The Lincoln Park Zoo is one of the oldest (and free!) zoos in the country. Afterward, head over to the Nature Boardwalk just outside the zoo. This boardwalk offers a scenic walking path around a pond, with stunning views of the Chicago skyline and plenty of opportunities to spot local wildlife.
If you want to see the best of Chicago, hop on an architecture boat tour! Cruise down the Chicago River while learning fun facts and fascinating stories about the city’s iconic skyscrapers and historic buildings. This is a must-do for first-time visitors!
Check out the Museum of Contemporary Art for cutting-edge exhibits and thought-provoking installations. Head to the Art Institute of Chicago to see iconic works like American Gothic and Monet’s water lilies. The Field Museum is home to Sue the T. rex and fascinating natural history exhibits. And if you’re in the mood for underwater adventures, the Shedd Aquarium offers an up-close look at everything from beluga whales to tropical fish.
The Second City is Chicago’s legendary comedy club where icons like Tina Fey, Steve Carell, and Bill Murray got their start. They put on multiple shows each day.
Here’s where we like to eat in Chicago: Small Cheval is great for a quick bite of one of Chicago’s best burgers, and Daisies has fresh, seasonal pasta. Lula Cafe is a go-to for brunch or dinner, and Coda di Volpe serves up excellent wood-fired pizza. For Mediterranean flavors, Galit offers standout Middle Eastern dishes, while Athenian Room is perfect for classic Greek food. And if you’re after a good bagel, Gotham Bagels delivers.