7 Most Famous Things in Chicago
Millennium Park & Cloud Gate (The Bean)
This iconic park is a must-visit, featuring the mesmerizing Cloud Gate sculpture, Crown Fountain, and the Jay Pritzker Pavilion for outdoor concerts.
A trip to Chicago isn’t complete without a visit to Millennium Park, an urban oasis located in the heart of downtown. The park is home to Cloud Gate, often called “The Bean” due to its unique, mirror-like reflective shape, making it a favorite photo spot. Nearby, Crown Fountain features interactive digital displays of Chicago residents’ faces, while the Jay Pritzker Pavilion, designed by architect Frank Gehry, hosts outdoor concerts and events throughout the year. In winter, the McCormick Tribune Ice Rink offers a picturesque skating experience.
👉 Best time to visit: Spring and summer for concerts, winter for ice skating.
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Willis Tower (formerly Sears Tower)
Ascend to the Skydeck on the 103rd floor for breathtaking panoramic views of the city and the thrilling experience of The Ledge, a glass-bottomed balcony extending 4.3 feet from the building.
Standing at 1,450 feet, the Willis Tower is one of the tallest buildings in the world and an iconic part of the Chicago skyline. The Skydeck, located on the 103rd floor, provides jaw-dropping panoramic views of the city and beyond. The highlight? The Ledge—a series of glass-floored observation boxes that extend over four feet from the building, giving visitors a thrilling experience of looking straight down onto the streets below.
👉 Pro tip: Visit at sunset for spectacular skyline views.
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Navy Pier
This 3,300-foot pier offers a variety of attractions, including amusement rides, restaurants, shops, the iconic Navy Pier Ferris Wheel, and stunning views of the Chicago skyline and Lake Michigan.
Stretching into Lake Michigan, Navy Pier is Chicago’s premier entertainment destination. The pier features a variety of attractions, including the Centennial Wheel, which provides breathtaking views of the city skyline. Families can enjoy the Chicago Children’s Museum, live performances at the Chicago Shakespeare Theater, or seasonal fireworks displays over the lake. The pier also offers waterfront dining, boat cruises, and scenic walking paths.
👉 Best for: Families, couples, and anyone looking for a fun day by the lake.
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Magnificent Mile
This world-renowned shopping district boasts high-end stores, luxury brands, and iconic architecture like the Water Tower and Tribune Tower.
The Magnificent Mile is Chicago’s premier shopping and cultural district, running along Michigan Avenue from the Chicago River to Oak Street. Here, you’ll find an array of luxury boutiques, flagship stores, and iconic architectural landmarks like the Wrigley Building, Tribune Tower, and the historic Chicago Water Tower. This area is also home to world-class dining, five-star hotels, and renowned institutions like the Museum of Contemporary Art.
👉 Don’t miss: The John Hancock Center’s 360 CHICAGO Observation Deck, offering a stunning city view and the daring TILT experience.
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Chicago Riverwalk
Stroll along this pedestrian walkway, enjoying the vibrant atmosphere, restaurants, bars, and boat tours while taking in the city’s impressive architecture.
The Chicago Riverwalk is a vibrant, scenic waterfront path that stretches 1.25 miles along the Chicago River, offering an array of restaurants, bars, and public art displays. It’s a perfect spot for an afternoon stroll, boat tour, or kayaking adventure. The Riverwalk also provides some of the best views of Chicago’s iconic skyscrapers, including the Wrigley Building and Marina City. Enjoy a meal at a riverside café or take an architecture boat tour to learn about the city’s world-famous skyline.
👉 Best time to go: Sunset for beautiful reflections on the water.
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Art Institute of Chicago
Explore one of the world’s finest art museums, featuring an extensive collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist masterpieces, American art, and more.
The Art Institute of Chicago is one of the world’s most prestigious art museums, boasting an unparalleled collection of works spanning centuries and continents. It is especially known for its extensive collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist masterpieces, including works by Monet, Van Gogh, and Seurat. The museum also houses American classics like Grant Wood’s “American Gothic” and modern works from artists like Picasso and Warhol. The modern wing, designed by architect Renzo Piano, adds a sleek, contemporary touch to this cultural institution.
👉 Must-see: Georges Seurat’s “A Sunday on La Grande Jette” and Van Gogh’s “The Bedroom”.
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Deep-dish Pizza
Indulge in Chicago’s signature dish – a deep-dish pizza with a thick, buttery crust, layers of cheese, and toppings baked on top.
No visit to Chicago is complete without indulging in its signature deep-dish pizza—a thick, buttery-crusted pie loaded with gooey cheese and rich tomato sauce. Unlike traditional pizzas, the toppings are layered in reverse: cheese first, followed by meats and vegetables, then finished with a chunky tomato sauce. Some of the best places to try deep-dish include Lou Malnati’s, Giordano’s, Gino’s East, and Pequod’s.
👉 Pro tip: Deep-dish pizza takes time—expect a 30-45 minute wait after ordering.
Other Notable Places to Visit in Chicago
- Field Museum – Home to Sue, the world’s most complete T. rex fossil, along with fascinating ancient artifacts and natural history exhibits.
- Shedd Aquarium – A top-tier aquarium featuring beluga whales, penguins, and a Caribbean reef exhibit.
- Adler Planetarium – The first planetarium in the U.S., offering amazing astronomy exhibits and a stunning lakefront view.
- Lincoln Park Zoo – A free zoo featuring a variety of animals in a lush, park-like setting, perfect for families.
- Museum of Science and Industry – A hands-on museum featuring an actual WWII German submarine, a massive model train display, and interactive science exhibits.
- 360 CHICAGO Observation Deck – Located in the John Hancock Center, offering breathtaking views and the thrilling TILT experience.
- Chicago Architecture Center – Perfect for architecture lovers, with guided walking and boat tours of Chicago’s legendary skyline.
- Garfield Park Conservatory – A hidden gem featuring lush indoor gardens and rare plant species in a stunning glass-domed conservatory.
- Chicago History Museum – A great spot to learn about Chicago’s rich history, from the Great Chicago Fire to the rise of jazz music.
These are just a few of the many things that make Chicago a world-class destination. Whether you’re interested in art, culture, food, or simply enjoying the city’s vibrant atmosphere, Chicago has something for everyone.
