Shopping
Magnificent Mile
A popular, mile-long stretch between Oak Street and the river; Oak Street is a posh stretch of designer shops such as Louis Vuitton, Prada, Gucci and Versace. Along Michigan Avenue you can find anything you could want, including three glorious malls: Bloomingdales Building at 900 Michigan Avenue, Water Tower Place at 835 Michigan Avenue, and Chicago Place at 700 N Michigan Avenue.
State Street
The best area for shopping in the loop, located between Madison Street and Jackson Boulevard.
Museums
Art Institute of Chicago
There’s a great café for lunch on the outside patio.
The Field Museum
Filled with dinosaurs, Egyptian mummies, and many other Historical wonders.
Shedd Aquarium
Don't miss the very cool dolphin show!
The Museum of Science and Industry
Be sure to check out the U-505 Submarine.
Museum of Contemporary Art
Visit one of the nation’s largest facilities devoted to contemporary art.
Attractions
Buckingham Fountain and Grant Park
Free nightly light show! The fountain has a great water display every hour, on the hour, accompanied by cool lights and music
Sears Tower Sky deck or John Hancock Observatory
Sears is taller but the Hancock is on the lake. Our choice; skip both and enjoy the views while sipping a cocktail at the Lounge on the 96th floor of the John Hancock building
Oak Street Beach/Walking Trail/Lincoln Park Zoo
One Block North of Michigan Avenue you will find a huge sandy beach. Continue North on the walkway to Lincoln Park Zoo
Navy Pier
There is a lot to do throughout this permanent waterfront carnival. Enjoy beautiful evening views from the Ferris wheel or choose from many restaurants, shops or boat rides.
Chicago Architecture River Cruises
This 90 minute narrated cruise departs from Michigan Avenue and offers great views of the city from the river. We recommend you buy your tickets in advance!
Millennium Park
Stroll through the popular gardens and pathways to see the “Cloud Gate” (a.k.a. “The Bean”) and the fountains with human faces that actually spit on you!
Sports
Chicago Cubs are in town and there is a Friday, Saturday and Sunday game.