10 Best Things to Do in Chicago

Walking around Millennium Park in Chicago is a great way to spend a day in Chicago with kids—and it's free! Millennium Park spans almost 25 acres in the heart of Chicago. The public park offers free cultural events, concerts, exhibitions, and tours. It has an amphitheater, a garden, and the famous "Giant Bean" or "Cloud Gate." It also offers seasonal events like a winter ice skating rink and garden yoga when it's warmer.

No trip to Chicago is complete without strolling the Magnificent Mile on North Michigan Avenue. The strip is home to more than 460 retailers and three shopping centers, so you'll find almost any kind of store you could possibly imagine. There are also more than 50 flagship stores in the area, offering interactive experiences and unique merchandise from popular brands.

Shopping is definitely one of the best things to do in Chicago, and if you're looking for a less touristy experience, check out the neighborhoods of Lincoln Park, Wicker Park/Bucktown, Ukrainian Village, Andersonville, Oak Street, and Southport Avenue in Lakeview.

The Fulton Market area, also known as the West Loop, was once home to a major national meat supplier, and the architecture and vibe of the meatpacking industry are prevalent. However, the neighborhood now houses some of the trendiest and best restaurants in Chicago, such as The Publican, Duck Duck Goat, Momotaro, Swift & Sons, and Fulton Market Kitchen.

Chicago has some of the most interesting architecture in the U.S., and there are plenty of spots where you can view the coastline and skyline, or even be in the skyline. Rooftops like Virgin Hotels' Cerise and Chicago Athletic Association's Cindy both boast great views of the city. And if you want to test your fear of heights, head to the Willis Tower's Skydeck or 360 Observation Deck at the John Hancock Building.

There are a variety of tours in Chicago that take you along the river, but the Chicago Architecture Foundation's River Cruise may be the best. The 90-minute tour takes you up and down the river and under the city's movable bridges before turning around at Navy Pier. The tours are led by a certified foundation volunteer, and their passion for the city and its architecture is contagious. Prepare to learn a lot, and wear layers as the tours run rain or shine and have outdoor seating (there is a heated lower deck and a full service bar, though).

Visiting the museums and zoo are great things to do in Chicago with kids, especially because you can find discounts, and some are free. Take the kids to the incredible Lincoln Park Zoo, Adler Planetarium, Children's Museum, and Shedd Aquarium. Other noteworthy museums include The Field Museum, Art Institute of Chicago, and the Museum of Science and Industry. Consider getting a CityPASS that offers discounts for many of the museums and other tours in Chicago.

Chicago is home to two well-known craft-style breweries, Goose Island and Lagunitas, as well as some lesser-known local breweries that are worth a visit if you're wondering what to do in Chicago.

Be sure to check out Lagunitas, near Douglas Park, and Goose Island's taproom and production brewery, near United Center, to learn the history of the breweries. Both offer tours and tastings.

For a more local scene, head to the North Center area and check out Half Acre Brewery, Dovetail Brewery, and Begyle Brewing Company for a sample of Chicago brews.

Come summertime—or warm spring and fall days—you can swim and sunbathe at one of more than 25 public beaches if you're looking for things to do in Chicago to cool off. Lake Michigan provides Chicago with its eastern border, and you'll find plenty of beaches and boat clubs dotting Lakeshore Drive. Many of the beaches offer amenities like designated grill areas and even some pet-friendly spots.

Navy Pier is a fun touristy attraction to take in when you visit Chicago with kids, because there are activities the whole family will enjoy. Ride the Centennial Wheel, go to the Children's Museum, shop for souvenirs, or just walk along the long pier to the shoreline of Lake Michigan. Navy Pier also hosts a variety of seasonal events and shows, and there are many dining options ranging from street food stalls to higher-end eateries.

Chicago rivals Boston and New York City for the title of "City of Champions." The Windy City supports the Bulls for basketball, Cubs and White Sox for baseball, Blackhawks for hockey, and Bears for football. All of Chicago's teams play within the city limits, and going to a game is a great thing to do in Chicago with kids. Depending which time of year you visit, you may be able to catch more than one sport in season.