Chicago Attractions & Activities

Sightseeing

Address: 100 Linden Ave, Wilmette, IL 60091-2879

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Beautifully manicured gardens frame this magnificent, white-stone structure, which was completed in 1953. Its soaring, 191-foot dome has an airy atmosphere, courtesy of a lacy piercework exterior. The Middle Eastern-inspired structure is one of only seven Baha'i temples in existence and the only one present in the...

Address: 141 W Jackson Blvd, Chicago, IL 60604

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[Due to national security concerns, only prearranged group tours are allowed to visit the viewing center. The lobby visitor center is, however, open to the general public.] The Chicago Board of Trade, the largest exchange in the world, holds court in an impressive Art Deco building. Visitors may watch the frenzied...

Address: Various locations, Chicago, IL

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Want to embark on a truly unique sightseeing excursion? Try locating markers placed by the Department of Cultural Affairs that commemorate the notable men and women who have lived and worked in the Windy City. From artists and architects to politicians and scientists, famous folks from all walks of life find...

Address: Cermak Rd at S Wentworth Ave, Chicago, IL 60616

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One of Chicago's most unique neighborhoods, Chinatown offers Far Eastern charm in the Midwest. Featuring scores of terrific Chinese and Cantonese restaurants and bakeries, the neighborhood has a special place in the hearts (and stomachs) of folks who visit. Shoppers also enjoy cozy, family-owned bookstores and gift...

Address: 400 S State St, Chicago, IL 60605

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This beautiful main branch of Chicago's Public Library system opened in 1991. Built in Neoclassical style with high columns and vaulted ceilings, the building soars 10 stories and is capped by a majestic Winter Garden. The collection includes nearly 2,000,000 books and almost 14,000 periodicals. After touring the...

Address: 875 N Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60661

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After 40 seconds in John Hancock's elevator, visitors are transported many stories above Chicago. From there, the city's third-largest building offers views that stretch out to 80 miles on a clear day. Food and drink are available in the restaurant and lounge, and informational exhibits are on display in four...

Address: Taylor St at Morgan St, Chicago, IL 60607

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Folks undertaking strict diets should probably skirt this busy Chicago neighborhood, where tempting aromas of deep dish pizza fill the air. Little Italy, in fact, is perennially popular for its cozy, family-operated restaurants and unique neighborhood groceries. You'll also find two prominent Catholic churches in the...

Address: 600 E Grand Ave, Chicago, IL 60611

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Since 1916, Navy Pier has been home not only to the military but to scores of special attractions. Now purely commercial, the pier offers everything from an IMAX theater to performances by a Shakespeare troupe. You can view dancing in a grand ballroom, ride the splendor of a fifteen-story ferris wheel (a replica of...

Address: 600 E Grand Ave, Navy Pier, Chicago, IL 60611

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Up the ante on sightseeing with Odyssey's dinner cruise packages. The company offers yacht tours along the shores of Lake Michigan, and incredible views of the city are standard, especially at night. Lunch and brunch packages are also available on the vessel, which features three enclosed decks and an upper, open-air...

Address: 233 S Wacker Dr, Chicago, IL 60606

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Standing 1454 feet high, this skyscraper is easily Chicago's most dominant structure. Visitors can shoot to the top of the 110-story building via a 70-second elevator ride and catch magnificent views into Indiana, Michigan, and Wisconsin from the 103rd floor skydeck. Informational exhibits for both adults and children...