Spend the day lingering over one of the finest collections of art in the world at The Art Institute of Chicago. Born as part of The Chicago World's Fair in 1893, this beloved institution’s formidable selection now showcases more than 260,000 inspired works of art—spanning 5,000 years in history.

Before stepping into the lobby, admire the grand Michigan Avenue façade of the main building, guarded by 2 stately lion statues. Grab a map and plot out an optimal course to peruse the museum’s 1 million square feet (92,903 sq m) of exhibit and installation space—the second largest in the country.

For Post-Impressionism enthusiasts, ponder the mesmerizing landscape of Seurat’s most famous masterpiece, A Sunday on La Grande Jatte and peer into 19th-century Paris through the lens of Gustav Caillebotte's Paris Street; Rainy Day.

Make your way to the American collection and marvel at the iconic Nighthawks diner scene by Edward Hopper before savoring a long look at Grant Wood’s American Gothic. Wood’s sister and dentist served as models for this widely recognized depiction of a Midwestern farmer and his daughter.

Head to the architecturally stunning Modern Wing, stocked with impressive collections ranging from European sculptures and contemporary art to architecture and photography. And don’t forget to venture down to the lower level for an exquisite glimpse into the 68, not-to-be-missed Thorne Miniature Rooms—an enchanting way to round out your visit.

Soak up the Windy City at cloud level. The 94th-floor perch atop the John Hancock Center offers floor-to-ceiling windows showcasing Chicago’s top vistas. Admire the sparkling skyline, gaze across Lake Michigan's glimmering waters, and learn about the city’s famous landmarks.

Board the country's fastest elevator and shoot for the skies. After quick 40 seconds and a chance to catch your breath, Chicago's spectacular sights lay before you. The city's vertical network of masterpieces, including the world-renowned Willis Tower, stretches along the shores of Lake Michigan, while your sprawling view extends past the suburbs—all the way into 4 neighboring states.

Admire the bustling Magnificent Mile and Lake Michigan’s vast blue waters from 1,000 feet (304 m) above. Visit as the sun sets, as a busy Chicago day unfolds, or as the lit-up skyline welcomes nightfall; whenever you choose to go, the expansive glass windows provide the optimal backdrop for sky-high selfies.

If you want to learn about the surrounding landmarks, interactive touchscreens are ready and waiting. Click on any point of interest and hear about the city’s fascinating history, current construction, and array of accomplished architecture.

• Tour the Robert R. McCormick Museum and learn about the man who made the Chicago Tribune a world-class paper
• Visit our programs calendar to see what classes and lectures we are offer
• Gain a new appreciation of the sacrifices made by the men and women of the military at the First Division Museum
• Visit the Idea Garden and take home some fresh new ideas for your yard
• Stroll the Gardens and find a secret spot to soak up some nature
• Enjoy our many water features
• Grab a bench under the Rose Garden pergola and take in the view
• Bring your binoculars and go birding