Things To Do
Restaurant Recs
There are so many amazing places to eat in Chicago! From deep dish pizza to Mexican, there is something for everyone. Click the button below to view a Google Maps list that we have put together of our favorite places to eat in the city!
Wendella Tours & Cruises
The architecture boat tour is the best way to see Chicago! We recommend the 90 minute tour - it is best to book online in advance as tours tend to fill up in the summer. The tours leave from the Wrigley Building on Michigan Ave, which is close to the recommended hotels.
Millennium Park
Millennium Park is the home of the famous Bean! There are also several gardens that you can walk through and an amphitheater that offers free shows on select days.
Riverwalk
The Riverwalk is located along the main part of the Chicago River that runs through the downtown area. There are a ton of bars and restaurants along the riverwalk! Some of our favorites are Tiny Tap and Island Party Hut. If you walk east along the riverwalk, you eventually will end up at the lakefront trail.
Urban Kayaks on the Chicago River
Urban Kayaks is a great way to see Chicago! They offer kayak tours along the river and lakefront.
Lakefront Trail
The lakefront trail is 18 miles long and has separate walking and biking lanes. It is easily accessible from River North (where recommended hotels are located) and via the Riverwalk. Walking North along the trail will offer views of the Chicago skyline and several of Chicago's beaches. Walking South will lead you towards Millennium Park (where the Bean is located) and the museum campus. You can rent bikes to ride along the trail - Divy bikes (blue bikes) are popular and offer regular bikes as well as e-bikes. To rent them, use the Lyft app on your phone to find the closest location where they are available. There are also several companies that offer daily bike rentals.
Navy Pier
Navy Pier is a great place to go for amazing lake views! There are different rides, attractions, and restaurants to visit.
Field Museum
The Field Museum is an awesome natural history museum that has the largest T. Rex fossil ever discovered. It is a great spot to visit on a hot or rainy day.
The Art Institute of Chicago
The Art Institute is located in Millennium park and is a great place to visit if you are into art. The exhibitions are always changing, so check out the website to see what they have on display! We have visited many times and are able to see something different every time we go!