Things to do in Chicago

Activities, attractions and tours

Chicago showing a skyscraper and a city as well as a family
Chicago which includes signage, heritage elements and a high rise building
Chicago
Chicago featuring street scenes and a high rise building as well as a family
Willis Tower showing central business district, mist or fog and a city

Explore thousands of activities with free cancellation and no added fees.

Design your experience with airport transfers, excursions, day tours & more.

Get an insider's look in what to book before you travel.


Most popular experiences in Chicago

Tours & day trips

See all 178 activities

Food, drink & nightlife

See all 35 activities

Private & custom tours

See all 33 activities

Adventure & outdoor

See all 16 activities

What to do in Chicago


Popular places to visit

Areas of Chicago

Downtown Chicago which includes a city

Downtown Chicago

The heart of the Midwest’s glittering metropolis has many offerings, from shopping and dining to parks, museums and exciting contemporary public art.

Downtown Chicago
Magnificent Mile - River North

Magnificent Mile

A dazzling array of boutiques, luxury shops, famous department stores and pleasant cafés, where shopaholics can lose themselves for hours.

Magnificent Mile
The Loop - Downtown featuring a river or creek

The Loop

4.5/5(187 area reviews)

Bordered roughly by the surrounding elevated train circuit, this Chicago neighborhood has restaurants, galleries, parks and a giant silver bean.

The Loop
Default Image

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.

River North
Lincoln Park showing modern architecture and a city

Lincoln Park

5/5(5 area reviews)

Both a neighborhood and a park, this northern Chicago area has gorgeous scenery, residential streets lined with stately homes and extensive shopping and dining.

Lincoln Park
Chicago showing rides

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).

Theatre District

Frequently asked questions

Is Chicago worth visiting?
Offering a blend of views and dining, there's no shortage of things to do in Chicago. While you're here, head to Michigan Avenue, a major attraction in the area.
How do I spend a day in Chicago?
Once you've checked off top attractions like Michigan Avenue and Navy Pier, spend the rest of your day discovering Chicago's shopping and food scene.
What is the top tourist attraction in Chicago?
Michigan Avenue is one of the top tourist attractions in Chicago and should be high on every sightseeing list of the area.
Is three days enough to stay in Chicago?
Three days in Chicago is enough to visit the city's key attractions. Many guests book for two days on average. Michigan Avenue, Navy Pier and Millennium Park are highly rated sights. Like to discover more? Stick around a little longer to visit nearby hotspots such as Rosemont.
Is Chicago a walkable city?
Some key attractions in Chicago, like Michigan Avenue and Navy Pier, are within walking distance. You can also experience several of the city's neighbourhoods on foot. Just 2 kilometres from central Chicago is Central Chicago and Near North Side is 2 kilometres away.
What are some activities to do in Chicago with kids?
Planning what to do in Chicago with kids has never been easier. Whether you're holidaying with teenagers or toddlers, there's a range of family-friendly attractions to keep them entertained here.

What to do in Chicago for adults?
McCormick Place and Wintrust Arena are just a couple of the things to do in Chicago. With plenty of activities available, there's something here for everyone to experience.
Are there free things to do in Chicago?
In Chicago, Michigan Avenue is an unmissable spot for anyone wishing to tour the city without taking their wallet out. Also, stroll around the green spaces and other neighbourhoods, and ask a local tour guide for ideas. It's a simple way to discover the best free things to do in Chicago.