DEAN & DALILA
Things To Do
Shedd Aquarium
Home to 32,000 fascinating and unique creatures from a range of diverse habitats, Shedd is one of the best (if not the best) aquariums in the country. Popular exhibits included with your admission are “Waters of the World,” “Caribbean Reef,” “Amazon Rising,” “Abbott Oceanarium,” “Wild Reef,” and the “Polar Play Zone.” Proceed to Will Call for admission. We recommend reserving at least 2-3 hours for this attraction.
The Field Museum
The Field Museum has spent over 100 years curating and adding to its collections, so you know their selection and breadth of artifacts and objects is impressive. Some of the highlights of their collection include SUE, the famous T-Rex (the most complete skeleton of her species), the notorious Tsavo Lions, an extensive collection of Ancient Egyptian artifacts, a beautiful selection of gemstones and minerals, and the fun “Underground Adventure” exhibit. We recommend reserving between 1-2 hours for this attraction.
Adler Planetarium
With nine special exhibits, multiple theatres, and the historic Atwood Sphere experience, you’ll practically never run out of things to see and do. Popular exhibits include “Planet Explorers,” “Shoot for the Moon,” “Astronomy in Culture,” Hidden Wonders,” and more. This is a must-see attraction for any aspiring scientists or space-lovers in the family. We recommend reserving about 1 hour for this attraction.
The Chicago Theatre
Take an amazing tour of the iconic Chicago Theatre, home to legendary performances by world-class actors and actresses. One of the most well regarded historic theaters in the country, this venue is a must-visit for history buffs and culture lovers. On this tour, you’ll get to walk across a stage that’s played host to the likes of Frank Sinatra and Dean Martin, see the walls with tons of celebrity autographs scrawled across them, and check out the historic photo exhibits. Of course, don’t forget about the gorgeous French Baroque interiors! This venue is a beauty from top to bottom.
John Hancock Center - 360 Chicago
360 CHICAGO is the newly renovated observation deck of the iconic John Hancock Tower, located on Michigan Avenue. A visit here is both a great photo opportunity and a good chance to learn more about Chicago’s famous architecture. From your 94th floor vantage point (over 1000 feet in the air!), you’ll get unparalleled, 360-degree views of the Lake Michigan and the city below. Don’t forget to look out for the Navy Pier Centennial Wheel! As a bonus, this attraction is very conveniently located in the heart of an area you’ll definitely want to explore anyway — Michigan Avenue! We recommend reserving at least 1 hour for this attraction.
Navy Pier
One of the most popular attractions on Navy Pier is its iconic Ferris wheel, visible from many vantage points across the city. There are also a few other theme park-style rides to enjoy, from swings to a mini-golf course. Although entrance to the Pier itself is free, your Go Chicago® Card covers the admission costs for the Centennial Wheel and other rides. We recommend reserving 1 hour for this attraction.
Architecture River Cruise
This informative and insightful cruise will provide you with background information on Chicago’s most iconic landmarks and its famous skyline, practically building by building. Some of the highlights you’ll see you on your Architecture River Cruise include buildings by Mies van der Rohe, Skidmore Owings Merrill, and Helmut Jahn, plus the Willis Tower and the Old Post Office Building. It’s a must not only for fans of architecture, but for anyone who really wants to get a feel for Chicago’s history, particularly the history of the built environment after the Great Chicago Fire of 1871.
Millennium Park
Take some time to stroll around this beautiful urban greenspace. Be sure to note highlights like the Pritzker Pavilion – an architectural marvel – and the charming Lurie Garden. You can also explore some of the park’s iconic works of art, like the Crown Fountain and the Cloud Gate sculpture (also known as the Bean, pictured above). Getting In: We recommend reserving about 1 hour to explore the park.
Chicago Architecture Foundation
To complete your education in Chicago’s architectural history and culture, stop by the Chicago Architecture Foundation and pick up one of their many walking tours. Each tour has a different theme and covers different parts of the city (as well as various lengths). You’ll also find a variety of free, informative exhibits about architectural history, contemporary developments in building standards and aesthetics, and the modern sustainability movement. You even have the option to enjoy lectures by local experts (check the schedule before your arrival to see if you can catch one!). Tour length varies, but we recommend reserving at least 1 hour for your tour.
The Art Institute of Chicago
Now’s the time to explore the artsy side of Chicago with a visit to one of the country’s most prestigious art museums, also recently voted the #1 Museum in the World on Trip Advisor! The Art Institute of Chicago features celebrated collections of modern and contemporary art, architecture, design, and photography, as well as Impressionist painting, decorative arts, and more. Some of the most famous pieces at the Art Institute include the Chagall stained glass windows, Grant Wood’s American Gothic, Matisse’s Bathers by a River, and Georgia O’Keeffe’s Black Cross, New Mexico. We recommend reserving at least 2 hours for this attraction, perhaps more if you’re an art lover.