chicago-illinois-usa-on-lake-michigan

Things To Do in Chicago When it's Hot Out

Looking for ways to beat the heat in the Windy City? Even though Chicago's nickname implies that the breeze is always flowing, on a sweltering day that may not be the case. And while there are plenty of things to do in Chicago, when it gets this hot you might start to plan your day around where you'll find the most AC exposure. Luckily, Chicago is full of diverse attractions that will keep you busy on the hottest of days. Here are some of our favorite things to do in Chicago when it's hot out, including...

  • Shedd Aquarium
  • SkyDeck Chicago or 360 Chicago
  • Shoreline Architecture River Cruise
  • Art Institute of Chicago
  • Adler Planetarium
  • The Field Museum
  • Chicago's Children Museum
  • LEGOLAND Discovery Center
  • The Escape Game Chicago
  • Museum of Science and Industry

Shedd Aquarium

spotted-moray-eel-shedd-aquarium-chicago

Shedd Aquarium

The Shedd Aquarium is a gateway to an underwater world. With 32,000 fascinating marine animals living within the complex, it is one of the most diverse and awarded aquariums in the country. See animals from fresh water, salt water, terrestrial and aerial environments at six different themed exhibition halls. At Waters of the World travel to the rivers of Asia and the Great Lakes as you explore 80 different habitats and animals. At the Caribbean Reef, take a 360-degree tour of a reef full of sea turtles, moray eels, sting rays and florescent-colored tropical fish. When visiting, make sure to check out special exhibit Underwater Beauty, which showcases 100 species from around the world that represent the different colors, shapes, and styles of life below the surface. Getting in: Shedd Aquarium tickets are included on Go Chicago Card.

See Chicago from above

view-skydeck-chicago-il-usa

See Chicago from above

Chicago is well-known for its beautiful skyline and unique architecture, so its no wonder there are two different observation decks to choose from. Luckily, both of these popular decks are included on Go Chicago Card. We'll break down the two of them for you:

  • At SkyDeck Chicago, you'll travel 1,353 feet up to the 103rd floor for unbeatable views of the city. The building itself, Willis Tower, is considered to be one of the most famous architectural marvels and is one of the Seven Wonders of Chicago. From above, you'll be able to see from Navy Pier to Soldier Field. The most exciting part of SkyDeck is The Ledge, a glass balcony that extends out from the building to give you a better view.
  • 360 Chicago's observation deck is located on the 93rd floor of Hancock Tower and provides a view of Chicago's skyline that seems infinite from above. The sun-filled observatory space allows for views of Lake Michigan, Navy Pier and the sprawling landscape of the Windy City below.

Shoreline Architecture River Cruise

chicago-illinois-usa-sightseeing-cruise-skyline

Shoreline Architecture River Cruise

One of the best ways to take advantage of the breeze is aboard a ship cruising through the Chicago River. The Shoreline Architecture River Cruise showcases the beautiful buildings that surround the coast of the river. Float by buildings designed by Mies van der Rohe, Skidmore Owings Merril, Helmut Jahn and more. As you cruise, your guide will provide you with a background on Chicago's architectural history and style. Getting in: Shoreline Architecture River Cruise tickets are included on Go Chicago Card.

Art Institute of Chicago

art-institute-chicago-front-outside

Art Institute of Chicago

The Art Institute of Chicago is consistently voted among the Top Museums in the World by TripAdvisor. As the nations second-largest art museum, there's no limit to different pieces and styles you can explore here. With an impressive collection of art that spans across different mediums and styles, its no surprise as to why this cultural institution is so popular. Peruse modern photography, contemporary sculptures, architectural and design masterpieces and more. Some of its most famous works include the Chagall America Windows stained glass windows, Matisse's Bathes by the River, and Georgia O'Keefe's Black Cross, New Mexico. Getting in: Art Institute of Chicago tickets are included on Go Chicago Card.

Adler Planetarium

adler-planetarium-chicago

Adler Planetarium

Come explore 91 billion light years of history at the Adler Planetarium! Located in Chicago's Museum Campus, the planetarium is one of the coolest places to bring the whole family. Kids and adults alike will love the chance to learn more about our solar system through interactive exhibits and shows. Join the search for the 9th planet in Planet Nine or crawl, climb, and fly through Planet Explorers. The adventure never ends at Adler Planetarium! Getting in: Adler Planetarium tickets are included on Go Chicago Card.

The Field Museum

field-museum-chicago-on-summer-day

The Field Museum

You might've picked up on this already, but Chicago is full of top-rated museums and institutions. The Field Museum is another one you shouldn't miss! The Field Museum is where you can journey through time and explore our past, present and future. Known for its leading scientific research, the state-of-the-art exhibits that live within the halls of the complex are second to none. Descend into an ancient Egyptian tomb, join scientists as they research the power of DNA or explore over 10,000 years of Chinese culture. The museum does a perfect job of combining education with interactive and fun ways of learning. Getting inField Museum tickets are included on Go Chicago Card.

Chicago Children's Museum

This is the perfect place to bring the kids when they've had enough of the heat. Located right on Navy Pier, the Chicago Children's Museum will keep everyone busy for hours. Each exhibit at the museum is aimed to teach children a different learning experience through interactive and fun displays. At Play it Safe, kids can explore a realistic firehouse. In the Tinkering Lab, they'll have the freedom to innovate and create with various different DIY projects. The kids will be entertained all day long and parents can sit back and enjoy the learning process. Getting in: Chicago Children's Museum tickets are included on Go Chicago Card.

LEGOLAND Discovery Center

Another great place to go with the family is the LEGOLAND® Discovery Center. This massive indoor space is filled with LEGO®-themed exhibits, construction demonstrations, interactive areas, and exciting attractions. Kids of all ages can enjoy the different activities and demonstrations that take place throughout the day. They'll learn the best LEGO® building secrets from Master Model Builders, become part of the LEGO® story at the 4D Cinema, and can save the princess on the Kingdom Quest Laser Ride. LEGO® lovers will cherish their time spent here as they learn and build firsthand. Getting in: LEGOLAND® Discovery Center tickets are included on Go Chicago Card.

The Escape Game Chicago

Can you escape? Test your skills, grit, smarts, and ability and see if you have what it takes at The Escape Game Chicago. An escape room is the perfect place to go on a day when the heat is just unbearable. At Escape Game Chicago, you'll have your choice between four different themed escape scenarios. Choose from Mission Mars, Gold Rush, Prison Break or The Heist. You'll race against the clock during each of them to escape! While children are allowed to participate in The Escape Game Chicago, it is recommended for players age 13 and up as some of the content may be too difficult for younger children to understand. Getting in: The Escape Game Chicago tickets are included on Go Chicago Card.

Museum of Science and Industry

museum-science-industry-chicago-spring

Museum of Science and Industry

Recently named one of the Top 25 Museums in the United States by TripAdvisor, the Museum of Science and Industry (MSI) is another great museum to visit while in Chicago. The 14-acre campus makes it the largest science museum in the Western Hemisphere! MSI offers dynamic, hands-on activities for visitors of all ages to enjoy. Explore a real World War II German submarine, control a 40-foot indoor tornado, display your own pulse inside the 3D heart and navigate through a mirror maze. Kids and parents alike will enjoy all that there is to see at MSI. Getting in: Museum of Science and Industry tickets are included on Go Chicago Card.

More Chicago Attractions

There’s no shortage of things to do in Chicago when it’s hot out, and the suggestions above are just some of our favorite indoor activities. We hope you'll add a few to your Chicago to-do list. Check out a Go Chicago Card to see all 28 Chicago attractions, and see what you can do this summer in Chicago!

Nicole Muto
Go City Travel Expert

Continue reading

A boat traveling along the Chicago River
Blog

How to spend 5 days in Chicago

You’ve done the sensible thing and decided to spend 5 days in Chicago. Fantastic! The US ‘second city’ has a range of attractions that many other destinations simply can’t compete against – from magnificent art galleries to lake shore beaches. With a 5 day Chicago itinerary you’ll have the time you need to take in the city’s atmosphere alongside its landmark buildings. You’ll also be able to enjoy some of the city’s more off-beat things to see and do. For a round up of all that’s going on in Chicago, check out our favorite way of spending 5 days in the city. Day 1 – Downtown Chicago With your first hours in Chicago, it’s a good idea to get to grips with the downtown area – otherwise known as the Loop. The location of many of the city’s major landmarks, you’ll be spending much of your time here so it makes sense to get a feel of what’s located where. Whilst one of the most walkable cities in North America, you’re not going to want to wear out your shoe leather on day 1. Nor are you going to want to tackle Chicago’s public transportation, so instead head to one of the dozen stops included on the city’s Hop-on Hop-off sightseeing bus. The whole circular tour lasts for two hours and is accompanied by an audio narration providing a perfect introduction to the city. However, it’s unlikely you’re going to be able to avoid jumping off at a couple of points of interest. North Michigan Avenue – better known as the Magnificent Mile – is one of the city’s top places to be, blending suited office workers with luxury brands, much-loved restaurants, historic landmarks such as the Old Water Tower and views from 1000 feet up from the floor-to-ceiling windows of 360 CHICAGO in the John Hancock Center. Showing all that Chicago has to offer, it’s just a short stroll to the Museum of Contemporary Art – turn off on either East Pearson Street or East Chicago Avenue to get there for an afternoon amongst the greats of twentieth century art. Day 2 – Lake Michigan You will have already seen its vast expanse from 360 CHICAGO, but day 2 gives you the chance to explore the Lake Michigan shoreline. Start to the north of the Loop in Lincoln Park for views of western lowland gorillas and kangaroos at Lincoln Park Zoo. Then soak up the sun on North Avenue Beach (weather permitting). If you can tear yourself away from the beautiful setting, keep the shoreline to your left as you wander south back into the Loop by way of the upmarket Gold Coast neighborhood. On reaching Navy Pier, there are further options for taking in the Chicago skyline, by slipping into one of the gondolas of Centennial Wheel, which rise to a height of almost 200 feet. Swap gondolas and sidewalks for the lakeshore cycle track by picking up a bike at the pier’s Bike and Roll rentals. Ease yourself into the saddle by making the short journey to Chicago’s Museum Campus, incorporating the Field Museum, Shedd Aquarium and Adler Planetarium, either one of which will round off the afternoon hours with aplomb. Day 3 – Chicago from the water You’ve taken it in from high up and cycled along it, so there’s nothing more to do than get onto the water and explore Chicago from another angle, especially if your visit to the Shedd Aquarium gave you a feel for life in and on the waves yesterday. Unveiling hidden gems amongst the world-famous landmarks, taking a cruise along the three branches of the Chicago River is like slipping through the city’s two centuries of history. Its shift in architectural styles reveals itself as you cruise the calm blue waters beneath bridges and past structures including the giant art deco Merchandise Mart building and Willis Tower – for many years the tallest building in the world. Follow the river to its natural conclusion and you’ll find yourself floating on Lake Michigan. A Skyline Lake Tour does a similar job to river cruises, but arguably on an even greater scale. Departing from Navy Pier, tours take in the lakeshore forming the natural eastern boundary of the Loop, with commentary providing interesting tidbits of information, such as the fact Batman’s Gotham City is based on the skyscrapers of Chicago. But for an extra-special tour on the water don’t miss your chance to board Windy, Chicago’s official tall ship. With its sails filled with the wind the city is famous for, you’ll tack across Lake Michigan in a fashion almost entirely unchanged since the birth of steam. Day 4 – Chicago culture and more Keep up the pace of your Chicago in 5 days trip by starting day 4 with a few hours in another of the city’s top museums – the Museum of Science and Industry. A great choice for all the family, there are plenty of interactive exhibits, alongside flight simulators, important landmarks in transport and a gallery of exquisite model ships – should your trip aboard the Windy have gotten you hooked on all things nautical. Continue your exploration of Chicago’s culture by seeing a show. The Second City theater is well-known in comedy circles as the place to head for improv and the chance to catch the next big thing before the rest of the world. The Chicago Theater has a busy schedule of plays and pop concerts. Failing that, it’s also possible to head behind the scenes with a Chicago Theater Marquee Tour. Then enjoy a bite to eat. AT&T Plaza beneath the Cloud Gate sculpture in Millennium Park is home to an open-air restaurant during the warmer months of the year – replaced by one of the city’s top skating destinations during the winter. Day 5 – Get active End your 5 days in Chicago by mixing up the museum visits and river tours with some physical activity. Maggie Daley Park – immediately east of Millennium Park – has plenty of ways to do this, from free climbing walls and tennis courts to a skating ribbon from November to March. If you need a breather, there are shady groves for picnics in the sun, alongside one of the finest children’s playgrounds we’ve seen rising high above it all. One of Major League Baseball’s oldest arenas, Wrigley Field is a must-see for sports fans. Home of the Chicago Cubs, there’s no better way to understand the city psyche than attending a game. Alternatives include basketball from the Chicago Bulls and ice hockey from the Blackhawks both at the United Center. Save on admission in Chicago Sounds expensive? 5 days in Chicago doesn’t have to be! Go City lets you enter many of Chicago’s top attractions and landmarks with incredible savings versus advertised prices. It means you can do much more on your trip to Chicago than you thought you could without having to worry about your bank balance once!
Ian Packham
A Chicago store and window display
Blog

Best Chicago Souvenirs

Taking a trip to Chicago soon? It’s likely you’ll want to take something back home with you that reminds you of your trip. It’s equally likely you’ll want to buy a small item for friends and family you left behind. If you want to find souvenirs made in Chicago rather than tacky plastic items that have no real link with the city, you’ve come to the right place. We’ve got some fantastic ideas for the best Chicago souvenirs below! Edible Chicago souvenirs The main problem with edible gifts from the windy city is having the willpower to avoid consuming them all before you’ve even left downtown. Don’t be put off by the long lines which often stretch down the street from the Garrett Popcorn shops on West Jackson Boulevard and Michigan Avenue. Dishing up their ‘Chicago Mix’, half cheese and half caramel, to the people of the city since 1949, they’re clearly doing something right. Small bags cost as little as $3, though the souvenir skyline tins make a great keepsake long after the popcorn itself is all gone. They also have outlets at O’Hare Airport. With a pedigree dating back even further is Fannie Mae chocolates, which have been Chicago based since first opening in 1920. Head to one of their city center stores and you’ve got the option of creating your own mix of pixies, mint meltaways and vanilla buttercreams. At the upper end of the chocolate market is the Chicago-only Vosges Haut-Chocolat. With each chocolate hand-finished, the company is particularly well-known for their truffles, with flavors as diverse as hazelnut and balsamic vinegar and ginger with wasabi. As some indication of price, a box of 16 truffles will set you back around $50. On the savory front, The Spice House on North Wells Street in the Lincoln Park neighborhood (close to Chicago History Museum) offers more than the usual cooking herbs and spices. Their team has created a range of Chicago-themed blends that will brighten up your home cooking for weeks to come. Drinkable Chicago souvenirs The same can be said for another much-loved Wells Street store, Old Town Oil. Specializing in small-batch olive oils and vinegars from farms across the globe, they have some very tasty-looking gift boxes, and can even produce custom bottle labels. Oils and vinegars won’t quench your thirst, but beers will, with Goose Island an award-winning craft brewery set up to bring good beers to the Chicago streets. Using 15 different yeasts to turn the sugars into alcohol before aging the beer in bourbon barrels for extra flavor, visitors are welcome to the brewery tap room on Fulton Street or its Clybourn brewhouse to sample their selection of seasonal and year-round beers. With over 100 international prizes to its name, the Koval Distillery has come a hell of a long way since starting up in 2008 as the first new distillery in the city since the 1800s. Their copper vats produce whiskeys, gins and specialty spirits using organic grains. Everything from soaking of the grain to bottling takes place in house so the dedicated team are able to keep track of every step to produce their signature clean flavors. Jewelry and curios The Field Museum is another great place to keep a lookout for souvenirs. Its store is awash with goodies, though we’ve chosen to focus our attention on their jewelry selection. Linking back to the museum’s incredible natural history collection, it ranges from T-Rex earrings to necklaces and pendants threaded with natural stones such as quartz and onyx. Echoing the form of Chicago’s favorite piece of public art – Anish Kapoor’s Cloud Gate – Tiffany & Co’s Chicago store sells sterling silver bean pendants designed by Elsa Peretti. If the price tag stops you stepping beyond the window displays, various other outlets do similar pieces in base metals. But if it’s a wall in your house you’re thinking of decorating, the store at the Museum of Contemporary Art has a variety of art-based items, from $10 fridge magnets to mobiles based on Bauhaus and surrealist principles which would provide a dash of color to any room. Wearable Chicago souvenirs A sports mad city with professional basketball, ice hockey, baseball and American football teams, getting tickets to a game is an unmissable Chicago experience. And to remember it, what could be better than your very own jersey? Each stadium and arena have their own store, but you can also find items linked to all Chicago’s teams at stores including Clark Street Sports. So whether it’s an oversized foam finger or an official wristband emblazoned with the Chicago Cubs logo, odds are you’ll find it here. Thanks to an array of nationwide and boutique local stores, fashionistas can also take something home that will forever remind them of their time in the windy city. Independent Wolfbait & B-Girls is a marketplace offering the wares of 250 local artisans, including clothing you won’t find anywhere else and an almost endless pick of potential gifts. Other quirky establishments include Optimo Fine Hats, offering custom headgear for men whatever the occasion. Grabbing a T-shirt with the Chicago skyline will help your little ones remember their trip to Chicago, or make them want to visit themselves one day if they weren’t with you. Other items linked to the city’s architecture include ever-popular snow globes containing representations of the Willis Tower and Skydeck amongst other landmark buildings. Spend on the things that count with the best Chicago souvenirs The best Chicago souvenirs are those which continuously remind you of all the good times you had at the city’s attractions. That good time will be made all the better if you’ve visited them with Go City. Explore the city in this way and you’ll be able to take advantage of substantial savings on entrance admission to many of the top attractions and things to do. So why not check out our pass options and join the thousands of visitors who have already done just this?
Ian Packham

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