Best Things to do in Chicago | Must-see attractions 2025

Chicago Children's Museum

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

700 East Grand Avenue

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Chicago Children's Museum on Navy Pier offers hands-on exhibits for children, focusing on education and fun through interactive play.

Duration: 2–3 hours.

General admission: $20; Free for children 15 and under on the first Sunday of each month and Thursdays from 5 PM to 8 PM.

United Center

10:00 AM–11:00 PM

Stadium

1901 W Madison St

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United Center in Chicago is a premier indoor arena, home to the NBA's Bulls and NHL's Blackhawks, featuring concerts and events year-round.

Duration: 2-4 hours for events.

Varies by event. Typically ranges from $20 to $200 for sporting events.

Grant Park

Open 24 hours

Park

337 E Randolph St

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Grant Park is a 319-acre urban park in Chicago, featuring notable attractions like Buckingham Fountain, Shedd Aquarium, and Lollapalooza events.

Duration: 2-4 hours.

Free. Some special events may require tickets.

Soldier Field

10:00 AM–3:00 PM (Stadium Tours)

Stadium

1410 Museum Campus Dr

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Soldier Field, situated in Chicago, Illinois, is the historic home of the NFL's Chicago Bears. The stadium, built in 1924, underwent a significant renovation in 2003.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour for stadium tours.

Varies by event. Stadium tours may require a ticket; check the official site for details.

Guaranteed Rate Field

10:00 AM–10:00 PM

Stadium

333 West 35th Street

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Guaranteed Rate Field, home of the Chicago White Sox, is a modern baseball stadium offering affordable tickets and unique fan experiences.

Duration: Approximately 3 hours.

Affordable. General admission tickets are typically less than those at Wrigley Field.

Wicker Park

7:00 AM–10:00 PM

Park

1425 N Damen Ave

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Wicker Park in Chicago blends art, shopping, and green spaces, featuring boutiques, thrift stores, restaurants, and the beloved Wicker Park itself.

Duration: 2–3 hours.

Free. Some events may require a paid ticket.

McCormick Place

8:00 AM–5:00 PM

Business Center

2301 S Lake Shore Dr (btwn Burnham Harbor Dr. & Access Rd.)

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McCormick Place is the largest convention center in the U.S., featuring extensive exhibition space and a high-rise hotel, located in Chicago.

Duration: 2 to 4 hours depending on events.

Free entry for general access; specific events may require tickets.

Adler Planetarium and Astronomy Museum

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

1300 S Lake Shore Dr

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Adler Planetarium & Astronomy Museum in Chicago offers interactive exhibits and high-tech sky shows, attracting over half a million visitors annually.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

General Admission: $19.95 adults, $15.95 children (3-11), students, seniors. Special exhibitions may have additional costs.

John J. Glessner House

10:00 AM–4:00 PM

Museum

1800 S Prairie Ave

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Glessner House Museum, an architectural treasure in Chicago, showcases 19th-century design and offers insight into the Glessner family's history.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes.

Paid. General admission is $15 for adults, $10 for students/seniors. Children under 12 are free.

Loyola University Museum of Art

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

820 N Michigan Ave (btw Chicago Ave & Pearson St)

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Loyola University Museum of Art in Chicago features a medieval, Renaissance, and baroque collection, emphasizing the Catholic tradition within a prestigious university setting.

Duration: Approximately 2 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions may require a paid ticket.

Charnley-Persky House Museum

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

1365 N Astor St (Schiller)

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Charnley-Persky House Museum in Chicago, designed by Frank Lloyd Wright in 1892, showcases an architectural shift towards modernism and houses the Society of Architectural Historians.

Duration: 1 hour.

Free on Wednesdays. Saturday tours require a paid ticket, available on the website.

Bronzeville Children's Museum

We-Sa 10:00-14:00

Museum

9301 S Stony Island Ave

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Bronzeville Children's Museum in Chicago is an African American children's museum offering interactive exhibits that celebrate culture and history.

Duration: Approximately 1.5 hours.

Free. Educational programs may have associated costs.

Mariano Plaza

6:00 AM–9:00 PM

Park

1031 North State Street

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Mariano Park in Chicago features green spaces, playgrounds, and sports facilities, catering to families and outdoor enthusiasts in the city.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Some community events may have registration fees.

Promontory Point Park

6:00 AM–10:00 PM

Park

5491 S Shore Dr

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Promontory Point Park in Chicago offers scenic views of Lake Michigan, recreational spaces, and historical significance, making it a popular destination for locals and tourists alike.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free.

Chicago Botanic Garden

8:00 AM–7:00 PM

Park

1000 Lake Cook Rd (btwn Green Bay Rd & Skokie Hwy)

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Chicago Botanic Garden spans 385 acres with millions of plants across 24 display gardens and four natural areas, offering trails, birdwatching, and events.

Duration: 2-4 hours recommended.

Free to enter or $25 per car. Certain events may require additional fees.

Fashion Outlets of Chicago

10:00 AM–9:00 PM

Mall

5220 Fashion Outlets Way (at W Balmoral Ave)

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Fashion Outlets of Chicago in Rosemont offers over 130 designer outlets featuring savings up to 75%, just five minutes from O'Hare International Airport.

Duration: More than 2 hours.

Free. Shopping and dining do not require an admission fee.

Maggie Daley Park

6:00 AM–9:00 PM

Park

337 East Randolph Street

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Maggie Daley Park is a recreational area in Chicago featuring playgrounds, a climbing wall, winter ice skating, and picnic spots.

Duration: 1.5 to 3 hours.

Free. Some activities may require payment, like mini-golf and climbing.

Briar Street Theatre

7:00 PM–9:30 PM

Theater

3133 N Halsted St (at Briar Pl)

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Briar Street Theatre in Chicago houses the long-running Blue Man Group, originally a carriage house for Marshall Field's horses, reconstructed into a theater.

Duration: 2 hours.

Tickets vary; prices for adults and children available; discounts for groups may apply.

Aragon Entertainment Center

Varies by event

Stadium

1106 W Lawrence Ave (at Winthrop Ave)

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Aragon Ballroom, a historic venue in Chicago, features a unique architecture and hosts various concerts and events, appealing to music lovers and event-goers alike.

Duration: 3 to 4 hours, depending on the event.

Paid. Prices vary by event.

Goodman Theatre

10:00 AM–6:00 PM

Theater

170 N Dearborn St (at Randolph St)

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Goodman Theatre in Chicago offers a premier drama experience with a focus on new and classic American productions. Known for its historical significance and architectural beauty.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Varies; half-price tickets available for unsold same-day performances.

Arie Crown Theater

12:00 PM–8:00 PM

Stadium

2301 S Lake Shore Dr (E 23rd Dr.)

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Arie Crown Theater, located on Lake Shore Drive in Chicago, hosts diverse performances and events. A venue for concerts, theater, and more, it holds a significant cultural presence.

Duration: 2-4 hours, depending on the event length.

Varies by event. Typically ranges from $20 to $100, depending on the performance.

Lyric Opera of Chicago

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Theater

20 N Wacker Dr

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Lyric Opera of Chicago operates in the historic Civic Opera House, hosting classics and premieres from September to May with English supertitles.

Duration: 2 to 3 hours.

Tickets range from $30 to $200, with occasional discounts for students and seniors.

Illinois Institute of Technology

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

University

3201 S State St

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Illinois Institute of Technology, founded in 1890, is a private research university in Chicago, known for its modernist architecture and extensive programs in technology and design.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Some campus tours may require a paid ticket.

Music Box Theatre

11:30 AM–12:00 AM

Theater

3733 N Southport Ave

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Music Box Theatre in Chicago, founded in 1929, offers an iconic setting for art-house films, featuring a Moorish palace design and a nighttime cult film series.

Duration: Approximately 2-3 hours.

General Admission: $12. Discounts available for students and seniors.

Illinois Medical District

Open 24 hours

Train Station

430 N Damen Ave (at Eisenhower Expy)

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Illinois Medical District Station serves Chicago's medical community, offering access to hospitals, research facilities, and educational institutions.

Duration: 30 minutes.

Free. No ticketing required for access.

Lincoln Park Zoo

May Mo[-1] - Sep Mo[1] Mo-Fr 10:00-17:00; Sa-Su 10:00-18:30; Sep - Oct 10:00-17:00; Nov - Mar 10:00-16:30; Apr - May 10:00-17:00

Park

2001 N Clark St (btwn Fullerton Pkwy & LaSalle Dr)

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Lincoln Park Zoo, established in 1868, is a free admission zoo in Chicago housing 1,100 animals from 200 species across its 35-acre grounds.

Duration: More than 3 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions and events may require a paid ticket.

Museum of Science and Industry

9:30-16:00; Nov 24, Dec 25 off; Jul-Aug,Sep 1-5 9:30-17:30; 2016: Jul 20, Jul 22 9:30-16:00; 2016 Sep 25 11:00-16:00; 2016 Oct 1 9:30-15:00; 2016: Nov 19-20, Nov 25-27, Dec 3-4, Dec 10-11, Dec 17-23, Dec 26-30 9:30-17:30

Museum

5700 S Lake Shore Dr (at 57th Dr)

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Museum of Science and Industry in Chicago showcases interactive exhibits, including a WWII German U-boat and a coal mine, in a historic 1893 building.

Duration: More than 3 hours.

Adult: $18, Child: $14. Additional costs for special tours.

Garfield Park Conservatory

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

300 N Central Park Ave (at Lake St)

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Garfield Park Conservatory in Chicago features 4.5 acres of diverse plant species, seasonal displays, and outdoor gardens with a focus on education and engagement.

Duration: More than 2 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions and events may require a paid ticket.

Jarvis Beach Park

6:00 AM–10:00 PM

Park

1208 W Jarvis Ave

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Jarvis Beach Park in Chicago features sandy shores, recreational areas, and scenic views of Lake Michigan, ideal for relaxation and outdoor activities.

Duration: 1-3 hours.

Free. Some community events may have associated fees.

Paschen Park

6:00 AM–10:00 PM

Park

1932 W Lunt Ave

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Paschen Park in Chicago offers green space and recreational facilities for families and outdoor enthusiasts in Cook County.

Duration: Approximately 1.5 to 2 hours.

Free. Some events may have a nominal fee.

Sheil Park Playground

6:00 AM–10:00 PM

Amusement Park

3505 N Southport Ave

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Sheil Park in Chicago, Illinois, offers recreational activities, sports facilities, and green spaces for community enjoyment.

Duration: 1 to 2 hours.

Free. Sports equipment may require rental fees for certain activities.

Cloud Gate

Open 24 hours

Monument

N Michigan Ave (btwn Randolph St & Monroe Dr)

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Cloud Gate is a massive, mirror-like sculpture in Chicago’s Millennium Park, created by artist Anish Kapoor. Its reflective surfaces create unique urban views.

Duration: Less than 1 hour.

Free.

Wrigley Field

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Stadium

1060 West Addison Street

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Wrigley Field, home of the Chicago Cubs, is the second-oldest baseball stadium in the U.S., featuring ivy-covered walls and a manual scoreboard.

Duration: Around 2 hours for tours, longer if attending a game.

Tour tickets: $25 per person. Game tickets typically starting around $45.

Buckingham Fountain

9:00 AM–11:00 PM

Fountain

301 S Columbus Dr (btwn Jackson Dr & Balbo Dr)

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Buckingham Memorial Fountain in Chicago is one of the largest fountains in the world, showcasing Beaux-Arts design and offering spectacular light and water shows.

Duration: 1 hour.

Free.

Chicago Cultural Center

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

78 E Washington St

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Chicago Cultural Center, founded in 1897, is the first free municipal cultural center in the U.S., featuring art exhibits, performances, and two stunning stained-glass domes.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Free. Special exhibitions and events may require a paid ticket.

Oriental Institute Museum

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

155 E 58th St Southeast corner of 58th St and University Ave

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The Oriental Institute Museum in Chicago showcases over 350,000 artifacts from ancient Middle Eastern civilizations, offering a unique glimpse into history.

Duration: About 2 hours.

Free. Suggested donations accepted.

Civic Opera House

10:00 AM–6:00 PM

Theater

20 N Wacker Dr (at W Madison St)

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Civic Opera House, located in Chicago, is a premier opera venue, home to the Lyric Opera of Chicago, featuring Art Deco architecture.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Varies by performance; typically $30-$200 depending on seat selection.

Eckhart Park

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Park

1330 West Chicago Avenue

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Eckhart Park in Chicago spans 8.12 acres with an indoor pool, fitness center, sports fields, and playgrounds, serving the West Town Community's recreational needs.

Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours.

Free. Some specific programs may have associated costs.

Dvorak Park

6:00 AM–10:00 PM

Park

1119 West Cullerton Street

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Dvorak Park in Chicago offers lush green spaces, recreational facilities, and community events in Cook County, catering to locals and visitors alike.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Events may have associated costs.

Arrigo Park

6:00 AM–10:00 PM

Park

801 South Loomis Street

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Arrigo Park in Chicago offers green spaces, playgrounds, and cultural events, making it a community hub for recreation and relaxation.

Duration: 1 to 2 hours.

Free. Some special events may require a ticket.

Winnemac Park

Open 24 hours

Park

5100 North Leavitt Street

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Winnemac Park in Chicago offers green spaces, recreational facilities, and scenic walking paths, making it a popular spot for relaxation and outdoor activities.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free.

Ford City Mall Shopping Center

10:00 AM–10:00 PM

Mall

7601 S Cicero Ave (btwn 72nd St & 76th St)

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Ford City Mall in Chicago offers over 150 stores, dining options, and entertainment facilities, making it a key retail hub for residents and visitors alike.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Free. Some special events may have ticket requirements.

Lincoln Park Conservatory

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Garden

2391 N Stockton Dr (at Fullerton Pkwy)

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Lincoln Park Conservatory in Chicago features over 40,000 annuals and thousands of tropical and seasonal plants in a glass-domed structure.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Some special events may require a paid ticket.

Frank Lloyd Wright's Robie House

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

5757 S Woodlawn Ave

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Robie House in Chicago, designed by Frank Lloyd Wright in 1910, represents significant Prairie style architecture and offers guided public tours.

Duration: 1 hour.

Tickets are $18 for adults, $12 for students and seniors. Children under 12 are free.

Ehlert Park

8:00 AM–sunset

Park

Brookfield

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Ehlert Park in Brookfield, IL offers recreational space with playgrounds, sports facilities, and picnic areas, ideal for family gatherings and outdoor activities.

Duration: 1 to 2 hours.

Free. Some events may have additional fees.

Bickerdike Square Park

6:00 AM–10:00 PM

Park

1461 W. Ohio St. (btwn Armour & Bishop)

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Bickerdike Square Park in Chicago offers green space, playgrounds, and community events, catering to families and local residents seeking outdoor activities.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. No admission fees for public access.

Goudy Square Park

6:00 AM–10:00 PM

Park

Illinois

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Goudy Square Park in Chicago offers recreational spaces, playgrounds, and green areas for relaxation and leisure in Cook County, Illinois.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. No charge for entry or use of facilities.

Fellger Park

6:00 AM–9:00 PM

Park

2000 W Belmont Ave

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Fellger Park is a serene urban park located in Cook County, Illinois, featuring open spaces, walking paths, and recreational facilities for all ages.

Duration: Approximately 1-2 hours.

Free. Facilities use does not require payment.

Chicago History Museum

Tu-Sa 09:45-16:30; Su 11:45-17:00; Dec 24,31, 09:30-14:30, Jul 04 12:00-16:30; Jan 01,Dec 24 off

Museum

1601 N Clark St (at North Ave)

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Chicago Historical Society showcases the city's history through exhibitions featuring artifacts, newsreels, and dioramas from significant events.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions may have a fee.

Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum

Mo-Fr 09:00-17:00; Sa-Su 10:00-17:00

Museum

2430 N Cannon Dr (at Fullerton Pkwy)

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The Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum in Chicago features over 15 exhibits on local wildlife, butterfly haven, and real conservation efforts. It’s ideal for families.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Adults: $9; Children (3-12): $7; Members: Free.