Chicago rain

10+ Things to Do in Chicago When it Rains

Popular indoor activities for when the Windy City is also the Rainy City
By Katie Sagal

When the heavens open and you need to take a rain check on the outdoor activity you had planned, Chicago's got you covered.

Chicago is known as the Windy City, but like much of the Midwest, it sometimes becomes the Rainy City too. Now, although it won't necessarily rain on your trip, it's always handy to have some indoor activity ideas in mind.

Just in case you find yourself in Chicago on a rainy day, and you're searching for indoor activities in Chicago, check out our best rainy day trip ideas ...

  • Shedd Aquarium
  • Observation Decks
  • Field Museum
  • Art Institute of Chicago
  • Museum of Science and Industry
  • Adler Planetarium
  • LEGOLAND® Discovery Center
  • And more!

Shedd Aquarium

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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.

Chicago Observation Decks

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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.

Field Museum

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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.

Art Institute of Chicago

Escape the rain and immerse yourself in a whole world of art. The Art Institute of Chicago is exceptional and considered one of the best in the world. Their classic collections include iconic pieces such as the Chagall stained glass windows, Matisse’s “Bathers by a River,” and Georgia O’Keeffe’s “Black Cross, New Mexico.” And, of course, Edward Hopper's "Nighthawks"!

They also offer rotating special exhibits by established and up-and-coming artists, so you’ll find something to inspire you every time you visit. 

Getting In: The Art Institute of Chicago is ticketed separately and is not an option on Go City® Chicago passes.

Museum of Science and Industry

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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.

Adler Planetarium

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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.

Chicago Children’s Museum

Chicago is an easier city than most to find indoor attractions. But it can still be difficult to find a place for your kids to burn off all that energy. The Chicago Children’s Museum will solve your problems: it’s filled with high-energy, interactive exhibits, hands-on programs, and free daily art classes. It’s located on Navy Pier, which offers several other attractions that you can enjoy if the rain clears up, like classic fairground rides, bike rentals, and more.

Getting In: Chicago Children’s Museum tickets are included on all Go City® Chicago passes. Enjoy 10% off the gift shop with your pass.

LEGOLAND® Discovery Center

Legoland Chicago
NINJAGO legal line: LEGO, the LEGO logo, the Brick and Knob configurations, the Minifigure, NINJAGO and LEGOLAND® are trademarks of the LEGO Group. ©2024 The LEGO Group

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.

Chicago History Museum

If you’re interested in the history of Chicago, then a visit to this informative museum is a smart choice. Exhibits focus on significant moments and periods in Chicago's history. Discover everything about the Great Chicago Fire, the World’s Columbian Exhibition, and contemporary architectural movements. A fun exhibit for kids is the Sensing Chicago section, which introduces visitors to all the smells and sounds of the big city. 

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

Frank Lloyd Wright Home & Robie House Tours

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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.

Take to the shops

Spend some time (and some money) shopping in Chicago. A great indoor option is the Water Tower Place Mall. It offers high-end couture shops alongside classic chain stores, plus a LEGO store and a large American Girl Doll Place. If you don’t mind dodging the raindrops, then the Magnificent Mile is the place to go, which has a little bit of just about everything (including a nifty City Target).

Theater in Chicago

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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.

Quick rainy day recap

See? You can stay dry all while having plenty of great options for indoor things to do in Chicago when it's raining. We hope these ideas helped inspire you to create a fun-filled indoorsy itinerary. 

 

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Thanksgiving in Chicago

Spending time with friends and family during Thanksgiving in Chicago this year? Make the most of your holiday in Chicago by adding these seasonal activities to your itinerary. If you’re researching some activities for Thanksgiving in Chicago 2019, check out these suggestions for local activities and more seasonal things to do in November. Some fun things to do this Thanksgiving in Chicago include... Hop-on Hop-off bus Christmas Market Christmas tree lighting ZooLights Thanksgiving Day Parade Mag Mile Lights festival Holiday windows and more! They’re a great way to explore Chicago during the holidays and get an early glimpse of their famous holiday decorations. Save on Attraction Admission Regular admission to a number of these Chicago attractions is included in the Go Chicago® pass. Choose as you go from dozens of top attractions and save up to 55% on combined admission vs. paying at the gate. See all available passes, attractions & prices. Please note, some of these special November events may be separately ticketed and not included on the Go Chicago® pass. Chicago Christmas Tree Lighting Millennium Park November 16, 2019 Image credit: Choose Chicago. This year’s ceremony will be held in the Millennium Park location, although you can also watch from the comfort of your home or hotel room (which you may want to do if it’s typical November weather!). If you do choose to venture outside, Millennium Park is also home to a number of excellent Chicago attractions, from the award-winning Art Institute of Chicago to the charming Lurie Garden (pretty fascinating even in the cold weather). The Art Institute of Chicago also has some exciting exhibitions at this time of year, so be sure to stop by. The gallery also has late closing on Thursdays, making it a great evening activity, too. Getting In: Admission to the Christmas Tree Lighting is free. Art Institute of Chicago tickets is included with the Go Chicago® pass. Chicago's Museum Campus The Adler Planetarium in Museum Campus If you're looking for some indoor attractions in the Chicago fall weather, you can't go wrong with the fine institutions at the Museum Campus. Choose from the popular Shedd Aquarium, the fascinating Adler Planetarium, and my favorite, The Field Museum. Don't miss the newest addition to the Field Museum, Máximo the Titanosaur! Each of these offers something unique to visitors, from an astonishing collection of natural and historical artifacts to some of the ocean's most majestic creatures. Take the kids and spend the whole day at the Museum Campus! Plan to visit at least two of these museums on the same day to maximize your time and the value of your card. Getting In: Admission to all three Museum Campus institutions is included with the Go Chicago® pass. Go for a Family Bike Ride A bike ride is the best way to get your exercise in Chicago while staying warm in the crisp fall air. It's the perfect way to be out and active, as you zoom around the parks, along the lakeside, and throughout the city. Check out the City of Chicago Bike Map to plan your route before you go. With 20 miles of lake-front paved paths, Chicago offers plenty of opportunities to explore the beauties of nature in autumn. A fair warning, however: lakeside rides can be pretty chilly in November, so be sure to wear weather-appropriate technical gear to stay warm and dry while riding! Getting In: Bike rentals by Bike and Roll Chicago are included with the Go Chicago® pass. ZooLights Lincoln Park Zoo Opens Friday, November 29, 2019 Image credit: Lincoln Park Zoo. This November, head to the Lincoln Park Zoo to see some of the loveliest lights around. Marvel at fascinating 3-D displays, watch some master ice-carving and let the kids enjoy hands-on festive craft-making on select dates. For the adults, there's also delicious mulled wine or frosty brews. Plus, don't miss out on this historic train and carousel rides! On November 27, 2018, visitors can also enjoy the special Holiday Market, which can be an excellent opportunity to score unique presents for your loved ones. A fantastic free event that's great for the whole family, it's sure to be an evening of wonder and joy. Zoo Lights runs from 4:30 - 9:00 pm. Getting In: Admission to Zoo Lights is free on most nights. Lincoln Park Zoo ride tickets are included with the Go Chicago pass. Big Bus Hop-on Hop-off Chicago Tour If you don't often spend much time in Chicago, or have never been before, then a bus tour is in order! This time of year is a particularly lovely time to enjoy a bus tour, too. You'll get to see tons of holiday decorations and festive preparations. A hop-on hop-off version like this tour from Big Bus provides you with maximum flexibility. You can ride the loop for a few hours, or spend the entire getting off at places that interest you. As a bonus, Big Bus Chicago picks up near the John Hancock Tower, home to the 360 CHICAGO Observatory, which should also be on your to-do list. Getting In: Big Bus Chicago tickets are included with the Go Chicago Card. 360 CHICAGO tickets are also included with the Go Chicago pass. McDonald’s Thanksgiving Day Parade Downtown Chicago November 28, 2019 This parade has it all. In addition to the nation’s best marching bands, ginormous helium balloons of your favorite cartoon characters, and gorgeously decorated floats, you can expect tons of musical talent, too! Arrive early to snag a spot along the parade route, or enjoy watching snuggled in your living room. The parade begins at 8:00 am (Central Time) and proceeds along State Street from Congress to Randolph. Getting In: Admission to the McDonald's Thanksgiving Day Parade is free. Thanksgiving Dinner at the Palmer House Hilton The Loop November 22, 2018 Image credit: Lockwood Restaurant. If you’re not one for cooking at home – or, if like many Chicagoans, you’re dealing with a big family in a small apartment – check out one of the many fabulous spreads throughout the city. One of the most famous is the Thanksgiving Dinner held each year at the Lockwood Restaurant in the historic Palmer House hotel. It’s a bit pricey, but the elegant atmosphere and unsurpassed dining experience are worth it. Remember to make reservations soon, as it books up quickly for this special event. Getting In: Thanksgiving Dinner at the Palmer House Hilton is separately ticketed and is not included with the Go Chicago® pass. For more information and to make reservations, please visit the restaurant website. Christkindlmarket Downtown Chicago November 15 - December 24, 2019 Image credit: Chicago Parent. Thanksgiving is right about the time when Chicago's famed Christkindlmarket gets going, a lovely tradition you won't want to miss out on. It's basically a combination of a Christmas craft fair and a German food extravaganza - two of our favorite things in one! It's a great place to get some Christmas gifts and is a wonderful way to experience Chicago's strong German heritage. One fun tradition I particularly love is sipping on their delicious hot spiced cider, which comes in a collectible mug. The mug designs are different each year, too! Getting In: Admission to Christkindlmarket is free. Holiday Windows The Magnificent Mile Late November - December Image credit: Magnificent Mile Facebook page. Given its eclectic mixture of high-end stores and funky independent shops, it’s not surprising that the Magnificent Mile is even more beautiful during the holidays. Right around Thanksgiving, you’ll start to see the holiday decorations go up. If you’re anything like me you’ll be tempted to photograph all of them. Get some holiday shopping done and enjoy the first taste of the December holidays. Getting In: Window-peeping on the Magnificent Mile is free. Mag Mile Lights Festival November 22-23, 2019 Michigan Avenue Image credit: Magnificent Mile Facebook page. If you're in town the weekend before Thanksgiving, don't miss out on the BMO Harris Magnificent Mile Lights Festival! It's a beautiful celebration of light and color along one of the city's most vibrant neighborhoods. Plus, it's an especially family-friendly event, too, featuring your kids' favorite cartoon and media characters. Don't forget to take advantage of the special offers going on during this event at locations throughout the neighborhood! Getting In: Admission to the Magnificent Mile Lights Festival is free. Remember to Save on Admission We listed just a few fun suggestions for things to do in November and Thanksgiving in Chicago 2019. Of course, there are plenty of other activities to help fill your itinerary. Remember, many of these great options are included on the Go Chicago® pass. You can save up to 55% on combined admission vs. paying at the gate. Please note, the November and Thanksgiving events taking place at some of these attractions may be separately ticketed and not included with the Go Chicago® pass. Consider adding a few of these fun options to your November weekend itineraries.
Katie Sagal
St Patrick's Day Chicago
Blog

How to Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day in Chicago

St. Patrick’s Day is a holiday beloved by many, but it’s particularly special to Chicagoans. As a city with a vibrant Irish heritage—and an even more enthusiastic Irish-American population—Chicago is the perfect place to celebrate St. Paddy’s. From dyeing its iconic river a vivid green to holding one of the best St. Paddy’s parades in the US, Chicago goes all out for this holiday. Here’s a guide to what to do, where to go, and how to enjoy St. Patrick’s Day in Chicago. So put on your best, brightest green outfit and get ready to celebrate.  Dyeing of the Chicago River Each year on the Saturday before St. Patrick’s Day, the city of Chicago dyes its famous river a lush bright green. This is a cherished tradition dating back over 50 years and is one of the highlights of any celebration. Every year spectators from across the city and around the country line the bridges and riverwalk to watch the barges release the dye into the water and see the river slowly turn emerald green. They use organic dyes that are safe for the environment; as a result, the color only lasts for about five hours. The dyeing begins at 9 am, so get to the river early in the day if you want to see the color in its full glory. St. Patrick’s Day Parade One of the largest St. Paddy’s Day parades in the country, Chicago’s vibrant version of an Irish-American classic, is legendary. This downtown celebration traverses Columbus Drive, heading north from Balbo to Monroe. Columbus Drive divides Millennium Park and Grant Park in half, so the parade route is a scenic one. The parade usually begins at noon, so arrive early to grab a good spot. You’ll enjoy plenty of green, white, and orange outfits, Irish step dancers, marching bands, elaborately decorated floats, and even bagpipers (of course!) Other St Patrick's Day events in Chicago There are plenty of things to do across Chicago to celebrate your favorite Irish holiday. Check out a few of these local events & activities to make the most of your time in the Windy City. St. Patrick’s Festival at the Irish-American Heritage Center: Held after the parade, this family-friendly event offers traditional and contemporary dance performances alongside tasty food and drink. A good option for those traveling with kids.   South Side Irish Parade: Another great family-centric event, this smaller but no less enthusiastic parade begins at noon on the Sunday nearest St. Paddy’s Day, setting off from 103rd Street & Western Avenue.   Shoreline Cruises Architecture River Cruise: While this architecture cruise also runs regularly on days the river isn’t green, the cruises today are especially popular. Get up close to the emerald waters and snap those perfect Instagram shots while learning all about the city’s built environment.   Leprechaun Leap: This popular race offers 5k or 8k courses along the gorgeous Lake Michigan waterfront. It’s been a beloved tradition among runners for nearly 20 years now, and attracts participants from all over. Dress in costume for the most fun!   Hop-on Hop-off Chicago City Tour: See more of the city with a hop-on hop-off tour from Big Bus. Take advantage of their local expertise to get some advice on what else to do to celebrate, and get around the city easily. Places to eat & drink on St. Paddy’s Day in Chicago One of most people’s favorite things about St. Patrick’s Day is the opportunity to enjoy delicious Irish food and a pint or two of plain (aka Guinness). Scope out these bars and restaurants while you’re in town for the holiday. Many places will have special events on, some requiring advance tickets, so these aren’t your only options by any means. If you’re traveling with an adults-only group, you may also want to consider a pub crawl through River North (Division Street is always popular). Remember, bars in Chicago stay open very late if you need an excuse to keep the festivities going. Kerryman Irish Bar & Restaurant: This River North mainstay is perfect for those looking to enjoy traditional Irish fare with a bit of a modern update.   D4 Irish Pub & Café: Think Irish food with some modern American flair thrown in: fish and chips or corned beef and hash, plus avocado toast and lobster mac n’ cheese.   Lady Gregory’s: An Andersonville legend, Lady Gregory’s is a must-visit destination for whiskey connoisseurs. With more than 300 options to choose from, make sure you take advantage of their full dining menu to balance it all out.   The Galway Arms: Found just west of Lincoln Park (right near the zoo), the Galway Arms has been voted Best Irish Pub for four years running. Enjoy its cozy historical vibe and scrumptious authentic cuisine.   The Grafton Pub & Grill: Located in Lincoln Square, this traditional Irish pub features tasty burgers with an extensive whiskey menu. They’re always good for some Irish-American music, too. Tips for Booking St. Patrick’s Day Hotels If you do intend to make St. Paddy’s in Chicago a part of your next getaway, be sure to plan in advance. Hotels book up fast, and crowds are thick around the riverfront and parade route. Check out our logistical tips for a smoother vacation. Because St. Patrick’s Day is such a big holiday for the city of Chicago, many hotels will run special deals or discounted rates around this time of year.    If you are a member of a hotel’s reward program, it might be a good idea to cash in some points now. You can reserve in advance and pay less than you would otherwise.   Even if you aren’t sure of your plans, book your hotel room at a refundable rate that you can alter later if necessary.   Aggregate sites like Trivago, Hotels.com, and Expedia can be good resources for finding affordable hotels. Keep in mind that some sites may require that you pay for the full price of the hotel upfront.   Look for hotels outside the immediate downtown area. While you probably want to stay in the Loop to be near the parade and other Chicago attractions, you don’t need to stay right off Millennium Park to be close. River North or Lincoln Park are great neighborhoods to find hotels that won’t be as full. Some useful Chicago resources to help you plan your trip Check out the top things to do in Chicago, things to do when it rains in Chicago, and museums you must visit on your trip to the Windy City. Share your adventure with us Remember to tag @GoCity in your holiday snaps and we might just feature you on our socials. Follow the Go City Instagram and Facebook pages for competitions, special offers, and inspiration for your chosen destination. Want to save money on those bucket-list attractions? Check out passes from Go City and you could save yourself up to 50% on your must-sees – perfect! ☀️Compare Chicago passes☀️ – 🌏 Explore other destinations 🌏 – ✈️ Buy a pass ✈️
Andrew Martineau
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Chicago Neighborhoods Guide - Where to Go & What to Visit for Tourists

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! The North Side/Lincoln Park Things to Do in the North Side/ Lincoln Park Explore Wrigleyville and cheer for the home team while catching a Cub’s game at the beloved stadium or at 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, the Cultural Center or enjoy one of the many playing fields and golf courses. Have 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/Central 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 treats like Italian ice and Polish sausage, the food scene in Little Italy is not to be missed. Getting in: Ernest Hemingway Birthplace Home Tour tickets, Frank Lloyd Wright Home & Studio Tour tickets, and Brookfield Zoo tickets are included on the Go Chicago Card. Downtown/ The Loop/ Magnificent Mile 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, make a 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 - we've got all the best Deep Dish Pizza spots ready for you! River North Navy Pier 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 education 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 Chicago Card. Magnificent Mile Things to Do Near the Magnificent Mile Head to the Museum of Contemporary Art to see cutting-edge art from both 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 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 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, and its 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 productions that have gone on to win Tony Awards! 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 - its home to an impressive collection of photography, artifacts, paintings, and sculptures of all different styles! Getting in: SkyDeck Chicago tickets, Chicago Theatre Tour tickets and Art Institute of Chicago tickets are all included on Go Chicago Card. Museum Campus/ South Loop Things to Do in Museum Campus/ 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 and state of the art exhibits. 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 tickets, Shedd Aquarium tickets and Adler Planetarium tickets are all included on Go Chicago Card. South Side Things to Do in 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 tickets and Robie House tickets are included on Go Chicago Card. Let’s Recap There’s our run down 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. Whether you're traveling with friends or family, everyone is sure to have a blast. Consider visiting some of these attractions on your next trip to Chicago, we know you'll come to love this city. Don’t forget to pick up a Go Chicago Card and save up to 45% on combined admission prices. Happy travels!
Casey Makovich

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