrigley Field has a unique and electric atmosphere that is unlike any other stadium. The fans are passionate, and there’s a sense of camaraderie and excitement throughout the game. The food Wrigley Field offers a wide range of food options, from classic hot dogs and peanuts to more gourmet offerings like Chicago-style pizza and craft beer.

7. Take a river architecture tour

Chicago is known for its architecture, and a river tour is a great way to see some of the city’s most famous buildings, such as the Tribune Tower, the Wrigley Building, and the Marina City complex.

8. Visit the Field Museum

One of the more things to do in Chicago is visit the Field Museum. The Field Museum was founded in 1893 and is named after Marshall Field, a wealthy businessman, and philanthropist who helped fund the museum’s construction. The Field Museum is one of the largest natural history museums in the world. This natural history museum has a vast collection of artifacts, including Sue, the largest and most complete T. rex skeleton ever discovered.

9. Enjoy the beaches

Chicago is home to several beautiful beaches along the shores of Lake Michigan. Some of the most popular beaches include North Avenue Beach, Oak Street Beach, and Montrose Beach. Things to do on Chicago beaches, where you can swim, sunbathe, or play beach volleyball.

10. Experience the nightlife

Chicago is known for its vibrant nightlife scene, with bars, clubs, and music venues offering everything from jazz to blues to indie rock. Some popular neighborhoods for nightlife include Wicker Park, Logan Square, River North, and the West Loop. Another thing to do in Chicago at night is try the local drinks including the Chicago-style Old Fashioned, the Malört shot, and the Green River soda.