A week in Chicago for first timers

360 CHICAGO makes for another perfect introduction to the city – from a totally awesome perspective! See the city from some 94 floors above ground level, and snap some amazing photos. There are also some fun exhibits to explore at the top, explaining the tower's background, the history of the city, and important events.

This observation deck is located in the Hancock Tower, conveniently right in the middle of the Magnificent Mile attractions.

Along with Oak Street, Michigan Avenue is one of the shopping hotspots in the city. While shops do tend towards the high end, you’ll also find fast fashion and more affordable fare like H&M, Target, and UNIQLO. There are so many fun places just to window shop. If you’re visiting in December, be sure to keep an eye out for creative holiday window decorations. 

Getting In: It’s free to stroll Michigan Avenue.

Another option for seeing the city from a bird's perspective is Skydeck Chicago. Located in the Willis Tower (formerly the Sears Tower), this fantastic observation deck provides unparalleled views of the city below. From your perch 103 stories in the air, you’ll see everything from Navy Pier down to Soldier Field. The Skydeck Chicago also features several interactive exhibits and displays, so you can learn about the history of the city and the building itself.

In this part of the city, you simply can’t pass up the opportunity to explore Millennium Park a little bit. This expansive greenspace is one of the modern marvels of the city, and plays host to a growing host of activities year-round, from yoga in the park to free concerts. Come here for fun free activities, and be sure to check out the public art, like “Cloud Gate,” aka, The Bean.

On another day of your Chicago vacation, you’ll want to head down to the Museum Campus. This fantastic area of the city boasts three top museums, all of them must-visits. The Field Museum is one of the world’s leading natural history museums, offering exhibits of artifacts from millennia of world history. You’ll find all the most important natural artifacts, from precious gemstones to dinosaur fossils to ancient Chinese art and architecture. For those of you who have visited before, keep an eye out for SUE the T. Rex.

Come here to see an amazing collection of aquatic critters, big and small. In fact, you’ll be able to see about 32,000 of them! You can explore diverse marine and freshwater habitats and learn all about their fascinating inhabitants. Featured exhibits include “Waters of the World,” “Amazon Rising,” and the “Polar Play Zone.”

Bonus: Go City® Chicago pass holders get priority entry! This can save loads of time during the busy summer months.

Opt for all-access admission to the Adler Planetarium on your visit and you’ll get to see exhibits that study all facets of space, both known and unknown. A fun exhibit is the sky show “Planet Nine,” which focuses on the search for the new ninth planet. You should also check out the Historic Atwood Sphere – Chicago’s oldest planetarium! Adler even hosts frequent monthly “Adler After Dark” events which can be fun, too.

Located on the campus of the University of Chicago, this is one of the few Frank Lloyd Wright buildings in the area open for touring. Built for Frederick C. Robie in the early years of the twentieth century, this beautiful home is an excellent example of Prairie-style architecture. There are only a few FLW buildings in the world, so don’t miss the chance to see one of them up close.

If you’re in the Lincoln Park neighborhood, then a visit to the zoo is in order. Come here to see a nice selection of your favorite animals in recreated natural environments, from grand polar bears to tiny turtles. The kids can also enjoy a few rides aboard the historical carousel and the Lionel Train Adventure.

Navy Pier is a major cultural destination in Chicago and everyone should spend some time there. Come here for the rides, the entertainment, the cruises, the bike rentals, and more. Visit the Children’s Museum (also on the Go Chicago Card). Take in a play at the exciting Chicago Shakespeare Theater space. Then hop aboard the Centennial Wheel!

Another cruise option for the Navy Pier area is the Classic Lake Tour. This 45-minute excursion takes you out onto Lake Michigan – a lake so big it has massive tides and many popular beaches – to see the city skyline from afar. As you sail along, you’ll be treated to professional narration about the city’s heritage and history.