Chicago
Vacation Guide
Architecture, lakefront, and world-class museums — Chicago is one of America's most underrated major cities — where the architecture is genuinely beautiful, the food scene rivals New York, the lakefront is spectacular, and the museums are world-class.
Why visit Chicago?
Chicago is one of America's most underrated major cities — where the architecture is genuinely beautiful, the food scene rivals New York, the lakefront is spectacular, and the museums are world-class. The Shedd Aquarium, Field Museum, and Adler Planetarium sit together on Museum Campus. Lincoln Park Zoo is free. Millennium Park's Cloud Gate (the Bean) is free. Add deep-dish pizza and you have an exceptional city trip.
- World-class museums on Museum Campus — the Shedd Aquarium, Field Museum, and Adler Planetarium
- Lincoln Park Zoo is free — one of the best zoos in the country
- Millennium Park and the Cloud Gate ("The Bean") are free and endlessly photogenic
- Architecture best explored on a narrated boat tour on the Chicago River
- Deep dish pizza is a cultural experience unto itself
Best areas to stay in Chicago
Magnificent Mile (Near North)
Chicago's premier shopping and hotel district, steps from Navy Pier and the Chicago River. Central and convenient.The Loop
Downtown Chicago with access to Millennium Park, the Art Institute, and the Chicago Riverwalk.Lincoln Park
Residential neighborhood adjacent to Lincoln Park Zoo and the lakefront. Great for families wanting a quieter base.South Loop
Close to Museum Campus (Shedd, Field, Adler) at generally lower hotel prices than the Magnificent Mile.Top attractions in Chicago
Millennium Park & Cloud Gate
The iconic "Bean" sculpture and public park with free concerts, ice skating in winter, and Crown Fountain.Shedd Aquarium
One of the top aquariums in the world, with dolphin shows, beluga whales, and a stunning coral reef exhibit.Field Museum
Home to Sue, one of the most complete T. rex skeletons ever found, plus exhibits on ancient Egypt and natural history.Chicago Architecture Boat Tour
The best way to understand why Chicago's skyline is so celebrated — a 90-minute narrated River cruise.Navy Pier
Lake Michigan entertainment hub with a Ferris wheel, IMAX theater, Chicago Children's Museum, and events.More ideas for Chicago
Lincoln Park Zoo
Free admission. One of the oldest zoos in the country, beautifully situated with lake views.Chicago Children's Museum (Navy Pier)
Three floors of hands-on exhibits for children up to age 10.Adler Planetarium
America's first planetarium, with space exploration exhibits and digital sky shows.Chicago Lakefront Trail
An 18-mile paved path along Lake Michigan — rent bikes and ride from Museum Campus to Lincoln Park.How long to spend in Chicago
Recommended trip length: 3–5 days. Day 1: Arrive, walk Magnificent Mile, Chicago Riverwalk dinner. Day 2: Millennium Park, Art Institute, Navy Pier evening. Day 3: Museum Campus — Shedd Aquarium and Field Museum. Day 4: Lincoln Park Zoo, Architecture Boat Tour, deep dish dinner. Day 5: Children's Museum, lakefront bike ride, depart.
Getting around Chicago
Fly into O'Hare (ORD) or Midway (MDW). The 'L' train connects O'Hare to downtown. Within the city, the L, taxis, and ride-share work well. Many major attractions are walkable from Magnificent Mile or Loop hotels.
Best time to visit Chicago
June through September offers warm weather and outdoor events. October is beautiful. Avoid January through March for family travel unless you're prepared for serious cold.
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