If there is one thing that defines Chicago, it is this city's world-class architecture. There are dozens of tours to guide you around the city's famous buildings, landmarks, public sculptures and lively ethnic neighborhoods. You can see the city by boat, bus, trolley, horse-drawn buggy, on foot or even by fire truck.
World-class museums are another top draw. Exhibits covering history, science, the natural world, the oceans, the heavens and some of the world's finest art are all available for curious minds and enthusiastic gallerygoers. Topping the list are the John G. Shedd Aquarium, the venerable Art Institute of Chicago, the Museum of Contemporary Art, the Field Museum, the Adler Planetarium and Astronomy Museum, and the Museum of Science and Industry.
The Chicago Children's Museum is at Navy Pier, but the pier is not just for kids. People of all ages ride the pier's giant 150-ft/47-m Ferris wheel (the view from the top will inspire you to spend more time on Chicago's lakefront). Navy Pier hosts a plethora of free and fee-based entertainment, amusement rides, restaurants and theaters. It's also home to many tour boats, from speedboat to dog-friendly to dinner cruise. Chicago Architecture Foundation offers the most informative river tour. Afterward, relax in one of Chicago's lovely urban parks. Grant Park is downtown along the lake, Millennium Park is the newest and most impressive, and Lincoln Park has a zoo, pond and conservatory.
Finally, try to get out of downtown for a day. There's a lot to see and do within a short drive or train ride, and Chicago's neighborhoods are what make it one of the world's great cities. Highlights include the homes of Frank Lloyd Wright and Ernest Hemingway in Oak Park, great amusement parks, Brookfield Zoo, the Chicago Botanic Garden and even a Baha'i temple (one of only seven such temples in the world).
Museums
Chicago has a plethora of world-class museums. However, the costs and waiting in long lines can bog down even the heartiest tourist. Try the Chicago CityPass to save time and money. You'll have access to five major attractions at a substantial savings—and you won't have to wait in ticket lines. Each ticket (in a booklet of five) allows one visit per venue—the Sears Tower Skydeck or the Hancock Observatory, plus the Field Museum, Shedd Aquarium, Adler Planetarium and the Museum of Science and Industry—over the course of nine days. You can purchase the CityPass at any participating attraction or order in advance online. US$59 adults, US$49 children. Toll-free 888-645-5324. http://www.citypass.com.
