Chicago, situated on the shores of Lake Michigan, is one of the largest cities in the USA. Due to its history, there are many attractions to be found in the city.
It is the third most populous city in the United States after New York and Los Angeles. Its nickname is The Windy City, which originates from the 19th century. Chicago is one of the world’s architectural centers, where the world’s first skyscraper was built, which led to the rise of high-rise architecture.
Chicago has more important museums. Read about the best museums!
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Chicago attractions
Millennium Park
The park, which opened in the 2000s, is Chicago’s most well-known location, as it features several artistic attractions.
The Cloud Gate, known as „The Bean” is one of the park’s most famous features and one of the city’s symbols. Designed by British sculptor Anish Kapoor, the polished stainless steel sculpture is bean-shaped and reflects the surrounding cityscape in a distorted way.
The Crown Fountain is an interactive fountain consisting of two massive 15-meter-high towers made of LED panels. These display faces of Chicago residents and periodically „spit” water into the fountain.
Willis Tower
The former Sears Tower is Chicago’s iconic skyscraper, which was one of the USA’s most famous buildings.
Built in the 1970s by Sears, Roebuck & Co., a former American retail giant, its name changed in 2009. It was the world’s tallest building for 25 years. Even today, it remains one of the tallest buildings in the United States, with a height of 527 meters including its antenna.
Its most popular tourist attraction is the Skydeck, located on the building’s 103rd floor. At 412 meters high, it offers breathtaking 360-degree views of Chicago, Lake Michigan, and on clear days, even multiple states. There’s a glass-floor section extending 1.3 meters from the wall, where you can see the vast drop below.
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Buckingham Fountain
This monumental fountain is one of the world’s largest and serves as the city’s symbolic centerpiece. Those who love the TV show Married with Children might recognize it from the opening sequence.
It was inaugurated in 1927. Kate Sturges Buckingham, a notable Chicago philanthropist, donated it to the city in memory of her brother, Clarence Buckingham. Its design was inspired by the fountains of Versailles, France.
The fountain has a diameter of 85 meters, and its central sculpture is a massive square copper basin. Its central form symbolizes Lake Michigan, while the four smaller fountains around it represent the states of Illinois, Wisconsin, Michigan, and Indiana. It circulates over 56,000 liters of water daily in spectacular water displays.
Chicago Riverwalk
The walkway along the south bank of the Chicago River is one of the city’s most popular recreational and tourist destinations.
The 2 km long promenade is divided into different sections. The Marina Plaza features popular restaurants and cafes where visitors can dine right by the water. The River Theater has tiered seating offering wonderful views of the city and river.
The Riverwalk is an excellent starting point for the famous Chicago Architecture Boat Tours, which showcase the city’s world-renowned architectural heritage.
Pilsen
One of Chicago’s most colorful and culturally rich districts is located in the southwest part of the city.
The historic neighborhood was originally home to Czech and Slavic immigrants, and was named after the Czech city of Plzen. Today, it’s known as a cultural center for the Mexican-American community.
Its most famous attraction is the vibrant street art. The massive murals on the walls depict Mexican-American identity, history, and community themes. The area around 19th Street and Blue Island Avenue is particularly rich in these artworks.
Chinatown
As its name suggests, this is where you can experience Chinese immigrants’ traditions, gastronomy, and lifestyle.
The first Chinese community formed in the city center, then moved to the current Chinatown area in the 1910s. The district has continued to grow since then and is now home to one of the largest Chinese communities in the Midwest region.
The iconic Chinese Gate at the entrance of Wentworth Avenue is a popular photo spot. Another significant attraction is the Nine Dragon Wall. This beautiful wall made of colored ceramics depicts nine ornate dragons symbolizing luck and protection. It resembles the famous dragon wall in Beijing’s Forbidden City.
Navy Pier
The iconic pier on Lake Michigan’s shore is an entertainment and cultural center.
The approximately 1 km long pier’s most famous attraction is the Centennial Wheel. The glass-enclosed cabins of this more than 60-meter-high structure offer magnificent views of Lake Michigan and Chicago.
The Crystal Gardens is located in a huge greenhouse. This indoor botanical garden welcomes visitors with lush vegetation, palm trees, and fountains.
360 Chicago
This observation deck is located in one of the city’s most famous skyscrapers, the 875 North Michigan Avenue building.
The observation deck is on the 94th floor, offering spectacular panoramic views from 300 meters up. On clear days, visibility extends up to 80 kilometers.
Its most exciting feature is TILT. This is a tilted glass panel that you can lean against to enjoy the view. Of course, only if you’re not afraid of heights. 🙂
All information can be found here!
Shedd Aquarium
One of the world’s largest indoor aquariums is home to more than 32,000 aquatic creatures, including fish, marine mammals, amphibians, and reptiles.
Several sections are worth highlighting. The Caribbean Reef is a 360-degree circular aquarium where you can observe exotic fish, rays, and sea turtles. The Abbott Oceanarium is a massive showcase featuring the lives of dolphins, beluga whales, and sea lions. Amazon Rising presents the rich ecosystem of South American rainforests.
The aquarium is child-friendly with several interactive sections. One such area is the Polar Play Zone, where children can learn more about the world of penguins and other polar animals.
All information can be found here!
Lincoln Park Zoo
Founded in 1868, this zoo is one of the oldest free zoos in the United States.
One of the most famous and impressive exhibitions is the Kovler Lion House, where visitors can observe the famous lions and other large predators. The Regenstein Center is a special venue for observing gorillas and chimpanzees.
The Pritzker Family Children’s Zoo is an ideal place for children, offering interactive games, animal petting, and entertaining programs for young visitors.
All information can be found here!