Best Tourist Attractions In Chicago Worth The Hype
Chicago is one of those wonderful cities where it's just about impossible to be bored. There's always something to do. The problem can often be sorting through the many things going on while you're there and deciding on what to experience. Here are a few of the tourist attractions that are worth the hype they generate.
Architectural Tour
Chicago's First Lady
112 E. Wacker Drive
Chicago, IL 60611
(847) 358-1330
www.cruisechicago.com
Whether you're a Chicago veteran or a first-time visitor, you'll most likely learn something new on the Chicago architectural tour. In nice weather, the tour can be an even better experience while you just kick back on the boat and cruise along the river. Refreshments are available for purchase and the tour can be an educational way to rest if the rest of your trip has been active or you have members of your family who can't walk long distances.
The Second City
1616 N. Wells St.
Chicago, IL 60614
(312) 337-3992
www.secondcity.com
Chicago is known for its improv theatre and The Second City lives up to its fame. Not only has The Second City stage spawned some major names, but the current running shows are guaranteed to bring a handful of laughs. Food and beverages are available for purchase and waiters even discretely check during the show to see if you need a refill. There are several different shows going on at any time. If you prefer more room, try one of the larger shows, but if you're not bothered by a smaller room, any of them will be great for you.
Signature Lounge
875 N. Michigan Ave.
Chicago, IL 60611
(312) 787-9596
www.signatureroom.com
Although it's not the tallest tower in Chicago, The John Hancock is still a pretty impressive view. The Signature Lounge is located on the 96th floor and there is no charge to go up and look around. Have a drink and you can stay as long as you like. The food is good and the sandwiches are average price for downtown Chicago. The drinks are on the pricey side, but with the free view, they're worth it. Unlike the official tower sight-seeing trips, you can stay as long as you want and enjoy a drink or a meal. The best view is the picturesque scene of Navy Pier from the women's restroom, so if you're a lady, bring your camera with you when you powder your nose.
Related: Best Ways To Tour Chicago
Museum of Science and Industry
5700 S. Lake Shore Drive
Chicago, IL 60637
(773) 684-1414
www.msichicago.org
Rain or shine, you can have a great time at the Museum of Science and Industry. The large campus houses three floors of old and new exhibits and there is something for everyone no matter what aspect of science you may be into. Kids and adults alike can have fun visiting the submarine that is housed inside or taking a trip through the coal mine. The history of the museum itself is even interesting. Parking is ample and there is plenty of space so the campus doesn't feel crowded even on busy days.
Millennium Park
201 E. Randolph St.
Chicago, IL 60601
(312) 742-1168
www.millenniumpark.org
As much as Millennium Park is talked about, it doesn't disappoint. In the summer, kids can enjoy wading in the Crown Fountain and everyone can enjoy watching them get squirted by the giant spitting faces that change. Go for a nature walk and explore the well-labeled flora and well-maintained paths. Taking a picture at the reflective Cloud Gate sculpture locally known as The Bean is also just as entertaining as it looks. While you're there, see if there's a performance going on at the Pavilion.
Related: The Perfect Long Weekend In Chicago
Meredith Lyons is an actor, competitive fighter and fitness instructor in Chicago who also owns an amazing cat named Jake. Meredith has been writing on Examiner as the Chicago Martial Arts Examiner since 2008. Her work can be found at Examiner.com.
