AREA SIGHTSEEING
Looking for things to do while in Chicago?
Chicago has been voted “Best Big City in the U.S.'' for seven years in a row! There are tons of ways to experience Chicago. Chicago has world-class culture, and a welcoming Midwest spirit. There are many famous bars and restaurants that are a foodie’s dream, world renowned museums, a beautiful waterfront, an exhilarating music scene, clasis architecture, and plenty of open space and parks to enjoy.
Attractions in Chicago
Explore Chicago neighborhoods
Chicago has always been a city of neighborhoods. We’re home to a rich tapestry of more than 77 unique community areas, each with its own distinct vibe, restaurants, boutiques, museums, and friendly locals. Come discover something new around every corner, from global cuisine in West Ridge, to colorful murals in Humboldt Park, to immersive cultural experiences in Chinatown, to fascinating African-American history in Bronzeville.
Explore Chicago architecture
Chicago’s stunning skyline is one of the most iconic in the world — and it’s filled with history. As the birthplace of the skyscraper, Chicago has built a lasting architectural legacy that you can experience on a boat cruise for unbeatable views. We’re also home to a treasure trove of Frank Lloyd Wright wonders (including a UNESCO World Heritage Site), the Pullman National Monument, and important landmarks in our neighborhoods and historic districts.
Explore Chicago’s food and drink scene
Chicago’s award-winning dining scene is as diverse as the city itself. We’re home to the prestigious James Beard Awards ceremony (along with plenty of past winners), along with 71 Michelin-awarded restaurants. Come get a bite of everything from classic Chicago eats (like deep dish pizza or an authentic jibarito) to globally inspired cuisine in our international neighborhoods to once-in-a-lifetime dining experiences like Alinea and Kasama.
Explore Chicago music
Chicago-style jazz. Amplified blues. House music. These are just a few of the genres with deep Chicago roots. Our city has always been the proud home of genre-defining artists, bucket-list music festivals like Chicago Blues Festival and Lollapalooza, famed stages like Buddy Guy’s Legends and the Green Mill, and our own undefinable big-city sound. Maybe that’s why the energy of our live music scene is truly one of a kind. Come hear it all for yourself.
Explore Chicago museums
Our world-renowned museums know no bounds — you can travel through outer space at the Adler Planetarium, uncover ancient Egyptian mysteries at the Field Museum, come face to face with a beluga whale at the Shedd Aquarium, admire Impressionist masterpieces at the Art Institute of Chicago, or step inside a whirling tornado at the Museum of Science and Industry. You’ll also find contemporary galleries, interactive spaces, cultural heritage museums, and so many more unique museum experiences.
Explore Chicago outdoors
There’s a reason they call Chicago “a city in a garden.” Bask in the beauty of our two sparkling waterfronts — the sandy shores of Lake Michigan and the bustling Chicago Riverwalk — where you can walk, boat, kayak, dine outdoors, or just enjoy the view. And you’ll find plenty of scenic green spaces tucked away throughout our neighborhoods, including the peaceful Japanese garden in Jackson Park, lush lily ponds at Lincoln Park, and the soaring glass conservatory in Garfield Park.
Explore Chicago sports
Chicago’s sports legacy is known around the world. Nothing compares to our beloved teams, famous athletes, and devoted fans who bring energy to each and every game. Catch a game in one of our legendary stadiums — including the country’s second oldest ballpark, the home court of WNBA champions, the lakefront Soldier Field, and the United Center where Michael Jordan dominated — and experience the unmatched electricity of Chicago sports.
Attractions in the areas surrounding Chicago
Beyond Chicago
If you have an itinerary opening, consider adding any of these half-day excursions to give your visitors a taste of Chicago sites beyond the city.
Frank Lloyd Wright Buildings
Oak Park has more examples of Frank Lloyd Wright’s work than anywhere in the world. From private residences like three Queen Anne-style “Bootleg Houses” to public-access properties like the unprecedented Unity Temple, your clients can see the evolution of Wright’s famed architecture style through one fascinating tour of Frank Lloyd Wright structures in Chicago. Stop by his inspiring home and studio, the low and long Prairie-style Frank W. Thomas House or the medieval Tudor Revival-style Nathan G. Moore House.
Various locations, Oak Park, IL
Brookfield Zoo
Whether your groups want to marvel at polar bears, get close to bottlenose dolphins, wander through wetlands to see alligators or encounter a kingdom of big cats, there’s a ton to explore at the Brookfield Zoo.
8400 31st St., Brookfield, IL
Baha’i House of Worship
One of only seven in the world and the only one in North America, this structure on the shores of Lake Michigan is the largest and oldest Baha’i House of Worship in existence. Visitors of all faiths are welcome to the temple to pray, meditate, or take in the peaceful gardens and intricate architecture.
100 Linden Ave., Wilmette, IL
Illinois Holocaust Museum & Education Center
At the poignant Illinois Holocaust Museum, your groups can remember the past and honor the memories of those who were lost with exhibitions that feature more than 500 artifacts, virtual reality experiences, and contemporary artistic responses to genocide.
9603 Woods Dr., Skokie, IL
Arlington Park Race Course
And they’re off! Send your visitors to the Arlington Park Race Course for an afternoon of live, exhilarating thoroughbred horse racing, fantastic food, winning wagers, and great sights from a six-story grandstand. In other words, your groups will have a blast here — bet on it.
2200 W. Euclid Ave., Arlington Heights, IL
Chicago Botanic Garden
Nine islands, four natural habitats, 24 gardens and 384 acres filled with flowers, scenic waterfalls, native prairies, and warm greenhouses — it’s all here at the Chicago Botanic Garden. Even better? This picturesque paradise offers tours that are completely customizable to your group’s interests and physical abilities.
1000 Lake Cook Rd., Glencoe, IL
The Tempel Lipizzans
Groups will marvel at the impeccable equestrian performances at stable and performance hall The Tempel Lipizzans, featuring magnificent white Lipizzan steeds as they perform acrobatic feats during a choreographed performance set to classical music. After the performance, visitors can enjoy a self-guided tour through the stables.
7000 Wadsworth Rd., Wadsworth, IL