Things to do in Central Chicago
Activities, attractions and tours
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Most popular experiences in Central Chicago
Tours & day trips
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Architecture River Tour
Private & custom tours
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Chicago: Creative Team Building - Paint Your Own Fluid Bear
![Downtown Chicago City Tour In a Lamborghini[60 Minute Experience]](https://mediaim.expedia.com/localexpert/50806683/b6324a0b-7fb0-4936-8b5f-2fdebe79ae59.jpg?impolicy=resizecrop&rw=500&rh=280)
Food, drink & nightlife
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City Cruises Chicago: Lake Michigan Premier Dinner Cruise
Attractions
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360 CHICAGO Observation Deck
Classes & workshops
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Chicago: BYOB Spray Paint and Sip Workshop
What to do in Central Chicago
Popular places to visit
Navy Pier
A waterfront entertainment strip with fun diversions for both young and old, with shops, restaurants and even a Ferris wheel.
McCormick Place
Attend an event at the United States’ largest convention center, which features hyper-modern facilities and huge exhibition spaces connected by promenades and sky bridges.
Michigan Avenue
You can enjoy some retail therapy when you visit Michigan Avenue, a popular shopping spot in Chicago. Amble around this vibrant area's riverfront and enjoy its top-notch restaurants.
Millennium Park
One of Chicago’s main focal points, where locals and visitors flock to see the striking art, architecture and landscape on show.
Soldier Field
Events center, NFL stadium and historic landmark all in one, this waterfront field is one of Chicago’s most popular destinations.
Grant Park
Chicago’s front yard is a pretty landscaped park, which is home to public art displays, museums, themed gardens and international music festivals.
Chicago Riverwalk
Stroll along the waterfront of the Chicago River to pass some of the city’s most appealing attractions and appreciate how a once grim area has been successfully revamped.
Willis Tower
The Skydeck at Willis Tower offers the best place in Chicago for a bird’s eye view across the breadth of the city and Lake Michigan.
Art Institute of Chicago
From ancient masterpieces to eclectic modern art, uncover a treasure trove of works from all over the world and throughout history.
Areas of Central Chicago
Magnificent Mile
A dazzling array of boutiques, luxury shops, famous department stores and pleasant cafés, where shopaholics can lose themselves for hours.
River North
Known for its fantastic nightlife, stunning river views, and popular shops, there's plenty to explore in River North. Top attractions like Merchandise Mart and Bally's Casino Chicago are major draws. Catch the metro at Merchandise Mart Station or Chicago Station (Brown Line) to see more of the city.
Theatre District
While you're in Theatre District, take in top sights like Michigan Avenue or State Street, and hop on the metro to see more the city at Washington Station or Monroe Station (Blue Line).
Streeterville
Navy Pier and Michigan Avenue are just a few worthwhile attractions to visit in Streeterville. Travelers also love the fascinating museums, panoramic lake views, and popular shops.
Near North Side
Navy Pier and Michigan Avenue are a few top attractions in Near North Side. Hop around the city on the metro at Clark-Division Station or Chicago Station (Brown Line) and check out the area's fascinating museums, panoramic lake views, and popular shops.
Gold Coast
Enjoy upscale shopping, varied dining experiences and waterfront walks at this affluent suburb set on the shores of Lake Michigan.
