Chicago neighborhoods

Chicago Neighborhoods Guide

Where to go and what to visit for tourists
By Casey Makovich

Here's our rundown on some of the best things to see and do in all of Chicago's neighborhoods. From observation decks, gardens, and museums to cruises and parks, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Planning a vacation to Chicago? Our local experts put together a helpful Chicago neighborhoods guide so you can make the most of your time in the Windy City. We highlighted a handful of the top attractions and places to see in all of Chicago's best neighborhoods, so you can relax and focus on enjoying the trip.

The North Side and Lincoln Park

chicago-skyline-lincoln-park

North of downtown, Chicago’s North Side and Lincoln Park area is home to lots of top Chicago attractions, shopping, dining, expansive green spaces, and more.

Things to do in the North Side and Lincoln Park
 

  • Explore Wrigleyville and cheer for the home team while catching a Cubs game at the beloved stadium or one of the many sports bars nearby.
     
  • Lincoln Park is a popular (and pricey) residential area and home to famous landmarks, including Steppenwolf Theatre, Chicago History Museum, and the Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum
     
  • Explore Old Town, an affluent and hip historic neighborhood with Victorian-era buildings, charming streets, family-owned restaurants, and more.
     
  • The park itself is a great place to explore - it's a third larger than NYC's Central Park and is full of things to do! Visit the Lincoln Park Zoo (free!), check out the Conservatory, and the Cultural Center, or enjoy one of the many playing fields and golf courses.
     
  • Got any LEGO® fans in the family? Be sure to check out LEGOLAND® Discovery Center, a large indoor space filled with exhibits, construction demos, interactive areas, and more.

Getting in: Chicago History Museum tickets, Lincoln Park Zoo Ride tickets and LEGOLAND® Discovery Center tickets are all included on the Go Chicago Card.

West Side and Central

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Chicago’s West Side/ Central area consists of lots of fun neighborhoods to explore.

Things to do in Chicago’s West Side
 

  • Architecture and American Literature buffs will want to head to Oak Park where you'll find the largest collection of Frank Lloyd Wright’s residential home designs (including his own) and Ernest Hemingway’s childhood home and museum.
     
  • Chicago’s largest zoo, the Brookfield Zoo, offers year-round fun with diverse animal exhibits, a large nature park, and more. See all your favorite furry friends, from spider monkeys to giraffes to bottlenose dolphins.
     
  • Go on a taste tour of Chicago’s Little Italy where Chicago’s immigrant past is preserved and Italian culture reigns. From pizza and pasta to specialty Chicago treats like Italian ice, plus Polish sausage, the food scene in Little Italy is not to be missed.

Getting in: Ernest Hemingway Birthplace Home Tour tickets, and Frank Lloyd Wright Home & Studio Tour tickets are included on all Go City® Chicago passes, while Brookfield Zoo is separately ticketed.

Downtown, The Loop, and the Magnificent Mile

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Chicago’s large downtown area is made up of many neighborhoods, including Gold Coast, River North, Streeterville, Navy Pier, Magnificent Mile, The Loop, South Loop, and Museum Campus.

Gold coast

Check out the Gold Coast, an affluent neighborhood just north of Downtown for high-end shopping, upscale dining, diverse Chicago architecture, the Chicago History Museum, the popular nightlife scene on Rush Street, and more.
 

  • Take a stroll down Astor Street and appreciate the 19th-century style homes and apartment complexes. The gorgeous buildings still remain as a testament to the fashionable style of their original residents.
     
  • Calling all foodies - the dining options in Gold Coast are second to none! From upscale barbeque joints to classic Italian family-style spots, you're bound to find the perfect meal(s).
     
  • Enjoy a walk on Rush Street during the day for top-of-the-line shopping, then circle back at night for the best nightlife in the city.
     
  • Speaking of food, if you haven't already tried a deep dish pie yet, stop at Lou Malnati's of Gold Coast ASAP! Once you've tried Lou's, turn the rest of your trip into a Deep Dish pizza scavenger hunt.

River North

chicago-downtown-district-office-buildings-river

The commercial district just west of the Magnificent Mile is known as River North and is an area of the city with dormant factories and warehouses turned art studios and work spaces for Chicago’s creative types.
 

  • This trendy arts-focused neighborhood is a top destination for visitors looking for fine dining, upscale drinks, clubs, art-centered shopping, and more.
     
  • Merchandise Mart is the perfect place to spend the day perusing showrooms full of cutting-edge furniture, art, and design.
     
  • Similar to Gold Coast, there are plenty of top-rated restaurants along the river to enjoy!

Navy Pier

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Navy Pier in Streeterville is a hub of activity with unbeatable lakefront views, boardwalk-style fun, souvenir shops, postcard-worthy views, and more.

Here are a few top Navy Pier attractions and things to do nearby.

Things to do in Navy Pier
 

  • Take a ride on some memorable amusement rides located right on the pier.
     
  • Pick up a bike rental and explore Chicago’s 26 miles of scenic, fun, and safe lakefront trails.
     
  • Families will enjoy the entertaining and educational exhibits and activities at the Chicago Children’s Museum.
     
  • Theater buffs can see excellent productions of classic shows at the award-winning Shakespeare Theater for some thespian fun.
     
  • Grab a drink and some classic Chicago eats at the outdoor Landshark Beer Garden, featuring free live music on Wednesdays in the summer and one of the best views of the Navy Pier’s twice-weekly summer fireworks.
     
  • One of the coolest parts of Chicago is the gorgeous river that splits the city in half - and there's no better way to see the beauty on both sides than aboard a cruise. Enjoy learning more about the history and architectural advancements of the Windy City as you cruise along the river.

Getting in: Navy Pier Centennial Wheel and Rides tickets, Chicago Children's Museum tickets, Bike & Roll: 4-Hour Bike Rental tickets, Shoreline Architecture River Cruise tickets and Shoreline Classic Lake Tour tickets are all included on Go City® Chicago passes.

Magnificent Mile

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The Magnificent Mile district is the area immediately surrounding North Michigan Avenue and a popular destination for visitors with many of the city’s hotels, shops, restaurants, bars, attractions, and more.

Things to do near the Magnificent Mile
 

  • Head to the Museum of Contemporary Art to see cutting-edge art from ascendant artists and contemporary icons. As one of the world's largest institutions for contemporary art, it's a can't-miss for any art lover.
     
  • For 360-degree views of Chicago, head to 360 Chicago (formerly John Hancock Observatory), for a ride in the world’s fastest elevator to the 94th floor of this Chicago must-see.
     
  • Measure up and compare your skills to some of Chicago’s finest athletes at the Chicago Sports Museum.
     
  • Want to tour the entire city but don't know where to stop? You can hitch a ride on the Hop On Hop Off Big Bus right on the Magnificent Mile! You'll learn more about Chi-town as you go, and you can hop off at any of these famous stops: Adler Planetarium, SkyDeck Chicago, Millenium Park, Chicago's Museum Campus, and more.

Getting in: Hop On Hop Off Big Bus Chicago tickets, 360 Chicago tickets, and Museum of Contemporary Art tickets are all included on Go Chicago Card.

The Loop

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The Loop, Chicago’s official downtown, is home to many of the city’s premier attractions and things to do. When people refer to “The Loop”, they’re talking about the city’s downtown area, bordered by the Chicago River to the north and west, Michigan Avenue to the east, and Roosevelt Avenue to the south. The Loop area is surrounded by a circuit of elevated trains.

Here are some fun suggestions for things to do near Millennium Park and The Loop in Chicago.

Things to do in The Loop
 

  • Learn about the iconic Willis Tower and get in some spectacular views from the observatory deck at Skydeck Chicago's famous all-glass balcony “The Ledge”. You can even see four different states: Illinois, Michigan, Indiana, and Wisconsin.
     
  • Fans of the arts will enjoy a tour of the legendary Chicago Theatre. This theater has hosted stars like Dolly Parton, Dean Martin, and Frank Sinatra and has put on Tony Award-winning productions.
     
  • Of course, if you're in the area you can't skip a visit to the Art Institute of Chicago. TripAdvisor has consistently ranked it as one of the top museums in the world and for good reason. It's home to an impressive collection of photography, artifacts, paintings, and sculptures of all different styles.

Getting in: SkyDeck Chicago, and Chicago Theatre Tour are available on all Go City® Chicago passes. Art Institute of Chicago is separately ticketed.

Museum Campus/ South Loop

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Part of Chicago’s large Grant Park, Museum Campus is a 57 acre park along the Michigan Lake waterfront and home to three of the city’s most popular museums. 

Things to do in Museum Campus and the South Loop
 

  • The Field Museum, one of the most prominent natural history museums in the country, features state-of-the-art exhibits, interactive galleries, and impressive displays of natural wonders from around the world.
     
  • No trip to Chicago is complete without exploring the impressive array of aquatic life from all over the globe at Chicago’s most visited attraction, the world-famous Shedd Aquarium. Shedd is home to over 32,000 fascinating marine animals.
     
  • Do a little exploring beyond Chicago at America’s first planetarium, the Adler Planetarium, and experience all things space come to life.
     
  • Just south of the planetarium, nature lovers will enjoy exploring Northerly Island, a 91-acre peninsula dedicated to nature with walking paths, play areas, views of Chicago’s skyline, and some of the best fishing in the city.

Getting in: The Field Museum, Shedd Aquarium, and Adler Planetarium tickets are all included on Go City® Chicago passes.

South Side

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Chicago’s South Side is an integral part of the city and home to the University of Chicago.

Things to do on the South Side
 

  • Check out the largest science museum in the Western Hemisphere, the Museum of Science and Industry. Housed in the only remaining building from the famous 1893 World’s Fair, this museum has something for everyone to enjoy.
     
  • Frank Lloyd Wright fans will want to take a trip to the Robie House, one of his architectural masterpieces and an exemplary display of an American Prairie Style home.
     
  • Lorado Taft Midway Studios, owned by the University of Chicago, was the art studio of Lorado Taft, one of the early 20th century’s most influential sculptors.

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

Can't choose? No need, see it all with Go City®

Discover our full line-up of Chicago attractions including Adler Planetarium, Navy Pier, Chicago Children's Museum, and more.

🤩 >> If you want to see and do as much as you can, our All-Inclusive Pass is for you.   

😎 >> If you want to pick just a few attractions and visit at your own pace, our Explorer Pass is the perfect option. 

Casey Makovich
Go City Travel Expert

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things to do in gold coast chicago
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Things to do in Gold Coast, Chicago

So, you've chosen your vacation destination. The Windy City. Chi-Town. The real-life Metropolis, minus the superheroes. Chicago is a fantastic getaway destination, full of great food, fun nights out, and plenty of top-level entertainment. But it's a big old town, with multiple districts and areas that crisscross throughout its gargantuan layout. With so many to choose from, which one is right for you? Well, don't let choice paralysis get the better of you! We've done all the research necessary, so you don't have to. Give Gold Coast a go. It's as simple as that. With a wealth of entertainment on offer, it's the perfect vacation spot. Here are our picks for the best things to do in Gold Coast, Chicago! Including: Oak Street Beach Playboy Mansion Broadway Playhouse Washington Square Park Drake Hotel Bar and more! Hit the Beach Why not ease into your trip with a spot of lounging? After all, you've got the rest of your vacation to go see the sights. Lucky for you, the Gold Coast lives up to its namesake. Head there, and you'll find Oak Street Beach. Of course, you'll find heaps of golden sand, clean sea, and (hopefully) glistening sun - that's what the beach is all about, after all. However, Oak Street Beach is also perfectly placed to visit at any time during the day, as it's just a stone's throw from the city itself. Take a dip in the ocean, go grab an ice cream for the kids - or yourself, who are you kidding - and then check out the nearby patio bar for a cool, refreshing drink. Easily one of the best things to do in the Gold Coast when you visit Chicago. Feel like a Playboy Yes, really. Though you probably know the Playboy Mansion as the once celebrity-laded party mansion near Beverly Hills, it wasn't always there. In fact, the original Playboy Mansion was bought right here on the Gold Coast back in the '50s. The rather less impressive original is well over 100 years old at this point, and has changed hands multiple times. First, Hefner donated it to the School of the Art Institute of Chicago when he moved into his legendary LA pad. Then, the institute sold it to a redevelopment firm, and it's now been converted into condos in a rather typical fashion. However, if you want to see a piece of 20th-century American history in the flesh, you owe it to yourself to go and bask in the extravagant opulence of the original Playboy Mansion. Just don't plan on buying one of the condos, unless you've got a few mill to spare. Broadway, baby! If the weather takes a turn, or you just want a couple of hours out of the sun, why not retreat to the bright lights and comfort of broadway? Yes, even in Chicago, you can get a taste of the New York performance mile thanks to Broadway Playhouse! A stone's throw from the coast, you'll find a host of great plays and musicals being shown throughout the year, from all-time classics to the new shows on the block. You might even stumble upon a one-man show, or local play before it gathers steam. Walk in the Park Are you a fan of the color green? Do you like walking? Is the prospect of breathing in fresh air, mingling with trees, shrubs, and grass appealing to you? Answer us these questions three, and we'll give you a place you want to be. At. A park, of course! Gold Coast has you covered in flowers and grass, thanks to Washington Square Park. Go there for the giant 19th-century fountain, stay for the delightful green spaces, picnic opportunities, or simply for a stroll. So, what are you waiting for? Get Risky When you're in Gold Coast, why not grab a drink at a Hollywood monument? Sort of, at least. Featured in the '80s Tom Cruise classic Risky Business, the Drake Hotel is one of Chicago's most recognizable landmarks! But we're not talking about the room service here. We're talking about the Hotel's bar, called the Coq d'Or. This lavish hotel lounge has been warming customers' cockles since the dark Prohibition days. Head inside and find a wealth of drinks, a menu to die for, and enough comfort you'll feel like a marshmallow. A pampered marshmallow. Best Pizza in town Wow, all that doing things, seeing things, and experiences must have made you hungry. Well, Chicago is famous for one thing in the food department, and that's deep dish. The Chicagoan take on the Italian classic is known worldwide for its deliciousness, thanks to its unusual sauce-over-cheese twist. So why not go get some and see if it lives up to its reputation? Lou Malnati's, right in Gold Coast, is arguably the best in town. The name is a staple of the Chicago style, having helped pioneer it in the early 20th century. So go grab a slice of delight and take your tastebuds to pizzatown. Or something. Go Shopping Let's end this list on a shopping, surely many of our readers' favorite pastimes. Thankfully, Gold Coast is full of shops of all shapes and sizes, so no matter what item you seek, you're sure to find it there. However, for those of you with expensive tastes, you'll be looking for The Magnificent Mile. Head there, and you'll find a shopper's paradise. Over 400 stores line the 'Mile', including the likes of Chanel, Louis Vitton, and Tiffany. So, if you're looking for some dear deals and have the cash to splash, you'll be right at home. On top of all that shopping, you'll also find a slew of gourmet restaurants, snug cafes, and much more. So, if that all sounds like heaven to you, go on down and see what's cracking! And that's our list of the best things to do in Gold Coast, Chicago! If you want to know about the other areas of Chicago, check out our thoughts here. Heading to Chicago at the tail end of winter? The beaches might be a no-go, but there's plenty more to do and see!
Dom Bewley
Things to do in Wicker Park Chicago
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Things to do in Wicker Park, Chicago

Feeling hip? Chicago's Wicker Park is one of the coolest places in the city. If you're visiting Chi-Town from out-of-town or simply a local who doesn't know, why not find out why? Here's our guide to Wicker Park, which highlights some of the best things to do! Including: Exploring the outdoors Classic arcade fun Refreshing beverages Poignant performances Comedy clubs and more! Go exploring! Firstly, if you're new to the area, get out there and explore! There are plenty of green spaces that are worth your time. Wicker Park is a park named after Wicker Park the place. Once you've wrapped your head around that one, you'll find one of Chicago's coziest but classiest outdoor spaces. Pack a picnic basket and go enjoy the ambiance! Lots of events also occur throughout the year, like film screenings, markets, and live performances. Or, for a more urban escape, follow the abandoned 606 train tracks. The 606 has become a tourist destination in its own right, with a winding walk that will take you past some of the city's most recognizable landmarks. It's also full of creative street art for you to check out, and put on your socials if you crave the attention of others so incessantly. Alongside the fantastic views, there are a wealth of events on all year round, from bakesales to outdoor exercise classes. So, go explore. Right now! Play on, player Fancy trying your hand at some retro arcade video games, air hockey, and other '80s entertainment? Then check out Emporium at Wicker Park! Bring some friends along and get to grips with some classic arcade games. Then, when you've lost all your lives, hop on a pool table and play a few rounds, challenge them to a spot of foosball, or get clinking at one of the many pinball tables. Then, to wet your whistle, grab a refreshing craft beer from the bar, or maybe a bite to eat if you need to refuel. They even have live music on occasion, if you need some tunes to get your pinball fingers pumping. Emporium is awesome, and easily one of the best things to do in Wicker Park if you're visiting Chicago! Grab a drink After all that activity, you might want to just sit back, relax, and get a refreshing drink or two down your gullet. Well, Wicker Park has got you covered, with a wide variety of relaxed watering holes that'll help you take the edge off. One of Wicker Park's most popular is Phyllis Musical Inn, a saloon-style pub with countless beers on tap, live music, and a massive garden where you can soak up the rays when the weather's good. Or, if you want to stuff it down with brown, head to Whiskey Business. Besides a delightful and grandiose selection of whiskeys, they also serve a mean cocktail, local craft beers, and you can enjoy it all on their vibrant rooftop! Or, if you fancy something fancy and a little pricier, check out The Violet Hour. This stylish, sophisticated joint has a bevy of master craftsmen who can whip you up whatever you desire, all paired with delicious bites. Catch a secret show If you like your music raw, and your favorite acts unheard-of, then wade through the cool and pull up a pew at Hideout. This Wicker Park hang spot features local acts and up-and-coming artists from the world of alternative music. On any given week, expect to see post-punk one day and then acoustic indie the next. If you like your venues grungy, your music noisy, and your beer just the way it should be, head down to The Hideout and see if you discover your new favorite artist. Just don't expect they'll have any merch. That's for posers, bro. Have a laugh We all like the giggle. It's said that laughter is the best natural way to gain a six-pack. And you don't even have to do anything, just laugh. How awesome is that? If you want to work on your six-pack and laugh till your sides hurt, why not check out The Comedy Clubhouse? Widely thought of as the premier Chicago comedy club, it's one of the best things to do in Wicker Park. You'll find a slew of shows on there, from stand-up gigs to improv shows. Many comedians you find on cable comedy greats like Parks and Rec and The Office cut their teeth at this very club, so you have some idea of the quality you can expect when you visit. Pair all them funnies with some refreshing drinks and delicious pizza, and you've got yourself a night out right there. Dig in the crates This one's for the collectors. If you're a muso and big into vinyl, do yourself a favor and check out Reckless Records. Inside, you'll find wall-to-wall rare vinyl from bygone eras, new EPs from up-and-coming artists, and even old movies if you're so inclined. A lot of it's second-hand, understandably, so make sure to check your purchases before you wreck your purchases. Or, God forbid, they wreck you. If you want to lose multiple hours and come away with a collection to make all of your weird friends froth at the mouth, go check out Reckless Records. Get artistic Need to be inspired? Go check out some of Wicker Park's quirky art galleries! The Flat Iron Building has a whole collection of galleries where you'll find mind-blowing, or mind-altering, works from local artists. If you like your art with a hint of street, check out The Vertical Gallery for some thought-provoking pieces on modern life, local culture, and antiestablishmentism. Or, if you like more experimental art, or are at least open to it, head to Johalla Projects. Step inside, and you'll find a huge gallery space filled with images, sculptures, movies, and paintings. Now that's art, baby. Grab a bite And finally, this one's for the hungry. Luckily for you, Wicker Park has a handful of great restaurants to get some chow. If you want some southern fun with your food, check our Ina Mae's delicious menu full of New Orleans-inspired dishes. Their potato salad is to die for. Want to go even further south? Try Antique Taco, which offers a selection of gourmet tacos and Mexican appetizers, alongside some tequila-based cocktails to wash it down. Or, if you want your mind blown with some New American cuisine, a few dollars more will get you a delicious meal at Schwa. Many locals think it's the best restaurant in town. Best you find out for yourself! And that was our list of the best things to do in Wicker Park when you visit Chicago!
Dom Bewley
Chicago
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