Thanks to the long history associated with the city, there is a lot of beautiful architecture to see. Even though a lot of buildings were lost during the Great Chicago Fire in 1885, a good number survived and the destruction did lead to a building boom. Today, the old blends in well with the new. Although there are many things to do during the whole year, many tourists tend to stick to the warmer months of May to September. Temperatures during this period can reach 84 F (29C). December to February can see quite a bit of snow, with temperatures dropping enough to freeze the lake.
Listed below are 10 things to do in Chicago:
1. 360 CHICAGO
With 94 floors and the fastest elevators in the US, standing on the open Skywalk at the top makes people realize why Chicago is often referred to as the Windy City. This venue is 1000 feet up and gives amazing views of the city and Lake Michigan. For those who like to live dangerously, they can use the TILT feature which allows up to eight people to lean out of the edge. The observation deck covers 17,000 square feet and this ensures that it is possible to take 360 degree photographs, hence the attraction’s name.
2. Millennium Park
Although relatively new compared to many other places in Chicago, the Millennium Park has fast become a favorite with both locals and tourists. The Jay Pritzker Pavilion offers visitors free stage shows and concerts throughout the year. The garden covers around 5 hectares, and can either be walked, jogged, or for those who are a bit more energetic, a bicycle can be hired. There are a number of touch art sculptures in the park, and the Crown Fountain is an amazing feature.
3. Chicago Lakefront Trail
Lake Michigan is a gem in the Midwest, it contains a lot of 
natural flora and wild animals. The Lakefront Trail is 18 miles long and offers a variety of beautiful views along its length. The Lakefront Trail is one of the things that makes Chicago stand out from other major cities within the States. There are many other trails splitting off from the main one, as well as beaches, gardens, and picnic areas, and playgrounds for the children. Spring and summer is the best time to visit as the flowers are in full bloom, while the animals are active and are often seen foraging for food.
4. The Field Museum
Although the history in Chicago goes back in time quite a bit, this is nothing in comparison to the time span which The Field Museum covers. There are exhibits that date back to the dawn of the planet some 4.5 billion years ago. They have many fossils from the dinosaur period, many of them having been found in the US, notably Utah and its surrounding states. It is the home to the world’s biggest Tyrannosaurus Rex, which has the best preserved skeleton. At 42 feet long, it is an amazing exhibit. Many other periods of history are covered, such as the Egyptian and Roman years from over 2000 years ago.
5. Lincoln Park Zoo
Nearly every big city within the country has a zoo, although some stand out more than others. That is the
case in Chicago with the Lincoln Park Zoo. This is actually one of the best zoos for one reason; it is free. Even though it is not large at just 35 acres, they do have over 1,200 animals on show. These include zebras, apes, and a host of others that make wonderful viewing. One of the best parts is the new Regenstein Macaque Forest. Here it is possible to watch different species of primates, such as the snow monkeys. Not only do they have trees to swing in, but also a hot tub to bathe in.
6. Green Mill Cocktail Lounge
For a taste of history related to the gangsters of years gone by, grab a drink and something to eat at the Green Mill Cocktail Lounge. The most famous gangster of all used to visit this abode during the 1920’s; Al Capone himself. The bar has been updated since those days, but there is still a sense of the days when Chicago had a major problem with crime bosses. These days, they serve decent food, but the best thing about it is the live jazz music on offer.
7. North Avenue Beach
Most people enjoy spending a few hours sitting back and
relaxing on a nice warm day, and a great place to do just that in the city is at North Avenue Beach. This is very popular with the locals who flock here when the sun shines. The beach house is very noticeable, as it is based upon a beached ocean liner, and stands out from everything else, but not in a way that it should not be there. Restrooms, showers, Jet Ski hire, kayak hire, and other amenities are available.
There are so many places to eat in a city of this size, but for something a little different, try the Sweet Maple Café. Designed to resemble an old time authentic Southern roadside diner, the food is good, and locals enjoy the experience of eating here. The food on offer includes sandwiches, pancakes, cheddar grits, and freshly baked cookies and pies. It is located in the University Village within Little Italy.
9. Art Institute of Chicago
This is a large art gallery, in fact the second biggest in the US,
so ensure that at least half a day is set aside for the visit. There is a wide range of art on offer here that comes from all over the world and spans many centuries. Famous artwork by the likes of Picassos and Mirós can be found on the third floor of the building. For those who are not sure what to look at, tours are available at the front desk. Prices are currently $23, but the sculpture garden has free access for those looking to save money.
10. Navy Pier
It is no surprise that this ½ mile long structure is the number one location for tourists to the city. There are a number of restaurants on the pier, as well as a 150ft Ferris wheel. A beer garden is a great place to have a cold drink on a hot day. The views from the end make for some fantastic photographs. During the summer months, on Wednesday and Saturdays, there is a firework display in the evening. There are two museums on the pier, the Stained Glass Windows Museum and the Smith Museum. For those who like to spend some time on the water, a number of boat tours are available every day.
When it comes to accommodation within the city, there is never a problem finding some. However, during the peak months of the year, it is best to book as early as possible to get the best choice of hotels. Lakeside hotels will cost more due to the views available and the demand for them. All big named hotels are located here, while there are also a lot of bed and breakfasts. A number of hostels also offer beds for those on a budget.
10 Things To Do In Chicago
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