Things to do in Chicago
Late spring and early fall are Chicago's sweet spots: warm days, lower humidity, and the lakefront at its best before the winter winds set in.
Best months: May, June, September, October
Finished plans for Chicago
Complete day-by-day itineraries, free to read with no account.
What is worth your time in Chicago
Art Institute of ChicagoDo not miss
One of America's greatest art museums anchors Chicago with Impressionist icons, modern masterpieces, and the Thorne Rooms.
Museum · 3.3 hr4.8
Chicago Architecture Center River Cruise aboard Chicago's First LadyDo not miss
The definitive Chicago architecture experience turns the river into a moving classroom of skyscrapers and civic ambition.
Activity · 1.4 hr4.8
Millennium ParkDo not miss
Chicago's signature downtown park pairs Cloud Gate, Crown Fountain, gardens, and skyline views in one essential stop.
Park · 1.5 hr4.8
Wrigley FieldDo not miss
The ivy-covered ballpark is a living Chicago landmark even when you are not catching a Cubs game.
Landmark · 2 hr4.8
Field MuseumDo not miss
The Field Museum is a world-class natural history anchor with SUE the T. rex and deep global collections.
Museum · 3.3 hr4.7
Museum of Science and IndustryDo not miss
A massive hands-on museum in the 1893 Palace of Fine Arts makes science, transport, and engineering feel theatrical.
Museum · 4 hr4.7
Indiana Dunes National ParkDo not miss
A full Lake Michigan dunes day adds beaches, trails, birding, and rare ecosystems just outside Chicago.
Day Trip · 8.5 hr4.6
Lincoln Park ZooDo not miss
One of the country's best free zoos sits inside a leafy park with skyline views and easy neighborhood exploring.
Activity · 2 hr4.6
Navy PierDo not miss
The lakefront pier bundles skyline views, boat departures, family attractions, and seasonal fireworks into one easy first-timer stop.
Landmark · 2.3 hr4.6
Skydeck Chicago at Willis TowerDo not miss
The Ledge glass boxes deliver a classic high-altitude Chicago thrill and a sweeping grid view of the city.
Viewpoint · 1.3 hr4.6
Chicago Riverwalk
The Riverwalk is the city's best free architecture stroll, with bridges, cafes, public art, and boat traffic at eye level.
Scenic Route · 1.1 hr4.8
Garfield Park Conservatory
A vast glasshouse of palms, ferns, and desert plants gives Chicago a lush all-season nature escape.
Park · 1.5 hr4.8
Montrose Beach and Bird Sanctuary
A broad beach, dunes, and migratory bird habitat make Montrose Chicago's most nature-forward lakefront stop.
Nature · 1.5 hr4.8
National Museum of Mexican Art
A free Pilsen museum presents Mexican and Mexican American art with depth, color, and community context.
Museum · 1.3 hr4.8
And 31 more, which the planner picks between based on your dates, pace and what you are into.
Worth knowing
- CTA 'L' trains and buses are $2.50 a ride; a 1-day pass is $5 and covers the Blue Line from O'Hare to downtown.
- The Loop and Near North are very walkable, and the lakefront has an 18-mile paved trail.
- Summer brings free festivals in Millennium and Grant Parks; check the city events calendar.
- Winters (Nov-Mar) are cold and windy off the lake; pack layers and plan indoor anchors.
- Tipping is customary: about 18-20% at restaurants.