Chicago is a city that captivates with its stunning architecture and rich history. Explore the iconic skyline, where the Willis Tower offers breathtaking views. Don’t miss the vibrant art scene at the Art Institute of Chicago, home to masterpieces like Grant Wood’s "American Gothic." Savor deep-dish pizza and Chicago-style hot dogs for a taste of local flavor. With its jazz and blues roots, the city's music scene is a must-experience. Chicago truly has something for everyone!
Chicago, United States
15 Best Things to Do in Chicago
The sights travelers rate highest in Chicago, with what makes each worth your time.
We rank by how many travelers reviewed each place, across the 111 we track here. Updated monthly.
Millennium Park
Park & natureMillennium Park is a vibrant public space in the heart of Chicago, blending art, architecture, and nature.
Read our full guide →Art Institute of Chicago
MuseumThe Art Institute of Chicago is a world-class museum housing over 300,000 artworks spanning centuries and continents.
Read our full guide →Cloud Gate
LandmarkCloud Gate, affectionately known as 'The Bean', is a monumental public sculpture by Anish Kapoor in Millennium Park.
Read our full guide →Chicago Cultural Center
MuseumThe Chicago Cultural Center is a magnificent public building that serves as a free cultural hub.
Read our full guide →Crown Fountain
LandmarkCrown Fountain, designed by Spanish artist Jaume Plensa, is a playful water feature in Millennium Park.
Read our full guide →Richard H. Driehaus Museum
MuseumThe Richard H. Driehaus Museum is one of Chicago's hidden gems, a sumptuously restored Gilded Age mansion that offers an immersive glimpse into the opulent world of America's late-19th-century elite.
Read our full guide →Maggie Daley Park
Park & natureFree entryMaggie Daley Park is a modern urban oasis in the heart of Chicago's Loop, offering a dynamic mix of recreational activities and green spaces.
Read our full guide →The Loop
NeighborhoodFree entryThe Loop is the historic heart of Chicago, defined by its elevated train tracks that loop around the district.
Read our full guide →Buddy Guy's Legends
EntertainmentBuddy Guy's Legends is a cornerstone of Chicago's blues scene, located at 700 S Wabash Avenue in the South Loop.
Read our full guide →Chicago Theatre
EntertainmentThe Chicago Theatre, a Beaux-Arts landmark on State Street, originally opened as a movie palace in 1921.
Read our full guide →Symphony Center
EntertainmentSymphony Center is the prestigious home of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, consistently ranked among the world's finest orchestras.
Read our full guide →Chicago Skyline
LandmarkFree entryThe Chicago Skyline is one of the most recognizable urban landscapes in the world, defined by a mix of historic and modern skyscrapers along the shores of Lake Michigan.
Read our full guide →Christkindlmarket, Chicago
MarketChristkindlmarket Chicago is an annual German Christmas market in Daley Plaza, transforming the plaza into a winter wonderland.
Read our full guide →Andy's Jazz Club
EntertainmentAndy's Jazz Club is a beloved fixture in Chicago's vibrant jazz scene, located in the heart of the River North district.
Read our full guide →Institute for the Study of Ancient Cultures Museum (ISAC)
MuseumFree entryThe Institute for the Study of Ancient Cultures Museum (ISAC), formerly the Oriental Institute, is a hidden gem on the University of Chicago's Hyde Park campus.
Read our full guide →
That covers the heavyweights. Browse by category for the rest.
Attractions & sights
Landmarks, museums, neighborhoods
111 places →Restaurants
Where to eat
Explore →Day trips
Escapes near the city
Coming soonExperiences & tours
Book things to do
Coming soonPhoto spots
Best views
Coming soonWellness
Spas & relaxation
Coming soonOff the beaten path
12 hidden gems in Chicago
Like Chicago Chinese Cultural Institute and Victory Gardens Theater, loved by reviewers, skipped by tour groups.
See them →Get outdoors
7 outdoor adventures near Chicago
Millennium Park (4 km away) and more, all within 100 km.
Explore →After dark
15 best bars & nightlife spots
The Dearborn and Three Dots and a Dash lead the night.
Go out →For the kids
14 things to do with kids
Millennium Park and more the whole crew will rate.
Bring them →Date night
10 romantic spots for couples
Millennium Park at two-person pace.
Slow down →Costs nothing
15 free things to do in Chicago
Verified free entry, Maggie Daley Park included.
Spend nothing →Rather have a human do the planning? A Local Friend in Chicago can build your days for you, at local prices.