Things to do in Chicago

Activities, attractions and tours

A city skyline with modern skyscrapers and a river with boats and people in the foreground.
The Adler School's 2012 Commencement Ceremony at the Chicago Theatre.
A nighttime cityscape with illuminated skyscrapers and a river.
A modern building with a glass facade and a Ferris wheel in the background.
A cityscape with tall buildings partially obscured by clouds.

Things to do

360 CHICAGO Observation Deck

360 CHICAGO Observation Deck

S$31
per adult
86% of travellers recommend
360 CHICAGO Observation Deck
Chicago: Navy Pier Centennial Wheel Regular & Express Ticket

Chicago: Navy Pier Centennial Wheel Ticket

S$31
per adult
88% of travellers recommend
Chicago: Navy Pier Centennial Wheel Ticket
Wendella's 90-min Chicago River Architecture Tour

Wendella's 90-min Chicago River Architecture Tour

S$52
per adult
94% of travellers recommend
Wendella's 90-min Chicago River Architecture Tour
Art Institute of Chicago

Art Institute of Chicago

S$52
per adult
92% of travellers recommend
Art Institute of Chicago
cruise ship sailing past navy pier in chicago

City Cruises Chicago: Lake Michigan Premier Dinner Cruise

S$199
per adult
80% of travellers recommend
City Cruises Chicago: Lake Michigan Premier Dinner Cruise
Chicago Crime and Mob Bus Tour

Chicago Crime and Mob Bus Tour

S$63
per adult
90% of travellers recommend
Chicago Crime and Mob Bus Tour
Chicago Architectural River Cruise

Chicago Architectural River Cruise

S$65
per adult
94% of travellers recommend
Chicago Architectural River Cruise
See all activities in Chicago
  • find price illustration

    Explore activities

    Explore thousands of experiences from activities and attractions to day tours and transfer.
  • calendar shield illustration

    Book with ease

    Skip the line- book tickets online in minutes to top attractions with free cancellation on many activities.
  • trophy illustration

    Treat yourself

    Members save % or more when you book activities.

Top places to visit

1. Wrigley Field

Home of the legendary Chicago Cubs, Wrigley Field is known and loved by baseball fans from all over the world, many of whom flock here to see a match or simply soak up the history and the atmosphere. One of the oldest and most storied ballparks across America, Wrigley Field has a proud heritage dating back all the way to 1914.
Learn more
An aerial view of a baseball stadium surrounded by urban buildings.

2. Soldier Field

Soldier Field has been one of Chicago’s most well-known landmarks since its construction in 1924 and is the oldest NFL stadium in the country.
Learn more
A large stadium surrounded by a cityscape with modern buildings.

3. Navy Pier

Well over eight million visitors flock to Navy Pier every year, whiling away the Chicago days in the parks, shops and restaurants gathered on this expansive corner of Lake Michigan. The pier is open throughout the year, but it peaks in the summer when you can visit the open-air souvenir stalls and watch the weekly firework shows.
Learn more
A Ferris wheel and a carousel at a fairground.

4. Chicago Riverwalk

Get a sense of the culture and character of the Windy City by wandering along the Chicago Riverwalk. This scenic stretch of the city follows the banks of the Chicago River from near the edge of Lake Michigan through Downtown to where the river splits. As you follow the walkway, pass impressive bridges, fascinating museums and trendy dining spots.
Learn more
A river with boats, surrounded by tall buildings and a clear sky.

5. McCormick Place

McCormick Place is both the biggest convention center in Chicago and the biggest one anywhere in the U.S. This vast, sprawling complex is an impressive feat of architecture and engineering that was founded well over half a century ago. Attend an event here to get a sense of its incredible scale.
Learn more
A modern cityscape with tall buildings, a clear sky, and a tree-lined street.

6. Millennium Park

Set in 10 hectares of parkland in the central Loop area, Millennium Park is a popular destination for local Chicago folk and visitors, ideally situated close to other major attractions such as the Art Institute of Chicago and the Magnificent Mile. With so much space to wander and soak up the atmosphere, it is a perfect spot for a bit of biking or jogging. It’s also used as a site for many big concerts that come to the city.
Learn more
A cityscape with modern skyscrapers and the Cloud Gate sculpture.

7. Six Flags Great America

Locals and visitors come to Six Flags Great America to escape the heat during Milwaukee’s summer months. The theme park has almost 7 miles (11 kilometers) of roller coaster track alongside a host of other family attractions and entertainment set over a sprawling area close to the Wisconsin–Illinois state line.
Learn more
A roller coaster in motion against a clear blue sky.

8. Grant Park

Grant Park is one of Chicago’s most loved and diverse public parks, with a host of family-friendly attractions and activities. It spreads across 319 acres (129 hectares) between Michigan Avenue and the banks of Lake Michigan. Grant Park is a scenic area blessed with everything from concert venues and museums to public art, statues and well-groomed lawns. Walk along wide tree-lined promenades dissecting the park.
Learn more
A park with walking paths, trees, and benches. In the background, there are tall buildings, including a prominent skyscraper.

What to do in Chicago

Stay near popular Chicago attractions

An aerial view of a baseball stadium surrounded by urban buildings.
Photo by © City of Chicago
Open Photo by © City of Chicago

Wrigley Field

9.0/10 (11,704 reviews)
Step into baseball's living museum where ivy-covered walls and a hand-operated scoreboard create timeless charm. Experience the electrifying atmosphere of Cubs games in this century-old "Friendly Confines."
See properties

Where to stay in Chicago

Find the best Chicago areas for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Chicago
Learn more about Chicago
A river with yellow boats, a bridge, and tall buildings.

The Loop

Michigan Avenue and Lake Michigan are a few top attractions in The Loop. Hop around the city on the metro at Washington Station or Lake Station and check out the area's fascinating museums, popular shops and acclaimed art galleries.

A city street with a train passing overhead, cars, pedestrians, and a red brick building.

River North

Known for its fantastic nightlife, stunning river views and popular shops, there's plenty to explore in River North. Top attractions like Merchandise Mart and Bally's Casino Chicago are major draws. Catch the metro at Merchandise Mart Station or Chicago Station (Brown Line) to see more of the city.

A historic castle-like building with intricate stonework and a paved walkway.

Magnificent Mile

Are you interested in fascinating museums, panoramic lake views and popular shops? A visit to Magnificent Mile might be the perfect thing. You can also explore top sights like Michigan Avenue and Chicago Water Tower.

A cityscape with modern skyscrapers and a curved highway.

West Loop

Consider a visit to The Old Post Office and take some time to enjoy the abundant dining options during your time in West Loop. If you want to see more of the city, jump on the metro at Racine Station or Ogilvie Transportation Center.

A river with a city skyline in the background, surrounded by green trees and grass.

Lincoln Park

Known for its ample dining options and fantastic lake views, there's plenty to explore in Lincoln Park. You can visit top attractions like Lake Michigan and Lincoln Hall, and jump on the metro at Fullerton Station or Armitage Station to see more of the city.

 

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

 

 

A cityscape with a bridge over a river, a historic building with arches, and modern high-rise buildings.

Aurora

A field of white flowers with a line of trees in the background.

Buffalo Grove

A serene lake with reflections of trees and a cloudy sky.

Crestwood

A modern building with a glass facade and a large tree in front.

Rosemont

A cityscape with a river, high-rise buildings, and a bridge.

Elk Grove Village

A rural path leading to a red barn surrounded by trees.

Schaumburg

A winding street in a densely built urban area with colorful houses and lush greenery.

Lombard

A calm lake with reflections of trees and a clear sky.

Libertyville

Frequently asked questions

Is Chicago worth visiting?
Offering a blend of views and dining, there's no shortage of things to do in Chicago. While you're here, head to Michigan Avenue, a major attraction in the area.
How do I spend a day in Chicago?
Once you've checked off top attractions like Michigan Avenue and Navy Pier, spend the rest of your day discovering Chicago's shopping and food scene.
What is the top tourist attraction in Chicago?
Michigan Avenue is one of the top tourist attractions in Chicago and should be high on every sightseeing list of the area.
Is three days enough to stay in Chicago?
Three days in Chicago is enough to visit the city's key attractions. Many guests book for two days on average. Michigan Avenue, Navy Pier and Millennium Park are highly rated sights. Like to discover more? Stick around a little longer to visit nearby hotspots such as Rosemont.
Is Chicago a walkable city?
Some key attractions in Chicago, like Michigan Avenue and Navy Pier, are within walking distance. You can also experience several of the city's neighbourhoods on foot. Just 2 kilometres from central Chicago is Central Chicago and Near North Side is 2 kilometres away.
What are some activities to do in Chicago with kids?
Planning what to do in Chicago with kids has never been easier. Whether you're holidaying with teenagers or toddlers, there's a range of family-friendly attractions to keep them entertained here.

What to do in Chicago for adults?
McCormick Place and Wintrust Arena are just a couple of the things to do in Chicago. With plenty of activities available, there's something here for everyone to experience.
Are there free things to do in Chicago?
In Chicago, Michigan Avenue is an unmissable spot for anyone wishing to tour the city without taking their wallet out. Also, stroll around the green spaces and other neighbourhoods, and ask a local tour guide for ideas. It's a simple way to discover the best free things to do in Chicago.

Explore a world of travel with Expedia