Millennium Park 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 famous park.
Whether you want to scope out iconic works of art, explore renowned museums, or embark on fascinating tours, this wonderful park has got you covered. So, if you’re looking for things to do in Millennium Park and the Loop during your trip to Chicago, check out our list of the best local activities and attractions, including...
- SkyDeck Chicago
- Art Institute of Chicago
- Bus tours
- And more!
SkyDeck Chicago
Visit the famed Willis Tower and ascend to the popular SkyDeck Chicago, located on the 103rd floor. In addition to phenomenal panoramic views of the city’s skyline, the waterfront, and lands far beyond, you’ll enjoy informative exhibits and historical photographs. You can also step out onto "The Ledge", an all-glass deck that protrudes out from the building's side. On a clear day, you'll be able to catch a glimpse of four different states: Illinois, Michigan, Wisconsin, and Indiana.
Be sure to check out our guide and tips for visiting SkyDeck Chicago before your visit.
Getting In: SkyDeck Chicago tickets are included on all Chicago passes.
Art Institute of Chicago
Consistently voted one of the best museums in the world, the Art Institute of Chicago is a can't-miss for everybody and anybody traveling in Chicago! This fantastic institution features extensive collections of paintings, photographs, sculpture, textiles, decorative arts, and much more.
They’ve even got a series of beautiful stained glass windows! As the nation's second-largest museum, you can find examples of every art genre, from American contemporary art to over 5,000 years of Asian art and artifacts.
Getting In: Art Institute of Chicago tickets are included on all Chicago passes.
Chicago Theatre Tour
Chicago is a very artsy city, with plenty of museums, music, and tons of great theatrical performances. Take a spin through the city’s theatre district for a view of some of the most historic and striking marquees, then enjoy an in-depth tour of the Chicago Theatre, one of the most famed in all of American artistic history.
The Chicago Theatre is an important part of the city's story. It has hosted some of the most famous performers over the years, including Tony Award-winning Broadway shows and concerts by the likes of Dolly Parton and Frank Sinatra. See the celebrity-signed walls backstage, walk across the stage itself, and look at a variety of historical photographs.
Getting In: Chicago Theatre Tour tickets are included on all Chicago passes.
Chicago bus tours
There are plenty of bus tours to choose from that will get you around Millenium Park and more! Choose from the North Side or South Side bus tours. Both feature informative narration of all the sights and sounds you’ll see, including featured attractions like the Art Institute, Grant Park, & Museum Campus (on the South Shore tour) and Wrigley Field, the Botanical Gardens, and Lincoln Park (on the North Side tour) Of course, you could also take both tours!
For a tour of the entire city, with all the top spots included, take a ride on the Hop On Hop Off Bus. You'll see famous landmarks like the Willis Tower, The Wrigley Building, Shedd Aquarium, the Magnificent Mile, and plenty more that you can hop on or off at.
Getting In: Hop On Hop Off Big Bus Chicago tickets are included on all Chicago passes, North Side tour and South Shore tours are separately ticketed.
Cloud Gate aka The Bean
Also known affectionately as The Bean, this famous sculpture in Millennium Park is the perfect Chicago attraction to take an Instagram snap of. With its magnificent reflections of the sky above – and the people around it – it’s a visually striking experience whether or not you’re photographing it. No filters necessary here!
Getting In: Admission to view the Cloud Gate sculpture is free.
Chicago River Walk
Chicago River Walk is open to the public and stretches down the south bank of the Chicago River. The Walk is not too far from The Loop and its many attractions. On a nice day, it's the perfect place to go to enjoy the sun and take in views of Chicago's one-of-a-kind architecture. There are also a ton of restaurants and shops that line the walk, so there's no telling how much time you can spend here!
Getting in: admission to Chicago River Walk is free.
Jay Pritzker Pavilion
One of the best outdoor amphitheaters in the entire region, the Jay Pritzker Pavilion is a favorite with Chicagoans over the spring and summer months. From free orchestral performances to live pop concerts and beyond, you're bound to see a great show at this lively attraction. It’s one of the top things to do in Millennium Park!
Getting In: Admission to Jay Prizker Pavilion events and performances are separately ticketed, although some are free. For more information and the calendar, please visit the attraction website.
The Crown Fountain
Beloved by kids and adults, this interactive sculpture combines water features with changing digital displays to create one striking artistic experience. Run through the sprays on a hot day, or just sit and watch the digital videos of different faces as they transition over the course of a few minutes. Another perfect photo op and place to take the family on a hot day.
Getting In: Access to the Crown Fountain is free.
The Lurie Garden
This 2.5-acre garden, near the southernmost part of Millennium Park, is a marvel amidst the urban setting of Chicago. Filled with flowers, trees, shrubs, and more, it’s a beautiful sight year-round, although it’s obviously the most vibrant in the spring and summer months. Enjoy guided walks and lectures, or just wander through on your own. They also frequently host family events and festivals.
Getting In: Admission to Lurie Garden is free.
Daley Plaza
Named for longtime Chicago mayor Richard Daley, this landmark plaza in the Loop is home to a number of festive events throughout the year. During the winter months, you'll see their famous Christmas Tree, and in the summer months, you can roam farmers' markets. Be sure to check out the massive (but nameless) Picasso statute in the heart of the Plaza!
Getting In: Admission to Daley Plaza is free.
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