Wind, Water, Skyline Magic

Cool lake air glides between towering steel and glass as the scent of deep-dish pizza drifts through Riverwalk.

Fall and late spring shine—wander Millennium Park, feel the energy at Navy Pier, and use the L to glide across Chicago.

Discover now and begin your Chicago story.

Chicago - Wrigley Building n Tribune Tower

Learn about Chicago

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Hidden Gems and Unique Spots in Chicago

Official Choose Chicago travel-bureau post highlighting under-the-radar neighborhoods, quirky museums, speakeasies, and neighborhood-specific tips; useful for travelers who want vetted local picks and neighborhood-focused itineraries beyond downtown attractions.

Chicago's Secret Spots (Hidden Gems)

Time Out Chicago’s curated list of off-the-beaten-path experiences — from secret concert series to historic murals and tucked-away viewpoints — giving practical suggestions and why each spot is worth visiting for a more local, less-touristy visit.

Hidden Gems in Chicago: A Journey through the City's Best-Kept Secrets

SeeSight Tours' guide to lesser-known sites across neighborhoods (parks, small museums, viewpoints and local eateries), with concise descriptions and why each spot stands out — a handy quick-read for travelers planning short, discovery-focused visits.

The 20 Best Hidden Gems in Chicago to See in 2025

Cirque du Soleil’s travel blog roundup of 20 lesser-known Chicago attractions (parks, vistas, cultural sites) with practical notes on vibe and accessibility; useful for building an itinerary of scenic and quieter stops around the city.

The Lonely Planet guide to Chicago’s Millennium Park

A focused Lonely Planet–style blog post covering Millennium Park’s major features (Cloud Gate, Crown Fountain, Pritzker Pavilion, Lurie Garden), practical visiting tips (best times, nearby eats) and why the park matters — ideal for first-time visitors wanting efficient planning advice.

Cloud Gate ("The Bean") — Millennium Park

201 E. Randolph St., Millennium Park, Chicago, IL 60601

Installed in 2006 and designed by sculptor Anish Kapoor, this highly reflective stainless‑steel sculpture quickly became Chicago’s most photographed landmark. It reflects the skyline and invites public interaction.

Art Institute of Chicago

111 S. Michigan Ave., Chicago, IL 60603

Founded in the 19th century, the Art Institute grew into one of the nation’s leading museums with an encyclopedic collection and iconic works spanning centuries.

Field Museum

1400 S. DuSable Lake Shore Dr., Chicago, IL 60605

A premier natural history museum known for SUE the T. rex and expansive anthropological and scientific collections; located on the Museum Campus beside the lake.

Shedd Aquarium

1200 S. DuSable Lake Shore Dr., Chicago, IL 60605

Opened in 1930, the Shedd is one of the country’s largest indoor aquariums with diverse aquatic exhibits from around the world and family‑friendly programs.

Wrigley Field

1060 W. Addison St., Chicago, IL 60613

Home of the Chicago Cubs since 1914, Wrigley is one of baseball’s oldest ballparks and a centerpiece of the lively Lakeview/Wrigleyville neighborhood.

Millennium Park & Cloud Gate (The Bean)

A vibrant urban park on the lakefront featuring public art, gardens, the Crown Fountain and Anish Kapoor’s mirrored sculpture 'Cloud Gate' (nicknamed The Bean).

Free public space, great for photos, frequent outdoor performances and centrally located—an ideal first stop to feel the city’s energy.

Chicago Architecture River Cruise

A guided boat tour along the Chicago River that explains the city’s architectural history while passing landmark buildings and bridges.

The most accessible way to learn why Chicago’s skyline matters — excellent narration, unique vantage points, and helpful context for first‑time visitors.

The Art Institute of Chicago

One of the world’s great art museums with collections spanning impressionist paintings, modern art, African and ancient works.

Home to masterpieces (e.g., American Gothic, Nighthawks) and rotating major exhibitions — a cultural must for art lovers and families alike.

Museum Campus (Field Museum, Shedd Aquarium, Adler Planetarium)

A concentrated collection of top museums on the lakefront: natural history at the Field Museum, marine life at Shedd Aquarium, and space science at Adler Planetarium.

Perfect for families or anyone interested in science and natural history; museums are close together so you can visit more than one in a day.

Skyline Views: Willis Tower Skydeck or 360 Chicago (John Hancock Building)

Observation decks that offer panoramic views of Chicago, Lake Michigan and the surrounding region — choose Skydeck for the Ledge glass boxes or 360 Chicago for skyline views from the lake side.

Iconic high‑rise experiences that put Chicago’s scale and grid into perspective; memorable photo opportunities, especially at sunset.