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Get InspiredNorth AmericaUnited StatesIllinoisChicago

Chicago

Illinois, United States
City·Dynamic, Multicultural, Bustling
Chicago
Photo by Pedro Lastra from Unsplash
Chicago
Photo by Sawyer Bengtson from Unsplash
Chicago
Photo by Christopher Alvarenga from Unsplash
Chicago
Photo by Neal Kharawala from Unsplash
Chicago
Photo by Sawyer Bengtson from Unsplash
Chicago
Photo by Pedro Lastra from Unsplash
Chicago
Photo by Sawyer Bengtson from Unsplash
Chicago
Photo by Christopher Alvarenga from Unsplash
Chicago
Photo by Neal Kharawala from Unsplash
Chicago
Photo by Sawyer Bengtson from Unsplash

Chicago, the third-most populous city in the United States, is a dynamic hub of culture, commerce, and architecture. Located on the shores of Lake Michigan, it offers a rich tapestry of experiences from its world-renowned museums and theaters to its diverse music scene, including jazz and blues. The city is also a major financial center with a robust economy and is home to iconic architectural landmarks. Visitors can enjoy a wide range of activities, from exploring its vibrant neighborhoods to attending professional sports events. Whether you're interested in history, the arts, or urban exploration, Chicago has something to offer.

Chicago, the third-most populous city in the United States, is a dynamic hub of culture, commerce, and architecture. Located on the shores of Lake Michigan, it offers a rich tapestry of experiences from its world-renowned museums and theaters to its diverse music scene, including jazz and blues. The city is also a major financial center with a robust economy and is home to iconic architectural landmarks. Visitors can enjoy a wide range of activities, from exploring its vibrant neighborhoods to attending professional sports events. Whether you're interested in history, the arts, or urban exploration, Chicago has something to offer.

Highlights

  • Home to the Chicago Symphony Orchestra and Lyric Opera.

  • Renowned for its architecture and skyscrapers.

  • Diverse music scene including jazz and blues.

  • Major financial and commercial hub.

  • Rich history with notable urban planning contributions.

Before you go: Chicago essentials

  • Home to a diverse range of cultural institutions and museums.

  • Known for its significant contributions to architecture and urban planning.

  • Offers a wide variety of music genres, particularly jazz and blues.

Getting Around

Chicago offers an extensive public transportation system including buses, trains, and the 'L' train.

Local Cuisine

Don't miss trying the deep-dish pizza, a Chicago specialty.

Best For

Culture enthusiasts and urban explorers.

Currency

USD $

Average Cost

$150-$250 p/day

Population

2,664,452

Cultural Attractions

Visit the Art Institute of Chicago and the Field Museum for a dose of culture.

Weather

Be prepared for windy conditions, especially near Lake Michigan.

Languages Spoken

English, Spanish

Occasion Tags

Tourists, Culture, Business, Architecture, Music

Best time to visit Chicago

April-JuneSeptember-November

Best Season

Spring

Spring is a great time to visit Chicago with milder temperatures and blooming parks.

Best Season

Summer

Summer is vibrant with festivals and events, but expect crowds.

Best Season

Fall

Fall offers pleasant weather and fewer tourists, ideal for exploring.

Winter

Winters can be harsh, but it's a great time to enjoy indoor attractions.

Add dates for experiences

Location

Chicago, Illinois, United States
Open in Maps

Where to stay in Chicago

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HI Chicago, The J. Ira and Nicki Harris Family Hostel

4.4(3 K reviews)
Chicago, Illinois
Social, Clean, Central
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Palmer House a Hilton Hotel

4.2(13,4 K reviews)
Chicago, Illinois
Historic, Upscale, Elegant
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La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Chicago Downtown

4.1(2,4 K reviews)
Chicago, Illinois
Laid Back, Convenient, Comfortable
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The Allegro Royal Sonesta Hotel Chicago Loop

4.2(3 K reviews)
Chicago, Illinois
Sophisticated, Central, Elegant
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Cambria Hotel Chicago Loop - Theatre District

4.3(1,9 K reviews)
Chicago, Illinois
Polished, Central, Versatile
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L7 CHICAGO BY LOTTE

4.6(348 reviews)
Chicago, Illinois
Modern, Stylish, Comfortable
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citizenM Chicago Downtown

4.4(859 reviews)
Chicago, Illinois
Trendy, Modern, Urban
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Hampton Inn Chicago Downtown/N Loop/Michigan Ave

4.2(1,8 K reviews)
Chicago, Illinois
Modern, Chic, Convenient

Food & drink in Chicago

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Impallaria Bakery & Deli

4.6(259 reviews)
Chicago, Illinois
Casual, Local, Friendly
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Wentworth Seafood House

4.6(599 reviews)
Chicago, Illinois
Relaxed, Casual, Easygoing
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Saint Anna Bakery

4.5(318 reviews)
Chicago, Illinois
Charming, Authentic, Sweet Focused
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La Malinche Coffee & Tea House

4.7(455 reviews)
Chicago, Illinois
Cozy, Inviting, Relaxing
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Tous Les Jours

4.4(1,1 K reviews)
Chicago, Illinois
Cozy, Sweet, Inviting
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Bittersweet Pilsen

4.3(103 reviews)
Chicago, Illinois
Cozy, Sweet, Inviting
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Kristoffer's Cafe & Bakery

4.7(549 reviews)
Chicago, Illinois
Cozy, Relaxed, Inviting
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Wagyu House Chicago

4.8(5,8 K reviews)
Chicago, Illinois
Lively, Modern, Upscale

Things to do in Chicago

Chicago River 90-Minute Architecture Tour
From $45

Chicago River 90-Minute Architecture Tour

4.7(10 K reviews)
Duration: 1h 30min
Chicago
Chicago Architecture River Cruise
From $39

Chicago Architecture River Cruise

4.8(16,1 K reviews)
Duration: 1h
Chicago
Chicago Architecture Center River Cruise aboard First Lady
From $57

Chicago Architecture Center River Cruise aboard First Lady

4.9(5,9 K reviews)
Duration: 1h 30min
Chicago
Chicago Amazing Lakefront Bike Tour
From $44

Chicago Amazing Lakefront Bike Tour

3.4(8 reviews)
Duration: 2h
Chicago
Lake Michigan Sunset Cruise in Chicago
From $45

Lake Michigan Sunset Cruise in Chicago

4.5(1,5 K reviews)
Duration: 1h 30min
Chicago
Chicago Lake and River Architecture Tour
From $45

Chicago Lake and River Architecture Tour

4.7(2,3 K reviews)
Duration: 1h 30min
Chicago
Chicago By Night River and Lake Cruise
From $50

Chicago By Night River and Lake Cruise

4.5(311 reviews)
Duration: 1h 30min
Chicago
Chicago Favorites Ultimate Food and Walking Tour
From $85

Chicago Favorites Ultimate Food and Walking Tour

4.8(2,1 K reviews)
Duration: 3h
Chicago
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Attractions in Chicago

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Field Museum

4.7(29,8 K reviews)
Chicago, Illinois
Educational, Interactive, Family Friendly
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Color Factory Chicago

4.7(1,5 K reviews)
Chicago, Illinois
Vibrant, Interactive, Playful
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WNDR Museum

4.1(4,4 K reviews)
Chicago, Illinois
Innovative, Interactive, Engaging
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Maggie Daley Park

4.7(8,5 K reviews)
Chicago, Illinois
Lively, Family Friendly, Recreational
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Museum of Illusions Chicago

4.6(4,7 K reviews)
Chicago, Illinois
Interactive, Fun, Engaging
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Flyover

4.8(1,7 K reviews)
Chicago, Illinois
Immersive, Engaging, Tourist Friendly
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Museum Of Contemporary Art Chicago

4.4(6,5 K reviews)
Chicago, Illinois
Modern, Artistic, Inspiring