Chicago is an amazing city, full of life and color, and architectural beauty. So if you are visiting Chicago, you need to experience it all. And if not all of them, here are 5 of the best and must-see tourist attractions in this beautiful city.
Tourist Attractions In Chicago
1. Millennium Park
A trip to Chicago would remain incomplete without a visit to Millennium Park and checking out the iconic “Bean”. This place is often shown in movies and TV shows to give viewers the hint that things are taking place in Chicago. You can even catch various shows and events at the park surrounding the Bean at different times of the year.
2. Garfield Park Conservatory
The Garfield Park Conservatory is one of the biggest botanical conservatories in the US. It is home to thousands of species of plants that are housed in 8 indoor gardens. In addition to these 8 indoor gardens, there are 10 acres of outdoor gardens as well.
Each indoor garden houses different types of plants. There is one with desert plants like cacti and succulents. Then there is one with ferns, one with palm trees, and so on. There is also the Elizabeth Morse Genius Children’s Garden that educates kids about the various plants in the gardens. Entry into the garden is free. So do take this opportunity to enjoy the greenery.
3. Skydeck Chicago
The 110-storied Willis Tower is the second tallest building in the US, and on its 103rd floor is the Skydeck Chicago. The Skydeck is visited by around 2 million people each year, all of whom go there to catch a breathtaking view of the entire city. From 103 stories above the ground, the cityscape looks completely different. It will feel as if you were touching the clouds and floating among them. There is also a glass floor platform where you can see all the way down below. Although a little scary, it is indeed a thrilling experience.
The best time to visit the Skydeck is mid-June to mid-September. That is when the Chicago weather is ideal for warm-weather activities, as well as getting a clear view of the city because of the clear skies. Despite picking this time of the year, you would still want to check in on the weather forecast before visiting the Skydeck or any part of the Chicago area.
There is always a chance of light rain, as well as heavy showers. So stay updated on an app that uses advanced radar technology to retrieve weather data, and then interpret that information to provide you with real-time forecasts.
4 Lincoln Park Zoo
The Lincoln Park Zoo is situated a couple of miles north of Lincoln Park. This 35-acre zoo houses around 200 species of animals including hippos, gorillas, seals, zebras, and sloths. You will get to witness these animals in their natural habitats, and perhaps learn a new thing or two about them.
The zoo will feel more exciting if you have kids with you. Kids love watching these animals play around and act naturally. They will like learning about how animals act when they are in their natural habitats.
You could even sign them up for a Zoo Camp where they can get to learn even more about the animals, as well as do some hands-on activities. Entry tickets cost as little as $5, but you do have to pay parking fees after the first half-hour of parking. That can range from $20 to $35 each day.
Pick a sunny day for this visit. Otherwise, you might not get to enjoy all the animals in their usual habitats. Once again, consult with your trusty weather app to know the condition of the skies before setting out for the zoo.
5 Immersive Van Gogh Exhibit
You must check out the Immersive Van Gogh Exhibit at the Germania Club Building in Old Town, Chicago if you are a fan of Van Gogh or art and aesthetics in general. The exhibit houses animated versions of some of Van Gogh’s most iconic paintings. These artworks are projected on the building’s 35-foot-tall walls. The 30,000-square feet gallery produces a once-in-a-lifetime view of Van Gogh’s paintings in a way you have never seen before.
From the Starry Nights to the Bedroom in Arles, the exhibit will be a feast for your eyes and ears. Different classical, as well as electronic soundtracks, accompany the artworks as they are projected on the walls of the gallery. Ticket prices range from $40 to $70. Although the prices may seem steep, the 35-minute show is worth it.
So pack your bags and book your tickets. Chicago is waiting, and it will not disappoint.
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