After landing at Chicago Airport, the next thing you need to do is explore the city. This is because there are numerous bucket-list experiences waiting for you, offering a plethora of the best things to do in Chicago that will make your trip unforgettable.
You can revel in its nature, arts, cultures, cuisines, and many other attractions. This diversity is one reason why Chicago ranks as the Best Big City in The USA, according to Condé Nast Traveler Magazine. The city offers a myriad of possibilities for exploration, and you will discover more about them in this article.
Best Things to Do in Chicago
When discussing the most visited cities in the USA, Chicago consistently ranks in the top 10. If you’re curious about why tourists come to Chicago, there are myriad reasons.
So, without further ado, let’s delve into the fascinating activities you can engage in while exploring this city!
What to Do in Chicago
For those still uncertain about what things to do in Chicago, here are some recommendations for you!
Basically, coming to Illinois without visiting the famous Navy Pier is incomplete. Here, you can sightsee, enjoy rides, take a cruise, and more. This place is perfect for those of you searching for things to do in Chicago for free. However, if you want to take a cruise, you must pay from USD 34.93.
The Navy Pier is located at 600 E Grand Ave, Chicago, Illinois 60611, USA. From O’Hare Airport, take the Blue Line Forest Park and get off at Grand. Then, walk a little to the shuttle bus, take bus 65 Navy Pier, and get off at Navy Pier Terminal. Visiting this place can be one of the best things to do in Chicago!
2. Embark on an Artistic Odyssey at the Art Institute of Chicago
When talking about the best things to do in Chicago, one of the answers is undoubtedly its arts. So, embarking on an artistic odyssey while visiting the city is a must, and you can do that at the Art Institute of Chicago. However, avoid visiting on Tuesdays and Wednesdays because the place is closed.
The Art Institute is open from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM on any other day. Specifically on Thursdays, the place remains open until 8:00 PM. The ticket admission is USD 32 for adults and USD 26 for teens, seniors, and students. Admission is free for children and members.
The Art Institute is located at 111 S Michigan Ave, Chicago, Illinois 60603, USA. If you plan to visit, you can take a train from O’Hare Airport. Take the Blue Line UIC-Halsted and get off at Monroe. Enjoy the best things to do in Chicago with your loved ones!
3. Discover Ancient Wonders at the Field Museum
Aside from that, you can also explore the best things to do in Chicago in ancient wonders at the Field Museum. The museum is open every day, except for Christmas and Thanksgiving. You can visit it from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM. The admission fee is around USD 34 for adults, USD 24 for children (3-11 years old), and USD 29 for students.
The museum is located at 1400 S Lake Shore Dr, Chicago, Illinois 60605, USA. If you’re coming from O’Hare Airport, you can take the Blue Line Forest Park train and get off at Clark/Lake. Then, self-transfer to the Orange Line Midway and get off at Roosevelt.
4. Party Till You Drop at the Lollapalooza Music Festival
If you come to Illinois at the right time, you can attend the Lollapalooza Music Festival. This is undoubtedly the best things to do in Chicago in summer. The fee starts from USD 130. However, you should wait until they announce the schedule for 2024.
5. Savor the Legendary Flavors of Chicago-style deep-dish Pizza
After landing in Illinois, you definitely need to try the Chicago-style deep-dish pizza. It is thick and crispy on the outside but cheesy on the inside. It is surely one of the best cuisines in Chicago!
6. Enjoy a 360° City Skyline View at Chicago Observation Deck
You can visit the Chicago Observation Deck to enjoy the city skyline view. The admission fee is USD 20 for children and USD 30 for adults. It is located at 875 N Michigan Ave, 94th floor, Chicago, Illinois 60611, USA.
From O’Hare Airport, you can take the Blue Line Forest Park and get off at Jackson. After that, self-transfer to the Red Line Howard and get off at Chicago.
7. Experience the Fusion of Art and Nature at Millennium Park
Visiting Millennium Park is also a good idea when traveling in Illinois. The admission fee is free, so it is a great opportunity to enjoy the city without spending a penny. The location is 201 E Randolph St, Chicago, Illinois 60602, USA.
From O’Hare Airport, you can take the Blue Line Forest Park train and get off at Washington.
8. Encounter Wildlife and Wonder at Lincoln Park Zoo
Visiting Lincoln Park Zoo can be the wisest choice if you are searching for the best things to do in Chicago with your family. The admission fee is free, and it’s open every day from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The location is in Chicago, Illinois, 60614, USA.
From O’Hare Airport, you can take a Blue Line Forest Park train and get off at Clark/Lake. Then, self-transfer to the Brown Line Kimball and get off at Fullerton.
Traveling Tips
Before traveling, it is essential to know that taking a train and bus is a good choice. You only have to pay USD 5 for a day pass.
Those are the best things to do in Chicago to add to your bucket list. So, are you ready to visit Chicago? If yes, you can book a flight and hotel at Airpaz for the best price!
