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1. Chicago Architecture River Cruise
2. Chicago River 90-Minute Architecture Tour
3. Chicago River 45-Minute Architecture Tour from Magnificent Mile
4. Gangsters and Ghosts Tour in Chicago
5. Chicago Architecture Center River Cruise aboard Chicago's First Lady
6. Chicago Favorites Food & Walking Tour plus FREE Bike/Kayak Rental
7. Skydeck Chicago Admission Ticket
8. Chicago Crime and Mob Bus Tour
9. Chicago in a Day: Food, History and Architecture Walking Tour
10. Big Bus Chicago Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Tour
11. Chicago Walking Brewery Tour in Malt Row
12. 360 CHICAGO Observation Deck Admission (Hancock Center)
13. Chicago Gangster and Food Walking Tour
14. Chicago Architecture Walking Tour: Dazzling Interiors of the Loop
15. Chicago Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours
16. Chicago Lake and River Architecture Tour
17. Chicago City Minibus Tour
18. Field Museum of Natural History Admission Tickets
19. Chicago Buffet Lunch Cruise on Lake Michigan
20. Chicago CityPASS®
21. Chicago's Chinatown Food and Walking Tour
22. Chicago Guided Cocktail Cruise
23. Private Shooting and Spinning DIY Painting Class in Chicago
24. Chicago Craft Brewery Barrel Bus Tour
25. 2-Hour Guided Segway Tour of Chicago
26. BYOB Spray Paint 'n' Sip at Studio W.I.P. Chicago
27. Chicago Pizza Tour
28. Best of Chicago Small-Group Tour with Skydeck and River Cruise
29. Chicago Architecture Walking Tour: The Underground Pedway & Secrets of the Loop
30. Chicago's Delicious Donut Adventure by Underground Donut Tour
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28 Fun Things to Do in Chicago
Chicago shines for its world-class museums, various shopping districts, vibrant neighborhoods and lively nightlife venues. Explore the city's innovative roots at the Museum of Science and Industry, where you can walk inside the U-505 submarine.
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Millennium Park and Cloud Gate Millennium Park and Cloud Gate free
U.S. News Insider Tip: Construction around the Cloud Gate sculpture will limit the public's access to this top tourist attraction until spring 2024. While you might not be able to snag a selfie with "The Bean," many other attractions are available within the park. – Cortney Fries
A first-time visit to Chicago isn't complete without a stop at Millennium Park. Situated in the Loop just north of the Art Institute of Chicago , this 25-acre space is used to showcase cutting-edge art, architecture and landscaping; it also acts as a backdrop for concerts and festivals. Most visitors come to Millennium Park to see the Crown Fountain and Cloud Gate, better known as "The Bean." Designed by Spanish artist Jaume Plensa, the Crown Fountain features two 50-foot towers that face each other at opposite ends of a shallow reflecting pool. The towers' LED screens project the faces of 1,000 different Chicago residents, which are perfectly aligned with spouts so that it appears they are spitting water on passersby. The water flows mid-spring through mid-fall, while the faces are projected year-round. Cloud Gate – created by British-Indian artist Anish Kapoor – is a 110-ton bean-shaped sculpture forged from stainless steel. The Bean's elliptical shape reflects the Chicago skyline. A quintessential Chicago souvenir is a photo of your reflection in The Bean.
Grant Park and Buckingham Fountain Grant Park and Buckingham Fountain free
U.S. News Insider Tip: If you're visiting Chicago Sept. 8 through 10, head to Grant Park early – around 11 a.m. to avoid the lines – for the Taste of Chicago. Enjoy the park and eat the best cuisine the city has to offer. Admission is free. – Sarah Estime
Often referred to as "Chicago's front yard," Grant Park is an approximately 313-acre swath of green space that starts at the eastern edge of the Loop and stretches down to the northern fringes of the Near South Side. First-time visitors should plan on spending a fair amount of time in Grant Park: This is where you'll find several of Chicago's most popular things to do, including The Field Museum , the Art Institute of Chicago and Shedd Aquarium . ( Millennium Park also rubs elbows with the northwest corner of Grant Park.) Baseball diamonds, flower gardens, walking paths and wide-open grassy terrain are available as well.
Art Institute of Chicago Art Institute of Chicago
Home to one of the country's most impressive collections of impressionist and post-impressionist art (plus works from numerous other genres), the expansive Art Institute of Chicago features nearly 300,000 works from all over the world in its permanent collection. You'll find pieces created in the Byzantine era, as well as paintings completed just a few decades ago. Highlights include Jacob Lawrence's "The Wedding," Georgia O'Keeffe's "Sky above Clouds IV" and Grant Wood's "American Gothic." The Art Institute's exhibits also include all sorts of intriguing artifacts, from European armor to the Thorne Miniature Rooms, which showcase interior design and furnishings in Europe and America from the late 13th to early 20th centuries. In addition to the permanent collection, the Art Institute hosts traveling exhibitions covering a variety of subjects and showcasing a diverse array of artists and genres.
The Art Institute of Chicago earns high praise from recent visitors, thanks in part to its impressive collection. Art enthusiasts particularly commend the museum's impressionist collection, which features pieces from famous artists like van Gogh, Monet and Renoir.
Popular Tours
Chicago Architecture River Cruise
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Chicago River 90-Minute Architecture Tour
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The Magnificent Mile The Magnificent Mile free
U.S. News Insider Tip: The Magnificent Mile, known for its world-class shopping, also has plenty to offer architecture buffs. Book a walking tour with the Chicago Architecture Center and hear the untold stories of North Michigan Avenue's architectural icons. Tours start at $30. – Sarah Estime
For shopping at more than 450 retailers within walking distance in downtown Chicago, make your way to The Magnificent Mile. This portion of Michigan Avenue – which stretches between Lake Shore Drive and the Chicago River – beckons to shopaholics with department stores and luxury retailers like Bloomingdale's, Marcus, Macy's, Tory Burch and Nordstrom. Additionally, The Magnificent Mile is home to several top-notch eateries and luxury hotels, including The Drake , the Sofitel Chicago Magnificent Mile and the InterContinental Chicago Magnificent Mile .
Navy Pier Navy Pier free
Extending out onto Lake Michigan, Navy Pier offers plenty in the way of family-friendly entertainment. The first thing you'll spot once you set foot on the pier is the towering Ferris wheel (which stands 196 feet tall); you'll also find a drop tower and a carousel. Once the kids have had their fill of thrill rides, you can spend some time cruising the Chicago River on a sightseeing or speedboat tour or spend a few hours exploring the Chicago Children's Museum , with hands-on exhibits ranging from treehouses to fire trucks.
But you don't have to be a kid to enjoy a visit to Navy Pier. Grown-ups can catch a show at the Chicago Shakespeare Theater, flex some credit card muscle at a variety of shops or grab a drink at the Navy Pier Beer Garden. And be sure to check Navy Pier's website for a list of events: Concerts are often held here, and from Memorial Day to Labor Day (as well as New Year's Eve), impressive fireworks displays light up the skies on Wednesday and Saturday nights. Many of the city's top Segway tours offer special summer evening tours to the pier to catch the semiweekly fireworks show.
Lincoln Park Zoo Lincoln Park Zoo free
U.S. News Insider Tip: North Avenue Beach is a short walk over the North Avenue Bridge when you park at the southern end of the Lincoln Park Zoo lot. Explore the zoo, then stroll over to the beach for an afternoon in the sand. – Cortney Fries
Located 2 miles north of the Loop in the North Side neighborhood of Lincoln Park, the Lincoln Park Zoo is home to nearly 200 species, such as zebras, sloths and hippos. Visitors can view the zoo's furry (or scaly) friends in their natural habitats: Check out the gorillas in the sprawling, award-winning Regenstein Center for African Apes, or head to the Kovler Seal Pool to get up close and personal with harbor seals. Seal training and feeding occurs daily at 11:30 a.m. and 2 p.m.
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360 CHICAGO Observation Deck 360 CHICAGO Observation Deck
One of Chicago's most notable attractions is its skyline, and one of the best places to experience it is at the 360 CHICAGO Observation Deck. Formerly known as the John Hancock Observatory, 360 CHICAGO towers 1,000 feet over The Magnificent Mile from its location on the 94th floor of the John Hancock Center (or 875 North Michigan Avenue as its more formally known). Encased by floor-to-ceiling windows, 360 CHICAGO boasts expansive views of the city; on a clear day, you can see four states. Meanwhile, the interactive screens will help you identify different landmarks that appear in your panorama.
For a different point of view (and an adrenaline rush), test out 360 CHICAGO's TILT. In this mechanized room, visitors hold on to handlebars as the top of the room's windows extend outward, tilting you toward bustling North Michigan Avenue down below. For another memorable way to immerse yourself in the views, try ClouldWalk, a 3D art experience introduced in 2022. Mural artist Nate Baranowski created an optical illusion on the observation deck that makes visitors feel as though they are standing on a crane platform in the clouds. Should you prefer to experience the view without feeling your heart skip a beat, grab a cup of coffee, a glass of wine or a snack at the cafe and bar, or look for souvenirs in the gift shop.
The Field Museum The Field Museum
U.S. News Insider Tip: After hours of museum hopping, grab a kid-approved lunch at Kim & Carlo's Hot Dog Cart. The no-frills stand offers everything from vegan dogs to the traditional Chicago hotdog. Enjoy your lunch on the water. – Sarah Estime
This extensive natural history museum occupies half an acre of Grant Park 's Museum Campus and houses exhibits that showcase artifacts from multiple eras and destinations, making it a must-see for kids (as well as any fans of the "Indiana Jones" movies). Some of the most popular parts of the museum include the "Inside Ancient Egypt" exhibit, which features a reconstruction of a three-story replica of an Egyptian tomb, one of the largest collections of mummies in the United States and interactive representations of life on the Nile. There's also the Restoring Earth area in the Abbott Hall of Conservation, where visitors can learn more about sustainability through hands-on activities. But no visit to The Field Museum would be complete without some quality time with SUE, the facility's T. rex who just happens to be the largest, most complete T. rex ever discovered. SUE is 40 feet long from nose to tail and boasts 55 terrifying teeth.
360 CHICAGO Observation Deck Admission (Hancock Center)
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Chicago Architecture River Cruise Chicago Architecture River Cruise
A visit to 360 CHICAGO or Skydeck Chicago will give you a good overview of the city's layout. But if you want to learn more about Chicago's sky-high buildings, tag along on an architecture river cruise. During a river cruise, you'll gain great views and historical insight about well-known structures like the Wrigley Building, the Leo Burnett Building and the Fulton House.
Though several companies, including Wendella Sightseeing Co. and Chicago Line Cruises, offer architecture river cruises, most travelers recommend climbing aboard a Chicago's First Lady Cruises boat with a Chicago Architecture Center docent. You'll learn tons of information about the area's architecture, plus catch superb skyline photo-ops.
Maggie Daley Park Maggie Daley Park free
U.S. News Insider Tip: There are many restaurant options around the park, but Wildberry Pancakes & Café is a satisfying brunch spot. Choose from creative pancake options, a variety of omelets, crepes, sandwiches and salads. Go hungry and leave happy. – Cortney Fries
Opened in 2014, Maggie Daley Park is an expansive property located just east of Millennium Park in downtown Chicago. The 20-acre green space offers numerous activities for both kids and adults alike, including a climbing wall, a mini-golf course, a 3-acre playground, a public garden, an ice-skating skating "ribbon" during the winter and scooter and rollerblade rentals in the summer, not to mention a tennis facility. Whatever you choose to do, you'll get to enjoy fantastic views of the Chicago skyline. Recent visitors loved that the park is free to access, and they noted that the attraction is excellent for family fun.
Museum of Science and Industry Museum of Science and Industry
U.S. News Insider Tip: Mid-November through the first week of January, experience the annual "Christmas Around the World" and "Holidays of Light" exhibits. Volunteers decorate more than 50 trees in celebration of holiday traditions from around the globe. – Cortney Fries
Chicago's extensive Museum of Science and Industry is the Western Hemisphere's largest science museum, showcasing more than 35,000 artifacts and a variety of hands-on exhibits meant to inspire creativity. The museum resides in the 14-acre former Palace of Fine Arts, which hosted the famous World's Columbian Exposition in 1893. The fair brought together some of the world's greatest scientific minds, including Thomas Edison and Nikola Tesla, who at the time were competing to prove which type of electricity – direct current or alternating current – was more effective.
Wrigley Field Wrigley Field
U.S. News Insider Tip: If you're visiting during the holiday season, don't miss Winterland at Gallagher Way for family-friendly rides and games inside and around the ballpark. Christkindlmarket Wrigleyville is free to enter. Enjoy festive shopping and international food and beverage selections. – Cortney Fries
Chicagoans take their love of sports very seriously. So, for a real taste of Chicago culture, head north of the Loop to Wrigley Field to watch the Chicago Cubs play ball at the Friendly Confines. History buffs will also appreciate this sports treasure, which first opened in 1914 and holds the honor of being the second-oldest Major League Baseball stadium in the country (after Fenway Park in Boston ).
Shedd Aquarium Shedd Aquarium
U.S. News Insider Tip: If you're visiting in the summer (June through August), check out Jazzin' at the Shedd. You can enjoy jazz music and drinks with incredible views from the terrace. Plus, the lights dim in the aquarium for a unique experience. – Elizabeth Von Tersch, Senior Editor
Shedd Aquarium is one of the world's largest indoor aquariums, housing around 32,000 creatures. While you're here, you can feel stingrays float beneath your fingers, listen to sea lions bark and learn all about a variety of turtles. A visit to Shedd Aquarium will lead you through a cornucopia of habitats, where you'll find additional animals like penguins, piranhas, sharks and beluga whales. Or, for an additional fee, you can participate in specialty experiences like animal encounters, feeding experiences and virtual reality.
Skydeck Chicago Admission Ticket
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Chicago Favorites Food & Walking Tour plus FREE Bike / Kayak Rental
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The Chicago Riverwalk The Chicago Riverwalk free
U.S. News Insider Tip: During the summer, there is nothing better than watching the boats go by as you relax at City Winery Riverwalk Wine Garden. Rent a retro boat from Chicago Electric Boat Company and cruise the river yourself. – Cortney Fries
When the weather warms up in Chicago, there are few better places to enjoy the outdoors than the Chicago Riverwalk. The 1.25-mile pedestrian walkway on the south bank of the Chicago River is the perfect place to take a stroll and observe the city skyline. Plus, there are numerous activity options to enjoy directly on the water, such as a boat or kayak tour . If you prefer to explore on your own two feet, visit the public gardens and art displays, or grab a meal at a popular restaurant or bar overlooking the Chicago River. And if you want to learn more about the river's unique history, check out the McCormick Bridgehouse & Chicago River Museum, which celebrates the city's famous movable bridges. What's more, Art on theMART – a massive digital art projection on the facade of theMART (formerly The Merchandise Mart) – is best viewed from the Riverwalk.
Skydeck Chicago at the Willis Tower Skydeck Chicago at the Willis Tower
More than 1.7 million people make their way to Willis Tower's Skydeck Chicago each year, and it's easy to see why. Occupying the 103rd floor – that's nine floors higher than 360 CHICAGO – of the 110-story Willis Tower (the third-tallest building in North America after One World Trade Center and Central Park Tower), Skydeck Chicago boasts breathtaking views of the city. Visit on a sunny day and you may be able to see far beyond Chicago's borders to Indiana, Michigan, Wisconsin and other parts of Illinois.
The highlight for most visitors is the Ledge. Extending 4.3 feet beyond the building's exterior, this platform is made entirely of glass – even the floor. Travelers also liked the video screens that show what it would be like to stand 103 floors above other Chicago attractions, including Wrigley Field and Millennium Park . However, long lines quickly form for Skydeck Chicago, so plan on arriving early or purchasing a Chicago CityPASS, which covers expedited admission into the attraction. Or, simply pay extra for expedited entry, which features an express line to the elevators. For the best views, it's advised that you visit just after opening or after sunset. If you'd like to enjoy the sunset from the tower, plan on arriving 30 to 45 minutes before sunset to ensure you have enough time to get through the elevator line and up to the top.
North Avenue Beach North Avenue Beach free
Located in Lincoln Park directly on Lake Michigan, North Avenue Beach is one of the most popular swimming spots in Chicago. The sandy beach has volleyball courts, plenty of space for visitors to stretch out and multiple things to do near nearby. Plus, it offers spectacular views of the city skyline. Beachgoers can also find restaurants, sports rental companies, restrooms and more inside a 22,000-square-foot beach house adjacent to the shore.
Recent visitors said the beach is a nice spot that is perfect for relaxing, biking and running, but they warned that it can get busy on warm summer days.
The Second City The Second City
If you've seen a sketch comedy show or hilarious movie in the last 40 years, it's likely that someone from The Second City appeared in it. The Second City is one of the world's most iconic improvisational comedy theaters, and it has helped launch the careers of numerous famous comedians, including Bill Murray, Tina Fey, Keegan-Michael Key, Steve Carell and Stephen Colbert. If you're in the mood for a laugh, check out a live show on any night of the week at any number of The Second City's seven stages (which are all housed in its facility at the northwest corner of North Avenue and Wells Street in Old Town).
Recent reviewers said that everyone in their group could not stop laughing during the shows, which typically last 90 minutes to two hours. Ticket prices vary by the show and date, but run anywhere from $30 to $100.
The Chicago Theatre The Chicago Theatre
Aside from Cloud Gate and Buckingham Fountain , The Chicago Theatre's red and yellow marquee is perhaps one of the city's most recognizable landmarks. Illuminating North State Street at the northern edge of the Loop, The Chicago Theatre first opened its doors in 1921 as an extravagant movie theater and performance venue. Throughout its history, the theater has hosted such big names as Duke Ellington, Diana Ross and Prince, in addition to screening blockbuster flicks. Though the theater fell into disuse in the 1970s, new management and a full renovation in the 1980s helped return the venue to its former glory. Today, the theater is still used for a variety of comedic, theatrical and musical performances.
According to past patrons, the theater's historic appearance enhances the overall experience of catching an event here. Just remember, cameras and video cameras, including those on cell phones, cannot be used during tours or performances. If you're not in town for a show, consider signing up for one of the venue's guided tours. Tour tickets cost $20 for adults and $15 for kids ages 12 and younger. Tours are available Monday and Tuesday at noon and 2 p.m. and last about an hour.
Chicago in a Day: Food, History and Architecture Walking Tour
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Chicago Children's Museum Chicago Children's Museum
Located at Navy Pier , the Chicago Children's Museum offers temporary and permanent play-based exhibits for babies, toddlers and kids ages 4 and older. Founded in 1982 by the Junior League of Chicago as a response to cuts in arts programming, the museum was originally housed in two hallways of what is now called the Chicago Cultural Center . Today, children can dig for "teeth" and "bones" in "Dinosaur Expedition," climb through tunnels of "Cloud Buster," test their STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Math) skills in the Tinkering Lab and paint, draw or sew in the art studio.
Recent visitors appreciated the interactive, hands-on exhibits, which they recommend for young children.
American Writers Museum American Writers Museum
U.S. News Insider Tip: Across the street from the museum, you will find the first Nutella Café, where you can savor French and Italian dishes featuring the heavenly hazelnut spread. The gelato is roll-your-eyes-to-the-back-of-your-head good. – Cortney Fries
The first museum in the United States dedicated to celebrating the diverse voices and influence of American authors, the American Writers Museum is an interactive journey through more than five centuries of written and spoken word. This relatively small museum, which opened in 2017, features thoughtful and reflective exhibits that you can touch, smell, hear and see.
DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center
U.S. News Insider Tip: If driving in Chicago isn’t your thing, consider taking the No. 55 bus to the museum. The bus drops you off within just a five-minute walk of the museum. – Sarah Estime
The DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center, named for Jean Baptiste Pointe DuSable, the entrepreneur who is credited with founding Chicago, is a must-visit for anyone looking to learn more about African American history in the city of Chicago and America. It celebrates its 62nd anniversary in 2023, and is full of thought-provoking exhibits, including those that showcase fine art created by influential African American artists and historical materials. Note that visitors hoping to enjoy “The March” exhibit, an immersive experience depicting the historic March on Washington and Martin Luther King Jr.'s "I Have A Dream" speech, can go in groups of no more than four at a time.
Adler Planetarium Adler Planetarium
The first planetarium in the Western Hemisphere, the Adler offers unrivaled insights into our solar system. Indeed, "Our Solar System" is one of its permanent exhibits, along with "Mission Moon," "The Universe: A Walk Through Space and Time," "Telescopes: Through the Looking Glass" and "Astronomy in Culture," among others. Its facilities include the Doane Observatory, which has the largest telescope available to the public in the Chicago area, through which visitors can glimpse celestial objects trillions of miles away. The Adler also has three full-size theaters – the 3D Universe Theater, the Definiti Space Theater and the Grainger Sky Theater – in which it screens programs like "Destination Solar System," "Planet Nine" and "One World, One Sky: Big Bird's Adventure."
Space enthusiasts invariably find the Adler's presentations both informative and entertaining, if somewhat pricey. Most visitors suggest setting aside a few hours to explore the various exhibits and shows. Travelers recommend maximizing your parking expenses by also visiting the Shedd Aquarium or The Field Museum , which also sit on the Museum Campus. Reviewers also appreciated the Lake Michigan and skyline views as seen from the planetarium.
Offbeat Street Art Tour Offbeat Street Art Tour
U.S. News Insider Tip: If you’re looking for unique souvenirs from your Chicago trip, consider The Goddess & Grocer for its gift baskets. – Sarah Estime
In Chicago, you can find eye-catching street art nearly everywhere. As you sightsee, you’ll be greeted with unique, thought-provoking art on the sides of buildings and underneath bridges. If you’re looking for an experience that walks you through the history and cultural significance of Chicago's street art scene, look no further than the Offbeat Street Art Tour. On this two-hour tour, you’ll discover new artists and learn the inspiration behind their colorful works, along with some interesting neighborhood history. You’ll also be able to take great photos along the way.
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The Green Mill The Green Mill
U.S. News Insider Tip: For visitors looking for a bite to eat after a night of jazz music, head across the street to Damera for an authentic Ethiopian meal, or down the block to the Fat Cat for a burger. – Sarah Estime
Best known for serving gangsters during its speakeasy days, the Green Mill invites travelers to step back in time. The long bar that runs along the club's left side sits in front of smokey mirrors and is peppered with decor reminiscent of the Prohibition era. The entire place is cast in a warm reddish glow while old-time jazz plays from the jukebox. The bar – one of Al Capone’s favorites – has no set menu; order whatever cocktails you like (though the chocolate martinis are delicious). There is also a selection of beer and wine.
Garfield Park Conservatory Garfield Park Conservatory free
One of the biggest botanical conservatories in the United States, the Garfield Park Conservatory houses thousands of plant species in eight indoor gardens, as well as 10 acres of outdoor gardens.
Each indoor space has a distinct focus. The Aroid House features varieties of its namesake, which are among the most popular houseplants; it also features sculptures by the world-renowned glass artist Dale Chihuly made specifically for the Aroid House. As its name suggests, the Desert House boasts cacti and succulents, while the Fern Room arranges ferns around an indoor lagoon. The Palm House, the conservatory's largest structure, recreates a tropical landscape complete with more than 70 palm trees. Meanwhile, the Elizabeth Morse Genius Children's Garden aims to educate little ones about plants. Horticulture Hall displays a range of flowers and plants and also has tables where visitors can take a seat and have a rest.
The Richard H. Driehaus Museum The Richard H. Driehaus Museum
Occupying a restored mansion built in 1883, the Richard H. Driehaus Museum presents exhibitions relating to architecture, art and design from the 19th century to the present day.
The Nickerson Mansion containing the museum boasts an entrance hall made with so much marble that the building was nicknamed "the Marble Palace." (The museum takes its current name from the philanthropist who founded it in 2003.) Its reception room features intricate woodwork as well as items from the museum's permanent collection, such as a Tiffany Studios lamp that dates back to the early 1900s. Meanwhile, the front parlor displays Renaissance Revival furniture original to the Nickerson Mansion. The dining room, fitted with elaborately carved oak, houses a silver punch bowl first exhibited at the 1893 World's Columbian Exposition. Other highlights from the permanent collection include a gem-encrusted inkstand, a ceramic clock, multiple chandeliers, paintings, sculptures and an array of decorative items.
Chicago Cultural Center Chicago Cultural Center free
The "People’s Palace," a popular destination occupying a full city block in the downtown Loop neighborhood, is a stunning architectural marvel as well as a venue for a great deal of cultural programming, including art exhibits and concerts. Among its features are one of the largest Tiffany stained-glass domes in the world (made with around 30,000 individual pieces of glass) and a marble lobby adorned with mosaics made of gold, glass and precious stones.
Visitors invariably rave about the impressive structure and its elaborate decorations, saying it’s worth it to pop in for free to see the ornate ceiling.
University of Chicago University of Chicago free
Founded in 1890 by John D. Rockefeller, the University of Chicago is an urban research university in the city's Hyde Park neighborhood close to Lake Michigan. Currently, it has more than 7,000 undergraduate students and more than 10,000 graduate, professional or other students as well as nearly 2,400 full-time faculty members.
Impressive as those statistics may be, they aren't reasons to visit. But the university's 217-acre campus, which was designated a botanic garden in 1997, and its mixture of English Gothic and modern architecture are. Some of the newer structures were designed by celebrated architects like Ludwig Mies van der Rohe and Eero Saarinen, while some of the older ones are adorned with gargoyles that date back to the 1893 World Columbian Exposition. The university welcomes visitors to explore its campus, and provides information about its architecture on its website. Those who've visited before routinely call the buildings diverse and beautiful, and many recommend stopping by in the spring when flowers bloom across campus, or fall when amber leaves transform the grounds.
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The best day trips from Chicago
Explore small-town breweries, bakeries and artisan shops when you embark on these easy day trips.
You don’t have to go far or spend a lot of money to enjoy a nice escape from Chicago. A simple day trip offers a fun change in scenery and is cheap and easy. Luckily, there are many exciting destinations within driving distance or accessible by train that provide the perfect getaway. Spend an afternoon soaking up the rays on beaches along Lake Michigan, go hiking near Chicago in a state park or sample a variety of beers and cheeses up north in Wisconsin. The attractions are endless, ranging from amusement parks and Japanese gardens to museums and historic lighthouses. So whether you’re low on PTO or just trying to keep travel costs down, check out our guide to the best day trips from Chicago to explore everything the Midwest has to offer.
RECOMMENDED: The best weekend getaways from Chicago RECOMMENDED: The most unique day trips from Chicago RECOMMENDED: The best Chicago staycation ideas
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Top day trips from Chicago
1. Milwaukee, WI
Driving time from Chicago: One and half hours
Getting to the Cream City requires a painless drive, but if you plan to fully indulge, ditch the car and hop on the BYOB-friendly Amtrak, which will deposit you in the heart of the city in an hour and a half. Start your day with a stack of pancakes and a round of mimosas at Sweetdiner . Meander around the Historic Third Ward and hop into home decor shops like The Home Market or fun specialty shops like MOD GEN . Seek refuge and treats at the Milwaukee Public Market , where you’ll find a hodgepodge of the city’s best vendors, including blends from The Spice House , seafood from St. Paul Fish Company , hand-dipped chocolate from Kehr’s Candies and vino from Thief Wine Shop & Bar . Before catching a train home, walk off the day with a trek along to Lakeshore State Park , a unique 22-acre urban oasis that juts out from the shoreline.
2. Fennville, MI
Driving time from Chicago: Two hours and 20 minutes
Many Chicagoans wait until fall to venture up to western Michigan’s fruit belt. But there’s a compelling argument to be made for hitting the area a couple of months earlier, when the countryside is tranquil and stone fruits like peaches and cherries are ripe for picking. The petite town of Fennville is a great base for tasting the region’s sweet bounty in a host of iterations. Start off with a slice or two of the good stuff at local favorite Crane’s Pie Pantry , a bakery, restaurant and winery housed in a 150-year-old barn. From here, a five-minute drive will deliver you to Virtue Cider , founded by former Goose Island brewmaster Greg Hall. Reserve a spot for a guided trail tour that includes a glass of cider. Finally, make your way to Salt of the Earth for wood-fired pizza and seasonal dishes made from scratch with local and sustainable ingredients.
3. South Bend, IN
Driving time from Chicago: One hour and 45 minutes
There’s more to South Bend than Fighting Irish football. Check out the city’s cultured side with an afternoon visit to the History Museum , a stately Victorian mansion that was once home to the family of local industrialist and inventor James Oliver. From there, browse the local bounty at the South Bend Farmers' Market , where you can shop everything from artisan breads and doughnuts to farm-fresh fruits and veggies. When hunger strikes, head to Café Navarre , an upscale dining spot housed in a repurposed '20s-era bank.
4. Madison, WI
Driving time from Chicago: Two and half hours
Located on an isthmus between two lakes, Madison is a city that’s filled with beautiful sights—in addition to all the cheese and beer you’ve heard so much about. Begin your visit with a scenic tour of the college town on two wheels. You can rent a bike from dozens of BCycle stations , allowing you to make 30-minute trips. The Capital City trail winds around Lake Monona (the smaller of the two lakes) and provides plenty of picturesque stops for an Instagram snapshot of the skyline. Now, onto that cheese and beer: To drink like a local, head for The Malt House , a “craft beer oasis” that dates back to the Civil War era and boasts taps from local brewers like New Glarus and Central Waters. Head for Capitol Square to visit Fromagination , where you’ll find artisanal Wisconsin cheeses and knowledgeable cheesemongers to help you make a decision. Take an evening to visit the Memorial Union Terrace , a lakefront space on the University of Wisconsin campus where you can enjoy brats, beer and live music during the summer months.
5. Gurnee, IL
Driving time from Chicago: One hour
Located right off I-94, the village of Gurnee is a shopping and entertaining hub that draws 23 million visitors each year—including plenty of nearby Chicagoans. Start your day by fueling up with the brunch buffet at The Chocolate Sanctuary , where you can pile your plate with housemade bagels with lox, shrimp cocktail and chocolate-dipped strawberries. Spend some time digesting while you stroll around Gurnee Mills , which hosts more than 160 stores selling everything from sporting goods to home decor. Thrill seekers won’t want to miss Six Flags Great America , where you’ll find high-speed roller coasters and intense drop rides. On a hot day, you’ll want to plunge down the water slides and splash around the wave pool at Hurricane Harbor. If you can resist indulging in funnel cakes or turkey legs at the park, save your appetite for Primo Italian American Cuisine , where the dinner menu features black truffle ravioli and a tomahawk ribeye. Those visiting on a Friday can end the night with live music in The Parlor, Primo’s speakeasy-style lounge.
6. Oglesby, IL
Driving time from Chicago: Two hours
It may not be the mighty Colorado, but Oglesby’s Vermillion River offers the best rafting you’re liable to find within a quick jaunt from Chicago. A 9.5-mile run with Vermillion River Rafting will shoot you over 14 rapids, most of them class I and II. After you’ve handed over your paddle, hop in the car and head up the road to Starved Rock Lodge , where you can catch your breath and lunch on casual fare like burgers or a strawberry pecan salad at the Back Door Lounge. When you feel sufficiently refreshed, hit the hiking trails at adjacent Starved Rock State Park to spot dramatic waterfalls and explore cool glacial canyons. Unwind from your nature adventures by grabbing a nostalgic treat at The Rootbeer Stand or check out "farm to foam" at The Lone Buffalo by Tangled Roots Brewing Company in nearby Ottawa.
7. St. Joseph, MI
Golden, sandy beaches and a picturesque shoreline attract visitors to St. Joseph and its twin city Benton Harbor. You can spend an entire day out on the water with a rental from Blue Water Boat Rentals , or walk over to the St. Joseph Lighthouses — guided tours are available. If you’re hungry, you won’t have to wander far for good grub, as Silver Beach Pizza —located inside a century-old train depot—slings dependable tavern-style pies. Oenophiles, hit up a variety of vineyards and tasting rooms on the Lake Michigan Shore Wine Trail for some fine Midwestern pours.
8. Harbor Country, MI
Driving time from Chicago: One and a half hours
Just across the Indiana border, Michigan’s lakeside “Harbor Country” is only an hour and a half drive from downtown Chicago. Start at the north end, in Sawyer, where you can visit the original taproom of Greenbush Brewing Co. Pair a pour of Star Chicken Shotgun IPA with some barbecue or Cajun fare. Up next, take the Red Arrow Highway down the lakeshore for great shopping, like hunting through the Harbert Antique Mall . Head back inland to the artsy community of Three Oaks to finish your day at Journeyman Distillery . A $13 tour and tasting nets you samples of 12 different spirits made in the converted corset factory. Plan to sit down for a meal at the distillery’s Staymaker restaurant afterward; you’ll need some food before getting back on the road to Chicago.
9. Kenosha, WI
Driving time from Chicago: One hour and 15 minutes
About an hour north of Chicago sits this Wisconsin town filled with a plethora of things to do. Within a mile radius of the downtown area are five museums—you can gaze at dinosaur fossils and learn about the link between the prehistoric reptiles and birds at the Dinosaur Discovery Museum , or explore how the Civil War affected people on the western front at the Civil War Museum . During spring to fall, visit the Southport Lighthouse and climb 72 steps to the top for unparalleled views of Kenosha and, on a clear day, the Chicago skyline. If it’s summertime, you must check out the Bristol Renaissance Faire , where you’ll find a recreated 16th century port city populated with fairgoers dressed as knights, maidens and much more. After you’ve worked up an appetite, head over to Frank’s Diner , an almost century-old restaurant set inside an old railway car. And don’t forget to grab some cheeses and New Glarus beers at the famed Mars Cheese Castle on the way home.
10. Rockford, IL
Situated less than 100 miles northwest of Chicago, Rockford is a surprisingly plentiful road trip destination for families. If the kids are in tow, start the day with a visit to the Discovery Center Museum , which boasts more than 300 hands-on exhibits focused on everything from light and art to color and electricity. For a dose of fresh air and nature, wander through the Anderson Japanese Gardens , a breathtaking 12-acre oasis that's filled with winding pathways, koi-filled ponds, and colorful plants. Everyone in the car will find something to love at Prairie Street Brewing Company , where bar food is elevated through dishes like Korean street tacos, Cajun mac ‘n cheese and wild mushroom quesadillas. Pick up a few cans of Screw City Light—with notes of fresh-baked bread—to take home and extend your day trip.
11. Cedarburg, WI
Located just 20 miles north of Milwaukee, Cedarburg is an ideal place to wind down and take things slow. The charming small town is brimming with old-world architecture, friendly Midwesterners and culture galore. If you can, plan your trip around one of the town’s seasonal events, with options including the Wine & Harvest Festival and Oktoberfest —all of which offer ample opportunities to meet local vendors and sample their wares. When you’re not rubbing elbows with the close-knit community at a street fest, make time to walk around the Cedarburg Art Museum , which hosts exhibitions from Wisconsin artists inside a former home that was designed in 1898. If wine bars are more your scene, head to Cedar Creek Winery , where you can sip your way through a $10 wine fight or enjoy a seasonal wine and cheese tasting for $25. On your way out of town, make one last stop at Amy’s Candy Kitchen to grab a hand-crafted caramel apple for the road.
12. Kankakee County, IL
Driving time from Chicago: One and half hours
The Kankakee River has been a treasured area for centuries, occupied by the Illini and Miami tribes in the 17th century. Kankakee River State Park surrounds the river for about 11 miles, totaling to 4,000 acres of protected land. It’s a popular spot for fishing, canoeing, hiking and bicycling. Frank Lloyd Wright fans can visit the B. Harley Bradley House , built in 1900 and billed as the architect’s first Prairie Style home. Bring the kids to Perry Farm Park , which features a children’s museum, nature trails, playground and picnic areas.
13. Oak Park, IL
Drive time from Chicago: Half an hour
You can't call yourself a Frank Lloyd Wright fanatic until you've spent the day in Oak Park, where you'll find the famed architect's home and studio as well as a smattering of other Prairie-style abodes he designed. If it's your first time, book a tour through the Frank Lloyd Wright Trust . Now that you've worked up an appetite, grab brunch or dinner at Maya del Sol , where margaritas flow like water and the ceviche is tops. Have time for one last stop? Grab a seat at Kinslahger Brewing Company , a small but mighty taproom pouring lagered brews.
14. Grand Rapids, MI
Driving time from Chicago: Three hours
Summer and fall are peak seasons to visit Grand Rapids, but you’d do best to plan ahead and book your visit during ArtPrize , an international art competition in September and October when art is displayed in museums, bars, public parks and hotels. Regardless of when you go, Grand Rapids has you covered on the beer front with dozens of breweries—so be sure to bring a designated driver. First stop: Brewery Vivant for poutine and a German- or Belgian-style beer. A quick 10-minute drive will put you in the middle of downtown, where you should find parking and hoof it a while. Stop at Madcap Coffee for a post-beer pick me up before heading to City Built Brewing for creole bites and a range of beers for every palate. Finally, grab your car and head to Butcher's Union for a dinner complete with prime cuts of beef and pours of whiskey.
15. New Buffalo, MI
Driving time from Chicago: One hour and 15 minutes
A charming beach town in Harbor Country, New Buffalo is popular during the warmest months. Escape the crowded Chicago lakefront and head for the sandy shores of the Mitten State, where the water’s warmer and clearer. Soak up some rays and then stroll down Whittaker Street to peruse cute shops and art galleries. Book a spa treatment at The Harbor Grand Hotel for a re-energizing experience; adventurers can rent a kayak or paddleboard from Third Coast Paddling and go exploring on the Galien River. When you need to refuel, grab a seat on The Stray Dog Bar & Grill’s bustling patio or sink your teeth into a big, juicy burger from Redamak’s . But make sure to save room for unique ice cream flavors, like Mackinac Island Fudge and Jacked Up Tennessee Toffee, at Oink’s Dutch Treat .
16. Monroe, WI
If your cheese preferences embrace the pungent, you’ll find yourself in good company in charming Monroe, Wisconsin, gateway to a region teeming with cheesemakers specializing in varieties like Swiss and nostril-tingling Limburger. For some context, begin your day at the National Historic Cheesemaking Center , where you’ll get a crash course in south central Wisconsin’s cheesy history. Next, head to the Alp and Dell cheese store to browse more than 100 varieties of cheese, mostly from local producers, and all the wine, beer and sausage you’d want to pair them with. When you’re ready for lunch, make your way to the unapologetically old-school Baumgartner’s Cheese Store & Tavern on Monroe’s pleasant courthouse square and order the infamous specialty: a slab of Limburger on rye crowned with mustard and sliced red onions. For a chaser, stroll around the block to Minhas brewery.
17. Lemont, IL
Driving time from Chicago: One hour
The Village of Lemont developed as part of the construction of the canal linking the Illinois River and Lake Michigan, which also led to the discovery and development of the limestone quarries used to supply materials for iconic Illinois buildings like the Chicago Water Tower. Today, you can hop on the Metra and visit the Heritage Quarries Recreation Area , where you can walk, bike or fish along the I&M Canal (just be sure to look out for the many water birds drawn to the area). If you’re hoping for a bit more excitement, visit The Forge: Lemont Quarries . The adventure park features laser tag, a zipline and ropes courses for all ages and skill levels. Afterwards, head to the village’s historic downtown area to visit Pollyanna Brewing Company and try The Full Lemonty, their signature golden ale. You can also find the brewery’s beer on tap at Wooden Paddle , where you can watch your wood-fired pizza and other small plates being prepared before they hit your table.
18. Holland, MI
Driving time from Chicago: Two and a half hours
Once a stronghold of Calvinist separatists who arrived here from the Netherlands in the mid-19th century, the town of Holland continues to celebrate its Dutch heritage. To go Dutch for the day, start off with a breakfast of flaky, almond paste-filled bankets and house-roasted coffee at deBoer Bakkerij . Afterward, head across town to Veldheer Tulip Gardens , where five million of the eponymous flowers explode into bloom each spring. When hunger hits, make your way downtown for lunch and a beer at New Holland Brewing , one of the Midwest’s best-loved brewpubs. (Not sure what to sip on? Look for limited-release variations on brewery fave Dragon’s Milk, a bourbon barrel-aged stout, enriched with ingredients like cocoa nibs and peanut butter.) Wrap up your trip with a leisurely stroll around Windmill Island Gardens , a picturesque park centered around a 250-year-old Dutch windmill purchased by Holland residents in the 1960s.
19. Long Grove, IL
Driving time from Chicago: 45 minutes
Located 35 miles northwest of Chicago, Long Grove was founded in the 1800s by German farmers, and many of the town’s original homes and buildings are still standing. Try to visit Long Grove during one of its many delicious festivals such as Apple Fest or Strawberry Fest , when local chefs and other vendors flock to the historic downtown area to offer numerous versions of the spotlighted food. Stop by Buffalo Creek Brewing and have a beer in their Bavarian-style taproom or in the Biergarten, which hosts live music and food trucks during the summer. Before you hit the road, swing by Long Grove Confectionery to pick up some peanut brittle or their signature Giant Myrtle, made with roasted pecans or cashews topped with caramel and milk or dark chocolate.
20. Lake Geneva, WI
Lake Geneva has long been an accessible weekend destination for wealthy suburban Chicago families. But no matter your budget, a quick retreat to this idyllic vacation town is sure to be a blast. The town rests on Geneva Lake, an 8-square-mile body of water made for summertime fun. First things first: Get out on the water. Rent a kayak or paddleboard from Clear Water Outdoor , or take a wake surfing private lesson at Gage Marine . If you can’t get your sea legs, trek a portion of Lake Geneva’s 21-mile circumference on the Geneva Lake Shore Path and gawk at the century-old mansions that rest on the shore. When you’re hungry, Egg Harbor Café and Simple Cafe , both in the town center, offer delicious, no-fuss diner eats. If you’re feeling spendy, Baker House , a 19-century mansion-turned-hotel, offers a popular Champagne brunch with waterfront views.
21. Evanston, IL
Driving time from Chicago: 40 minutes
If you're short on time but craving a day away from the city, hop on the Purple Line and head to Evanston. The sweet college town is located just a few miles north of Chicago, which means you can explore the day away and still be home for dinner. Start the morning at the otherworldly Baha'i House of Worship , an architectural gem located a few miles north in Wilmette. Wander the pristine grounds before stepping inside the functioning temple, one of the oldest of its kind in the world. Up next: Fill up on colorful macarons, cakes and doughnuts at Bennison's Bakery before checking out the outdoor exhibition at the Block Museum of Art and taking a free art walk to see the 16 sculptures placed in public spaces on Northwestern University’s campus. Don't get back on the train without grabbing a brew from Temperance Beer Co. If you have the time, take a $10 brewery tour that includes samples and a souvenir pint glass.
22. Michigan City, IN
If you’re car-less, this small city is a perfect option for a day trip from Chicago. Hop on the Amtrak at Union Station and you’ll be in Michigan City in just over an hour. Or, take the South Shore Line and you can hop off right at the Indiana Dunes National Park , 15 miles of gorgeous sand dunes on the southern shore of Lake Michigan. Michigan City proper, too, is filled with great things to do. Visit Washington Park where you can picnic on the beach or check out the lions, wolves and other animals from around the world at the Washington Park Zoo . Hungry? Walk over to Shoreline Brewery , a gem of a microbrewery with a rotating selection of beers on tap and tasty pub grub. You can also sample local flavors at Fiddlehead , which serves high-quality comfort food including fried lake perch and grass-fed beef burgers.
23. Galena, IL
Driving time from Chicago: Three hours
While this city on the Mississippi River might be best known for its resorts, you don’t need to stay the night to enjoy its mix of historical sites and outdoor activities. Start your day with brunch at Otto’s Place , where you can enjoy biscuits and gravy featuring housemade buttermilk biscuits and locally sourced sausage with a Bloody Mary or mimosa. Head across the Galena River to Nuts Outdoors and rent an electric bike to ride along the trails and into town. Take a tour of the city’s proudest attraction, the Ulysses S. Grant Home , which was gifted to the 18th president when he returned from fighting in the Civil War. If you want to learn more, you can visit the Galena & U.S. Grant Museum , which also features an offsite working blacksmith shop. That history is also on display at Galena Brewing Company , where you can sip Ult’s Dark oatmeal stout while listening to live music and feasting on a bison burger or a giant pretzel with beer cheese and house mustard.
24. Fairbury, IL
Observant Chicago foodies may have noticed a couple of names popping up over and over again in the menu sourcing notes that have become de rigueur in these locavore-obsessed times: Kilgus Farmstead (for dairy) and Slagel Family Farm (for a range of meats). Turns out, our favorite chefs’ favorite suppliers sit just a three-mile hop from each other in the central Illinois town of Fairbury. On an hour-long tour of Kilgus , you’ll get acquainted with the farm’s herd of sweet, doe-eyed Jersey cows, learn the ins and outs of milking, and sample freshly spun soft-serve. Bring a cooler and hit the on-site store for Kilgus dairy and meat as well as goods like eggs and honey from nearby producers. Slagel has teamed up with chefs from notable Chicago restaurants to put on a program of farm dinners throughout the summer and fall. After an interactive tour and a butchering demo, you’ll retire to a picturesque barn for the main event, a family-style, BYOB meal prepared by the guest chef.
25. New Glarus, WI
Driving time from Chicago: Two and a half hours
Chances are you’ve already heard of New Glarus thanks the town’s eponymous brewery — which offers self-guided tours Monday through Friday and a lovely beer garden—but there are plenty of reasons to visit “America’s Little Switzerland” other than beer. This charming, walkable town features a variety of tempting shops, hearty restaurants and themed events celebrating the town’s Swiss history and culture like the Heidi Folk Play Festival in June . Be sure to grab a nut horn at the New Glarus Bakery , and get your fondue fix at the Chalet Landhaus restaurant. If you visit between May and October, don’t miss the seasonally-open Swissland mini golf course, featuring Alpine-themed obstacles and friendly goats.
26. Spring Green, WI
Driving time from Chicago: Three and a half hours
Despite boasting a population just shy of 1,700 people, this town west of Madison has a lot going on. Most visitors are here to visit one of two sprawling complexes: Taliesin , the estate and studio of legendary architect Frank Lloyd Wright, or the infinitely weirder House on the Rock , the brainchild of artist Alex Jordan where curious travelers can explore rooms on rooms of infinity mirrors, dollhouses, nostalgic cars, circus ephemera and the world’s largest indoor carousel. When you’ve had your fill of architecture or funky assorted collections, get a taste of traditional Wisconsin hospitality at Arthur’s Supper Club . Theater buffs can take in a show at the American Players Theatre .
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Things to do in Chicago March 7-13: The Mix
Lyric opera’s ‘aida,’ a dance version of ‘alice in wonderland’ and a juanes concert are among the highlights of the week ahead..
Casey Hoekstra (from left) plays Stanley Kowalksi, Amanda Drinkall is Blanche DuBois Alina Taber plays Stella Kowalski in “A Streetcar Named Desire” at Paramount’s Copley Theatre.
“Aida” — shown in the Washington National Opera production — will be presented at Lyric Opera of Chicago.
Scott Suchman
Set in a steamy New Orleans, Tennessee Williams’ classic 1947 drama “A Streetcar Named Desire” is the story of hard-drinking Stanley Kowalski, his long-suffering, devoted wife Stella, and her lonely, vulnerable sister, Blanche DuBois. Winner of the Pulitzer Prize, “Streetcar” is one of the most critically acclaimed plays of the 20th century and Williams' most popular work. Casey Hoekstra, Amanda Drinkall and Alina Taber star. Jim Corti and Elizabeth Swanson co-direct. From March 13-April 21 at Paramount Theatre’s Copley Theatre, 8 E. Galena, Aurora. Tickets: $40-$55. Visit paramountaurora.com .
Giuseppe Verdi’s “Aida” is the next production at Lyric Opera. A captive princess, Aida (Michelle Bradley), torn between love and loyalty, must choose between patriotic duty and love for an enemy hero, Radames (Russell Thomas). Frances Zambello directs with Enrique Mazzola conducting the classic opera for the first time, adding the 100 th title to his repertoire. From March 9-April 7 at Lyric Opera, 20 N. Wacker. Tickets: $59+. Visit lyricopera.org .
Lincoln Center Theater’s critically acclaimed staging of Lerner & Loewe’s “My Fair Lady,” adapted from George Bernard Shaw’s play, stars Anette Barrios-Torres as Eliza Doolittle and Jonathan Grunert as Professor Henry Higgins. Directed by Bartlett Sher with tour direction by Samantha Saltzman. From March 12-17 at Nederlander Theatre, 24 W. Randolph. Tickets: $27-$98. Visit broadwayinchicago.com .
Chase Wolfe and Ellie Baker star in “Pretty Woman: The Musical.” Credit: Matthew Murphy for MurphyMade
Matthew Murphy for MurphyMade
“Pretty Woman: The Musical” is based on the popular romantic film and features a score by Bryan Adams and Jim Vallance with a book by Garry Marshall and J. F. Lawton. Jerry Mitchell directs. From March 12-17 at CIBC Theatre, 18 W. Monroe. Tickets: $30-$100. Visit broadwayinchicago.com .
Music Theater Works presents “The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee,” a musical about a group of unique students competing for a spelling bee championship while also finding the joy of being oneself. Christopher Pazdernik directs and choreographs. From March 7-31 at North Shore Center for the Performing Arts, 9501 Skokie Blvd., Skokie. Tickets: $39-$106. Visit musictheaterworks.com .
“Putnam Country Spelling Bee.”
Anthony Robert La Penna
Theatre 68’s Ronnie Marmo returns to perform two shows in rotating repertoire. He’ll star, along with his collaborator Thomas F. Evans, in the Chicago debut of Samuel Shem and Janet Surrey’s drama “Bill W. and Dr. Bob” (March 7-April 14), the true story of the founders of Alcoholics Anonymous. Marmo also will reprise his hit solo performance in “I’m Not a Comedian … I’m Lenny Bruce” (March 14-April 12), his play about the legendary comedian and his untimely death. At Biograph Theater, 2433 N. Lincoln. Tickets: $69-$79. Visit theatre68.com/tickets .
Ronnie Marmo in “Bill W. and Dr. Bob.”
Joey Mataratz Photo
Through a collaboration with Music Theatre International and The Estate of Stephen Sondheim, theater companies have been invited to produce their own customizable Sondheim tributes. Theo Ubique Cabaret Theatre takes up the challenge with its Sondheim Tribute Revue, which features personal salutes from performers and tunes from many of Sondheim’s musicals including “Sweeney Todd,” “Company,” “Anyone Can Whistle” and more. From March 8-April 28 at Theo Unique Cabaret Theatre , 721 Howard, Evanston. Tickets: $30-$59. Visit theo-u.com .
City Lit Theater presents “Two Hours in a Bar,” a double-header of new one-act plays: Kristine Thatcher’s and Larry Shue’s “Waiting for Tina Meyer,” about two best-friend actors waiting in a bar for a woman who sent one of them a note backstage earlier that evening, and Kingsley Day’s musical “Text Me,” a 21 st century look at the problem of meeting people. From March 8-April 21 at Edgewater Presbyterian Church, 1020 W. Bryn Mawr. Tickets: $34. Visit citylit.org .
BrightSide Theatre stages Ira Levin’s comedic thriller “Deathtrap,” in which a playwright and his much younger former student attempt to kill each other. Jason Harrington directs. From March 8-24 at North Central College, 31 S. Ellsworth, Naperville. Tickets: $37. Visit brightsidetheatre.com .
Albany Park Theater Project reprises “Port of Entry,” its hit show from last summer that invites audiences to step inside the real-life stories of immigrants and refugees who live in the Albany Park neighborhood. The immersive piece is staged in a courtyard apartment building recreated within a 1929 three-story warehouse. From March 8-June 16 at 3547 W. Montrose. Tickets: pay-what-you-can. Visit portofentrychicago.com .
Ilana Glazer
Emma McIntyre/Getty Images
Fans missing the on-point humor of the great series “Broad City” will want to catch one of its stars, Ilana Glazer, who is coming to town with her new stand-up show. After the pressure of pumping out comedy sketches with co-star Abbi Jacobson for the critically acclaimed series, Glazer found refuge in a different medium. “I have never enjoyed stand-up this much,” she says. At 8 p.m. March 13 at Chicago Theatre , 175 N. State. Tickets: $39+. Visit ticketmaster.com .
MOMIX presents “Alice.”
Sharen Bradford Photo
Momix, the company founded by Moses Pendleton and known for its inventive and physical works, presents “Alice,” a piece inspired by the classic “Alice in Wonderland.” The family-friendly adventure follows Alice’s journey in Momix's magical and mysterious way. At 7:30 p.m. March 9 at Auditorium Theatre, 50 E. Ida B. Wells. Tickets: $30+. Visit auditoriumtheatre.org .
The Joffrey Academy of Dance presents “Winning Works,” new pieces by the winners of the 14 th annual Winning Works Choreographic Competition : Jainil Mehta, Martha Nichols, Manoela Gonçalves, Houston Thomas and Xavier Núñez. Three winning pieces from previous years will also be performed. From March 8-17 at Museum of Contemporary Art, 220 E. Chicago. Tickets: $30. Visit joffrey.org .
“Liaison” is an international exploration of tap dance featuring Chicago Tap Theatre, Tapage of France and Tap Ole of Spain. From March 8-10 at The Den Theatre, 1331 N. Milwaukee. Tickets: $25+. Visit chicagotaptheatre.com .
Celebrate International Women’s Day with the world premiere of “Ouroboros,” Nejla Yatkin’s solo, interactive dance-theater piece, inspired by her nomadic ancestry, which incorporates original composition, multiple languages, live music and fusion of dance styles. At 7 p.m. March 8-10 at Links Hall, 3111 N. Western. Tickets: $16-$42. Visit linkshall.org .
World Ballet Series presents the classic ballet “Swan Lake.” At 6 p.m. March 10 at Genesee Theatre, 203 N. Genesee, Waukegan. Tickets: $40-$95. At 7 p.m. March 12 at Rialto Square Theatre, 102 N. Chicago, Joliet. Tickets: $55-$85. Visit ticketmaster.com .
Eliades Ochoa.
Massi Giorgeschi Photo
On his new album “Guajiro,” Cuban guitarist and singer Eliades Ochoa, one of the stars and founders of Buena Vista Social Club, showcases his singular voice and unique style and sound, which is rooted deep in Cuban tradition but with an appeal that is timeless and universal. At 8 p.m. March 8 at Symphony Center, 220 S. Michigan. Tickets: $35-$125. Visit cso.org .
The Eagles, now on what band members are saying is their final tour, welcome special guest Steely Dan for an evening of two very different styles of classic rock. At 7:30 p.m. March 8-9 at United Center, 1901 W. Madison. Tickets: $270+. Visit ticketmaster.com .
Grammy-winning Colombian musician Juanes, one of today’s leading Latin rock artists, tours behind his recent album, “Vida Cotidiana.” Called “stunning” by Rolling Stone, the album reflects on his relationship with his wife and children and the issues that affect his country. At 8 p.m. March 7 at Chicago Theatre, 175 N. State. Tickets: $69+. Visit ticketmaster.com .
Charlie Parr.
Shekky Mosman Photo
Singer, songwriter and guitarist Charlie Parr is known for performances that are magnetic and mesmerizing. He’ll offer a preview of new songs on his upcoming album, “Little Sun” (out March 22), which continues his unique brand of folk-blues. Roots music duo Two Runner (Paige Anderson and Emilie Rose) open the show at 5 and 8 p.m. March 9 at Old Town School of Folk Music, 4545 N. Lincoln. Tickets: $26. Visit oldtownschool.org .
Disney Princess: The Concert features Broadway stars — Susan Egan (“Beauty and the Beast”), Syndee Winters (“The Lion King”) and Hiba Elchikhe (Aladdin”) — performing favorite princess songs from many Disney animated films. They’ll also share behind-the-scenes stories from their time on stage and screen. At 2 p.m. March 10 at Rosemont Theatre, 5400 N. River Rd., Rosemont. Tickets: $23+. Visit ticketmaster.com .
The Adler Planetarium sky show “Niyah and the Multiverse” follows an imaginative Chicago pre-teen on a Afrofuturist journey though the multiverse. As Niyah digs into her questions about space and time, she’s joined by her friend Luis and a curious cat named Bast. Features an original script by Chicago writers Taylor Witten and Ytasha Womack. Ongoing at Adler Planetarium, 1300 S. DuSable Lake Shore Dr. Admission: $19, $8 for children 3-11; sky shows an additional $9. Visit adlerplanetarium.org .
Amtrak to cut back on Detroit-to-Chicago trips to allow for track improvements
Amtrak will be limiting its operations between Detroit and Chicago this year for track improvements.
Beginning May 6, the Wolverine Trains will be temporarily suspended Monday through Thursday until Oct. 18.
Trains 350 and 353 will operate on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays except for the following holidays when service will operate normally:
- Memorial Day: Monday, May 27
- Juneteenth: Wednesday, June 19
- Independence Day: Thursday, July 4
- Labor Day: Monday, September 2
How to take the train in Michigan: Amtrak ticket prices, lines, amenities
The Blue Water Trains 364 and 365 will also work normally and serve Wolverine Stations in Southwestern Michigan, according to Amtrak . Trains 351, 352, 354, and 355 will also operate normally.
Transportation | Kennedy construction is back, and more lane…
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Transportation
Transportation | kennedy construction is back, and more lane closures are coming this week, the second stage of the kennedy rehab is underway, and more construction is coming.
Chicago’s mild spring brought a likely unwelcome development for commuters on the Kennedy Expressway Tuesday morning, as lane closures kicked in and the second stage of the I-90 rehab got underway earlier than usual.
The reversible express lanes running down the center of the highway closed around 9 p.m. Monday and will remain inaccessible to drivers until fall. That meant two fewer lanes for commuters heading toward downtown during the morning rush Tuesday.
And more lanes will be closing this week. Left lanes in both directions will close near downtown for work on the large underpass near Hubbard Street, as will the ramp from westbound Randolph Street onto the outbound, or northbound, Kennedy.
Even though work began earlier than expected, the lanes still will likely remain closed through late fall, Illinois Department of Transportation spokeswoman Maria Castaneda said. She declined to give a specific reopening date, saying it could shift earlier or later depending partly on weather. During the first year of the project, lanes began closing in late March and began reopening in early December.
The work, which also involves closing the left lane on the inbound, or southbound, Kennedy and Edens expressways near the junction where the two join, is the second phase of a $150 million rehab of the expressway .
The project stretches along 7.5 miles of the 10-lane expressway, from the I-94 split south to downtown. It includes work on 36 bridges and the reversible express lane access system, replacing overhead signs, upgrading lighting, paving and painting. It also includes painting and installing new lighting at the Hubbard underpass near Ohio and Lake streets.
The three-year project began in 2023 in the inbound, or southbound, lanes, when two closed at a time and the express lanes remained open only heading toward downtown. Next year, in what is planned to be the final stage, work will take place in the outbound, or northbound, lanes, and the express lanes will remain open heading north from downtown.
This year, the work is focusing on the reversible express lanes, where the current access system was installed in 1996. On top of the monthslong lane closures, lanes and ramps will temporarily close overnight this week during setup for the rest of the construction season, and overnight shoulder and lane closures could take place throughout the year near the Hubbard underpass, between Milwaukee Avenue and Randolph Street, IDOT said.
But, in a slight bit of good news for drivers, once the major lane closures are in place, there will be few changes until the lanes reopen in the fall. That will be different from last year, when lane and ramp closures shifted throughout the year as crews worked on various sections of the inbound lanes.
Still, traffic was already backed up more than usual Tuesday morning, Castaneda said. And IDOT is warning drivers to prepare for longer travel times.
That likely includes during the summer, when the city prepares for major events like the Democratic National Convention and the return of the NASCAR Chicago Street Race. IDOT often tries to accommodate special events and busy travel dates, but because of the nature of the rehab cannot reopen lanes on the Kennedy until they are safe to drive on, Castaneda said.
Castaneda encouraged commuters to find alternate routes, carpool or take public transportation. The CTA Blue Line runs down the center of the expressway for part of its route into downtown, and Metra’s Union Pacific Northwest Line runs alongside the highway.
Typically, drivers take about a week or so to adjust their schedules to construction, leaving home earlier or later, switching the days they work remotely, or finding alternate transportation, she said.
Indeed, Metra spokesman Michael Gillis said Tuesday it was too early to tell if the construction was boosting ridership on the commuter rail service. Last year, Metra added weekday trains to the Union Pacific Northwest Line partly because of the construction, and that schedule remains in effect, he said.
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- The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.
61. Day in Chicago Food and Architecture
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‘The ultimate adventure': Why more Indian travelers are taking extreme road trips
By ,cnbc • published march 10, 2024 • updated on march 10, 2024 at 9:38 pm.
Meenakshi Sai, 51, looks like any other Indian woman, dressed in a saree and sporting a bindi on her forehead.
But unlike many women in her country, she's been driving since she was 18 years old. As of 2020, less than 7% of India's 236 million drivers were women, according to the data website Statista.
"I have been driving since I was legally allowed to and have always enjoyed the freedom it afforded me and the feeling of being independent," said Sai. "After my only daughter went away to boarding school, I had a lot of time on my hands. I started traveling a lot, both solo and with friends."
Sai was one of a team of eight Indians who drove 20,000 km (12,430 miles) across five countries from Coimbatore, India to St. Petersburg, Russia to spread awareness about cervical cancer.
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More Indians are taking road trips these days — both within the country and beyond, solo and in groups — as access to better vehicles and better roads grows in the country.
There's also the rise of slow travel. However, Sai took her first road trip back in 2016, before it became a trend.
"I drove to Thailand with a group of 20 people," she said, "from Manipur in India's northeast to Bangkok, which took us 13 days."
Her next big road trip was from India to London, which she called "complicated."
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"It took me six months to draw up the itinerary," she said. "It was difficult to find anyone in my own circle of friends and family who had the time or were willing to invest the money in this trip."
In the end, she found two women through social media — one from Mumbai, the other from Pollachi — who were interested in joining her.
Tata Motors sponsored the trip, which stretched for more than 14,900 miles and coincided with the 70th anniversary of India's independence. The journey took 70 days, taking the three women across 24 countries, including Russia, Poland and Uzbekistan.
"We drove around 600 kilometers a day," Sai said. "Many countries had given us date-specific visas so we could not afford to be delayed, even by a few hours."
Road conditions combined with changing weather and altitude levels made the trip difficult, she said — as did the fact that she's vegetarian, which made suitable food options challenging to find in many countries.
"I ate a lot of potatoes and bread in countries like Kyrgyzstan where there was a lot of meat," she said.
Sai now runs an overland driving company that organizes road trips across countries like Namibia, Georgia, Armenia, Nepal and Mongolia.
"Driving through a country is the way to see it, connecting with locals, stopping where you feel like, border crossings, and thriving on uncertainty. I also love the freedom that the open road gives me," she said.
100 road trips, 50 countries
In 2001, Mumbai-based Rishad Saam Mehta, 51, drove from Delhi to the Nubra Valley, an area of Ladakh in northeast India.
"It was my first drive in the high Himalayas, and I didn't know how dangerous and narrow and high the roads were, and the havoc that altitude can play on one physically. It was a lesson learnt the hard way," said the journalist and author.
Since then, Mehta has taken more than 100 road trips across some 50 countries. One really exciting one was the drive from Munich to Mumbai, which lasted two months and covered eight countries, he said.
He also drives different cars, depending on the trip, he said.
"I did a drive in a Ferrari through the Bavarian and Austrian Alps, then a snow drive in Spiti in Northern India in a Toyota Fortuner, then a fall drive in New England in a Ford Bronco," he said. "These were all favorites."
His advice? "There are many great drives around the world, some I come across by chance, some I research beforehand … but the company has to be good, otherwise, it is a disaster," he said.
The 'Great India World Trip'
Tushar Agarwal, a software engineer, drove from London to Delhi in 2010.
He said the journey of 51 days was life-changing and prompted him to resign from his job in London, move back to Delhi, and co-found a company called Adventures Overland with his friend Sanjay Madan in 2012.
"I felt that this was my purpose in life… there was no looking back," said Agarwal.
Today, Adventure Overland is one of India's biggest road trip companies. It organizes curated driving trips across the globe.
Agarwal has traveled to 92 countries and gone on road trips in six continents. His most adventurous trip, called the " Great India World Trip ," is now a 10-episode series on Discovery Channel. Along with his co-founder Madan, the journey took them across six continents and 50 countries, securing them a Guinness World Record for the longest journey by car in a single country for their 10,600-mile trek across Australia.
Traversing beautiful terrains and driving through unknown territory, border crossings and contending with unfamiliar food and inclement weather may not be for everybody.
But as Mehta said, "The sense of freedom and not being shackled to timetables and schedules … and also the spontaneity it affords, makes driving the ultimate adventure."
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Amtrak will cut 2 Michigan train trips for summer to make upgrades
- Updated: Mar. 05, 2024, 1:40 p.m. |
- Published: Mar. 05, 2024, 7:45 a.m.
Amtrak's Wolverine Train traveling between Detroit and Chicago makes a 7 p.m. stop at Ann Arbor's Depot Street station before continuing west on May 8, 2023. Ryan Stanton | The Ann Arbor News
- Brad Devereaux | [email protected]
JACKSON COUNTY, MI -- Amtrak plans to temporarily cut down on its train routes so workers can make track upgrades, the transportation company said.
Wolverine Trains 350 and 353, which run between Chicago and Pontiac, will operate on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays only, starting May 6. Those Wolverine routes will not operate Monday through Thursday, as they normally do.
The reduction in trains will last through Oct. 18.
Wolverine 350 takes off from Chicago at 6:45 a.m. (Central time) every day and arrives in Pontiac at 2:11 p.m. (Eastern time), with stops including Kalamazoo, Jackson, Ann Arbor, Detroit and more.
Wolverine 353 leaves Pontiac at 8:50 a.m. (Eastern time) every day and arrives in Chicago at 2:02 p.m. (Central time). It also has numerous stops along the way, generally following the path of I-94.
Amtrak’s upgrades will ease turns in the work area, located between Jackson and Ypsilanti, Amtrak spokesman Marc Magliari said.
The train’s top speed in Michigan is 110 mph, Magliari said. The work is expected to smooth out some of the railway turns, allowing the train to move at faster speeds for more of the trip, he said. Ultimately, it will cut a few minutes off trips, once complete.
Magliari did not know the exact locations where the work will be done. More details will be announced before the work begins, he said.
“We’re working on the curvy part of the railroad to improve travel times through there,” Magliari said. That includes replacing rails, working on “superelevation,” he said, or the elevation of the different tracks as they curve.
The changes will occur within the existing footprint of the railroad, he said.
“Every minute counts,” Magliari said “We’ll be taking minutes out of the schedule, depending where you are.”
The Wolverine line will still offer two daily trips from Chicago to Pontiac (Wolverine 352 and 354) and Pontiac to Chicago (Wolverine 351 and 355) each day. Check out Amtrak’s website for schedule details.
Trains will operate normally (with all three routes running) on the following holidays:
- Memorial Day, May 27
- Juneteenth, June 19
- Independence Day, July 4
- Labor Day, Sept. 2
Blue Water Trains 364 and 365, with service to Port Huron, will operate normally and also serve Wolverine stations in southwest Michigan, per Amtrak.
Want more Kalamazoo-area news? Bookmark the local Kalamazoo news page or sign up for the free 3@3 Kalamazoo daily newsletter.
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These experiences are best for tours in Chicago: Chicago River 45-Minute Architecture Tour from Magnificent Mile; 90-Minute Chicago River Architecture Tour; Chicago Architecture River Cruise; Gangsters and Ghosts Tour in Chicago; Chicago Crime and Mob Bus Tour; See more tours in Chicago on Tripadvisor
A: The best tours in Chicago according to Viator travelers are: Chicago Architecture River Cruise. Chicago River 90-Minute Architecture Tour. 45-Minute Chicago River Architecture Tour from Magnificent Mile. 360 CHICAGO Observation Deck Admission (Hancock Center) Gangsters and Ghosts Tour in Chicago.
Take a boat cruise through the heart of the city, see your reflection in "The Bean," step outside one of the world's tallest buildings. We've rounded up some of the city's must-see sights, iconic attractions, and top tours to add to your itinerary. And don't miss attraction passes for reduced admission to museums, activities, and ...
The best tours in Chicago are: Chicago River: 1.5-Hour Guided Architecture Cruise; Chicago: 360 Chicago Observation Deck Skip-the-Line Ticket; Chicago: Navy Pier Centennial Wheel Regular & Express Ticket; Chicago: 45-Minute Family-Friendly Architecture River Cruise; Chicago: Willis Tower Skydeck and The Ledge Ticket
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L Stop Tours. The 'L', Chicago's raised public transit system, is one of the best ways to explore the city. L Stop Tours will take you through different Chicago neighborhoods, with a unique tour for each 'L' line. Explore Chinatown on the Red Line, discover hidden gems on the Green Line, and marvel at street art in Pilsen on the Pink ...
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Tours Photos. 37,683. Mar 1, 2024 - Find & Book the top-rated and best-reviewed tours in Chicago for 2024. From prices and availability to reviews and photos, Tripadvisor has everything you need to create that perfect itinerary for your trip to Chicago.
Chicago Tours With Intrepid Urban Adventures. Chicago is a lively city bursting with distinguished architecture, diverse neighborhoods, and a rich culture of food, history, and music throughout. Filled with friendly folks from all walks of life, Chicago is a welcoming place to explore and you'll see why millions of people happily call this ...
Chicago Mobs and Haunts Walking Tour. 77. Crime Tours. 90-120 minutes. Join us along the historic streets and alleys of Chicago as we walk among the spirits of mobsters and ghosts of the condemned…. Free cancellation. Recommended by 96% of travelers. from. $34.
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From there, browse the local bounty at the South Bend Farmers' Market, where you can shop everything from artisan breads and doughnuts to farm-fresh fruits and veggies. When hunger strikes, head ...
Theatre 68's Ronnie Marmo returns to perform two shows in rotating repertoire. He'll star, along with his collaborator Thomas F. Evans, in the Chicago debut of Samuel Shem and Janet Surrey's ...
Chicago The Adler Planetarium will host Eclipse Encounter '24 with eclipse activities and a viewing party on April 8. Outdoor events, including safe solar viewing through telescopes, giveaways ...
Art Institute of Chicago Tours and Tickets. Aquarium of the Pacific Tours and Tickets. Blue Lagoon Tours and Tickets. Burj Khalifa Tours and Tickets. Metropolitan Museum of Art (The Met) Tours and Tickets. Check out reviews & photos of Chicago Full-day Tours with increased safety measures & flexible booking.
Amtrak will be limiting its operations between Detroit and Chicago this year for track improvements. Beginning May 6, the Wolverine Trains will be temporarily suspended Monday through Thursday ...
The project stretches along 7.5 miles of the 10-lane expressway, from the I-94 split south to downtown.
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Chicago River Boat Architecture Tour. 650. from $59.00. Chicago, Illinois. Small-Group Sightseeing Boat Tour in Chicago. 40. from $75.00. Chicago, Illinois. Skyline Tour Aboard 148 Ft. Schooner Windy - Chicago's Official Tall Ship.
Meenakshi Sai, 51, looks like any other Indian woman, dressed in a saree and sporting a bindi on her forehead. But unlike many women in her country, she's been driving since she was 18 years old ...
The Wolverine line will still offer two daily trips from Chicago to Pontiac (Wolverine 352 and 354) and Pontiac to Chicago (Wolverine 351 and 355) each day. Check out Amtrak's website for ...
Best of Chicago Small Group Tour with Skydeck and River Cruise. Chicago Architecture & Highlights with Local Treat - Small Group Walking Tour. 2 hours 30 minutes. $173.00. Likely to Sell Out. Chicago Small Group Night Tour with Skydeck and Boat Cruise. Likely to Sell Out.