Chicago, Illinois Attractions & Tourism Guide

Chicago, Illinois is full of interesting things to see and do. From live music to historical landmarks, to world-class museums, professional sports teams for every season, and premier arts and culture, tourist attractions in Chicago are among the best in the world.

Shedd Aquarium, Chicago - Illinois
John Hancock Observatory, Illinois
The Art Institute of Chicago
Chicago Children's Museum - Illinois

The Field Museum -

Ranked among the most distinguished museums in world for natural science and history, the Field Museum is one of the top attractions is Chicago. The Field Museum was founded in 1893 and today houses a permanent collection of more than 20 million objects, including the 42-foot long Tyrannosaurus Rex fossil known as Sue. In addition to extensive permanent and traveling exhibits, the Field Museum offers interactive

programs and public learning opportunities for all ages. Visit www.fieldmuseum.org.

Shedd Aquarium -

Explore the planet's waterways from freshwater lakes and rivers to the open seas at the Shedd Aquarium. A National Historic Landmark, the Shedd Aquarium opened in 1930 and has grown into one of the top aquariums in the country for research, conservation issues and public outreach. The Shedd Aquarium features a variety of themes exhibits such as Caribbean Reef, Amazon Rising, Waters of the World and the Abbott Oceanarium which houses large sea mammals including dolphins and beluga whales.Visit www.sheddaquarium.org.

Soldier Field -

Soldier Field is a hub for activity in the heart of Chicago. Home to the Chicago Bears professional football team, Soldier Field also plays host to major events and festivals, as well as concerts, sports events, competitions and charity events. Behind-the-scenes stadium tours are available for a firsthand look into the history of Soldier Field and its role in shaping Chicago. Visit www.soldierfield.net.

John Hancock Observatory -

High above the Magnificent Mile, John Hancock Observatory is a must-see Chicago attraction. The Observatory's open-air skywalk offers a 1,000-foot perspective of the streetscape below, as well as panoramic views that extend far beyond the Illinois state line on a clear day. Visitors will also find a sky-high café and 80-foot interpretive mural that tells the story of Chicago's vibrant past. The John Hancock Observatory is open daily. Visit www.hancockobservatory.com

Willis Tower -

An iconic Chicago attraction, Willis Tower was once the tallest building in the world. Today, Willis Tower continues to attract thousands of tourists to its Skydeck attraction located on the 103rd floor. In addition to interactive displays and creative depictions of Willis Tower history, the Skydeck features the exciting glass Ledge that juts over the bustling city scene below. The Skydeck at Willis Tower is open daily. Visit http://www.theskydeck.com.

The Art Institute of Chicago -

Interpret 5,000 years of artistic voice at the Art Institute of Chicago. An acclaimed art museum and art institution, the Art Institute of Chicago celebrates all mediums of art from civilizations across the globe. Textiles, photography, sculpture, architecture and design, painting, drawing and prints, and works specific to cultures of the world are represented here. Visit www.artic.edu.

Museum of Science and Industry -

Visit the largest science museum in the Western Hemisphere right here in downtown Chicago. Featuring 14 acres of hands-on discovery, the Museum of Science and Industry offers a staggering array of exhibits that explore everything from fairy castles and Christmas around the world to genetics, space exploration and the physics of tornados and avalanches. Visit www.msichicago.org.

Chicago Children's Museum -

Wondering what to do in Chicago with young kids? The Chicago Children's Museum at Navy Pier is one Chicago attraction that promises hours of family fun. Featuring interactive exhibits that engage kids in math, science, problem solving and critical thinking, the Chicago Children's Museum masterfully present learning opportunities in a fun and entertaining manner. Visit http://www.chicagochildrensmuseum.org/

Grant Park -

The definitive source for open space in the middle of Chicago, Grant Park offers abundant recreation and fun things to do outside. Grant Park is the site for major Chicago festivals and events, and also serves as the campus for various attractions in Chicago including Shedd Aquarium, the Art Institute of Chicago, and the Field Museum. Visit http://www.chicagoparkdistrict.com/parks/grant-park/

Millennium Park -

Millennium Park is one of the newest Chicago attractions to hit Michigan Avenue. Opened in 2004, Millennium Park is a 25-acre urban park that celebrates innovation in landscape design, public art and architecture as it relates to the human experience. Millennium Park also offers interesting attractions within its boundaries such as the landmark Chicago "bean" sculpture, gardens, sitting areas, performing arts, recreation, and more than 500 events a year that are free to the public. Visit www.millenniumpark.org.

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