Chicago is a cosmopolitan city and one of the largest in the United States. Located right next to the famous Lake Michigan in the state of Illinois, it’s a place full of energy and character. The city is packed with skyscrapers, you honestly can’t stop looking up! The modern architecture is super impressive and gives Chicago its unique vibe.
What to know during your journey in Chicago
- Chicago has two main airports: O’Hare (ORD) and Midway (MDW).
- If you’re flying in from outside the U.S., you’ll most likely land at O’Hare, it’s one of the biggest airports in the country!
- O’Hare isn’t right in the city center; it’s about 40 minutes from downtown.
- You can hop on a CTA train (the Blue Line) from the airport straight into the city
- Buses are also widely used, and the elevated train system, called the “L,” runs 24/7.
- If you’re driving, you might find cheap street parking here and there, but it’s not always easy. Just make sure to pay, there are cameras everywhere, and they’ll catch you if you leave your car without a valid ticket!
Top Activities in Chicago
Millennium Park
This huge park is right in the heart of the city. It features a massive music stage that can host up to 11,000 people! As you walk through, you’ll come across several impressive sculptures and art installations. You might even catch people playing chess in the open. It’s one of my favorite spots in Chicago, a peaceful green escape surrounded by towering buildings.
The Bean
The star of the show for most tourists… a giant BEAN! Officially called Cloud Gate, it’s considered the symbol of Chicago. It’s right next to Millennium Park, so you really can’t miss it. Everyone stops to take pictures around it, and yes, touches it too. The whole thing is like a giant mirrored bean where you can see your reflection (and the skyline behind you).
Harold Washington Library
Take some time to visit the Harold Washington Library, it’s free to walk in!
It’s a really cool spot with lots of plants and quiet green spaces where you can just relax. One of the most interesting rooms has hundreds of army dog tags hanging from the ceiling, it’s powerful and unique.
Michigan avenue
Continue your visit with a walk along Michigan Avenue. All the way down, you’ll pass coffee shops, restaurants, and hotels, it’s a great place to soak in the city vibe.
Keep walking until you reach the famous bridge where, during St. Patrick’s Day, they actually dye the river bright green! From there, you’ll spot the massive Trump Tower and other impressive skyscrapers lining the river. The view is pretty iconic.
Navy pier
The longest pier in the world, completely surrounded by water, and packed with restaurants, bars, theaters, and parks. It’s a really enjoayble place with such a pleasant walk, especially in the fall when the trees turn beautiful shades of orange and red.
You can hop on the giant Ferris wheel for amazing views or take a sightseeing boat tour along the Chicago River. At night, the view of the city skyline from the pier is absolutely stunning, definitely one of those moments to just stop and take it all in.
Walk along Lake Michigan
The lake is absolutely beautiful, the water is super clear (and super cold!). There’s a long path where you can walk, run, or bike right along the lake. If you already visited Navy Pier, chances are you’ve already covered a good stretch of it without even realizing!
Riverwalk
It’s one of the best outdoor spots in the city! You’ll find restaurants, cafés, bars, boat tours, kayaks and even a few places to grab a scoop of gelato.
There are lots of great spots to eat right along the river with a beautiful view. I really enjoyed walking there, it’s super nice and relaxing. Just know it can be a pretty long walk if you decide to do the whole thing, but totally worth it!
360 Observation desk
For the best panoramic view of the city, head to the 360° Observation Deck. You’ll definitely spot the building from almost anywhere in the city! Entry is around 25€ per person
Watch a Basketball game at the Chicago bulls stadium
You have to watch a basketball game if you’re in Chicago! Even if you don’t know anything about basketball, it is honestly one of the most impressive and entertaining experiences. Of course, they are not as famous as they used to be back in the 90s but still impressive to watch.
Tickets can be pretty expensive if you don’t book in advance, so try to get them early or look for seats a bit higher up, you’ll still have a great view and feel the energy of the crowd. The atmosphere in the stadium is incredible, with music, lights, and fans going all out. Definitely a must-do!
If you are a US student make sure to buy the student pass ticket!
