There’s no better way to wow the kids than with a trip to Maggie Daley Park’s Play Garden, a three-acre playground that’s divided into themed areas.
Hear how Chicago grew from a small settlement into one of the world's largest cities in less than 100 years. In just 90 minutes, you'll get the best overview of Chicago’s architecture and history.
Millennium Park is a can’t-miss attraction for any Chicago visit. The lakefront campus, located in the heart of downtown, is home to the iconic Cloud Gate statue (aka “The Bean”), interactive fountains, tranquil gardens, free events, public art, rock climbing, and plenty of green space.
Take a ride on the Centennial Wheel or a tour of the lakefront with the multiple boat tours available. There are many activities for families to do at Navy Pier.
A 1.25-mile pedestrian path on the Chicago River that is home to restaurants, activities, and the Architectural Boat Tour. Visit City Winery, which was the location of Linda and Bobby's first date
Discover the wonder of the aquatic animal world. Advance reservations are highly recommended due to the high demand for tickets.
Reenact scenes from Ferris Bueller's day off while checking the inspiring art collection at the Art Institute
$$$ - Located on Chicago's Restaurant Row in the West Loop, Stephanie Izard’s Girl & the Goat began in 2010, serving bold, global flavors. This is one of the hard reservations to make in the city, so plan to make a reservation at least a month ahead.
$ - Home to Chicago delicacies like Italian beef, burgers, salads, Chicago-style hot dogs, and chocolate cake. This is a great place to stop in for a casual lunch. No reservations are needed.
$$ - Looking to try Chicago style pizza? With locations all over Chicago, Lou's as the locals call it is great place to try both Chicago Deep Dish and Tavern style pizzas
The Field Museum is a natural history museum in Chicago, Illinois, and is one of the largest such museums in the world.
See Chicago from 94 floor up. If you have the courage, look over the edge of the building from Tilt
$$$$ - A 1 star Michelin restaurant, Sepia features a seasonal, product-driven menu showcasing the purity and quality of the ingredients. Sepia celebrates tradition with a modern twist
$$ - Pizzeria Portofino is a sun-drenched casual restaurant located directly on the Chicago riverfront offering hand-stretched pizzas, coastal wines, an expansive patio and breezy decor that instantly transports you to the Italian Riviera.
Recognized as one of the best beaches in the United States by Travel and Leisure, Oak Street Beach is close to downtown. Other Beach to consider North Avenue Beach Ohio Street Beach
A museum designed for Instagram, if you have a budding influencer in your company, this is a must stop.
$$$ - Under the culinary direction of James Beard award-winning chef Paul Kahan, avec river north brings warm and rustic Mediterranean-inspired cuisine
$$$$ - Located in Chicago’s River North neighborhood, RPM Steak is a modern take on the traditional steakhouse and features a contemporary, chef-driven menu, an award-winning wine list and a well-curated craft cocktail program.
$$$ - Aba is a Mediterranean restaurant with a rooftop patio located in Chicago’s historic Fulton Market District. Aba is a Mediterranean restaurant with a California influence.
$$$$ - This is the epitome of a classic Chicago steakhouse, and one of the most iconic restaurants around. You can expect fantastic steaks, traditional sides, and great service, all right in the middle of the Gold Coast
The Chicago Air and Water Show, presented by the City of Chicago, is the largest FREE show of its kind in the United States. The show can be viewed along the lakefront from Fullerton to Oak Street, with North Avenue Beach as the focal point. This event will cause traffic jam on Lakeshore Drive