You'll Regret Not Experiencing These in Chicago as a Tourist!

If your next trip is in Chicago, brace yourself for some unforgettable memories!

This awesome city is always brimming with music, food, art, sports, culture, and more. It’s a place with so much going for it, with numerous world-class attractions on display here.

So what are you waiting for?

Here are five things you must try when visiting Chicago as a tourist.

Best Tourist Spots in Chicago

Navy Pier

It is Chicago’s largest tourist attraction. Once used by the military, it’s now loved by Chicagoans and out-of-towners alike. You can walk up and down the downtown pier that extends into Lake Michigan and take in the skyline views. You can also enjoy a boat ride from the zippy Seadog to Odyssey.

While you’re there, you can visit the lovely children’s museum and the Chicago Shakespeare Theater. There’s also a 200-foot-high Centennial Ferris wheel with enclosed gondolas that you can ride.

It’s advised that you visit this place in summer and stay over at Kasa Living to enjoy a music fireworks show on Wednesday and Saturday evenings. And if you have a rental property in Chicago, you can stay there if it’s empty. And oh, don’t forget to get your property insured! (Just a side tip).

Chicago Lakefront Trail

Chicago lakefront trail is an 18.5-mile linear path located east of Lake Shore Drive. It extends from the far north part of the city to the south side. Some notable cultural landmarks dotting this path are the Museum of Science and Industry, Shedd Aquarium, Adler Planetarium & Astronomy Museum, and the Field Museum.

This paved path sees a lot of joggers and bicyclists during warm weekends. The Lakefront Trail Separation project has made different paths for bikers and pedestrians so you can enjoy it without bumping into anybody.

It’s a great natural attraction in Chicago that’s absolutely free. And the best part is that you’ll easily find metered parking at almost all of the parks along the trail.

360 CHICAGO Observation Deck

Here’s an observation deck built 1,000 feet above the city. You get to ride the former John Hancock Center’s elevator for 40 seconds before you’re transported to 360 CHICAGO Observation Deck on the 94th floor. Upon reaching Chicago’s third-largest building, you get views that stretch out to 80 miles on a clear day.

If you are an adventure seeker, you can try TILT, a glass box that tilts over the top of the building and allows you to enjoy downward-facing views. You can also enjoy a local brew or two at Chicago’s highest bar, BAR 94, featuring spirits by KOVAL Distillery.

Lincoln Park Zoo

Instituted in 1868, Lincoln Park Zoo is America’s oldest public zoo that remains open year-round and doesn’t charge a fee. Set on scenic park grounds, it features a birdhouse, an ape house, and a working model of a five-acre midwestern farm. The lush lawns, smooth walkways, and the beauty of Georgian Revival buildings are all great pleasures for visitors.

You can expect to spot elephants, sea lions, reptiles, Red Wolf, giraffes, and gorillas there. All these animals and more are accommodated in award-winning habitats. It’s a good idea to check their website to know what events and activities are happening in the zoo.

Chicago Architecture Center River Cruise

If you plan to try one of Chicago’s most enjoyable tours, the Chicago Architecture Center River Cruise is an absolute stunner. You’ll be taken along the north and south shores of Lake Michigan. You’ll get to watch and learn about the city’s architectural beauties from the decks of the river cruiser for about an hour and a half.

You can enjoy these tours between late April to mid-November. Don’t forget to book your place in the cruiser in advance because they tend to sell out pretty quickly.