Windy City has a long list of exciting attractions. Whether you want to see the city from above, explore its many museums or spend time outdoors, Chicago has something for everyone. Here are some of the best things to do in Chicago.
Walk the Magnificent Mile
The Magnificent Mile is a fantastic place to shop, eat, and watch people. While it’s not the only shopping district in Chicago, it’s likely the most famous one. You’ll find plenty of high-end stores along this stretch, but there are also plenty of other options, including some that are both high-end and affordable. You can also find places to grab a bite to eat or just grab a drink while you walk around.
The best part? It’s all within walking distance from Michigan Avenue hotel accommodations. However, there is a decline in the number of visitors to the Magnificent Mile due to the pandemic. The reopening is not as magnificent as the place. But that’s good news for you as you will explore the area peacefully.
Take a Party Bus Tour
Party bus tours are fun to see Chicago’s top attractions while getting to know the city’s history and culture. On a typical party bus tour, you’ll explore the city with several other passengers and your driver/tour guide. You can expect to pass by many of Chicago’s landmarks in this type of transportation.
When you’re looking for good party buses in Chicago, keep these considerations in mind:
- Cost: The cost will depend on the length and type of tour you want to take. Some companies also offer different types of transportation services. For example, some companies provide party bus services that take you around the city. Other companies will also provide transportation for bachelor and bachelorette parties. If you’re looking for a party bus in Chicago, compare prices between different companies before making your final decision.
- Availability: Most of the time, companies have a set schedule of tours they offer on any given day or weekend. If you’re only interested in a bus ride, you can expect to pay between $100 and $200 per person. If you want a tour of the city with an experienced guide and transportation included, plan on spending more than $400 per person.
- Upscale vs. Budget: If your company is looking for something more upscale, they may consider taking a party bus rather than an open-air double-decker bus.
Look Down at Chicago From a 1,000 Feet Height
Looking down at Chicago from the Chicago Observation Deck is an amazing experience and can help you explore the city efficiently.
You’ll get a bird’s-eye view of the skyline, including architectural landmarks like Willis Tower, John Hancock Center, and the Wrigley Building. You’ll also see Millennium Park, Navy Pier, and Lake Michigan.
If you’re visiting during the summer months, you may be able to see fireworks on one of the nearby beaches. If you’re visiting in winter, expect to see ice fishing on the lake.
The observation deck is located at 875 N. Michigan Ave., Downtown Chicago. It’s open daily from 9 a.m.-11 p.m., with the last entry at 10:30 p.m. The entrance fee is $30 for adults and $20 for children ages 3-12.
Drive a Bicycle in Millenium Park
Another great activity to do during your visit to Chicago is to rent a bicycle and explore the city by bike. If you’re staying at a hotel in downtown Chicago, this can be an excellent way to get around the city without renting a car or relying on public transportation. The best place to find bicycles for rent on-site is in Millenium Park, where many vendors offer rentals seven days per week during all seasons.
Besides the bike rentals, you can also find other amenities at the rental stations. These amenities can include lockers, showers, tours, etc. While there are multiple vendors, one of them has recently closed down. The Hub312 station closed down on September 30, 2022. The hub was billed at $3.2 million from the Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality Funds.
Explore Navy Pier
Located on the edge of Lake Michigan, Navy Pier is a 1,000-foot-long, popular tourist attraction in Chicago. There are several restaurants and shops and an amusement park with rides for all ages. The best way to get there is by boat, which can also be reached via public transit or taxi.
One thing you’ll love about this area is its location. It’s close to many other things in the city, so if you have time before your flight leaves from O’Hare International Airport (ORD), drive around and see what else catches your eye.
Spend an Afternoon in Grant Park
Grant Park is a large park in the center of Chicago. Its attractions include Buckingham Fountain, the Art Institute of Chicago, and the Museum Campus. In addition to these sites, Grant Park is also home to one of my favorite festivals, the Grant Park Music Festival.
Every summer since 1893, this festival has showcased classical music by local and international performers at various venues around Grant Park, including Petrillo Music Shell, Jay Pritzker Pavilion, and on Navy Pier.
Visit the Lincoln Park Zoo
The Lincoln Park Zoo is home to over 1,000 animals and has been open since 1868. It’s located in the heart of Chicago, so you can easily explore the city’s other attractions before or after visiting. The zoo runs year-round and features several indoor and outdoor exhibits.
Some highlights include a sea lion show that takes place daily at 11:30 a.m., an aviary with birds from around the world, and a petting area with llamas and wallabies for those who want to get up close and personal with some furry friends.
Another addition that can be a highlight of the zoo is the African lion. An African lion cub was recently born in the Lincoln Park Zoo after 20 years. The cub’s parents have been in the zoo since the fall of 2021.
Conclusion
Many tourists visit Chicago every year. The city is so amazing that it has almost recovered from the recent pandemic’s effect on tourism. According to the Office of the Mayor’s website, Chicago has recorded 86% growth in tourism in 2021 compared to 2020. In fact, tourism-related employment has risen back to 60% of the pre-pandemic levels, and the city generated around $1.3 billion in tourism tax.
Chicago is an amazing city and one of the best places to visit in the world. There are so many things to do and see here that you could never get bored. From shopping on Michigan Avenue or walking around Millennium Park, there is something for everyone in this great city.
