Chicago, Illinois offers a plethora of exciting activities. The city is varied, with activities to satisfy any taste. I just traveled the city with my mother and sisters, and I’m sharing 12 Chicago attractions you must see! Use this list as a starting point, and I’ll help you organize the BEST trip to Chicago!

One of the coolest things about Chicago is its protected shoreline. Multiple parks divide Lake Michigan from the city. Millennium Park is one of the most well-known attractions in Chicago.

Cloud Gate (AKA the Bean)

Even if you don’t know much about Chicago, you’ve probably seen the huge “bean” at Millennium Park. Originally named as Cloud Gate, this gigantic sculpture is intended to be an interactive outdoor art installation. The reflective shell connects the observer to the city, the sky, and the people who surround them.

Art Institute of Chicago

The Arts Institute of Chicago, located in Millennium Park, is a vast museum with thousands of art objects. With works by great painters such as van Gogh, Warhol, and Seurat, the Chicago Art Institute attracts visitors from all over the world.

Willis Tower – Skydeck Chicago

The Willis Tower (originally the Sears Tower) is Chicago’s tallest building, with 103 storeys and a 200-foot spire. From 1974 to 1998, the Willis Tower was the tallest building in the world! Skydeck is on the 103rd floor and offers guests 360-degree views of Chicago. This one-of-a-kind attraction also has a cool feature called “The Ledge”–a series of fiberglass boxes that protrude from the structure, allowing you to see 103 storeys straight down!

Theaters in Chicago

Theater in Chicago is extremely popular. With five high-profile theaters in Downtown, the chances of finding something you want to watch are excellent.

While in Chicago, we saw “The Book of Mormon” at the Cadillac Palace Theatre. This was a great way to spend an evening during our Chicago girls’ trip.

Chicago Riverwalk

The Chicago Riverwalk is a 1.25-mile paved trail that runs along the Chicago River. At each point along the walk, you may see the city’s unique architecture as well as the stunning views of the river. There are various tables and seating spots that would be ideal for eating.

Navy Pier

Navy Pier was constructed in 1916 and was originally used for shipping/receiving and amusement. Over time, the facility was changed and restored into a completely public space. In 2016, the Centennial Wheel was built to commemorate 100 years. Today, Navy Pier offers enormous public spaces, food and drink, family-friendly activities, community events, and more!

Chicago Cultural Center

The Chicago Cultural Center is located in downtown Chicago, right across from Millennium Park. The building was built in 1897 and served as a public library before becoming the Cultural Center in 1991. This Chicago landmark boasts several attractions, including gorgeous architecture, a rich history, and numerous events and exhibitions.

Architecture River Tour

Chicago provides various Architecture River Tours; we chose Shoreline Sightseeing, which was part of CityPASS. The Architecture River Tour is the most popular of the various tours offered. This 75-minute tour goes into great detail on Chicago’s history and architecture.

Museum of Science and Industry

The Chicago Museum of Science and Industry is a little further from downtown than many of the other attractions. However, if you are interested in science and interactive exhibitions, the trip is worthwhile! The Museum of Science and Industry has over 20 exhibits on display at any given moment, so there is truly something for everyone. The museum admission fee is $25, however some exhibitions or events may need additional fees.

Shedd Aquarium

Shedd Aquarium is home to thousands of plant and animal species across dozens of displays. There are four levels to this aquarium, so allow lots of time! This is one of eight Chicago attractions.

Lincoln Park

Lincoln Park is both a neighborhood and one of Chicago’s largest parks. This section of town is packed with culture and exciting things to do, including the Lincoln Park Zoo, Lincoln Park Conservatory, the Chicago History Museum, and more!

Chicago Athletic Events

The city of Chicago is home to numerous prominent sports teams. Whatever your inclination, there is something for you in Chicago. The Chicago Cubs (baseball), Chicago White Sox (baseball), Chicago Bulls (mens basketball), Chicago Sky (womens basketball), Chicago Bears (football), Chicago Black Hawks (hockey), Chicago Wolves (hockey), Ch;.icago Fire (soccer), and Chicago Red Stars (soccer) are some of the city’s sports teams.