9 Attractions You Don’t Want to Miss in Chicago

By Fathima Rukaiya,

Chicago is one of America’s most vibrant cities; a place where towering architectural marvels, world-class museums, peaceful lakefront views, and energetic cultural districts come together. If you’re planning a visit, these 9 must-see attractions give you the perfect mix of sightseeing, learning, and unforgettable experiences.

1. Skydeck & The Ledge at Willis Tower

Location: 233 S Wacker Dr, Chicago, IL 60606
Ticket Range: from $25 to $35 for children and $35 to $45 for adults.

On clear days, the Skydeck in Willis Tower, located on the 103rd floor, provides panoramic views of four US states. The Ledge, a glass balcony that extends from the structure and allows you to stand more than a thousand feet above the streets, is the main attraction

Experiences include:

• A fast elevator trip that takes you to the Skydeck in less than a minute

• Interactive exhibits that highlight Chicago’s architectural and cultural history

• An exhilarating photo opportunity while standing on The Ledge

• Panoramic views ideal for taking sunset photos.

This is one of the most famous locations in Chicago if you’re looking for the best view of the skyline.

2. Millennium Park & The Cloud Gate (“The Bean”)

Location: 201 E Randolph St, Chicago, IL 60602
Entry: Free

The cultural center of downtown Chicago is Millennium Park, which is known for its modern buildings, beautiful gardens, and public art displays.

Things you shouldn’t miss:

• Jay Pritzker Pavilion, an outdoor concert venue designed by Frank Gehry

• Cloud Gate (“The Bean”), a mirrored sculpture that reflects the city and sky

• Crown Fountain, which has LED faces and entertaining water displays

• Seasonal events like ice skating or outdoor summer concerts

On a beautiful afternoon, this is a great place to take pictures, take a leisurely walk, or observe people.

3. Art Institute of Chicago

Location: 111 S Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60603
Ticket Range: $32 for adults and are free for children under 14.

The Art Institute, which is frequently listed as one of the best museums in the world, has around 300,000 pieces of art that span thousands of years.
Georges Seurat’s “A Sunday Afternoon on the Island of La Grande Jatte” and Grant Wood’s “American Gothic” are worth seeing.
Greek, Roman, and Egyptian artifacts; a top-notch collection of Impressionist paintings; and modern and contemporary galleries, sculpture, and photography

Give yourself at least two to three hours to comfortably explore.

4. Navy Pier

Location: 600 E Grand Ave, Chicago, IL 60611
Entry: Entry is free (prices for rides and attractions vary).

With plenty of entertainment options for children, couples, and solo travelers, Navy Pier is Chicago’s most popular lakefront destination.

Top Attractions:

The Centennial Wheel, which provides breathtaking views of the lakeside

Lakefront strolling trails with amazing skyline photo opportunities; live theater, eating, and seasonal fireworks; boat tours and lake cruises; and the Chicago Children’s Museum

When the pier lights bounce off Lake Michigan in the evening, it’s very beautiful.

5. Field Museum

Location: 1400 S Lake Shore Dr, Chicago, IL 60605
Ticket Range: from $30 to $50, depending on the exhibitions.

One of the top natural history museums in the world is the Field Museum. You’ll discover something interesting here whether you’re interested in animal science, dinosaurs, or ancient civilizations.

Important displays include:

• Ancient Egyptian mummies and tomb artifacts

• Maximo the Titanosaur, a massive life-size dinosaur cast

• SUE the T. rex, the largest complete Tyrannosaurus rex skeleton ever discovered; and

• Biodiversity halls with creatures from every region

This museum is perfect for those interested in Earth’s history or for educational family visits.

6. Shedd Aquarium

Location: 1200 S DuSable Lake Shore Dr, Chicago, IL 60605
Ticket Range: $40 – $60 (varies by day and time)

Located on the beautiful Museum Campus, Shedd Aquarium is one of the largest indoor aquariums in the world.

What You’ll Experience:

Over 30,000 aquatic animals
Caribbean reef tunnel with sharks and rays swimming overhead
Amazon Rising exhibit featuring snakes, fish, and rainforest species
Beluga whales and sea otters
Live aquatic shows and interactive educational programs

7. Chicago River Architecture Cruise

Departure: Several docks near the Chicago River (usually 112 E Wacker Dr.)

Ticket Range: $42 – $55 per person is the price range.

Chicago is the birthplace of the skyscraper, and this cruise gives you the most informative and enjoyable way to experience the city’s legendary architecture.

Guided narration about more than 40 historic and modern buildings
Close-up views of iconic towers like the Tribune Tower and Marina City
A relaxing journey along all three river branches
A perfect introduction for first time visitors

Most travelers consider it one of the most eye-opening experiences in the city.

8. 360 Chicago Observation Deck

Location: 875 N Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60611
Ticket Range: from $30 to $45.

This observation deck, which is situated on the 94th floor of the former John Hancock Center, provides a view that is very different from Willis Tower but just as stunning.

• The TILT attraction, which gently pushes you outward over the city;

• A chic bar with floor-to-ceiling windows.

• Great views at night or sunset.

• Fantastic views of Lake Michigan and city neighborhoods.

9. Lincoln Park Zoo