Chicago, often referred to as the Windy City, stands out as a city with a lively arts scene, a melting pot of cultures, breathtaking architectural marvels, and a deeply rooted historical background. For those experiencing its charms for the first time or returning visitors who have already fallen in love with its allure, Chicago has an abundance of sights worth exploring. There’s an assortment of must-visit landmarks in the city, each offering a distinct perspective on what renders Chicago uniquely captivating. In this article, we will explore the top five attractions you shouldn’t miss while in Chicago, which showcase its diversity, artistic vibrancy, architectural grandeur, and historical significance.
List of the Best Attractions in Chicago
1. Visit Millennium Park and Cloud Gate
Millennium Park is located in downtown Chicago. It covers 24.5 acres and is a prime spot for experiencing art, music, architecture, and landscape design. Its most famous feature is the Cloud Gate sculpture, commonly known as “The Bean”, which mirrors the city skyline and provides a unique interactive experience. Other highlights include the Crown Fountain, which displays videos of Chicagoans’ faces, the Jay Pritzker Pavilion, which offers free outdoor concerts, and the peaceful Lurie Garden. It’s a vibrant place to explore the city’s artistic and cultural offerings.
2. Explore the Art Institute of Chicago
The Art Institute of Chicago is a major US art museum with a vast collection of over 300,000 artworks, making it a place with something for everyone. Its art spans from ancient to modern times, featuring famous artists like Vincent van Gogh, Claude Monet, and Grant Wood. Key highlights include Grant Wood’s “American Gothic” and a remarkable selection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist art. The modern wing, designed by Renzo Piano, showcases contemporary art and has beautiful views of Millennium Park and the city skyline. Visitors should allow ample time to explore the extensive galleries and exhibitions.
3. Take in the Views from the Willis Tower Skydeck
Going to the Willis Tower Skydeck is a top thing to do in Chicago. The building, first called the Sears Tower, is super tall, at 1,450 feet. The Skydeck is on the 103rd floor, where you can see fantastic views far and wide. It has big windows and glass balconies that jut out, making you feel like you’re floating. The coolest feature is “The Ledge,” a glass box that lets you stand high above the city at 1,353 feet, where you can see across four states when it’s clear. It’s exciting and a great spot for taking amazing pictures of the city. This visit offers a special way to see how big and beautiful Chicago is, and it’s definitely something you shouldn’t miss.
4. Stroll Along Navy Pier
Navy Pier is a popular place by Lake Michigan in Chicago. It’s filled with fun, food, and shops. It first opened in 1916 for ships and fun activities, but now, both people from Chicago and visitors go there to enjoy themselves. Important things to see include the Centennial Wheel, a big Ferris wheel that goes up 200 feet and offers amazing views, the Chicago Children’s Museum, the Chicago Shakespeare Theater, and lake boat tours. Navy Pier also has many events throughout the year, like fireworks in the summer, music outside, and parties during holidays, making it a lively place no matter the season.
5. Discover the Field Museum of Natural History
The Field Museum in Chicago is famous for its cool science and culture displays. The main highlight is Sue, the largest and most complete T. rex skeleton ever discovered. People really enjoy seeing Sue when they enter the museum. Other than dinosaurs, the museum also shows stuff about old societies, animals, and precious stones. You can check out stuff from Ancient Egypt, admire pretty gems in the Gem Room, and discover how Earth has changed in the Evolving Planet area. It’s a great spot for families and anyone who loves to learn new things.
Bottom Line
Chicago is a city that offers a rich tapestry of attractions, each contributing to its unique charm and vibrant character. From the stunning public art in Millennium Park and the world-class collections at the Art Institute of Chicago to the thrilling heights of the Willis Tower Skydeck and the lively entertainment at Navy Pier, there’s something for everyone in the Windy City. Don’t forget to visit the Field Museum for a journey through natural history. Whether you’re exploring Chicago for the first time or returning to discover more, these top attractions are sure to provide an unforgettable experience.