Things to do in Old Town Chicago

Things to do in Old Town Chicago

Ahoy there, sailor! Are you taking the old steamboat over to the growing Metropolis they call Chicago? I do declare, you may be delighted by the city's Old Town district. There's plenty to do and see there, partner. Want to know what? Well, we'll tell you right now. Here are some of the best things to do in Old Town, Chicago!

Including:

  • Stand up
  • A little history
  • The beach
  • Immersive art
  • The theater
  • and more!
Image of Lighting, Stage, Concert, Crowd, Person, Adult, Female, Woman, Male, Man, Urban,

Second City

Let's kick things off with the best medicine. We're talking about laughter, of course! What if we told you that Old Town is where some of the best and brightest comics strutted their stuff before becoming famous? You might think that's nonsense. But believe us, it is not. Many of the comic greats you see on your screens today cut their teeth at Second City, America's premier improv club.

Through the years, comedy legends such as Bill Murray, Alan Alda, John Belushi, and Mike Myers have called it home, and you'll always find hilarious hijinks going on there. So go check it out! Who knows, maybe you'll stumble upon the next big thing in comedy when you visit? If you like to laugh and you're visiting Chicago, Second City is easily one of the best things to do in Old Town!

Chicago History Museum

If you're visiting Chicago, you might not know much about the city or its history. Would you like to know more? Well, never fear, because the Chicago History Museum is here! Step inside, and discover the city's rich history from a number of exhibits.

At the Crossroads of America exhibit, you'll get to relive the most significant events in the city's history, meet Chicago's most renowned leaders, and learn how culture shaped Chi-Town throughout the centuries.

Step into Sensing Chicago, and appreciate the city with all five senses! Hop on a high-wheel bike, hear the roar of the Great Fire of Chicago, smell the unique scents of the Union Stock Yard, and catch a fly ball at Cominsky Park! Perfect for big and little kids alike.

Enter the Abraham Lincoln exhibit and learn all about the life and struggles of one of the country's best presidents! See how his leadership shaped the Civil War, and the events that led up to his assassination.

And finally, check out Facing Freedom in America, which charts the struggle of many people's efforts to achieve freedom in the country. These interactive displays will open your mind to the plights of many peoples, from suffrage to the civil rights movement.

Image of City, Cityscape, Urban, Person,

North Ave Beach

Need to relax? Unwind? Lacking a little Vitamin D and want to get tanning? Then you'll want to hit the beach. Thankfully, Old Town has North Avenue Beach, which not only offers many opportunities for you to lounge or wade into the water, but also activities too! Head there in summer, and you'll find a slew of volleyball tournaments, bikes to rent, and opportunities to try out watersports like paddleboarding and kayaking. So, if you need a little sun, sea, and sand when you're in Chicago, go check it out!

The Moody Church

Whether you're religious or not, you may be partial to a grand spectacle. If the thought of grandiose architecture and awe-inspiring craftsmanship gets you giddy, go check out the Moody Church in Old Town. This grand place of worship was completed back in the 1920s, and stands as a testament to design. Go get your pray on, or simply attend to look around. You're sure to find someone on hand to talk you through the construction of the building, and the goings-on within over the years. Either way, it's a great stop on your travels through Chicago's Old Town!

Image of People, Person, Crowd, Boy, Child, Male, Teen, Adult, Man, Indoors, Classroom, School, Audience, Lecture, Seminar, Chair,

A Red Orchid Theatre

Do you want to supplant your visit with dramatics? Go check out A Red Orchid Theatre. Widely considered to be one of the best theaters in the country, Red Orchid is comprised of multiple writers, actors, and directors, including Hollywood's Michael Shannon. Every year, their shows break new ground in the theater world, telling edgy, gut-wrenching stories that are performed with finesse. So, why not go check out one of their critically-acclaimed performances when you're in Old Town?

Eat, of course!

All that reading and planning your trip to Old Town has probably left you hungry. Let's fix that. Thankfully, Old Town has a whole host of delightful restaurants and cafes for you to visit!

Want to start your morning just right? Try Kanela Breakfast Club, a Chicago eatery with spots all over the city. Omelets, eggs, grilled cheese, and much more await you on their diverse menu.

If you want some delicious cocktails to wash down a hearty meal, head to Happy Camper. During the day, you'll pair authentic pizzas with a host of drinks. During the night, you'll get to enjoy one of the best bars in the city!

Want to sample barbecue that delighted the late, great Frank Sinatra? Then stop by Twin Anchors, which has quality ribs on offer all year round.

Are you feeling continental? Try La Fournette, a traditional French bakery right in the heart of Old Town. Alongside the usual suspects of baguettes, croissants, and sweet pastries, they also have salads, soups, and much more behind the counter.

So, whatever you feel like eating, Old Town's got you covered!

Image of Art, Modern Art, Painting, Nature, Outdoors,

Get immersive with Van Gogh

And finally, let's end this rowdy route through Old Town's best bits with something different. If you've dipped your toe into the world of art, you know about Vincent Van Gogh. The Dutch Post-Impressionist painter is one of the most critically-lauded artists in the world. His paintings sell for millions, and his best works hang in the most fabulous galleries on Earth. You might know of Van Gogh, but you've never seen his work like this.

At the Immersive Van Gogh experience, you'll see his works come to life with animation. Walk through his most famous works, like Starry Night, Sunflowers, and The Potato Eaters. It's an illuminating experience, and with over 2 million visits to its original Paris installation, it's a easily one of the best things to do in Old Town when you visit Chicago!

And that's our list of the best things to do in Old Town, Chicago! Enjoy your visit!

Dom Bewley
Go City Travel Expert

Continue reading

Blog

Chicago Labor Day Weekend - 10+ Fun Things to Do in September

Labor Day may mark the unofficial end of summer, but it certainly doesn’t mean the end of summer fun! There are still so many great festivals, events, and activities to enjoy that will help you squeeze every last drop of summer out of this last weekend before school starts. If you’re looking for Chicago Labor Day Weekend ideas, check out some of these local activities and fun things do in Chicago in September, including... Architecture River Cruise Architecture Tours SkyDeck Chicago Art Institute of Chicago Navy Pier Centennial Wheel & Rides Brookfield Zoo Bike and Roll Chicago - 4 Hour Bike Rentals Great American Lobster Fest at Navy Pier Chicago Jazz Festival And more! 2. Frank Lloyd Wright Studio & Robie House If the idea of an architecture cruise was really exciting but didn't seem to go far enough, you'll want to check out some of Chicago's other top architecturally-minded attractions. Head to the Frank Lloyd Wright Studio and Home to tour the living and working spaces of one of the most iconic architects of the last century. You can also scope out one of his famed local projects, the Robie House (on the campus of the University of Chicago, which is a fun area to explore as well). Finally, the Chicago Architecture Center also offers plenty of walking tours, bus tours, Segway tours, and cruises to meet your architectural desires. 10. North Coast Music Festival The North Coast Music Festival brings together artists from all across the spectrum of EDM music. It's also located on the chic Northerly Island concert site, which is an outdoor venue that's just perfect for end-of-summer fun. The North Coast Music Festival is a separately ticketed event, with options for lawn seating, general admission, and VIP tickets. Save on Attraction Admission Regular admission to a number of these Chicago attractions are included on the Go Chicago® pass. Choose as you go from dozens of top attractions and save up to 45% on combined admission vs paying at the gate. See all available passes, attractions & prices – Learn more. We hope you consider visiting some of these attractions to help round out your summer vacation in style. Share your adventure with us Remember to tag @GoCity in your holiday snaps and we'll feature you on our page. Follow the Go City Instagram and Facebook pages for competitions, special offers, and events and inspiration for your chosen destination too!
Katie Sagal
Chicago
Blog

10+ Things to Do in Chicago for Solo Travelers

Chicago is one of the great American cities, filled to the brim with history, rich culture, unique art, and attractions. It's the perfect place to visit on a solo trip, especially as it's a walkable city with great public transportation options.  Sometimes traveling alone can feel overwhelming, but not to worry, we've put together the perfect list of things to do and see on your solo trip to the Windy City. Make the best of your trip by visiting some of the best attractions in Chicago, like...  Skydeck Chicago  Shoreline Architecture River Cruise  Millennium Park  Magnificent Mile  Museum Campus  Art Institute of Chicago  Bike and Roll Chicago Bike Rentals  Chicago Theatre Tour  All of these attractions and sights are perfect for solo travelers. You'll be able to explore the history and culture of the city on your own schedule and really decide what you want to do.  Getting around Chicago Chicago is super easy to navigate. Neighborhoods are easily explored on foot (though can be far apart), there are tons of taxis and shared-ride services available. The public transportation system, known as the L, is very reliable and can get you just about anywhere.  Hop-on, hop-off tours: A Hop On Hop Off Big Bus sightseeing tour is a great way to get acquainted with the city and visit popular attractions. Tours follow a specific route and schedule, so plan accordingly if you have timed tickets or reservations.  Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) sells visitor passes, available in 1, 3, and 7-day increments that offer unlimited rides on all CTA trains and buses. Check the CTA website for fare info, travel alerts, and trip planners. Most popular attractions are more accessible by bus than the L.  SkyDeck Chicago The perfect way to see the entire city is from the top. Journey up to the 103rd floor of Willis Tour for unmatched views of the Windy City from the fabulous Skydeck Chicago. You'll be able to explore the interactive exhibits that provide a history of the building and the city. Then you can step out onto The Ledge, an external, all-glass balcony.  SkyDeck Chicago offers some of the best 360-degree views of the skyscraper-filled metropolis. Make sure to snap a few selfies while you're there!  Shoreline Architecture River Cruise History buffs and art lovers alike will enjoy this informational Shoreline Architecture River Cruise down the Chicago River. Chicago is well-known for its unique architectural styles and many famous architects have flourished in the Windy City. As you sail down the river surrounded by stunning buildings, your guide will provide a history of the most famous landmarks in the skyline. It's the perfect way to spend a sunny day and learn more about the city. Chicago Museum Campus Taking up a cultural quarter of Grant Park, Chicago's Museum Campus is a 57-acre stretch along the Michigan Lake waterfront that is home to some of the city's best cultural institutions. Want to learn more about our history as human beings? Try The Field Museum. With hundreds of interactive exhibits, you'll journey from the first documentation of humankind to the future of our species.  For animal lovers, the Shedd Aquarium is a can't-miss. It's one of the most diverse aquariums in the country with 32,000 inhabitants from all over the world. Make friends with aquatic animals, see colorful fish from the Caribbean, and meet dolphins and beluga whales. And of course, for those intrigued by the galaxy and our planet, visit the Adler Planetarium. With endless planetarium shows, interactive exhibits, and educational talks, there's plenty to learn when the Universe is at least 91 billion years across.  Art Institute of Chicago Consistently voted one of the top-rated museums in the country by TripAdvisor, the Art Institute of Chicago is a must-see for any visitors to the Windy City. Peruse modern art, contemporary styles, architectural marvels, design and photography pieces, and much more. Some of the most famous pieces at the Institute include the Chagall America Windows stained glass windows, Matisse's Bathers by the River, and Georgia O'Keeffe's Black Cross, New Mexico. Get around on two wheels If you want to make the most of your time in Chicago and get around to as many landmarks as possible, rent a bike! Set out on a self-guided bike tour around the city with Bike and Roll Chicago. Bike along the Chicago River, head over to Grant Park, or cruise through the different sculptures and art installations at Millenium Park. Renting a bike will provide an easy and fun way to get around the city, and with your 4-hour pass to use the bike, you'll no doubt see everything on your bucket list. Chicago Theatre If you're a fan of the arts, theater, history, or all three, then you have to take a tour of the world-famous Chicago Theatre. The Chicago Theatre is known for hosting a spectacular lineup of stars like Dolly Parton, Dean Martin, and Frank Sinatra. From concerts to Emmy-winning theater productions, this magnificent theater is a huge part of Chicago's history. Millennium Park This spot is the green heart of urban Chicago. From vast open spaces for walking, relaxing, and playing to an eclectic variety of ever-changing special events, festivals, and performances, there's something for everyone at this iconic park.  The park is most famously known as the home of the Cloud Gate Sculpture - aka The Bean. You can't visit Chicago without stepping in front of the gigantic art installation and snapping a selfie. Grab lunch to go and head over to the park for an impromptu picnic full of people-watching and relaxation.  Chicago River Walk Another relaxing way to spend some time in Chicago is to walk the picturesque strip that lines the river. Enjoy a stroll down the south bank of the Chicago River and stop in at one of the many restaurants and shops lining the River Walk, or simply enjoy the stunning architecture. This is the home of the skyscraper, after all.  Magnificent Mile 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.  There are more than 50 landmark structures you can find on this strip - from the 360 CHICAGO observation deck to Navy Pier and its Centennial Wheel. Enjoy iconic spots and try some of the top-rated restaurants and rooftop bars here.    Have a wonderful solo trip to Chicago! There you have it. Our list of some of the best things to see and do on a solo trip to Chicago. We hope you consider adding some of these fantastic spots to your Chicago bucket list. While traveling alone may seem scary at first, you may find it to be one of your favorite experiences.  Save up to 50% on Chicago attractions Planning your Chicago trip? With Go City®, you can explore big-name landmarks, local hotspots, and epic tours, all on one pass, all for one price. Not only that, but you'll enjoy savings of up to 50%, compared to buying individual attraction tickets. ☀️See all Chicago attractions ☀️ – 🌏 Explore other destinations 🌏 – ✈️ Buy a Chicago pass ✈️
Nicole Muto
Blog

Chicago Planetarium Tickets & Tips for Visiting

For those who love all things cosmic, Chicago's Adler Planetarium located on the Museum Campus off of Lake Shore Drive and just south of downtown Chicago, is a must-see attraction - a fascinating planetarium dedicated to the study of astronomy and astrophysics. Founded, in 1930, their mission was then, and still is, to inspire guests of all ages to explore and gain a greater understanding of the Universe. The Adler Planetarium will take you on a trip beyond our galaxy and across the Milky Way, and you won’t even have to suit up if you don’t want. Check out our helpful guide for visiting during your trip to Chicago, packed full of ways to save on admission, tips for visiting, other nearby attractions, and much more. Looking for Chicago Planetarium Discount Tickets? We’ve got you covered – Adler Planetarium admission is available with the below money saving options, so you can choose the attraction pass that’s right for you: 1. All-Inclusive Pass – All you can do. Includes admission to dozens of attractions. 2. Explorer Pass – Choose as you go. Includes admission of up to 5 attractions. 3. Build Your Own Pass – Select the attractions you want to visit prior to visiting. See all available passes, attractions & prices – Learn more. Admission includes access to all of the exhibitions, one standard theater show, and admission to the Atwood Sphere Experience. Tips for Visiting Chicago's Adler Planetarium If you can avoid it, don’t drive to the Adler. The transit system comes right to the front entrance for easy access. The nearest train station to the campus is the Roosevelt Metra Station. Spend some time enjoying the Museum Campus. The location of the Planetarium is on a peninsula in the harbor along lake shore and from this location you will have the best view Chicago’s skyline. Dress comfortably. If you are planning a winter visit remember to dress warmly—Chicago has cold winters. The building was very hot during my visit so opt for layers. There were plenty of lockers available, but no coat check. Adler After Dark is restricted to those over the age of 21 years. This is for patrons looking to enjoy special musical guests and drinks every third Thursday of the month. If you’re planning to go, leave the kiddies with a sitter! Best Times to Visit The Adler is best enjoyed during the summer. If you’re looking to observe the night sky as you only can from the Adler, come during the special evening hours when available. What You Should Bring Carry some cash on hand. Cash always comes in handy at the museum. Whether you need a locker, or just want a quick snack from the vending machine, try to bring along a few quarters when you come. Don’t forget your camera. Okay, you can leave the camera at home, but definitely bring along your smartphone if you do. Whichever you bring, make sure it’s powered up and ready to shoot. There are plenty of photo opportunities throughout the museum. You can even take a photo with the American flag on the moon replica. Visit with friends or family. This is a place to be experienced with others, especially younger people, and those with an interest in the universe. Bring along a friend, or two to enjoy the experience and learn about the history of space exploration. The historical items, like the restored Gemini 12 spacecraft and their accompanying stories, are priceless. What to Do There The Chicago Planetarium houses 3 full size theaters, and 2 full size planetariums. In addition, the Adler is home to an extensive space science exhibition, and an important collection of antique scientific instruments. The Adler is also home to the Doane Observatory which is one of a very few research-active observatories open to the public. The Doane enables Adler guests to see planets, stars, and galaxies up-close against the beautiful lakeside setting of Lake Michigan. We highly suggest you take the time to peruse all of the exhibits, as you will surely leave with a deepened understanding of the planets, our sun and all things space science. Here are a few of our favorites... Mission Moon This exhibit invites you to experience space through the eyes of NASA’s Captain James A. Lovell, Jr. and his family. Theirs is a story of twists, turns, setbacks, and yes success. Find out just how Captain Lovell became a national hero, and how the United States became the first nation to put a Man on the Moon. Our Solar System Here you can get interactive, touching a piece of the Moon, the planet Mars, and even a distant asteroid. There is a Crater Maker so that you can make your own crater, and there is even an actual piece of meteorite from the meteor that crashed to Earth in Arizona years ago. Community Design Labs This exhibit is great for the children. Here they can design an experiment, testing materials to find just the right ones. There are endless possibilities for the imagination to test out. You’ll find 600 ounces of marshmallows, 10,000 popsicle sticks, 12,000 yards of duct tape and over 120 ounces of shaving cream. You’re invited to become a part of the future as you think about science in new ways. The Universe: A Walk Through Space and Time A journey where you can transport yourself throughout the cosmos and universe observing the formation of the galaxies, planets, and all the atoms in your body. Other Exhibits include.. Planet Explorers Telescopes: Through the Looking Glass Clark Family Welcome Gallery Astronomy in Culture Nearby Attractions The Adler is located on the Museum Campus, Chicago’s 57 acre park that sits along Lake Michigan. The area is picturesque and very pedestrian-friendly, featuring landscaped greenery along walkways and jogging paths. You will find a number of the city’s most popular attractions. Such as... The Shedd Aquarium, one of the best aquariums in the western hemisphere. The Field Museum, home to SUE, the world’s largest and most complete T Rex ever found. Places to Eat Nearby You may want to opt for eating at the museum just for the view. Café Galileo offers a laid-back lunch and they have the best view of the Chicago skyline. They provide prepared options from soup, to sandwiches, to salads, beverages and desserts. There’s a kid’s menu and all of the prices are pretty reasonable considering you’re in Chicago! Other nearby options include: Del Campo’s Tacos on 12st beach and Eleven City Diner, an American Delicatessen. Both are located within a mile of the museum. Need to Know Hours Summer: Daily, 9:30 am-6:00 pm Winter: Daily, 9:30 am-4:00 pm Closings: Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day, On rare occasions this attraction closes early due to private functions. Please visit www.adlerplanetarium.org for a full list of hours and show times. Directions & Address 1300 South Lake Shore Drive Chicago, IL 60605 Driving: From the city, north of the Museum: Take Lake Shore Drive (US-41) south past Grant Park. Continue south until the 18th street exit. Turn left on 18th street and continue as it bends left, becoming Museum Campus Drive. Continue right onto Solidarity Drive to Adler Planetarium. From the city, south of the Museum: Take Lake Shore Drive (US-41) north. Continue on Lake Shore Drive until the 18th street exit. Turn right on 18th street and continue as it bends left, becoming Museum Campus Drive. Continue right onto Solidarity Drive to Adler Planetarium. Public Transportation: By Bus: CTA bus #146 stops along Michigan Avenue north of the river and on State Street south of the river and will drop you off in front of Adler Planetarium. By subway: CTA Orange, Red, or Green line. Exit the train at the Roosevelt stop. Then take CTA bus #146 Inner Drive/Michigan Express, which will drop you off in front of Adler Planetarium. Save on Tickets with a Go Chicago Card Remember, the Go Chicago® Card is the best choice for maximum savings and flexibility, which includes Adler Planetarium tickets, plus admission to your choice of other top attractions. Save up to 55% on top museums, tours, and activities vs. paying at the gate. Visit multiple attractions for one low price.
Lindsay Eagan

Have a 5% discount, on us!

Sign up to our newsletter and receive exclusive discounts, trip inspiration and attraction updates straight to your inbox.

Thick check Icon