Things to do in Central Chicago
Activities, attractions and tours
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Most popular experiences in Central Chicago
Tours & day trips
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Architecture River Tour
Food, drink & nightlife
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Chicago: Architecture Boat Tour with Drinks
Private & custom tours
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Eastside Chicago The Heist Exploration Game and Tour
Attractions
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360 CHICAGO Observation Deck
Adventure & outdoor
See all 13 activities
Chicago White Sox Baseball Game at Guaranteed Rate Field
What to do in Central Chicago
Popular places to visit
Navy Pier
A waterfront entertainment strip with fun diversions for both young and old, with shops, restaurants and even a Ferris wheel.
Michigan Avenue
You can find the perfect gifts to bring home when you visit Michigan Avenue, a popular shopping spot in Chicago. Amble around this vibrant area's riverfront and enjoy its top-notch restaurants.
McCormick Place
Attend an event at the United States’ largest convention center, which features hyper-modern facilities and huge exhibition spaces connected by promenades and sky bridges.
Millennium Park
One of Chicago’s main focal points, where locals and visitors flock to see the striking art, architecture and landscape on show.
Soldier Field
Events center, NFL stadium and historic landmark all in one, this waterfront field is one of Chicago’s most popular destinations.
Grant Park
Chicago’s front yard is a pretty landscaped park, which is home to public art displays, museums, themed gardens and international music festivals.
Chicago Riverwalk
Stroll along the waterfront of the Chicago River to pass some of the city’s most appealing attractions and appreciate how a once grim area has been successfully revamped.
Art Institute of Chicago
From ancient masterpieces to eclectic modern art, uncover a treasure trove of works from all over the world and throughout history.
Willis Tower
The Skydeck at Willis Tower offers the best place in Chicago for a bird’s eye view across the breadth of the city and Lake Michigan.
Areas of Central Chicago
Magnificent Mile
A dazzling array of boutiques, luxury shops, famous department stores and pleasant cafés, where shopaholics can lose themselves for hours.
River North
Known for its fantastic nightlife, stunning river views and popular shops, there's plenty to explore in River North. Top attractions like Merchandise Mart and Bally's Casino Chicago are major draws. Catch the metro at Merchandise Mart Station or Chicago Station (Brown Line) to see more of the city.
Theatre District
While you're in Theatre District, take in top sights like Michigan Avenue or State Street, and hop on the metro to see more of the city at Washington Station or Monroe Station (Blue Line).
Streeterville
Michigan Avenue and Navy Pier are just a few worthwhile attractions to visit in Streeterville. Travellers also love the fascinating museums, panoramic lake views and popular shops.
Gold Coast
Enjoy upscale shopping, varied dining experiences and waterfront walks at this affluent suburb set on the shores of Lake Michigan.
Rush and Division
If you're spending time in Rush and Division, check out sights like Newberry Library or Oak Street and hop on the metro to see more of the city at Chicago Station (Red Line) or Clark-Division Station.
