Discover the expert in you.
Discover the expert in you.
Chicago is full of attractions and sights for the whole family, ranging from the interactive Crown Fountain in Millennium Park to the Shedd Aquarium. Whether your interests are in bringing the kids to the Lincoln Park Zoo or checking out an outdoor concert at the Jay Pritzker Pavilion, you'll surely find it in the Windy City. However, there are also many spectacular attractions within driving distance from Chicago. Visiting nearby states such as Wisconsin or Indiana, or simply heading to another town in Illinois can be a fun way to explore other options, especially for residents or visitors to Chicago.
With a population close to three million, Chicago, Illinois is the third largest American city. Dubbed "the Windy City," Chicago is home to more than 40 museums, 552 parks, and more than 200 theaters and art galleries. It is therefore no surprise that the city drew 39.5 million visitors as recently as 2009.
Chicago, Illinois, known for its blustery winters, might be the last place a person would associate with fun- and sun-loving waterfront antics; but come summertime, the areas around Lake Michigan and the Chicago River are buzzing with activity. Chicago's abundant shorelines offer a variety of activities, from family educational outings to daredevil festivals. An attraction in itself, the Chicago waterfront has plenty of interests to keep all sorts busy and entertained.
There is much to do in Chicago, from free events to sightseeing and family recreation, and the city has a vibrant nightlife scene as well. Chicago is full of hidden treasures for daytime activities, but you might be surprised at what it has to offer after dark.
There's no excuse for teens to be bored in Chicago. The city offers various activities and events for teenagers. Young people interested in art, technology or current trends can find programs or institutions to stimulate their minds and allow them to develop in the area and gain expertise. Chicago also provides teens the opportunity to meet other teens with mutual interests.
The city of Chicago served as home to more than 2.8 million residents as of July 2009, making it the third largest city in the United States, according to InfoPlease. As a center for culture, sports and recreation, the city of Chicago receives more than 45 million visitors per year, explains the City of Chicago's Official Tourism Site. Visitors to Chicago have a variety of attractions to choose from during their stay, including museums that specialize in science or art and outdoor entertainment complexes.
Despite the blistering cold, winter is one of the greatest times to visit Chicago. Walking down the snowy streets through crazed shoppers and fast-paced businessmen, Chicago instills a sense of belonging, cheer and an instant holiday spirit in everyone. Known as the city of festivals, Chicago does not disappoint this season, offering numerous festivities and activities for any winter lover.
If you have some extra time on your next Chicago trip, venture outside the city to check out some interesting attractions in the suburbs. You might not usually consider the suburbs as destinations for either nature or architectural interest, but Chicago's suburbs offer some things worth checking out in both of these areas.
Chicago's most famous African-American attractions include: a landmark neighborhood where the Marx Brothers lived, a record studio immortalized by the Rolling Stones in "2120 South Michigan Avenue," a tribute to one of the greatest athletes ever and a museum.
Chicago is a great city for adults. People can watch an improv comedy show at a famous club like The Second City, get a drink at a storied bar like the Billy Goat Tavern, and shop in upscale areas like the Magnificent Mile. But this famous Illinois city also has attractions that kids, and their parents, will find interesting.
Chicago is one of the largest cities in the Midwest, but just a few miles outside of the city travelers will find acres of fields and rural farmland. While the towns in Illinois outside of Chicago are smaller, there are plenty of fun attractions that aren't too far away from the city.
The third largest city in the country and the metropolis of the Midwest, Chicago offers attractions that residents and visitors alike regularly enjoy throughout the year. Whether you're looking for an event that the whole family will enjoy, or you're a couple on vacation in the Windy City, there's never a lack of things to do in Chicago.
