Explore Chicago
Plan your trip
- Hotels
- Apartments
- Vacation Rentals
- Bed & Breakfasts
- Villas
Chicago Attractions
Your guide to the top things to do in Chicago, United States, from skylines to shorelines.
Things to do in Chicago – top Chicago must-see attractions
Chicago is a city where architecture, culture, and lakefront beauty come together in one unforgettable skyline. From glass-and-steel towers to sprawling green parks, the things to see in Chicago, United States range wildly in scale and style. You can ride the glass ledge at Skydeck Chicago, snap that iconic photo at Cloud Gate, or explore ancient fossils at the Field Museum. Ready to plan your trip? Here's the ultimate list of landmarks you won't want to skip.
QUICK browse:
Navy Pier
Why visit?
- Festival grounds
- Lake Michigan views
- Free admission
Lincoln Park Zoo
Why visit?
- Free zoo admission
- Lakefront location
- 200+ animal species
Families
Skydeck Chicago
Why visit?
- 1,353-ft glass ledge
- 360° city panorama
- Interactive exhibits
Cloud Gate
Why visit?
- Reflective bean surface
- Millennium Park setting
- Free public access
Museum of Science and Industry
Why visit?
- Coal mine replica
- Henry the train exhibit
- Hands-on science labs
Field Museum
Why visit?
- Sue the T. rex fossil
- Ancient Egypt collection
- 40M+ specimen archive
Art Institute of Chicago
Why visit?
- 300,000+ artwork pieces
- Thorne Miniature Rooms
- Impressionist collection
Millennium Park
Why visit?
- Crown Fountain display
- Free outdoor concerts
- Winter ice skating rink
Families
Shedd Aquarium
Why visit?
- 30,000+ aquatic animals
- Dolphin & beluga shows
- Interactive reef exhibit
Willis Tower
Why visit?
- 110-story skyscraper
- Skydeck glass balcony
- Art deco lobby design