Chicago is a vibrant city on the shores of Lake Michigan, blending world-class architecture, arts, museums, parks, and waterfront experiences into one dynamic destination. In one trip you can see iconic public art, cruise architectural waterways, visit renowned museums, and enjoy skyline views from high observation decks.
This guide lists the most worthwhile stops with practical highlights to plan your visit.
- 1. Visit Millennium Park & Cloud Gate (The Bean)
- 2. Discover Navy Pier & Centennial Wheel
- 3. Dive Into Shedd Aquarium
- 4. Step Out on The Ledge at Skydeck Chicago (Willis Tower)
- 5. Travel Through Time at The Field Museum (Dinosaurs & Ancient Worlds)
- 6. Immerse Yourself at The Art Institute of Chicago
- 7. Reach for the Stars at Adler Planetarium
- 8. See Chicago in 360° from 1,000 Feet Up at 360 CHICAGO
- 9. Catch the Water-and-Light Show at Buckingham Fountain (Grant Park)
- 10. Take a Chicago River Architecture Cruise
- FAQs
1. Visit Millennium Park & Cloud Gate (The Bean)
Millennium Park & Cloud Gate are among the most iconic attractions in Chicago, a vibrant urban oasis where public art, architecture, gardens, and skyline views converge in one unmissable stop.
At its heart is Cloud Gate, affectionately called “The Bean,” a 33-foot reflective sculpture by artist Anish Kapoor that mirrors the city skyline and invites you to walk around and beneath its smooth surface for memorable photos and experiences.
Highlights
- Google Rating: 4.6–4.8/5
- Location: 201 E Randolph St, Chicago, IL 60601, USA
- Timings: Millennium Park grounds 6:00 AM – 11:00 PM daily (Welcome Center 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM)
- Price: Free—access to Cloud Gate & park features inclusive
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Navy Pier is one of the most classic things to do in Chicago, stretching over a half-mile along Lake Michigan with family-friendly rides, restaurants, shops, and seasonal events.
You’ll find the Centennial Wheel, a 200-foot Ferris wheel offering panoramic views of the skyline and lake, plus outdoor concerts, boat tours, beer gardens, and art installations that make the pier a lively destination any time of year.
Highlights
- Google Rating: 4.6/5
- Location: 600 E Grand Ave, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
- Timings: Typically 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM (varies seasonally)
- Price: Pier access Free; Centennial Wheel rides from $16 USD (~₹1,350 INR)
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3. Dive Into Shedd Aquarium
Shedd Aquarium is one of the top things to do in Chicago for families and ocean lovers, offering immersive exhibits where you can encounter thousands of aquatic animals from around the world.
From playful sea otters and jellies to majestic beluga whales and colorful reef fish, the aquarium blends education and entertainment with interactive displays, daily shows, and hands-on experiences that make every visit engaging and memorable.
Highlights
- Google Rating: 4.7/5
- Location: 1200 S Lake Shore Dr, Chicago, IL 60605, USA
- Timings: Typically 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM daily (times subject to seasonal change)
- Price: General Admission from $40 USD (~₹3,600 INR) (children & senior discounts available)
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4. Step Out on The Ledge at Skydeck Chicago (Willis Tower)
Skydeck Chicago is one of the most thrilling things to do in Chicago. You ride up to the 103rd floor of Willis Tower for panoramic views and then step onto The Ledge, glass-floor balconies that extend outside the building for unforgettable photos.
Highlights
- Google Rating: ~4.6/5 (based on visitor reviews)
- Location: Willis Tower (Skydeck), 233 S Wacker Dr, Chicago, IL 60606, USA
- Timings: Open 365 days; Oct–Feb: Sun–Fri 9:00 AM–8:00 PM, Sat 9:00 AM–9:00 PM (last entry 30 minutes before close; hours vary seasonally)
- Price: General Admission (Adult 12+) from $32 USD (~₹2,650 INR); Youth (3–11) from $24 (~₹1,990 INR); Expedited Entry from $55 (~₹4,565 INR)
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5. Travel Through Time at The Field Museum (Dinosaurs & Ancient Worlds)
The Field Museum is one of the most fascinating things to do in Chicago. You can explore world-class natural history exhibits, from iconic dinosaur halls to ancient cultures and evolving Earth ecosystems. It’s an easy half-day (or full-day) stop on Museum Campus, especially if you want a mix of big “wow” displays and family-friendly learning in one place.
Highlights
- Google Rating: 4.7/5
- Location: 1400 S Lake Shore Dr, Chicago, IL 60605, USA
- Timings: Typically 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (check the official schedule before you go)
- Price: Tickets start from $30 USD (~₹2,500 INR) for guests; Chicago residents $21 (~₹1,750 INR)
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6. Immerse Yourself at The Art Institute of Chicago
The Art Institute of Chicago is one of the most enriching things to do in Chicago, home to an extraordinary collection of artworks spanning centuries, including American masterpieces like American Gothic and iconic Impressionist, Post-Impressionist, and Modern works.
Highlights
- Google Rating: 4.8/5 (based on visitor reviews)
- Location: 111 S Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60603, USA
- Timings: Generally 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Thu extended hours until 8:00 PM; closed Tuesdays; check official hours before visiting)
- Price: Adults $41 USD (~₹3,350 INR); youth/senior discounts available
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7. Reach for the Stars at Adler Planetarium
Adler Planetarium is one of the most inspiring things to do in Chicago, a pioneering science destination where you explore space exhibits, interactive displays, and immersive sky shows that bring the cosmos to life.
You can learn about the universe, see historic artifacts from space exploration, and enjoy spectacular views of the Chicago skyline from its lakeside setting, making it ideal for families, students, and curious travelers alike.
Highlights
- Google Rating: 4.5/5 (based on visitor reviews)
- Location: 1300 S Lake Shore Dr, Chicago, IL 60605, USA
- Timings: Typically 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM (varies seasonally; check official showtimes)
- Price: General admission $36 USD (~₹2,940 INR); sky show tickets extra
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8. See Chicago in 360° from 1,000 Feet Up at 360 CHICAGO
360 CHICAGO is one of the most scenic things to do in Chicago. You head up to the 94th floor for panoramic views of the skyline and Lake Michigan, with an optional thrill add-on called TILT that leans you outward over the city. It’s a great pick for sunset or night visits when the city lights come alive, and you can take your time on the deck without feeling rushed.
Highlights
- Google Rating: 4.5/5
- Location: 875 N Michigan Avenue, 94th Floor, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
- Timings: Open daily 9:00 AM – 11:00 PM (last entry 1 hour before closing)
- Price: General Admission from $29 USD (~₹2,400 INR); TILT & View packages from $45 (~₹3,735 INR)
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9. Catch the Water-and-Light Show at Buckingham Fountain (Grant Park)
Buckingham Fountain is one of the most classic things to do in Chicago, a landmark centerpiece in Grant Park where you can watch powerful water jets, and after dusk, enjoy hourly light-and-music displays with the skyline as your backdrop. It’s perfect for a relaxed evening stop, quick photos, and a scenic walk along Chicago’s downtown lakefront.
Highlights
- Google Rating: 4.7/5
- Location: 301 E Columbus Dr (at Columbus Dr & Congress Pkwy), Grant Park, Chicago, IL 60605, USA
- Timings: Fountain typically runs 8:00 AM–11:00 PM (seasonal, usually early May–mid Oct); major displays start 9:00 AM, then every hour (night shows include lights/music)
- Price: Free
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10. Take a Chicago River Architecture Cruise
A Chicago River Architecture Cruise is one of the most informative things to do in Chicago. You glide along the Chicago River while expert guides point out iconic buildings, design styles, and local history that shaped the city’s world-famous skyline.
Highlights
- Google Rating: 4.8/5
- Location: Boarding points along the Chicago Riverwalk near Michigan Ave & Wacker Dr, Chicago, IL, USA
- Timings: Cruises typically 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM (varies by operator & season)
- Price: Around $45 USD (~₹3,900 INR) per adult (children & group rates vary)
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FAQs
What are the best things to do in Chicago at night?
Best night activities include sunset architecture cruises on the river, skyline views from 360 CHICAGO at night, Navy Pier fireworks, live jazz at local clubs, and dining on the Riverwalk under lights.
What are the best things to do for tourists in Chicago?
Top experiences include Millennium Park, an architecture river cruise, Skydeck Chicago views, world-class museums like the Field Museum and the Art Institute, and waterfront strolls on the Riverwalk.
What are free things to do in Chicago?
Free things include Millennium Park & Cloud Gate, Buckingham Fountain shows, Lincoln Park Zoo, Chicago Cultural Center exhibits, and walking the Chicago Riverwalk or the Magnificent Mile.
What is Chicago famous for?
Chicago is famous for its architecture, museums, skyline views from Willis Tower and 360 CHICAGO, deep-dish pizza, lakefront parks, and cultural festivals year-round.
Is Chicago worth visiting?
Yes. Chicago combines striking skyline architecture, diverse museums, lakefront parks, rich cultural scenes, and vibrant neighborhoods, ideal for families, couples, and solo travelers alike.
Is Chicago expensive?
Chicago has a mix; many parks, museums, and riverwalk areas are free, but paid attractions, dining, and accommodations vary by season and neighborhood.
What is the best time to visit Chicago?
Summer (June–August) is the peak for warm weather and events, while spring and fall offer comfortable sightseeing without extreme temperatures.
Do Indians need a visa for Chicago?
Yes. Indian citizens require a U.S. tourist visa (B-2) to visit Chicago; apply through the official US embassy or consulate process ahead of travel.
