Things to do in Central Chicago

Activities, attractions and tours

Want to get a great view of Chicago? Walk up the Adler Planetarium pier at sunset and enjoy the show. Don't leave straight after the sun sets, let the lights come out and take it all in!
Want to get a great view of Chicago? Walk up the Adler Planetarium pier at sunset and enjoy the show. Don't leave straight after the sun sets, let the lights come out and take it all in!
Central Chicago
Iconic signage in Chicago. It's best to go when it's all lit up for the best shots. It was quite a rainy night in Chicago when I tried to take this shot.
The lighthouse just off the end of navy pier in Chicago.

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What to do in Central Chicago


Popular places to visit

Areas of Central Chicago

Magnificent Mile - River North

Magnificent Mile

A dazzling array of boutiques, luxury shops, famous department stores and pleasant cafés, where shopaholics can lose themselves for hours.

Magnificent Mile
River North showing railway items, street scenes and a city

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.

River North
Beautiful fireworks

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).

Theatre District
Navy Pier featuring wildflowers and general coastal views as well as a couple

Streeterville

Michigan Avenue and Navy Pier are just a few worthwhile attractions to visit in Streeterville. Travelers also love the fascinating museums, panoramic lake views, and popular shops.

Streeterville
Chicago_NearNorthSide_137043_09

Near North Side

4.5/5(3 area reviews)

Michigan Avenue and Navy Pier 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.

Near North Side
Gold Coast which includes street scenes as well as a couple

Gold Coast

Enjoy upscale shopping, varied dining experiences and waterfront walks at this affluent suburb set on the shores of Lake Michigan.

Gold Coast