Things to Do in Downtown Chicago
Two great resources to see what is happening while you are in town are Time Out Chicago & Chicago Reader. These can be a wonderful resource to see what special events, theatre productions & concerts will be happening in the Windy City.
Chicago Attractions & Things to Do
Grant Park - Grant Park
is the cornerstone of green space in downtown Chicago & home to world-class Chicago attractions. Scores of fun things to do in Chicago are found here at Grant Park, such as touring the Field Museum of Natural History, Shedd Aquarium, and the Art Institute of Chicago. Grant Park also offers walking and jogging paths, play areas, and hosts large festivals and special events.
Millennium Park - Millennium Park
has been dazzling visitors and locals nonstop since it opened in 2004 along Michigan Avenue. The 25-acre park celebrates an innovative collaboration of architecture, landscape design & public art that brings people together. Millennium Park offers many things to do and see including the famous Chicago "bean" reflection sculpture, concerts, ice skating (seasonal), performing arts, walking paths, sitting areas, gardens & much more. Millennium Park hosts over 500 free events every year.State Street Shopping -
The original shopping hub of downtown Chicago, State Street today continues living up to its reputation. Perhaps the most famous State Street retailer is Macy's located in the former & historic, Marshall Field's flagship store building. Shoppers will also find flagship stores for Urban Outfitters and Old Navy. State Street is located just a block from the Hampton Majestic.The Magnificent Mile Shopping -
The Shop at one of the world's top retail avenues & discover 13 blocks of department stores, high-end designer boutiques, eclectic galleries, souvenir shops & more. The Magnificent Mile is the 13-block stretch of North Michigan Avenue that runs from the banks of the Chicago River to the south, to Oak Street to the north. The Magnificent Mile district extends a full mile on North Michigan Avenue.Block 37 - Block 37
is a Chicago renaissance in the making. Encompassing an entire square block in the downtown Chicago Loop area, Block 37 is an exciting 5-story atrium featuring shopping, dining & entertainment. Block 37 takes its name from the Chicago history pages. This 58-block area of downtown Chicago was once identified by individual block numbers.
Professional Chicago Sports -
Chicago is a professional sports fan's dream come true. Whether it's football, baseball, basketball or hockey, if there's a season for it, Chicago has the team. The Chicago Bears NFL football team plays at Soldier Field. The Chicago Bulls dominate their NBA home court at United Center the same venue where the Chicago Blackhawks hockey team defends their ice. Even if you aren't taking in a game, many people will also stop to have a photo in front of the in front of the Michael Jordan statue at the United Center. Wrigley Field is the historic home diamond of the beloved Chicago Cubs. The Chicago White Sox baseball team takes home field advantage at US Cellular Field.Navy Pier - Navy Pier
is the quintessential theme park attraction in Chicago. Located on Lake Michigan, Navy Pier has a storied past dating back nearly 100 years. Today, Navy Pier offers exciting things to do in Chicago, all in one location. Navy Pier attractions include the historic Ferris Wheel, a 1920's era musical carousel, Chicago Children's Museum, IMAX Theater, Lake Michigan dinner cruises, & the Chicago Shakespeare Theater.Water Tower Place - Watertower Place
is a premium shopping mall on Michigan Avenue that offers over 100 fine retailers and Macy's department store. Water Tower Place stores include Betsey Johnson, White House Black Market, bebe, Banana Republic, and American Girl. A food court offers a variety of eateries for casual dining.
Willis Tower -
Formerly known as the Sears Tower, the Willis Tower enjoys the legacy of once holding the title as the tallest building in the world. Today, while no longer the tallest in the world, Willis Tower remains a favorite Chicago attraction for locals & tourists. The Skydeck is the main attraction at the Willis Tower. Make your way to the 103rd floor for staggering views of the Chicago skyline & three neighboring states. Step onto the glass balcony Ledge for added thrills. Interactive displays & historical timelines tell the story of the Willis Tower. The Skydeck is open daily.
