Chicago, Illinois – USA

Chicago is the third-largest city in the U.S., known for its iconic architecture, deep-dish pizza, vibrant cultural scene, jazz and blues heritage, and stunning location along Lake Michigan. It's a city that blends modern skyscrapers with historic charm and green open spaces.

Must-See Attractions

1.  Art Institute of Chicago

One of the oldest and largest art museums in the U.S., with works by Van Gogh, Monet, and Picasso.
 Address: 111 S Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60603
 Hours: 11 AM – 5 PM (Thu–Mon)
 Tickets: ~$25 adults

2.  Chicago Riverwalk

A 1.25-mile waterfront pedestrian path with cafés, public art, kayak rentals, and views of famous architecture.

 Runs from Lake Shore Drive to Lake Street

3.  Willis Tower Skydeck (Former Sears Tower)

103 floors high with The Ledge—a glass balcony extending 4 feet outside the building!
 Address: 233 S Wacker Dr, Chicago, IL 60606
 ~$30 for adults

4. Navy Pier

Entertainment hub on Lake Michigan featuring restaurants, theaters, boat rides, and the Centennial Ferris Wheel.
 Address: 600 E Grand Ave, Chicago, IL 60611

5.  Millennium Park & The Bean (Cloud Gate)

A modern public space with art, concerts, ice skating (in winter), and the famous “Bean” sculpture.
 Address: 201 E Randolph St, Chicago, IL 60602
 Free Entry

6.  Lincoln Park Zoo

A family favorite and one of the few free zoos in the U.S. Located in a scenic park near the lake.
 Address: 2001 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60614
 Free Entry

7. Field Museum of Natural History

Home of Sue—the largest and most complete Tyrannosaurus rex skeleton ever discovered.
 Address: 1400 S Lake Shore Dr, Chicago, IL 60605

8. Adler Planetarium

America’s first planetarium with exhibits about the cosmos and stunning views of the Chicago skyline.
 Address: 1300 S Lake Shore Dr, Chicago, IL 60605

9.  Shedd Aquarium

One of the largest indoor aquariums in the world.
 Address: 1200 S Lake Shore Dr, Chicago, IL 60605

 What to Eat

• Deep Dish Pizza: Try Lou Malnati’s or Giordano’s

• Chicago-Style Hot Dogs: No ketchup!

• Garrett’s Popcorn: A mix of caramel and cheese flavors

• Italian Beef Sandwiches: Check out Portillo’s or Al’s Beef

• Where to Stay

  • The Langham Chicago (luxury with river views)

  • Congress Plaza Hotel (historic and affordable)

  • Freehand Chicago (stylish hostel/hotel in River North)

   Getting Around

• Use the CTA “L” trains and buses. Get a Ventra Card for easy access.

• Walk downtown; many attractions are within 15 minutes of each other.

• Use Divvy Bikes or electric scooters for quick movement.