Area Attractions

One of the most venerated art museums in the world, The Art Institute is home to classic masterpieces including A Sunday on La Grande Jatte by Georges Seurat, Nighthawks by Edward Hopper, and American Gothic by Grant Wood.

Peruse thousands of works of post-World War II art, from such notable artists including Andy Warhol, Cindy Sherman, Kara Walker, and Takashi Murakami

Discover an incredible collection of gems, meteorites, fossils, and various artifacts from around the globe in this historic museum. Its piece de resistance is Sue, the largest T. rex specimen ever discovered.

Perched on Lake Michigan, this award-winning aquarium features exhibits on oceans, rivers, lakes, the Caribbean reef, and the Amazon River, with dozens of incredible aquatic species on full display as well.

Go for a walk or jog along Chicago’s glorious waterfront path, which hugs 18 miles of Lake Michigan shoreline and offers spectacular cityscape and museum campus views.

One of Chicago’s largest and most celebrated parks, Lincoln Park is home to a free-of-admission zoo, walking paths, a nature museum, and a string of lively beaches.

Billing itself as a “new kind of town square,” Millennium Park is a gathering spot in the city’s front yard, with impeccable lake views, the iconic Cloud Gate sculpture—known colloquially as The Bean—as well as an outdoor music venue, an ice-skating rink, public art installations, and so much more.

A favorite local beach, Oak Street sits in the shadow of John Hancock Center. Enjoy a lake swim (when lifeguards are on duty), relax in a lounge chair, play volleyball, people watch, and more.

Tuck into upscale-yet-relaxed Italian cuisine at this restaurant along the Magnificent Mile, featuring salumi, pizza, and pasta, alongside cocktails and a large wine list.

Known for its refined and rustic American-meets-European cuisine, this buzzy bar and restaurant also offers patrons incredible views of Millennium Park and a list of beers and award-winning libations.

Billing itself as a “classic American grill,” Remington’s serves up traditional steakhouse and seafood fare in a cozy and stylish setting with park views.