Chicago, Illinois — Attractions
Art Institute of Chicago
An impressive pair of bronze lions guards the entrance to the Art Institute of Chicago in South Michigan Avenue, housing one of the greatest art collections in the world. Works date from 3,000 BC through to the present, including a renowned collection of Impressionist art featuring numerous Monet paintings. The Institute has it all, from Japanese ukiyo-e prints and ancient Egyptian bronzes to masterpieces of 20th century sculpture. Exhibits include paintings and drawings, photographs, textiles, sculpture and architectural works. The Institute has two restaurants, one set in a garden, as well as a gift shop.
- Region/City Name
- Chicago
- Address
- 111 South Michigan Avenue
- Phone Number
- (312) 443 3600
- Website
- www.artic.edu
- Hours
- Monday to Friday 10.30am to 5pm (until 8pm on Thursdays), weekends 10am to 5pm
- Admission
- $18 (adults), $12 (children, free for under 12). Entrance is free on Thursdays 5pm to 8pm. Free entry for the month of February
Field Museum
Chicago's awesome Field Museum of Natural History in Lake Shore Drive is home to 'Sue', the largest and most complete Tyrannosaurus Rex fossil ever found. The dinosaur came to rest here after being unearthed in South Dakota when the Museum bought her remains for more than $8-million. Sue is just one of the drawcards at the museum which offers other marvels like getting a bug's eye view in an underground adventure; descending into an Egyptian tomb; watching a glowing lava flow; and getting up close and personal with the man-eating lions of Tsavo. The museum specializes in interactive and diorama-type exhibits across its nine acres of exhibition space.
- Region/City Name
- Chicago
- Address
- 1400 S. Lakeshore Drive
- Phone Number
- (312) 922 9410
- Website
- www.fmnh.org
- Transport
- From downtown, take CTA bus #146, which stops along Michigan Avenue north of the river and on State Street south of the river. This will drop you off right across the street from the Museum. The free trolley system connects the Museum Campus with many downtown tourist destinations and train stations
- Hours
- Monday to Saturday 10am to 5pm, Sunday 11am to 5pm; last admission at 4pm
- Admission
- General admission: $28 (adults), $19 (children 3-11). Various ticket packages and concessions are available
Frank Lloyd Wright's Home
America's most renowned architect lived and worked in the complex, which served as private residence, studio and architectural laboratory for the first twenty years of his career, between 1889 (when he was 22) and 1909. Wright's haven started out as a simple cottage and was continually added on to by the architect resulting in unusual features such as a balcony suspended on chains. The complex is administered by the Frank Lloyd Wright Preservation Trust which offers guided tours. The neighborhood of Oak Park contains the world's largest concentration of Wright-designed buildings and self-guided exterior audio tours of the 26 structures in the area are available.
- Region/City Name
- Chicago
- Address
- 951 Chicago Avenue, Oak Park
- Phone Number
- (708) 848 1976
- Email Address
- info@wrightplus.org
- Website
- www.wrightplus.org
- Hours
- Guided interior tours: weekdays at 11am, 1pm and 3pm, and during weekends between 11am and 3.30pm; self-guided exterior audio tours between 10am and 3.30pm daily
- Admission
- Guided interior tour and self-guided exterior audio tour: $15 (adults), $12 (youth 11-18),
Lincoln Park
Lincoln Park, beginning at North Avenue and following the shore of Lake Michigan northwards for several miles, is Chicago's largest park. It contains several attractions, bathing beaches, a botanical conservatory, golf course, grassy meadows, formal gardens and sports fields. Pride of place is held by the standing statue of Abraham Lincoln, sculpted by Augustus Saint-Gaudens. His sitting Lincoln is in Chicago's other famous park, Grant Park. The most popular attraction within the park is the Lincoln Park Zoo, which not only houses hundreds of exotic animals in natural habitats, but offers experiences like paddle boat rides, a virtual safari trip, and the Endangered Species Carousel with 48 artisan-crafted wooden animals that accommodates up to 50 riders at a time.
- Region/City Name
- Chicago
- Address
- 2001 N. Clark Street (zoo)
- Phone Number
- (312) 742 2000 (zoo)
- Website
- www.lpzoo.com
- Transport
- CTA bus routes 151 or 156 both serve the zoo. A free trolley service is available linking the different Park attractions
- Hours
- Daily 9am to 6pm, weekends until 7pm (summer); daily 9am to 5pm (November to March)
- Admission
- There is no admission charge to the zoo
Six Flags Great America
Top of the list of attractions for families on vacation in Chicago, the Six Flags Great America is a must for children of all ages. Featuring some of the country's most exciting theme park rides, such as the Dark Knight Coaster, Bedrock Boulder Roller and the Condor, the Six Flags Great America Park is a great way to spend the day with the kids.
- Region/City Name
- Chicago
- Address
- 542 N. Route 21, Gurnee
- Phone Number
- (847) 249 4636
- Website
- www.sixflags.com
- Admission
- $54.99 (general admission); $34.99 (child under 48 inches). Concessions available
Shedd Aquarium
One of Chicago's best known attractions the Shedd, which opened in 1930, remains the world's largest indoor aquarium. The octagonal marble building houses more than 8,000 river, lake and sea creatures. The main attraction is the Caribbean Coral Reef exhibit and other marine habitat exhibits like a recreation of the Amazon basin and a 'Seahorse Symphony'. The aquarium also features an indoor saltwater Oceanarium housing marine mammals where dolphin shows are scheduled daily.
- Region/City Name
- Chicago
- Address
- 1200 South Lake Shore Drive
- Phone Number
- (312) 939 2438
- Email Address
- contactus@sheddaquarium.org
- Website
- www.sheddaquarium.org
- Hours
- Weekdays 9am to 5pm, weekends 9am to 6pm (September to May); daily 9am to 6pm (May to September). Check website for extended hours
- Admission
- Various inclusive passes are available. Day pass is $24.95 (adults), $17.95 (children 3-11)
Rockford
Illinois' second city, Rockford, is just a hop and skip to the northwest of Chicago, set in rolling hills. It is worth a visit for culture vultures and golfers, in particular. The city is known for its 'cultural corridor' of which the highlight is the Rockford Art Museum's stunning permanent collection focusing on 19th and 20th century works. There is also a wealth of private galleries and historical museums in the city center. Rockford is also known for its many antique shops and markets, and the many golf courses in the city and vicinity that have earned it the title of Illinois' 'holey' city.
- Region/City Name
- Chicago
- Website
- www.gorockford.com
Navy Pier
Situated on the lakefront, Navy Pier has developed into one of the city's main tourist destinations, offering year-round attractions, events and entertainment for the whole family. Navy Pier encompasses acres of parks and gardens, shops, restaurants, and numerous attractions and rides, as well as serving as an embarkation point for tour and excursion boats. Its 150ft (46m) Ferris wheel attracts more than eight million people annually; other main attractions include an IMAX theater, Chicago's Children's Museum, and the Smith Museum of Stained Glass Windows. Other special attractions are offered throughout the year.
- Region/City Name
- Chicago
- Address
- 600 East Grand Ave
- Phone Number
- (312) 595 7437
- Email Address
- navypierinfo@mpea.com
- Website
- www.navypier.com
- Hours
- Open daily, but hours vary according to the season. Hours are usually Sunday to Thursday 10am to 8pm, Friday and Saturday 10am to 10pm
- Admission
- Admission to the Pier is free, but many of the attractions require separate fees.
Sears Tower (Willis Tower)
'You haven't seen Chicago until you've seen it from the Skydeck' is what many visitors will hear from locals and other tourists in the city. The iconic Sears Tower was renamed on 16 July 2009 to the 'Willis Tower' and located on its 103rd floor, the Skydeck is 1,353 feet (412m) above street level and one of Chicago's most famous tourist attractions. Elevators whisk visitors up to the observation deck where the views stretch out across the city and Lake Michigan, and as far as neighboring states on a clear day. Inside, there are some interesting, interactive exhibits and computer information terminals for a tour of the city's landmarks. The Willis Tower, standing at 110 stories high, is the tallest building in North America and one of the tallest in the world.
- Region/City Name
- Chicago
- Address
- 233 South Wacker Drive; entrance on Jackson Boulevard
- Phone Number
- (312) 875 9447
- Website
- www.theskydeck.com
- Hours
- Skydeck opens daily 10am to 10pm (April to September), 10am to 8pm (October to March)
- Admission
- $15.95 (adults), $11 (children 3-11). Skylights Audio Tour is an extra $5.50
Millennium Park
Millennium Park is one of Chicago's most popular destinations and is seen by Chicagoans as the crowning glory of their city. The award-winning park is famous for its innovative architecture and landscape design, featuring the work of several prominent artists, architects and designers. The park's most outstanding feature is the state-of-the-art outdoor concert venue, the Jay Pritzker Pavilion, which seats more than 4,000 people and hosts regular concerts. Another fascinating piece of architecture is the polished stainless steel Cloud Gate, shaped like a 66-foot (20m) long bean with a 12-foot (4m) high archway. Other interesting features include the Crown Fountain, the Lurie Garden, BP Bridge, and the Millennium Monument. Visitors can also enjoy changing exhibitions, local art works, and ice skating in winter.
- Region/City Name
- Chicago
- Address
- On Michigan Avenue between Randolph and Monroe Streets
- Phone Number
- (312) 742 1168
- Email Address
- millennium-park@cityofchicago.org
- Website
- www.millenniumpark.org
- Hours
- Daily 6am to 11pm
- Admission
- Free
Adler Planetarium and Astronomy Museum
Located on Lake Michigan, the Adler is America's first planetarium and is the only museum in the world with two full-size planetarium theaters. The night sky has been visible from the historic Sky Theater since 1930, while the all-digital StarRider Theater is the first of its kind in the world and affords a virtual outer space experience in its 55-foot (17m) wide and three story high area. The Adler is also home to numerous exhibits including antique astronomical instruments dating back to 12th-century Persia and interactive displays.
- Region/City Name
- Chicago
- Address
- 1300 S. Lake Shore Drive
- Phone Number
- (312) 922 7827
- Website
- www.adlerplanetarium.org
- Transport
- Bus 12 or 146
- Hours
- Monday to Friday 10am to 4pm, Saturday and Sunday 10am to 4pm; open 9.30 to 6pm from 16 June to 7 September
- Admission
- General admission $10 (adults), $6 (4-17). Various rates for extended shows and tours.
Hancock Observatory
The John Hancock building is Chicago's third highest skyscraper with a distinctive x-bracing exterior skin, and its Observatory competes with the facilities of the Sear's Tower Skydeck across town in the Financial District. Located on the 94th floor 1,000 feet (305m) above street level, the Observatory boasts the city's only open-air skywalk, as well as 360-degree views, a talking telescope, audio Skytours that provide an overview of the city with 16 stops, and the History Wall, with more than 100 photos featuring Chicago's history. Visitors can also have fun with some unique 'daring' photo opportunities. An annual 'Hustle up the Hancock' stair climb race up the 94 floors is held every February; the record time is nine minutes 39 seconds.
- Region/City Name
- Chicago
- Address
- 875 N. Michigan Ave
- Phone Number
- (312) 751 3680
- Website
- www.hancock-observatory.com
- Hours
- Daily 9am to 11pm
- Admission
- $20 (adults), $15 (children 4-11)
Chicago Children's Museum
The Chicago Children's Museum is a must for kids of all ages. The museum offers three floors of interactive exhibits offering plenty of hands-on fun. The main attraction at the museum is without a doubt the three-story tall replica of a 1850s Schooner. The 'Inventing Lab', 'Waterways' and Dinosaur attractions are also highly popular with the little ones.
- Region/City Name
- Chicago
- Address
- 700 East Grand Avenue
- Phone Number
- (312) 527 1000
- Website
- www.chicagochildrensmuseum.org
- Hours
- Open Tuesday to Sunday from 10 5pm
- Admission
- $10 (adults); $10 (children) Concessions available
Chicago Botanic Gardens
A great place for families to unwind and relax with a picnic, is the Chicago Botanic Gardens. With plenty of wide-open space for kids to run around, the Botanic Gardens is one of Chicago's most tranquil and beautiful attractions. During the summertime, the Rose Garden, where over 7,750 plants are in full and glorious bloom, is a must and an unforgettable experience to wander through.
- Region/City Name
- Chicago
- Address
- 1000 Lake-Cook Road, Glencoe
- Phone Number
- (847) 835 5440
- Website
- www.chicago-botanic.org
- Hours
- Open daily from 8am sunset. Closed Christmas Day.
- Admission
- Free, $20 per car parking fee.
CoCo Key Water Resort
This large indoor water park features 65,000 square-foot (6,038 sq-meter) of rides, slides, pools and tubes for children of all ages to enjoy. Highlights at the CoCo Key Water resort include the Coconut Grove Adventure River, Parrot's Perch, Loco's Lagoon Wave Beach and the Palm Grotto.
- Region/City Name
- Chicago
- Address
- Sheraton Chicago Northwest, 3400 W. Euclid Avenue
- Phone Number
- (847) 394 2000
- Email Address
- cocokeyinfo@sheratonchicagonw.com
- Website
- www.CoCoKeyWaterResort.com
- Hours
- Open daily from 10am 8pm
- Admission
- $39 each valid from 10am 8pm. Concessions available
Museum of Science and Industry
The Museum of Science and Industry is by far one of the best attractions for children in Chicago. Featuring a plethora if exciting exhibits, kids will love exploring all the museum has to offer. With an IMAX Theater showing new films and educational documentaries, the learning experience is made fun.
- Region/City Name
- Chicago
- Address
- 57th Street and Lake Shore Drive
- Phone Number
- (773) 684 1414
- Website
- www.msichicago.org
- Hours
- Open Monday to Saturday from 9:30am - 5:30pm; Sundays from 11am 5.20pm
- Admission
- $15 (adults); $10 (children); Concessions available
Buckingham Fountain
Located alongside Millennium Park and the Art Institute of Chicago in Grant Park, often referred to as the city's front yard, Buckingham Fountain is one of the city's most popular attractions and was the official starting point of US Route 66. Donated to the city by Kate Buckingham in memory of her brother on 26 August 1927, Clarence Buckingham, the fountain represents Lake Michigan and each sea horse symbolises a state bordering the lake. Water shows run every hour on the hour and last for 20 minutes. The last show of the night is at 10pm.
- Region/City Name
- Chicago
- Address
- Grant Park, Columbus Drive and Congress Parkway
- Hours
- The fountain runs from 8am to 11pm every day from mid-April to mid-October
Magnificent Mile
This stretch of Michigan Avenue in Chicago that runs from Chicago River to Oak Street is known as the Magnificent Mile. Famed for its nightlife, it also served as the main thoroughfare between Chicago's Loop business district and the Gold Coast. Visitors will love discovering everything the Magnificent Mile has to offer, from over 460 exclusive stores and boutiques to over 200 restaurants such as Spago, there is also fabulous architecture to be admired on a boat or trolley tour, including the Wrigley Building and the John Hancock Center. Indulge in a deep dish pizza, stroll past media houses like the Chicago Tribunenewspaper, stop to enjoy the local street performers, or watch the ambience of the Magnificent Mile change with the seasons where everything from tulips and lush gardens to weekly fireworks displays.
- Region/City Name
- Chicago
- Address
- Michigan Avenue
- Website
- www.themagnificentmile.com
Harpo Studios
The world loves Oprah Winfrey and a visit to her production studios, Harpo, is a must for anyone visiting the windy city. Let's face it, you probably won't end up getting a ticket to one of her shows as this requires booking months and months in advance, and unless you've secured yourself a spot in one of the world's most envied audiences, you can still hang around outside where you might just be lucky enough to spot a few celebrities cruising into the studios.
- Region/City Name
- Chicago
- Address
- 1058 W Washington Blvd, Near West
- Phone Number
- 312 591 9222
- Website
- www.oprah.com
- Transport
- Underground rail: Green Line to Clinton
Route 66 Sign
The world-famous Route 66 is colloquially known as the 'Main Street of America' or the 'Mother Road' as it originally ran from Chicago, Illinois, through Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, and California, before ending in Los Angeles. The stretch of highway has been immortalized by famous singers such as Nat King Cole and even the Rolling Stones and it has undergone some changes in the last few decades. The starting point in Chicago has moved a few times over the years and in 1933, the start (and end) was moved to Jackson and Lake Shore Drive. To cut a very long and complicated story short, the starting point remained here, so even while Adams Street at Michigan Avenue is marked as the starting point, Route 66 never actually departed from there. The recognized end of Route 66 is located at the intersection of Jackson Boulevard and Michigan Avenue. (which is marked as the terminus).
- Region/City Name
- Chicago
- Address
- The sign is located at Adams St between Michigan & Wabash Avenues
- Website
- www.historic66.com
The Original Playboy Mansion
Designed by architect David Adler and built in 1899 for Dr George Swift Isham, the original Playboy Mansion was a 70-room classic French brick and limestone residence in Chicago. Playboy founder and editor in chief, Hugh Hefner, bought the mansion in 1959 and adorned the front door with a brass plate that read in Latin, Si Non Oscillas, Noli Tintinnare- If you don't swing, don't ring. Playboy is one of the most recognized and popular consumer brands in the world, and although the Playboy Mansion is now located in Los Angeles, California, the original Playboy Mansion is still a popular attraction for those visiting the city. Playboy's Corporate Headquarters are still located in Chicago.
- Region/City Name
- Chicago
- Address
- 1340 N State Parkway, Chicago
- Website
- www.playboyenterprises.com
