There are endless things to see, do, and experience in Chicago — one of the many reasons we’ve been named the Best Big City in the U.S. for the past nine years in a row.
Start exploring some of Chicago’s best things to do.
Chicago Architecture River Cruise
Things to Do in Chicago
What are the top things to do in Chicago?
Food & drink
Chicago’s food scene is never done expanding, innovating, and evolving. Here’s just a taste.
- Take a bite of iconic Chicago dishes, from the jibarito to deep dish.
- The host city of the prestigious James Beard Awards (and home to 50+ past award winners).
- Check off your bucket list with splurge-worthy dining experiences.
- Eat like a local in these top foodie neighborhoods.
Museums & art
Immerse yourself in art, history, science, nature, and more at our world-renowned cultural institutions.
- The Art Institute of Chicago, one of the oldest and largest art museums in the country.
- The lakefront Museum Campus is home to the Field Museum, the Adler Planetarium, and the Shedd Aquarium.
- On the South Side, explore the interactive Griffin Museum of Science and Industry and the landmark Obama Presidential Center.
Tours & attractions
Check off your Chicago bucket list with these top sights and attractions in downtown and beyond.
- See iconic Chicago sights like free Millennium Park and family-friendly Navy Pier.
- Take in the view at soaring observation decks like 360 CHICAGO and Skydeck Chicago.
- Hop on an architecture boat cruise to immerse yourself in Chicago’s legendary skyline.
- Explore the city on a guided tour or get matched with a local through Chicago Greeter.
Music & nightlife
Chicago is home to genre-defining artists, iconic music festivals, historic venues, and our own undefinable big-city sound.
- Hear Chicago-born genres like house music, Chicago-style jazz, and amplified blues.
- Catch a local act or a major tour at one of our legendary music venues.
- Mark your calendar for our signature music festivals, like Lollapalooza, Windy City Smokeout, Chicago Jazz Festival, and more.
More things to do in Chicago
Find Chicago inspiration
Come discover a city that’s never done and never outdone.
Explore Chicago like a local
Tours & attractions
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Your guide to the Chicago Thanksgiving Parade 2026
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