10 Popular Attractions to Visit on a Road Trip to Chicago

10 Popular Attractions to Visit on a Road Trip to Chicago

Although the city of Chicago is a great place to visit on a road trip, it can be hard to narrow down a list of popular destinations to visit if you are traveling with limited time. We made it easy for you and compiled a list of the top 10 attractions you have to check out in Chicago.

Navy Pier

Originally opening in 1916, Navy Pier was and has remained an iconic Chicago landmark over the years. With over 50 acres of various attractions, which include restaurants, shops, amusement sites like the famous Ferris wheel, and a concert venue, there’s something for everyone here.

Lincoln Park Zoo

Lincoln Park Zoo - Chicago, Illinois
Photo Credit: Thomas Barrat

Let the animal lover in your life go wild at Lincoln Park Zoo. Nestled within Lincoln Park, this is a great place for you to get outdoors and experience nature without having to ever leave the city. Oh, and this is one of the last free zoos in the United States!

Willis Tower

Check out the SkyDeck, located in Willis tower for some incredible views and see the city beneath your feet. The attraction allows you to observe the city from a glass box. Enjoy views up to 50 miles out and 1,350 feet above the streets.

Millennium Park

Millennium Park - Chicago, Illinois
Photo Credit: Jeremy Reddington

Millennium Park has something for everyone, including Cloud Gate (also known as The Bean), an art museum, a concert venue, and a beautiful garden space. This is the location where a lot of classic Chicago festivals are held as well.

The Lakefront

This trail, used popularly for exercise, is another great way to view the city of Chicago. Bordering Lake Michigan, this 18-mile paved path is perfect for rollerblading, biking, running, or even just taking a leisurely stroll along the water.

Wrigley Field

We’re sure you know how big sports are here in Chicago, but you absolutely have to take the sports lover in your life to Wrigley Field. Located in Wrigleyville, the baseball-themed neighborhood is an awesome way to grab a bite and watch a ball game. It’s a party whether the team wins or loses.

The Chicago Theatre

The Chicago Theatre
Photo Credit: Andrey Bayda

Another iconic Chicago landmark is The Chicago Theatre, located downtown in the Loop. Catch your next play, musical, or concert here and marvel at the incredible atmosphere. Grab your camera, this spot is the perfect classic Chicago photo op for Instagram.

Water Tower Place

This building, located on the Magnificent Mile, is a mixed-use building full of shops and restaurants, somewhat like a mall! With over 100 stores, this 9-story skyscraper is sure to help you check off many of the items on your shopping list.

North Michigan Avenue

Otherwise known as The Magnificent Mile, North Michigan Avenue is one of the most famous shopping districts in the country. This shopping district is home to some of the most well-known department stores, as well as boutiques and dining options. Feel free to splurge here!

Buckingham Fountain

Buckingham Fountain - Chicago, Illinois
Photo Credit: Rudy Balasko

Nestled within Grant Park and along the Lakefront, Buckingham Fountain is one of the many monuments to see and is one of the most picturesque spots in the city. Its Art Deco appeal is one-of-a-kind, and it is also one of the biggest fountains in the world!

Contact

Contributing Writer

Chicago, IL, USA
Lydia Matteoni is an avid plant lover, cat mom, and self-declared Twitter addict. After moving from Pittsburgh to Chicago in 2018, she decided to fully immerse herself in Chicago culture, more specifically, in music and the arts.
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