Discover the Windy City: Chicago Things to Do and See for an Unforgettable Adventure
Chicago, also known as the “Windy City,” is a vibrant and diverse metropolis offering endless entertainment and recreation possibilities–from exploring its world-class museums and iconic landmarks to indulging in its renowned culinary scene and enjoying its lively music and comedy scenes,
Chicago is such a fun city.
Whether a local or a visitor, you will find many fun things to do in this bustling city.
- Visit the Art Institute of Chicago: It’s one of the oldest and largest art museums in the United States. It houses an impressive collection of artworks worldwide, including iconic pieces like Grant Wood’s “American Gothic” and Edward Hopper’s “Nighthawks.”
- Grab a slice of deep-dish pizza: Chicago is famous for its deep-dish pizza, and there are plenty of restaurants around the city where you can try this iconic dish.
- Take a stroll along the Chicago Riverwalk: This scenic path along the Chicago River offers stunning views of the city’s architecture, and it’s an excellent spot for a leisurely walk, bike ride, or even a picnic.
- Explore Navy Pier: This iconic landmark is home to an array of attractions, including an amusement park, an IMAX theater, a Ferris wheel, and more. It’s a fun spot for families and groups of friends.
- Go to a Cubs or White Sox game: Chicago is home to two Major League Baseball teams, and catching a game is a great way to experience the city’s sports culture.
- Visit the Willis Tower Skydeck: Formerly known as the Sears Tower, this 110-story skyscraper offers breathtaking views of Chicago from its observation deck, which is located on the 103rd floor.
- Check out the Shedd Aquarium: This famous attraction houses over 32,000 aquatic animals, including dolphins, whales, and sharks, and it’s an excellent spot for kids and adults alike.
- Puruse the MCA: The Museum of Contemporary Art is one of the world’s largest museums dedicated to contemporary art, which began in 1967; it comprises of 2,000 pieces of art and installations.
- Walk Michigan Avenue: A major thoroughfare in Chicago, Illinois, stretching from the shores of Lake Michigan to the south side of the city. It is known for its iconic landmarks and high-end shopping destinations, such as the Magnificent Mile.
Did you know?
Chicago is home to the world’s first skyscraper? The Home Insurance Building, completed in 1885, was the first building to use steel-frame construction, which allowed it to reach a height of 10 stories. Unfortunately, the building was demolished in 1931 to make way for a larger structure, but its legacy lives on as the pioneer of the modern skyscraper.
A little history:
Chicago dates back to the early 1800s. Initially settled by the Potawatomi Native American tribe, the area that is now downtown was later explored by French explorers in the late 1600s.
It wasn’t until 1833 that the first permanent settlement was established by a group of traders and farmers led by Jean Baptiste Point du Sable, a Haitian man often referred to as the “Founder of Chicago.” In the following years,
It quickly grew into a significant transportation hub thanks to its location at the mouth of the Chicago River, which connects the Great Lakes to the Mississippi River system. By the mid-1800s, the city had become an important center for trade and commerce, and the railroad’s arrival in the 1850s only further cemented its importance.
The city’s history is also marked by tragedy, most notably the Great Chicago Fire of 1871, which destroyed much of the city and claimed hundreds of lives. In the following years, It was rebuilt, bigger and better than ever. It continued to thrive as a hub of industry, culture, and innovation throughout the 20th century and beyond.
