Chicago, on Lake Michigan in Illinois, is among the largest cities in the U.S. Famed for its bold architecture, it has a skyline punctuated by skyscrapers such as the iconic John Hancock Center, 1,451-ft. Willis Tower (formerly the Sears Tower) and the neo-Gothic Tribune Tower. The city is also renowned for its museums, including the Art Institute of Chicago with its noted Impressionist and Post-Impressionist works.
The beautiful city of Chicago has some of the best attractions like museums, skyscrapers and local spots that are worth a visit whether you are a local or a traveler. Being one of the top cities of USA, Chicago has some of most spectacular attractions to be witnessed once in a lifetime.
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While there are a number of places to see in Chicago, these 10 attractions are a must-visit on your next trip.
Number 10. Buckingham Fountain
Built in 1927 as a donation from the family, the Clarence Buckingham Memorial Fountain is one of the largest in the world. Designed in the period’s iconic Art Deco style, the central fountain is surrounded by four seahorses that represent Lake Michigan’s four bordering states. From 8am to 11pm, the fountain bursts to life hourly, shooting 15,000 gallons of water through nearly 200 nozzles each minute to create an impressive display. After dusk, the water show is accompanied by lights, a must-see if you are in the neighborhood in the evening. The fountain is the central focal point of Grant Park, Chicago’s expansive public space that contains many attractions and smaller parks like Millennium Park, comparable to Central Park, one of the top attractions in New York City. One of the park’s main tourist sites is Museum Campus, home to The Field Museum of Natural History, the Art Institute of Chicago, the Adler Planetarium, and Shedd Aquarium. Grant Park is also home to several gardens and recreational facilities, and hosts events, including music and food festivals.
Number 9. Millenium Park
Known for hosting the concerts and festivals, this is one of the most popular Chicago attractions which is all about the city’s weekend vibe. You’ll find interesting sculptures and contemporary installations all over this 25-acre park while taking an evening stroll. The Millenium Park is definitely one of the best places to visit in Chicago for all kinds of tourists.
Number 8. Willis Tower SkyDeck
Until 1996, when the Petronas Towers were built in Kuala Lumpur, the 110 story Sears Tower, now Willis Tower, was the world’s tallest office block. While there are now several taller buildings, the view from here is incredible. On a clear day you can see 40 to 50 miles over four states, and gain a bird’s eye view of Chicago’s impressive architecture.
Number 7. Art Institute of Chicago
When talking about the most exquisite places to see in Chicago, the Art Institute has to be on the list as it houses a collection of more than 300,000 pieces of artwork.
Number 6. 360 Chicago
Located in the John Hancock Center office building, 360 Chicago is an observation deck on the 94th floor of the John Hancock Building, easy to recognize by its dark metallic looking exterior and cross-braced steel design, which runs up the outside of the building.
Number 5. Cloud Gate
The infamous Cloud Gate is a spectacular piece of art which undoubtedly is one of the places to visit in Chicago. It’s the perfect spot for a selfie and since its inception; it has been an Instagram-favourite for all tourists around the world.
Number 4. Field Museum of Natural History
Originally called the Columbian Museum of Chicago, the Field Museum of Natural History was founded in 1893 to showcase the biological and anthropological collections gathered for the World Columbian Exposition.
Number 3. Lincoln Park Zoo
In Chicago, places to visit are so many that it won’t disappoint you. Bring back your childhood memories with a trip to the infamous Lincoln Park Zoo, especially if you’re a nature and an animal lover.
Number 2. Michigan Avenue and the Magnificent Mile
Michigan Avenue is probably one of the most attractive boulevards in America. The city’s famous Magnificent Mile is a section of Michigan Avenue north of the Chicago River, with numerous galleries, boutiques, and luxury shops.
Number 1. Chicago History Museum
With over 20 million artifacts, this museum is an important part of Chicago’s tourist destinations. Needless to say, if you appreciate history, you will find an abundance of sites to visit within this museum.