Field Museum Of Natural History
One of the best and largest natural history museums in the world, the Field Museums museum collection has swelled to more than 24 million objects since it opened in 1893. This a place to feed your fascination for the natural world, with grand Neoclassical halls housing fossils, priceless gemstones and animal and plant specimens.
Theres also compelling anthropology for the Ancient Americas and Ancient Egypt, as well as Tibet, China, Africa and cultures in the Pacific Islands.
The Geology Halls meanwhile have an exquisite collection of Chinese jade, and a stained glass window by Louis Comfort Tiffany.
The star of the show is the 37-metre Titanosaur in the Stanley Field Hall.
In 2018, this herbivore from Argentina replaced SUE, a T-Rex specimen, which will reappear at the Evolving Planet Gallery in 2019.
Favorite Things To Do With Kids In Roscoe Village And North Center
The Loop is great… for going to work or being a tourist. But for those looking to see some of the other 76 neighborhoods in Chicago, we’ve got the inside track on more fun things to do with kids. Just west of Wrigleyville and north of the hipstery Bucktown neighborhood are two of our favorite neighborhoods in Chicago: Roscoe Village and North Center. Bounded by Ashland Avenue to the east, Belmont on the south, Montrose on the north, and the Chicago River on the west, these neighborhoods have a slightly funky, retro feel, and they’re a great place for young families to live. There’s also a few fun new venues and restaurants in the area that appeal to more adventurous families.
Whether you’re looking for bikes, books, brunch, or bowling, Roscoe Village and North Center have plenty of well-kept secrets and family favorites. We hope they become some of your favorite neighborhoods, too! For more things to do in our favorite Chicago neighborhoods, check out our Visitors Guide.
Obsess Over Famous Wordsmiths At The American Writers Museum
With an abundance of interactive displays detailing all facets of the nations literary history, the American Writers Museum in the heart of Downtown is a bookworms delight, and one of the most unique things to do in Chicago.
In addition to blurbs about tens of revolutionary wordsmiths, the museum also displays artifacts like typewriters, hand-written notes, and old-school quills.
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Spot Constellations At The Adler Planetarium
Boasting the title of the first of its kind in North America, the Adler Planetarium is an unrivaled insight into the worlds of space and astronomy.
Old telescopes, moon rocks, a Gemini Capsule, and even a section on the moon landing rover cap off an extensive list of artifacts. Likewise, the interactive exhibits and live stargazing shows are second to none.
The planetarium sits on the northeast tip of Northerly Island, a location that offers arguably the best land-based panoramic view of the citys skyline.
Shop On The Magnificent Mile
Join the throngs of visitors and locals shopping on The Magnificent Mile. The Magnificent Mile , is an upscale section of Michigan Avenue, running from Oak Street to the Chicago River. Although some of the stores on Michigan Avenue are pricey, it is totally free to window shop.
Landmarks on the Mag Mile include the 360 Observation Deck, the historic Chicago Water Tower and the Tribune Tower.
Michigan Avenue is the most picturesque in the spring when the tulips planted along the sidewalk and in the medians are in full bloom.
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Discover Christmas Around The World At The Msi
This Chicago Christmas tradition started back in 1942. Now its grown from a display of a single tree to a massive exhibition of more than 50 Christmas trees, including a giant 4-story Grand Tree!
The various trees are decorated by volunteers to represent how different cultures and countries around the world celebrate the holidays. Its a wonderful way to learn about Christmas traditions around the globe as well as be dazzled by a cavalcade of lovely holiday decor. On the weekends there is also entertainment like singing. This years exhibition opens on November 17th and runs through January 9, 2022.
Laugh Your Pants Off At Second City
Chicagos beloved comedy clubwhere Tina Fey, Amy Poehler, and Dan Aykroyd got their startshas been an institution for live comedy since 1959. After being closed due to the pandemic, Second City is reopening with two new improv shows: The Second City: Happy to Be Here and Safer, Shorter, and Still So Funny. The shows will be 60 minutes, with no intermission, and masks are required. After the show, enjoy beer, bites, and bar games upstairs at Utopian Tailgate, a playful rooftop party-scape with super-sized Jenga, Plinko, and PutterBall.
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Watch Digital Art At Art On The Mart
See Nutcracker, Monets Water Lily come to life like never before at Art on theMART. The worlds largest digital art display is launching an amazing show you shouldnt miss. The program in collaboration with The Joffrey Ballet, Art Institute of Chicago, and Art of Life certainly wont let you down.
The anticipated 30-minute show will be shown nightly at 7:00 and 7:30 p.m. You can watch it for free from the jetty section of the Chicago Riverwalk on Wacker Drive between Franklin Street and Wells Street.
Visit The Field Museum
The Field Museum of Natural History, or the Field Museum for short, makes an impression the moment you walk in.
Why? Because as soon you enter, youre greeted by Maximo the Titanosaur, which is the largest dinosaur to ever roam the earth.
Thats just a prelude to the fascinating exhibits the museum holds.
The Field Museum is home to over 40 million artifacts and specimens. It holds all sorts of collections of fossils, gems, and meteorites.
In its world-famous library, youll find over 275,000 books, journals, and photo archives on its shelves.
One of the museums most exciting features, even moreso than Maximo the Titanosaur, is SUE, the most complete Tyrannosaurus rex in the world.
From there on out, feel free to check out the exhibits of the worlds most perplexing and ingenious ancient civilizations from ancient Egyptian tombs to artifacts from the Qing Dynasty.
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Dusable Museum Of African American History
A Smithsonian affiliate, the DuSable Museum is the oldest and one of the largest museums focusing on African American history, art, and culture, with a special feature on Chicagos black heritage. With over 13,000 items in its collection, the museum curates an expansive array of artifacts, personal effects, and vibrant artworks spanning from slavery-era America through the Civil Rights movement to the present day.Reviews
Awesome Things To Do In Chicago In Summer
Megan Starr This site uses affiliate links, meaning that if you make a purchase through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission.
There are many things to do in Chicago in summer. The city really has a different pulse to it than during the long, snowy winters and the green spaces and locals really take to the streets and have a lot of fun.
This is a guide of what to do in Chicago in June, July, and August. You will find so many cool activities in Chicago from kayaking to bike riding, and more!
This is a guest post from Valentina Djordjevic, a Serbian native who has lived in Chicago for a decade. You can find her blog at Valentinas Destinations.
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Feel The Thrills Of Indoor Skydiving
If youve always dreamed of skydiving but could never muster up the courage to freefall from a plane, iFLY Chicago has the perfect solution.
Nestled in Chicago-Lincoln Park, this adrenaline-pumping activity delivers that wind-in-your-face feeling without all the nerves.
Its significantly cheaper than traditional skydiving, and the ideal stepping stone to the real thing.
Stand Above Chicago At The Willis Tower Skydeck
Take the lightning-quick elevator up to the 103rd floor of the former Sears Tower for views that arguably overshadow those even of the John Hancock Center.
While you wont be able to see the Willis Tower , the scenes are truly remarkable.
Acrophobics, look away now the Skydecks Ledge features four glass cube enclosures that jut out into the thin air. They make for amazing photo opportunities and get the adrenaline pumping.
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Visit The Newly Reopened Navy Pier
Navy Pier, Chicagos treasured non-profit and lakefront destination, has officially reopened for guests to experience world-class attractions like the iconic Centennial Wheel and the thrilling new Drop Tower ride. Grab a drink and take in extraordinary views from Offshore Rooftop and Bar, North Americas largest rooftop venue. For a taste of Chicagos famous cuisine, sweet treats, and craft cocktails, visit the nearly 70 local businesses on the Pier and support some of the citys most beloved minority and women-owned establishments, such as Brown Sugar Bakery and Tiny Tavern. For unique clothing and accessories inspired by Chicagos diverse communities, browse through the Piers small, local retailers like Fashion Bazaar and Nakamol Chicago. Free summer programming includes outdoor fitness classes, live music, outdoor movie series, and summer fireworks every Wednesday and Saturday night through Labor Day weekend.
Pose For A Selfie With The Cloud Gate
Luis Boucault
Though its got a cool sci-fi name, Cloud Gate is known by basically anyone whos anyone as The Bean. Thats what it looks like: if the Silver Surfer was a bean, this would be it. And even just going to see it is one of Chicagos most essential things to do. Designed by British artist Anish Kapoor, The Bean is located as Millennium Park.
A selfie in the weird reflections of this very cool piece of public art itself is a must. Come early for less chance of having a random in your shot
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Explore Pilsen Chicagos Hispanic Neighborhood
Pilsen is known for its colorful street art, and this dynamic neighborhood is worth touring whether you do it independently or with the assistance of the Chicago Greeter program. Check out Pilsen Yards, a bar-centric and music-driven hangout in the heart of Pilsen. Executive chef Armando Gonzalezs affordable menu of inspired Latin street food, from tacos to ceviches, hummus to carne asada is accompanied by a great selection of mezcal, tequila, and whiskey. For a family-operated and locally-owned restaurant in Pilsen, visit El Berrinches. Their New Mexican cuisine and drinks are inspired by Mexico City and Pueblas gastronomy, with extensive vegan and vegetarian options.
Learn About Baseball At Wrigley Field
Whether you are a fan of baseball or not, you have certainly heard about Wrigley Field. Home of the Chicago Cubs, Wrigley Field was opened in 1914, originally as Weeghman Park. The Cubs played their first game there in 1916 when they beat the Cincinnati Reds.
Eventually, the owner of the popular Wrigley chewing gum bought out the Cubs, and the field was renamed after the company in 1927.
If baseball is your thing, you can enjoy daily and group tours of Wrigley Field, and even catch a game if ya go at the right time. Afterwards, for a hearty meal, pop over to The Chicago Diner which will have you stuffed in no time.
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Go Sightseeing On The Chicago River Architecture Tour
One unforgettable way to start off your visit is by going sightseeing on the Chicago River Architecture Tour. From there, youll have the best seat in the city to see it in all its glory from its river.
The Chicago River Architecture Tour takes you through the 130-year-long history behind Chicagos iconic skyline.
You get to check out all three branches of the Chicago River and anywhere from 40 to 50 Chicago landmarks.
That means youll get to see everything from the citys most famous landmarks to little-known and hidden architectural marvels.
The best thing is that theres a tour for every mood and occasion.
Whether you want to simply go sightseeing, snap some photos to bring home, to marvel at Chicagos architecture, or even have dinner and drinks with a unique view, there is a cruise for you!
Sample The Best Eateries At Time Out Market Chicago
The concept of the Time Out Market has recently swept the globe, with stations in Lisbon, New York, London, and, of course, Chicago just to name a few.
Time Out Chicago boasts 18 unique eateries, spanning sushi to burgers and everything in between. Dont miss Tonys Rooftop Bar, the markets crown jewel.
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Take An Architecture Cruise On The Chicago River
The architecture in the Windy City is unique, historic, and complex, and theres no better vantage point to admire it all than the waters of the Chicago River.
As you cruise under the citys skyscrapers, youll pass the East Bank Club, the old Post Office Building, the Willis Tower, and plenty more.
Tours typically last an hour and a half, and the guides are notably informative and entertaining.
+ Things To Do In Chicago This January
Last updated on December 30, 2021 by Allana Mortell
A new year means new things to do in Chicago. January brings a packed calendar of things to do, so you can get your fix of outdoor adventures and indoor wonders all month long. Catch an improv show, take a culinary tour of Chinatown, ice skate in the shadow of The Bean, and so much more.
Check out our list of favorite Chicago activities and events to enjoy this January 2022. Please note that all events are subject to change. Contact event organizers or ticket vendors for the latest information.
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Chill In Millennium Park
Located along Lake Michigan, Millennium Park is the most iconic and exciting green space in Chicago. Originally built for, you guessed it, the millennium the park is host to lots of different events that take place throughout the year. If youre visiting, make sure to check the schedule of upcoming performances and events as theyre usually pretty good.
Dip into a little culture at one of the concerts that are held on the Great Lawn and Jay Pritzker Pavilion areas. If thats not your thing, swing a ball or two at the famous Wrigley Stadium .
Also, be sure to head to The Crown Fountain for a mix of technology and waterpark-style fun! Stroll down the Chase Promenade, making your way to the big bean .