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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.

You might want to ask

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

Languages Spoken

English, Spanish

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.

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.

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Location

Chicago, Illinois, United States

Where to stay in Chicago

Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

Hilton Garden Inn Chicago Downtown South Loop

4.0(964)
Chicago, Illinois
Casual, Comfortable, Central
Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

Swissotel Chicago

4.3(6,3 K)
Chicago, Illinois
Contemporary, Upscale, Central
Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

STAY

4.3(183)
Chicago, Illinois
Cozy, Welcoming, Homely
Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

Sable at Navy Pier Chicago, Curio Collection by Hilton

4.4(1,6 K)
Chicago, Illinois
Sophisticated, Polished, Scenic
Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

Hyatt House Chicago / West Loop-Fulton Market

4.3(766)
Chicago, Illinois
Casual, Comfortable, Relaxed
Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

Aloft Chicago Mag Mile

4.0(1,7 K)
Chicago, Illinois
Modern, Comfortable, Urban
Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

SpringHill Suites by Marriott Chicago Chinatown

4.6(578)
Chicago, Illinois
Casual, Comfortable, Modern
Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

The Royal Sonesta Chicago Downtown

4.2(3,4 K)
Chicago, Illinois
Refined, Central, Convenient

Food & drink in Chicago

Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

Bavette's Bar & Boeuf

4.7(3,8 K)
Chicago, Illinois
Ornate, Dimly Lit, Sophisticated
Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

The Dearborn

4.7(8,4 K)
Chicago, Illinois
Stylish, Vibrant, Architectural
Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

Girl & The Goat

4.7(7,6 K)
Chicago, Illinois
Trendy, Energetic, Chef Driven
Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

Aba

4.8(8,7 K)
Chicago, Illinois
Chic, Trendy, Lounge
Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

River Roast

4.6(5,2 K)
Chicago, Illinois
Vibrant, Social, Scenic
Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

The L Station

4.4(1,3 K)
Chicago, Illinois
Lively, Casual, Fun
Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

The Duck Inn

4.7(1,6 K)
Chicago, Illinois
Retro, Lively, Creative
Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

Elephant & Castle

4.3(2,8 K)
Chicago, Illinois
Cozy, Casual, Pub Like

Things to do in Chicago

Chicago Architecture Center River Cruise aboard First Lady
From $57

Chicago Architecture Center River Cruise aboard First Lady

4.9(6,5 K)
Duration: 1h 30min
Chicago
Chicago Amazing Lakefront Bike Tour
From $44

Chicago Amazing Lakefront Bike Tour

3.4(8)
Duration: 2h
Chicago
Chicago Sightseeing River and Lake Cruise
From $46

Chicago Sightseeing River and Lake Cruise

4.7(654)
Duration: 1h 30min
Chicago
Lake Michigan Skyline Cruise in Chicago
From $34

Lake Michigan Skyline Cruise in Chicago

4.4(936)
Duration: 30 min
Chicago
Chicago By Night River and Lake Cruise
From $50

Chicago By Night River and Lake Cruise

4.5(390)
Duration: 1h 30min
Chicago
Chicago River Ghost & Dark History Night Cruise
From $46

Chicago River Ghost & Dark History Night Cruise

4.0(163)
Duration: 1h 30min
Chicago
Chicago Perfume Making Classes on Magnificent Mile
From $85

Chicago Perfume Making Classes on Magnificent Mile

4.8(68)
Duration: 1h 15min
Heritage Creek
Lake Michigan Sunset Cruise in Chicago
From $45

Lake Michigan Sunset Cruise in Chicago

4.5(1,6 K)
Duration: 1h 30min
Chicago
Explore on Viator

Attractions in Chicago

Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

Navy Pier

4.6(86,6 K)
Chicago, Illinois
Lively, Family Friendly, Entertaining
Place
Place
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Place
Place

LaBagh Woods

4.7(1,9 K)
Chicago, Illinois
Serene, Natural, Family Friendly
Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

Bloomingdale Trail Park

4.7(1,2 K)
Chicago, Illinois
Vibrant, Scenic, Urban
Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

The 606

4.8(2,1 K)
Chicago, Illinois
Active, Scenic, Urban
Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

Lakefront Trail - Fullerton - 2400 N

4.9(304)
Chicago, Illinois
Scenic, Active, Relaxing
Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

Forest Glen Woods

4.6(692)
Chicago, Illinois
Serene, Natural, Relaxing
Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

West Ridge Nature Park

4.7(832)
Chicago, Illinois
Lush, Tranquil, Natural
Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

Lakefront Trail - Grant Park

4.8(196)
Chicago, Illinois
Scenic, Active, Relaxing

Natural & historic sites near Chicago

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Place
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Indiana Dunes National Park

Indiana
Protected Area · Expansive, Natural, Serene
Place
Place
Place
Place
Place

Pullman National Historical Park

Chicago, Illinois
Protected Area · Educational, Historic, Reflective