Things to do in Central Chicago
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Most popular experiences in Central Chicago
Tours & day trips
See all 167 activitiesOpens in new tabFlyover in Chicago
Private & custom tours
See all 40 activitiesOpens in new tabChicago Quest Experience: The Heist
Food, drink & nightlife
See all 29 activitiesOpens in new tabChicago Favourites Ultimate Food and Walking Tour
Attractions
See all 19 activitiesOpens in new tab360 CHICAGO Observation Deck
Classes & workshops
See all 13 activitiesOpens in new tabBYOB Spray Paint 'n' Sip at Studio W.I.P. Chicago
What to do in Central Chicago
Popular places to visit
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.
Navy Pier
A ferris wheel, shopping, restaurants and more can be found in this waterfront entertainment district.
Millennium Park
A landmark gathering place for locals and visitors who come to admire the unique art, architecture and landscape.
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.
Soldier Field
Events center, NFL stadium and historic landmark all in one, this waterfront field is one of Chicago’s most popular destinations.
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.
Chicago Theatre
See a stage show at this iconic cultural beacon, which still captures all the splendor of a trip to the movie theater in the early 20th century.
Art Institute of Chicago
Explore a massive collection of works celebrating different cultures and historical times, from ancient Egypt to modern installations.
Areas of Central Chicago
Magnificent Mile
Are you interested in fascinating museums, panoramic lake views and popular shops? A visit to Magnificent Mile might be the perfect thing. You can also explore top sights like Michigan Avenue and Chicago Water Tower.
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.
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.
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).
Gold Coast
The ample dining options and fantastic lake views are top of the list for many visitors to Gold Coast. A stop by Michigan Avenue or Lake Michigan might round out your trip.
Rush and Division
If you're spending time in Rush and Division, check out sights like Oak Street or Holy Name Cathedral and hop on the metro to see more of the city at Chicago Station (Red Line) or Clark-Division Station.
- Michigan Avenue
- McCormick Place
- Navy Pier
- Millennium Park
- Grant Park
- Soldier Field
- Chicago Riverwalk
- Art Institute of Chicago
- Willis Tower
- Field Museum of Natural History
- Water Tower Place
- John Hancock Center
- Cloud Gate
- Daley Plaza
- Adler Planetarium and Astronomy Museum
- Ann and Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital
- Buckingham Fountain
- Northerly Island Natural Area
- Hotels near Michigan Avenue
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