Visitors can experience Chicago’s famous hallmarks — architecture, culture, and the lakefront — throughout its historic downtown. As the dynamic heart of the city, downtown Chicago bustles with attractions and nonstop activity.
Downtown Chicago guide
There are endless things to do in downtown Chicago — world-renowned museums, iconic public artwork, top attractions, historic theatres, and so much more. The downtown area is made up of an array of dynamic neighborhoods, including the Loop, South Loop, River North, and Streeterville.
Insider tips: a local’s favorite things to do
Some of my favorite things to do near downtown Chicago reflect the city’s rich history and experiences you can’t get anywhere else.
- Oak Street Beach is located right on the edge of downtown. Seeing skyscrapers framing the sand while sunbathing will never not be magical.
- The Blues Heaven Foundation is filled with storied Chicago blues history, from the Chess Records Studio used by Muddy Waters, Chuck Berry, and The Beatles, to artifacts like Bo Diddley’s signature hat.
- Before “The Bean” became Chicago’s pop culture landmark, it was the Picasso sculpture in Daley Plaza. I love listening to concerts and browsing vendors under this historic symbol during Daley Plaza events.
Consider these things to do across all of the exciting areas of downtown Chicago.
What museums are in downtown Chicago?
Chicago hosts an eclectic array of museums, from world-class institutions to more specialized, intimate repositories. Whether you have an entire day or just an hour, there’s a museum to fit your schedule and tastes.
Art museums
- Art Institute of Chicago: One of the most renowned art museums in the world, the Art Institute boasts extensive collections of Impressionist art, photography, prints, sculptures, and beyond.
- Museum of Contemporary Art: Enjoy innovative exhibits and installations from global artists at this contemporary art mecca.
- Museum of Contemporary Photography: Located on the Columbia College Chicago campus, this free museum pulls from its massive permanent collection.
More museums and cultural institutions
- Adler Planetarium: Explore the depths of space at the country’s very first planetarium.
- Field Museum: Home to SUE, the largest T. rex ever discovered, the Field Museum houses almost 40 million artifacts and specimens.
- Shedd Aquarium: One of the oldest continually operating aquariums in the U.S., the Shedd connects visitors with endangered species and habitats.
- American Writers Museum: The first museum in the country dedicated to American writers and their works, with interactive exhibits showcasing American storytelling.
- Driehaus Museum: This stunning Gilded Age mansion displays decorative arts and historic architecture.
Explore more: Check out museums and cultural institutions throughout the city.
What are top attractions in downtown Chicago?
Whether you’re a theatre lover, an architecture fan, or just an urban stroller, downtown Chicago supplies plenty of options. Explore these top things to do in downtown Chicago.
Observation decks
- Skydeck Chicago: Ascend to the top of Willis Tower and take in the iconic Chicago skyline from 103 stories over the city.
- 360 Chicago: Gaze at panoramic views of The Magnificent Mile and the Chicago skyline at this panoramic observation deck.
Waterfront activities
- Architecture boat tours: An essential Chicago experience, hop aboard to discover the city’s skyline and skyscrapers by boat.
- Navy Pier: Stroll the Lake Michigan shoreline and enjoy amusement rides, concerts, shopping, and restaurants at this beloved landmark.
- Art on the MART: See the dazzling scenes of the world’s largest permanent digital art projection, displayed each weekend along the riverfront.
Theatres and music venues
- Broadway In Chicago: See exciting and critically acclaimed musicals, dramas, and dance productions at this group of historic theatres.
- The Hand & The Eye: This immersive magic experience takes guests on a journey through a historic downtown mansion.
- House of Blues: The iconic music venue hosts touring acts from around the world.
Explore more: Check out tours and attractions throughout the city.
Where can I go shopping in downtown Chicago?
With a retail heritage that boasts the creation of famed department stores, alongside modern malls and top brands, Chicago offers unforgettable shopping adventures.
Downtown Chicago shopping districts
- State Street: This iconic shopping corridor boasts famous department stores like Macy’s on State Street, plus iconic sites like the Chicago Theatre marquee.
- The Magnificent Mile: This legendary retail district stretches down North Michigan Avenue with a selection of high-end shops and immersive experiences like the new Harry Potter Shop.
Downtown Chicago malls, department stores, and more
- Macy’s on State Street: Housed inside a landmark building, this iconic shopping destination is home to The Walnut Room, one of the city’s oldest restaurants.
- Block 37: This multi-story shopping mall on State Street houses favorites like Banana Republic, Zara, and Akira.
- The Shops at North Bridge: A sleek shopping mall with brands like Hugo Boss, Nordstrom, and M.A.C. Cosmetics, as well as restaurants and cafes.
- 900 North Michigan Shops: Comprising the first seven levels of a downtown skyscraper, this chic space includes high-end shopping and a popular food hall.
- Water Tower Place: A landmark shopping mall that features an array of stores, including American Girl, Free People, Hollister, and Express.
- Roosevelt Collection Shops: This open-air mall in the South Loop offers contemporary stores like H&M, Old Navy, and Victoria’s Secret.
- BUDDY Chicago: Shop Chicago-based artisans and makers inside the historic Chicago Cultural Center
Explore more: Check out shopping and boutiques throughout the city.
What parks and outdoor activities are in downtown Chicago?
There’s a reason why Chicago is called the “city in a garden.” In between the skyscrapers and architectural wonders, green spaces and waterfronts blanket the city.
Parks and gardens
- Millennium Park: The city’s signature downtown green space provides lots of fresh-air fun, including The Bean, Crown Fountain, and the Pritzker Pavilion for free concerts and festivals.
- Lurie Garden: Located inside Millennium Park, this tucked-away garden offers a moment of zen.
- Maggie Daley Park: Scale the climbing walls, play mini golf, or glide around the skating ribbon at this interactive family favorite.
- Grant Park: The city’s “front yard” is home to iconic festivals and events like Lollapalooza and Taste of Chicago, plus the landmark Buckingham Fountain.
Waterfront activities
- Lakefront Trail: This sprawling pedestrian path borders downtown Chicago and offers stunning Lake Michigan views.
- Chicago Riverwalk: Amble along this 1.25-mile riverfront path and take in the aquatic beauty. Rent a kayak, grab a seat at a bar or restaurant, and visit the McCormick Bridgehouse & Chicago River Museum to learn about the city’s famous movable bridges.
- Ohio Street Beach: Stretch out in the sand and enjoy the view of Lake Michigan’s sapphire waves.
Explore more: Check out parks and outdoor areas throughout the city.
What are some free things to do in downtown Chicago?
Chicago is home to one-of-a-kind activities and attractions, but that doesn’t mean that everything costs a lot. Enjoy a sizable array of free things to do in downtown Chicago.
Free things to do indoors
- Chicago Cultural Center: Roam through this beautiful landmark building and view the world’s largest Tiffany dome, art exhibits, films, and performances for free.
- City Gallery in the Historic Water Tower: Step inside the scenic 19th-century Water Tower landmark and see a rotating display of local photographers.
- Harold Washington Library Center: Get lost in the largest public library building in the world and enjoy events, art exhibits, and the elegant allure of the glass-enclosed Winter Garden.
Free things to do outdoors
- Daley Plaza: See the famous Picasso sculpture in Daley Plaza and enjoy free performances, DJ sessions, farmers markets, concerts, and food fests.
- Buckingham Fountain: See one of the largest fountains in the world. Sit in one of the chairs surrounding the landmark and enjoy the serene views.
- Wabash Arts Corridor: Take a self-guided tour of one of Chicago’s most diverse public arts programs and view vibrant murals and installations on buildings and parking lots.
Explore more: Check out free and cheap things to do and see throughout the city.
