10+ Things to Do in Chicago When it Rains

One of Chicago’s most popular attractions has to be on the top of your rainy day to-do list. Shedd Aquarium is filled with the world’s most fascinating aquatic plants and animals. See everything from the great whale to tiny tropical fish. A few of the most popular exhibits include Waters of the World, Caribbean Reef, and the Abbott Oceanarium.Keep an eye out for special temporary exhibitions, too.

There are also some areas designed with little ones in mind, like the Polar Play Zone, where kids can step into a penguin suit! There are more than 32,000 fascinating marine animals that swim within the walls of the complex, so there is no shortage of things to see and do here.

Getting In: Shedd Aquarium tickets are included on the Go City All-Inclusive Chicago pass.

If you’re looking for some excellent views of the city, then head to an observation deck. Luckily in Chicago, you have two incredible options to choose from: 360 CHICAGO or SkyDeck Chicago.

Located on the 94th floor of John Hancock Observatory, 360 CHICAGO offers unparalleled views of Chicago and beyond. You will see parts of Michigan, Indiana, and Wisconsin, plus the sparkling Lake Michigan and the Illinois city skyline.

SkyDeck Chicago is located on the 103rd floor of the Willis Tower and looks out from Navy Pier to Soldier Field. The coolest part of SkyDeck Chicago is The Ledge, an all-glass balcony that extends from the side of the building out into space. It will feel like you are floating in the Chicago sky. So on a rainy day, head up to the clouds for the best view of the city. All while staying dry.

Getting In: SkyDeck Chicago tickets and 360 CHICAGO tickets are both included with all Go City® Chicago passes.

One of the most comprehensive natural history museums around, the Field Museum was founded on the collections of the 1893 World’s Fair. Today, the institution boasts artifacts spanning 4.6 billion years of history across dozens of exciting galleries and exhibit spaces.

Some of their major highlights include SUE, the world’s largest complete T. Rex; the Inside Ancient Egypt exhibit which features tools, jewelry, mummies, and more; and the Grainger Hall of Gems, which is one of the largest collections of gemstones in the world. You could easily spend a day in here. Perfect for when it rains!

Getting In: Field Museum tickets are included on all Go City® Chicago passes.

Kids and adults alike will enjoy the chance to explore this engaging museum. Consistently popular among locals, too, its 14 acres of exhibits include an authentic WWII German submarine, an Illinois coal mine, a mirror maze, and much more. It is the largest science museum in the country, so you'll be able to spend the day here easily. Kids will love the chance to run around and play, learning as they explore.

Getting In: Museum of Science and Industry tickets are included on all Go City® Chicago passes.

Another jewel of Chicago's Museum Campus is the family-friendly Adler Planetarium. Discover the universe's secrets through multiple exhibits and films. Top exhibits include Planet Explorers, where kids can climb and play through a modern-day space adventure, and Mission Moon, which traces the history of the Apollo missions.

Don’t miss out on their new film, Planet Nine, which probes the question of which planet will replace Pluto in our star system’s lineup. 

Getting In: Adler Planetarium tickets are included on all Go City® Chicago passes.

LEGOLAND® Discovery Center is worth the effort of driving a little way out of the city on a rainy day. This expansive indoor attraction is filled with everything LEGO. From building stations guided by Master Model Builders to rides like the Kingdom Quest Laser Ride. Be sure to stop by MINILAND, too, where you’ll find small-scale replicas of downtown Chicago landmarks. A different kind of sightseeing! This attraction is best suited for children under 10.

Getting In: LEGOLAND® Discovery Center tickets are included on all Go City® Chicago passes.

If you know anything about Chicago’s cultural scene,then you know that it’s a city famed for its extensive, diverse, and striking architecture. Among the great names who have built the city’s most iconic buildings is one of the most iconic architects – Frank Lloyd Wright.

Learn more about this creative giant with a visit to his home and studio. This is where he designed the Robie House, the Larkin Building, and the Unity Temple. Architecture buffs will also enjoy a visit to the Robie House itself, one of Wright’s most beautiful private home designs.

Getting In: Frank Lloyd Home Tour tickets and Robie House tickets are both included on all Go City® Chicago passes.

Chicago is an amazing theater town. You’ll find everything from Shakespeare to Roberto Bolaño on stage, with plays ranging from classic, big-budget theater to affordable local performances. Check out the Chicago Shakespeare Theater on Navy Pier, which is a conveniently located venue near a number of other attractions. Hide away from the bad weather and lose yourself in the show.

Getting In: Theater tickets are not included with the Go Chicago pass, however, theater buffs will enjoy the Chicago Theatre Tour, which is included on all Go City® Chicago passes.