This post contains affiliate links
You can’t beat Chicago for cool things to do and places to see!
I love Chicago! There’s tons of stuff to do from Chicago tours of all kinds to great food, to world class shopping. This biggest city in the Midwest is easily accessible to me, and mostly I feel like a different person when I’m there. Something about the big city appeals to me. I guess it’s the fast pace of life and the fact that I can strap on my most comfy shoes and walk all over the center of the city. After all, the best way to explore a city is on foot.
So for any of you that have never been to the Windy City and want ideas on the best things to do while there, I’ve made a list of my top 5 things I like to do when I’m in Chicago. I’ve been there several times and I’ll admit I haven’t done it all, but of all the things I have done these are my favorite, especially for the first time visitor. Keep in mind these are not in any particular order.
5 best things to do in Chicago for a first time visit
1). The 90 minute Architectural boat tour. There are a few of these, but I have done the one by Wendella Boat Tours every time. It truly is a must do for the first time visitor. It gives you a little orientation of the city. The information provided by the guides is interesting and the plus to doing the 90 minute tour is you go out into Lake Michigan for a great view of the Chicago skyline.
2). The view from the 360 Chicago Observation Deck at the top of the John Hancock building. In my opinion this is the best place to take in a sweeping view of Chicago and beyond.
3). Visiting the animals at the Lincoln Park Zoo. A short bus ride form the center of the city in the Lincoln Park neighborhood is the free Lincoln Park Zoo. I was incredibly impressed with this zoo. It’s the perfect size and perfect for the kiddos. What’s my favorite thing there? Hands down watching the Meerkats play is a treat. They always bring a smile to my face cause they are so darn cute!
4). Art Institute Of Chicago. If you love art you have to go to the Art Institute. The special expeditions are always changing, so there is something new to see. I could easily spend a whole day here wandering around taking in all the art.
If you want to save money and bundle major attractions in Chicago, get a city pass and save big money if you plan on visiting these sights. Use my link below (Affiliate link)
5). Millennium Park After (or before) visiting the Art Institute, as long as you are in the neighborhood, take a stroll through Millennium Park. An oasis in the middle of the city, the park always has something going on. Visit Cloud Gate (aka the bean), the Crown Fountain, and Lurie Garden in the summer. In the winter you can lace up your skates and take a spin at the McCormick Tribune Ice Rink. While you are here, why not stroll into Grant Park and check out Buckingham Fountain. In summer at night, the fountain puts on quite the show at the top of every hour!
6). Shopping along the Magnificent Mile and State Street. OK, I know I said my top 5 things, but I cannot leave out something for those of us who love to shop! Really, Michigan Avenue is world famous for shopping and I love the mix of designer stores on the North end, but I love State Street shopping just as much. Most people think that shopping downtown is not for the budget conscience, but really with the great mix of discount retailers such as TJ Maxx and Nordstrom Rack, you really can find a bargain! I know, because while I do splurge once in a while, I am always looking for the biggest bang for my buck. There’s something for everyone on these 2 streets.
Some other things to do in Chicago
I hope this helps those of you that are going to Chicago for the first time, or maybe you’ve been before but never seen something on my list. Chicago is a great city to visit with world class theater, eating, sporting events, shopping, and art. Put Chicago on you list of places to visit and you will not be sorry. Oh, and don’t forget to find one of the many Garrett Popcorn shops throughout the city and go stand in line to pick up some of that famous Chicago mix. After all, you need some refueling after all that shopping!!
Are you a Saturday Night Live fan? Why not check out the Saturday Night Live Experience at the Museum Of Broadcast Communications too!
When your hungry check out the new Nutella Cafe
Thanks for reading! If you liked what you read, please share!
Lori
Go explore! The World is waiting!
For some more suggestions of great things to do in Chicago go to The Crazy Tourist blog and check out their list of Top 25 things to do in Chicago!
I think I might have to do a boat tour on my visit in June!
You must. Do a 90 minute river and lake tour! Great views of the skyline!!