Best Spots in Chicago
Throughout the world, there are cities that capture the attention of tourists and travelers with their vibrant sights and sounds, historical landmarks, famous architecture, and natural beauty. Often times, these same cities also have an abundance of bars, clubs, cafes, and restaurants to enjoy during the day or night. Even so, it’s not every city that attracts travelers because of its unique qualities. In fact, many people tend to overlook smaller cities because they assume that they don’t have much to offer in terms of attractions. While this may be true for some places, not all small towns lack things to see or do. If you find yourself visiting Chicago as part of your upcoming travels or as a local looking for something new to explore in your own city – keep reading for information about the top spots for the ultimate Chicago bucket list!
1. The Bean
The first item on this list is The Bean, a large, public sculpture created by artist Anish Kapoor. Located in Chicago’s famous Millennium Park, the Bean is a bright, technicolor dream – one that’s sure to inspire and delight. As the centerpiece of Millennium Park, the Bean is one of the city’s top attractions and a must-see for any visitor to Chicago. The Bean is a gorgeous visual treat that’s sure to wow all who see it. As you admire the sculpture, you’ll notice that the Bean changes color as the day progresses – going from black to deep blue to a vibrant yellow/green hue.
2. Museum of Science and Industry
The next item on this list is the Museum of Science and Industry (or “MOSI” for short), a museum located on the south side of Chicago. MOSI is a fascinating place that allows visitors to explore, discover, and experiment with all kinds of science-related subjects and topics. The first notable feature of this place is its architecture; the museum was designed to resemble an industrial facility from the early 1900s. Another major highlight of MOSI is its large number of exhibits and interactive displays. Here, you can explore a wide range of subjects, from aviation to food, and even the human body. MOSI is a great spot for kids and adults alike, though it’s recommended for visitors aged 10+.
3. Buckingham Fountain
Next up is Buckingham Fountain, a popular landmark in the heart of Chicago’s famous Grant Park. Buckingham Fountain is an ornate fountain that’s been a feature of the park since the 1930s. If you visit Chicago in the summertime, you’re sure to notice the fountain is a popular attraction for locals and tourists alike. This is because the fountain is a beautiful sight to see and is even more impressive at night when it’s lit up by colourful lights. Buckingham Fountain is also a great place for a photoshoot, so if you’re visiting with a group or travelling solo and would like to take some pictures, be sure to head there during the day. At night, the fountain is often packed with people!
4. Cloud Gate (AKA “The Bean”)
Next up on the list is Cloud Gate, popularly known as “The Bean”. This is another must-see sight in Chicago, particularly Millennium Park. Cloud Gate is an enormous sculpture that has been polished until it looks like a giant mirror. And, just like The Bean, the lines of this sculpture are created with coloured LEDs that change throughout the day and night. Cloud Gate is a must-see for visitors to Chicago who want to enjoy something visually stunning that’s sure to be a highlight of their trip.
5. Grant Park and the Art Institute of Chicago
The next item on this list is Grant Park and the Art Institute of Chicago – two destinations that are located just south of Buckingham Fountain. While Buckingham Fountain is the focal point of Grant Park, the park itself is a beautiful place to visit and explore. Here, you’ll find a variety of attractions, including the famous Buckingham Fountain and the nearby Cloud Gate. During the summer months, Grant Park is also home to the renowned Chicago Blues Festival, which takes place every year in June. You can also visit the park during the winter months, when it hosts a Christmas tree-lighting ceremony and other festive events. The Art Institute of Chicago is one of the city’s top attractions and the perfect place to explore if you’re interested in the arts. Here, you can view special exhibitions, admire pieces from famous artists, and even view “Saved in Time: The Photography of Sam Shaw” – a special exhibit that features over 40 photos from the city’s past.
6. River Walk
Continuing on with the list, the River Walk is another must-see spot in Chicago. The River Walk is a walking path that follows the shoreline of the Chicago River and is a beautiful place to explore and enjoy. While you can visit the River Walk year-round, it’s worth exploring during the summer months when you can take part in the weekly River Walk Market. Here, you can enjoy various activities and exhibitions, such as arts and crafts, live music, and more. The River Walk is a perfect place to visit with your friends and family, as it’s both scenic and enjoyable. Moreover, the River Walk is home to a variety of shops, cafes, restaurants, and bars, so it’s the perfect place to stop for a snack or meal.
7. Chicago Theatre
Finally, the last place on this list is the Chicago Theatre – a landmark building that’s located in the city’s Downtown area. If you visit the Chicago Theatre, you’ll discover an old-fashioned theatre that has been running since the 1920s. Here, you can see various shows and performances, such as comedians, theatre troupes, music acts, and more. The Chicago Theatre is a must-see for those who are interested in theatre and who want to explore a historic landmark. The theatre is also one of the top destinations in Chicago for Haunted Hoochie, a Halloween event that takes place every October.
Conclusion
Finally, the last item on this list is the conclusion. This list contains 10 of the top spots for the ultimate Chicago bucket list, and while they’re not in any particular order (they’re all equally important), they’re sure to keep you and your friends and family busy for days on end. If you’re visiting Chicago, make sure to hit up some, if not all, of these top spots for the ultimate Chicago bucket list. And if you’re a local looking to do something new and exciting, these places are a great place to start!
