best places to visit in chicago suburbs

BEST Things to Do in the Chicago Suburbs (2024)

Looking for what to do in the Chicago suburbs? Whether staying in the suburbs or looking for a fun day trip from Chicago , here are the best things to do in the suburbs of Chicago . From the best attractions to fun and unique activities, there are many of places in the Chicago suburbs worth visiting for adults and kids.

Things to do in the Chicago Suburbs (2024)

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Below are the top things to do in Chicagoland including upcoming events and festivals. I suggest bookmarking this blog post as I update it regularly with new events and activities.

Top Things to do in the Chicago Suburbs

If your time is limited, below are my top 3 things to do in the suburbs of Chicago. I have listed the remaining activities and attractions by region.

Explore the Morton Arboretum

Morton Arboretum (in Lisle about 26 miles west of Chicago) is home to more than 4,000 different types of trees among 1,700 acres.  The Arboretum is full of hiking and biking trails or you can just drive through by car. Kids will particularly enjoy the 4-acre Children’s Garden .

The Arboretum offers seasonal events throughout the year. In addition to enjoying flowers in the spring and summer, the Arboretum is one of the best places in the Chicago area to see fall colors.

Visit the Chicago Botanic Garden

Chicago Botanic Garden (in Glencoe about 24 miles north of Chicago) is one of the world’s great living museums and conservation science centers with 27 gardens and four natural areas, situated on 385 acres on and around nine islands, with six miles of lake shoreline. You can explore the Garden by walking or a tram tour . The website has a list of suggested garden walks including seasonal walks which maximize nature viewing opportunities.

Chicago Botanic Garden offers seasonal events throughout the year including the popular Night of 1,000 Jack-o’-Lanterns for Halloween and Lightscape , an after-dark, illuminated holiday lights trail during the Christmas holiday season.

See the Baháʼí Temple

Things to Do in the Western Suburbs

Below are some of the best things to do in Chicago’s western suburbs:

• Learn about architecture and see Frank Lloyd Wright’s Home and Studio in Oak Park.
• Take photos under colorful umbrellas in Elmhurst. Elmhurst is the sixth US city to welcome the Umbrella Sky Project, which will be in place until mid-September. You can find a map of the 3 umbrella sky locations and find out more about the Umbrella Sky Project here
• Stroll along the Naperville Riverwalk .
• Go indoor skydiving in Naperville.
• See animals at Brookfield Zoo Chicago , a large 216 acres zoo that houses around 450 species of animals.
• Play hundreds of video games at Galloping Ghost Arcade in Brookfield, the largest video arcade in the USA.
• Admire beautiful flowers at Lilacia Park , a 8.5-acre park in Lombard. The best time to visit is during the spring to see their lilac and tulip gardens.
• Visit Cantigny Park , a 500-acre public park in Wheaton and the former estate of Joseph Medill and his grandson Colonel Robert R. McCormick, publishers of the Chicago Tribune.
• The 2,503-acre Waterfall Glen Forest Preserve in Darien is known for its small waterfalls, the Sawmill Creek bluff overlook and extensive trails.

Things to Do in the Northwest Suburbs

Below are the top things to do in Chicago’s northwest suburbs:

• Take the kids to LEGOLAND® Discovery Center Chicago , a 30,000 square feet indoor LEGO® playground.
• Take photos next to the Leaning Tower of Niles , a half-size replica of the Leaning Tower of Pisa.
• Pet and feed bunnies at Cuddle Bunny Too in Schaumburg.
• Shop at Woodfield Mall , the largest shopping mall in Illinois located in Schaumburg.
• Shop or dine on Swedish meatballs at Ikea in Schaumburg.
• Bike or hike the Fox River Bike Trail, a 40 mile long bike trail alongside historic railroad lines, crossing six bridges and passing through nature preserves and charming towns like St. Charles. This brew and bike tour is a a great way to explore the area.
• Go indoor skydiving in Rosemont.
• See the beautiful architecture of BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir Complex in Bartlett, a traditional Hindu place of worship built of intricate hand-carved Italian marble and Turkish limestone.

Things to Do in the North Shore

These are my favorite things to do in the North Shore:

• Titanic: The Exhibition at Westfield Old Orchard in Skokie is a limited time interactive experience that allows you to step inside recreations of the Titanic’s interior.
• Downton Abbey: The Exhibition at Westfield Old Orchard in Skokie is a limited time interactive experience for fans of the series.
• Learn about history at the Holocaust Museum & Education Center in Skokie.
• Walk around Northwestern University’s beautiful campus in Evanston.
• Listen to classical music outdoors at the Ravinia Festival in Highland Park from during the summer.
• Bike or hike the North Branch Trail System , approximately 20 miles of paved and unpaved trails along the North Branch of the Chicago River which connects the northwest side of Chicago to the Chicago Botanic Garden in Glencoe.
• Take the kids to Kohl Children’s Museum in Glenview.

Things to Do in the Far North Suburbs

Below are the top things to do in the far North suburbs of Chicago:

• Have fun at Six Flags Great America , an amusement park located in Gurnee.
• Enjoy the outdoors Illinois Beach State Park , 4160-acre park stretching 6.5 miles along Lake Michigan in northern Illinois recognized for its geological structure, unique flora, and recreational opportunities for swimming, boating, hiking, biking and picnicking.

Things to Do in the Southwest Suburbs

Below are the top things to do in Chicago’s southwest suburbs:

• Take a tour of Old Joliet Prison , a former correctional facility which was used as a set for various films and TV shows including The Blues Brothers, Prison Break and more.
• Drive part of historic Route 66 which starts in Chicago and passes through several southwest suburbs.
• Challenge yourself at The Forge: Lemont Quarries , an outdoor 300-acre adventure park for all ages.
• Learn about nature, hike, visit the man made waterfall or rent a canoe or kayak at Lake Katherine Nature Center & Botanic Gardens in Palos Heights.

So there you have it – the best things to do in Chicago suburbs .  If there is an experience or place you think I should include please let me know in the comments below!

Looking for more things to do in the Chicago suburbs? Check out these upcoming events:

• Midwest Tulip Fest at Kuipers Family Farm (Maple Park) – Through May 6, 2024
• Tulip Festival at Richardson Farm (Spring Grove) – Through May 6, 2024
• Lilac Time in Lombard  – May 4-19, 2024
• Evanston Spring Sip & Stroll  – Thursday, May 9, 2024
• Homer GlenKite Fest  – May 11, 2024
• Umbrella Arts Festival (Evanston)  – May 11, 2024
• Barrington Mother’s Day 5K Run/Walk  – May 12, 2024
• Evanston History Center’s 49th Annual Mother’s Day House Walk  – May 12, 2024

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10 Great Chicago Suburbs

by Chicago Traveler | General Information , Suburbs |

When looking for a new place to live, there s no doubt that Chicago with all of its diversity and urban splendor remains among the most sought after living spaces in the U.S. :: however as a city that is surrounded by six counties, there are many gorgeous Chicago suburbs that promise a rewarding living experience if you know where to look. Luckily, The Chicago Traveler is here to help you explore your next place to live with our list of the 10 great Chicago Suburbs!

#1 Wilmette Surrounded by old-world mansions and houses from the early 1900s, Wilmette has an excellent school system, lively downtown shopping and dining, and pristine local architecture in the Baha i International Temple and Loyola Academy. Add in lake property and fast Metra access to the city, and you re looking at truly spectacular place to live.

#2 Oak Park Home to Chicago s iconic Lake Theatre cinema and healthy serving of homes designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, Oak Park is one of the most attractive towns you ll find in Illinois. With the hundred-year-old Scoville Square providing a unique commercial atmosphere, there s always something fun to do here.

#3 Lake Bluff An old-time, lake-shore village community, Lake Bluff is a suburb with a lot of history and a lot of charm. With autumns that explode in vibrant color, and summers that love the beach that s right outside town, Lake Bluff is quiet place that s easy to fall in love with.

#4 Glenview Once the home of a huge Naval Air Station, Glenview has transformed from a Navy town into a blossoming suburb with all the major selling points. Featuring a quality school system, beautiful parks, and a brand new Metra station at the heart of town, Glenview is a community that s hard to resist.

#5 Frankfort An old pioneer-town-turned-suburb, Frankfort s character comes in its combination of prairie culture and modern convenience. Victorian-style housing makes for captivating neighborhoods, and shopping districts keep things feeling new, but with Midewin Prairie right in the backyard, Frankfort is a welcome retreat.

#6 Woodstock Beloved as the backdrop to Ramis classic film Groundhog Day, Woodstock is a lovely Chicago suburb that has a distinctly wholesome small-town feel. Home to the McHenry County Fair, affordable property values, as well as a great school system, Woodstock is definitely worth considering before relocating.

#7 Glen Ellyn An idyllic small town, Glen Ellyn is an energetic village with a lot to offer. With a huge variety of cultural arts and activities fueled by the local College of DuPage, as well as fun downtown shopping, restaurants, and parks all in biking/walking distance of each other, Glen Ellyn is a community that s very family friendly.

#8 Western Springs Never mind the fact that Business Week named it one of the Best Places to Raise Your Kids for Less in 2007, that it has an exceptional school system, and it has easy access to the city Western Springs is a beautiful place to live. With some houses dating back to the 19th century from the pioneers of the mineral rush, Western Springs residential areas are simply captivating.

#9 Tinley Park Home to the beautiful and quaint Tinley Park Train Station, Tinley Park is a suburb of great schools, friendly people, and tons of recreational attractions. While the 5-acre White Water Canyon water park grabs kids attention, there are over 30-parks worth of fun outdoor activities for the whole family.

#10 Orland Park Golf courses, forest reserves, and community parks abound in Orland Park but it s no wilderness. Home to La Grange Road, one of Illinois commercial hotspots, means there s always great shopping and dining available; throw in a solid school system, and Orland Park becomes a quality place to settle down outside Chicago.

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13 Best Chicago Suburbs 2024

Considering a move to the suburbs of Chicago? Here’s the essential list of the best suburbs in Chicago of 2024 to help you find the perfect suburb to live in the greater Chicagoland metropolitan area.

Lastly, if your Chicago area city didn’t make the list this year, look out for your neighborhood in future updates. Accordingly, this list will continue to be updated each year as Chicagoland suburbs grow and change. For easy reference, you can use this Chicago Suburbs Map to view all of the cities below.

Without further ado, let’s dive into our best Chicago suburbs list for 2024!

1. Glenview

Glenview, Illinois is a Cook County suburb of Chicago located approximately 20 miles northwest of the city loop. Likewise, the drive time from Glenview to downtown Chicago is just about 26 minutes.

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Pictured above is the Naval Air Station in Glenview that has since been converted into a popular shopping district called The Glen. Another key point is that the village of Glenview has great schools. Both Glenbrook North and Glenbrook South high schools are top-ranked in addition to Glenview’s public elementary schools.

Neighborhood Stats Glenview, IL:

• Glenview, IL Population 2020: 48,705
• Annual Property Tax (Median): $8,939
• Median Household Income: $115,198
• Average Home Value: $499,900

Next, Glenview is home to the Chicago Botanic Garden and the Glen Club, a popular Chicagoland golf course and hotel. Not to mention, there are a number of shopping and dining options at The Glen Town Center Mall .

A Growing Suburb Of Chicago

Aside from the fantastic school system, Glenview has very low crime rates and plenty of family-friendly amenities that make it a great place to raise kids in Illinois. Lastly, its population has grown 5.8% since 2010. This makes Glenview one of the fastest-growing suburbs of Chicago over the past decade.

In case you are moving to Glenview, you now have a trusted painter that you can use to make your new home your own. Visit Improovy Painters in Glenview to get your free interior or exterior home painting quote within minutes.

2. Naperville

Naperville, IL is located 28 miles west of the city and is Chicago’s largest suburb. In fact, it is the third-largest city in the state of Illinois right after nearby Aurora. Likewise, Naperville is about a 38-minute drive from the Loop and has one of the best downtown districts of any Chicago Suburb. Indeed, downtown Naperville has tons of amazing restaurants and nightlife as well as a gorgeous historic district.

City Of Naperville, Illinois Overview:

• Population: 149,540
• Annual Property Tax (Median): $7,531 in DuPage County
• Median Household Income: $125,926
• Average Home Value: $416,700

The sprawling west suburb spans both DuPage and Will County. In addition to top schools and low crime rates, Naperville has been rated as Niche’s Best City to Raise a Family in America in 2021. Moreover, the Naperville Riverwalk is a focal point of the community and a top attraction for families in the area. Located along the banks of the DuPage River, it’s truly a local gem in the west Chicagoland suburbs.

Want to learn about the best parts of Naperville to live in? Visit our list of the top 5 Naperville subdivisions to move to.

While more expensive than average across the US, Naperville’s cost of living is actually 25% lower than the city of Chicago, Illinois. Last but not least, it boasts the best library system in the country in case you needed more reasons to move here.

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3. Downers Grove

Downers Grove, Illinois is a south-western suburb of Chicago located 22 miles west of the city. Situated in DuPage County, it is a 30-minute drive down I-55 from the Loop to Downers Grove, IL. As one of the best places to live in Illinois, Downers Grove is known for its fantastic public schools and low crime rates. Moreover, Downtown Downers Grove is rapidly growing into a major shopping, restaurant, and retail corridor.

Key Facts About Downers Grove, IL:

• Population: 50,247
• Annual Property Tax (Median): $5,886
• Median Household Income: $94,893
• Average Home Value: $353,100

The Downers Grove Park District adds to the neighborhood’s family-friendly charm in addition to its numerous parks and the tranquil Hidden Lake Forest Preserve . All in all, the village of Downers Grove is a tight-knit community and very welcoming to a diverse mix of people from different backgrounds.

One of the biggest hidden gems in the western suburbs is actually a town you may not have heard of. La Grange Highlands is a suburb near Downers Grove that has an incredible school district, low crime, and reasonable property taxes. We highly recommend checking out the Highlands if you are looking for a top suburb that remains under the radar.

4. Evanston, Illinois

Evanston, IL is a North Shore suburb located 12 miles north of Chicago. Located on Lake Michigan, it borders Chicago’s city limits and sits just north of Rogers Park. Correspondingly, Evanston is one of Cook County’s largest suburbs. Likewise, the average drive time from Evanston to the loop is approximately 30 minutes.

About Evanston:

• Population: 78,110
• Annual Property Tax (Median): $7,433
• Median Household Income: $78,904
• Average Home Value: $391,400

Year after year, Evanston is rated as the best place to live in Cook County. This is due to a variety of outdoor activities, a diverse and inclusive demographic, and a world-class downtown district. Moreover, the city of Evanston has seven beaches and a bevy of beautiful historic houses and museums.

Not to mention, it’s home to Northwestern University , one of the best colleges in the United States. Last but not least, crime is reasonably low and Evanston’s schools are excellent which makes it a great place to buy a home and raise a family.

5. Arlington Heights

Arlington Heights, Illinois is a popular northwest suburb of Chicago that’s one of the best affordable places to live in Illinois. Located about 45-minutes away from the loop on average, it spans across both suburban Cook and Lake counties.

Downtown Arlington Heights has a ton of restaurants, shops and, hotels. Likewise, top attractions in the village include its expansive park district, Arlington Heights historical museum, and Busse Woods.

Key Arlington Heights, IL Stats:

• Population: 77,676
• Annual Property Tax (Median): $7,606
• Median Household Income: $96,340
• Home Value (Average): $358,300

Full of affordable apartments with access to the Metra train, it’s a good place to live for young professionals as well as younger families. Likewise, it’s one of the safest places in Illinois to live and has excellent school districts.

Also worth mentioning, the Chicago Bears are expected to move their stadium from Soldier Field to the village of Arlington Heights in 2026.

Nearby Northwest Chicagoland cities include Long Grove, Palatine, and Mt Prospect, IL.

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6. Buffalo Grove, IL

Buffalo Grove, Illinois is another Northwest suburb of Chicagoland that’s located mostly in Lake County with a portion in Cook County. About a 48-minute drive from the city, Buffalo Grove is known as one of the best places to live in the United States. With highly-rated public schools and very low crime rates, it’s an amazing Chicago suburb for families.

Area Stats For Buffalo Grove:

• Population: 43,212
• Annual Property Tax (Median): $8,561
• Median Household Income: $115,951
• Average Home Value: $332,300

Not to mention, real estate there is quite affordable compared to other popular affluent suburbs nearby. Home to the Raupp Memorial Museum , Buffalo Grove has a mix of reasonably priced homes that attract young families moving from the city to the burbs.

7. Oak Park, Illinois

The village of Oak Park is a near-west suburb of Chicago just a 16-minute drive from Chicago’s loop. Located in Cook County, Oak Park, IL is one of the coolest suburbs of Chicago for young professionals and families alike. This is due to Oak Park’s urban feel and the thriving downtown district full of breweries, stores, and fantastic dining options. No question there’s always something to do in Oak Park.

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Information About Oak Park:

• Population: 54,583
• Annual Property Tax (Median): $10,000+
• Median Household Income: $94,646
• Average Home Value: $387,300

Moreover, crime rates are moderate due to its proximity to the city but Oak Park high schools are very well rated. In particular, both Oak Park-River Forest and Fenwick are top-ranked public and private high schools in Chicago, IL each year.

Oak Park, Illinois is also known as the birthplace of Ernest Hemingway and is home to the Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio. As a result, the village has a plethora of stunning historic architecture and victorian style homes.

As a result, the village has a plethora of stunning historic architecture and victorian style homes. I highly recommend taking one of the many Frank Lloyd Wright Architecture Tours in Oak Park when you get a chance. Nearby west side Chicago neighborhoods include Forest Park, River Forest, Cicero, and Riverside, Illinois.

Need a painter near the city of Chicago? Get a free quote by visiting Improovy’s Chicago location which provides quality painting services to neighborhoods in the city and nearby suburbs.

8. Wilmette, IL

Wilmette is a beautiful North Suburban village in Cook County located 14 miles north of Chicago, Illinois. Located in the New Trier Township , it is only a 26-minute drive from the loop. Homes in Wilmette, IL are some of the most expensive in the state and the neighborhood has a dense suburban feel to it.

Also, the village of Wilmette is the third safest town in Illinois so it’s perfect for affluent families looking for North Shore real estate with a great school system.

About Wilmette, Illinois:

• Population: 28,170
• Median Household Income: $164,681
• Value Of Homes (Average): $707,800

There are plenty of restaurants, parks, and coffee shops but what Wilmette is known best for is its beauty. Accordingly, the village borders Lake Michigan and tree-lined brick streets complete with classic green lantern light posts. Wilmette Beach and Gillson Park are beautiful lakefront attractions ideal for summer picnics and many other outdoor activities. Other North Shore neighborhoods nearby include Glencoe, Winnetka, and Highland Park.

Shown above is the Baha’i House of Worship which is located in Willmette. It is one of seven Baha’i temples in the world, located on Linden Avenue just outside downtown Wilmette.

Did you know that two of the most expensive homes ever sold in Chicago were located in nearby Winnetka and Glencoe? Check out the top ten priciest Chicago houses for sale of all time .

9. Schaumburg

Located in the Northwest Chicago suburbs, Schaumburg, Illinois is one of the larger cities on this list. Schaumburg, Illinois is about a 40-minute drive to downtown Chicago with typical traffic and is known for its massive Woodfield Mall and the Legoland Discovery Center. Mostly located in Cook County with parts in Dupage, overall Schaumburg is very safe.

Village of Schaumburg, IL Data:

• Population: 78,723
• Annual Property Tax (Median): $5,787
• Median Household Income: $83,096
• Average Home Value: $251,100

As a highlight, the village of Schaumburg has countless restaurants, shopping, and things to do. The Town Square is Schaumburg’s “official” downtown, located right off of Roselle Road. As a final note, its 10-year population growth rate is 6.1% which is higher than a majority of cities in Chicago’s suburbs.

Want to see how Chicago compares to other major metros like St Louis? Read about our 10 best Saint Louis suburbs to see how the cities compare!

10. Elmhurst, IL

Elmhurst, Illinois is a west suburb of Chicago that’s a short 26-minute drive from the city. The majority of Elmhurst is in DuPage County with some parts in Cook county. Elmhurst is known as one of the best U.S. towns for families with highly-rated public schools and relatively low crime rates.

City Of Elmhurst, IL Stats:

• Population: 45,786
• Annual Property Tax (Median): $7,975
• Median Household Income: $118,609
• Average Home Value: $432,600

In addition, the city of Elmhurst’s downtown district is awesome. Downtown Elmhurst includes a Metra station as well as over 275 shops, restaurants, and businesses. Also located in the nearly 150-year-old city are Elmhurst Hospital and Elmhurst University.

11. Hinsdale

Hinsdale, Illinois is located 20 miles west of the city and is one of the wealthiest suburbs of Chicago. Situated on the county lines of Cook and DuPage counties, the drive time from Hinsdale to Chicago, IL is about 31 minutes. Hinsdale is known for its great schools and a lovely downtown district full of designer boutiques, shops, and restaurants.

Local Hinsdale Area Stats:

• Population: 17,637
• Median Household Income: $203,368
• Hinsdale’s Average Home Price: $884,700

In addition, the village of Hinsdale has very low crime rates and historically high housing prices. Notable attractions include Graue Mill and Museum as well as Ty Warner Park, making it a top western suburb for affluent families and out-of-town visitors.

Recently trending neighborhoods located near Hinsdale include Western Springs, La Grange, and Brookfield, Illinois.

12. Park Ridge, IL

Park Ridge, Illinois is another nearby affluent Chicago suburb located in Cook County. Just 15 miles northwest of Chicago, it’s about a 30-minute drive into the city with normal traffic. Its proximity to O’Hare International Airport and the I-90 expressway may it ideal for young professionals or families that travel a lot or work in the city.

More Park Ridge, IL Information:

• Park Ridge Population: 39,656
• Annual Property Tax (Median): $9,508
• Median Household Income: $111,642
• Average Home Value: $437,000

The neighborhood has a vibrant downtown district that is lined with fantastic restaurants, boutiques, and shops. Likewise, the city of Park Ridge is safe and has very good public and private schools. As a result, it attracts a younger family demographic looking for a Chicago suburb that’s still close to the city. Nearby towns include Des Plaines, Morton Grove, and Skokie, Illinois.

Cities like Park Ridge, Glen Ellyn, Oak Park, and Evanston are known for gorgeous historic homes. Unfortunately, a lot of older houses have ugly popcorn ceilings. That’s why our team of industry experts created this helpful guide to removing popcorn ceilings to make getting rid of them easier than ever!

13. Glen Ellyn

Glen Ellyn, Illinois is a charming West suburban town located in DuPage County just east of Wheaton. The village is approximately a 37-minute drive from Chicago and has a beautiful historic downtown district. Crime in Glen Ellyn is relatively low and offers a small-town feel perfect for families. Glen Ellyn, IL is known for its top-ranked school district and its quaint downtown area full of antique stores and restaurants.

Stats For Glen Ellyn, IL:

• Population: 28,846
• Annual Property Tax (Median): $8,604
• Median Household Income: $110,678
• Average Home Value: $453,900

The village of Glen Ellyn is home to many incredible restaurants as well as the Cleve Carney Museum of Art and The Morton Arboretum . Also worth mentioning, the town is known as the “Village of Volunteers” and has multiple notable golf courses. Accordingly, the Glen Ellyn Park District has over 700 programs for residents of all ages to enjoy the many parks and neighborhood amenities.

Thinking about relocating or moving to Michigan? Check out our most expensive Michigan cities article to learn more about the state’s real estate market.

Most Popular Suburbs Of Chicago FAQs

Which chicago suburb has the lowest property taxes.

Chicago suburbs with the lowest property taxes include Indian Head Park, Burr Ridge, Glenco, and Long Grove, Illinois. When it comes to property taxes in Cook County suburbs only, Winnetka and Kenilworth are the lowest with 0.93% and 0.88% respectively.

What are the best suburbs of Chicago for families?

Clarendon Hills, Western Springs, Deerfield, and La Grange are all rated as the best suburbs of Chicago for families in addition to the cities on our list.

Which Chicago suburbs have the best downtown?

The Chicago suburbs with the best downtown districts are Naperville, Evanston, Arlington Heights, and Oak Park, Illinois.

What are the richest suburbs of Chicago?

The richest suburbs of Chicago are Hinsdale, Glencoe, Lake Forest, Winnetka, and Oak Brook, Illinois.

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Thrilling Activities to Experience in the Chicago Suburbs

Chicago Suburbs

Welcome to the bustling and diverse Chicago suburbs! From its breathtaking lakefront to its historic downtowns, this area offers something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for an outdoor adventure or a night on the town, the Chicagoland area has it all. Here’s an inside look at what makes these vibrant communities so special.

The diversity of the region is one of its most unique features. People come from near and far to call these neighborhoods home – making up a melting pot of cultures, languages, and backgrounds. No matter where you go in the suburbs, you’ll find friendly faces and plenty of activities to explore.

From art galleries to sporting events, there’s no shortage of things to do here. The city itself is filled with world-class attractions like Wrigley Field and Navy Pier that draw visitors from all over the country. But don’t forget about some of the smaller spots too; local farmers’ markets offer fresh produce as well as homemade crafts and goods that can be found nowhere else!

So if you’re looking for an exciting place to live or even just visit, look no further than Chicago’s sprawling suburbs!

Overview Of Suburbs

It’s no surprise that the Chicago Suburbs are a popular area for people to live in. The vast suburban area, comprising many suburbs on the list, offers an array of lifestyles and opportunities unparalleled in any other part of America. Offering diverse suburb demographics, ranging from affluent families to young professionals looking for a career change, anyone can find their place in this bustling area. Commute time is no issue either; with access to public transport links as well as highways connecting the city to its neighboring areas, getting around has never been easier or more convenient.

But what about the cost of living ? Is it feasible to make your home in one of these attractive suburbs while still saving money? Let’s take a look at just how much you can save by making these ‘burbs your new address…

Cost Of Living In Suburbs

Living in the suburbs of Chicago can be a great experience, but it comes with a cost. Housing costs tend to be lower than downtown prices, but other living expenses like transportation, utilities, and food add up quickly.

Transportation is an important expense for anyone living in the suburbs since most people rely on cars or public transit to get around. Depending on where you live, monthly fees for public transport may range from $80 – $300 per month. The price of gas also varies depending on location, so residents should factor this into their budget when determining how much they will need to spend each month.

Utility bills are often higher out in the suburbs due to larger homes and more space that requires heating and cooling throughout the year. Food costs can also vary widely depending on where one shops – grocery stores in some areas offer discounts while others may have higher prices due to convenience or quality factors.

Overall, suburbanites must consider all these various costs before committing to a particular area as part of their lifestyle choice. With proper planning, however, families can find ways to save money while still enjoying all that life in the suburbs has to offer. Moving forward, we’ll explore education and recreation opportunities available in nearby townships and neighborhoods.

Education And Recreation Opportunities

Living in the suburbs of Chicago offers many education and recreational opportunities. From schools to shopping malls, there are plenty of places for families to explore. Here is a breakdown of some of the activities that can be found:

• There are numerous public and private schools available throughout the Chicago suburbs. These include elementary, middle, and high schools as well as universities and colleges. Parents can also find daycare centers, preschools, language learning programs, religious institutions, and special education facilities here.
• Many of these schools have excellent academic reputations and offer diverse curriculums with both traditional and non-traditional classes.
• Recreational Activities:
• The Chicago suburbs offer a variety of recreational activities ranging from outdoor parks to cultural events . Residents can take advantage of nearby lakes or rivers for fishing or kayaking trips or spend an afternoon exploring one of the many museums located around the city.
• Shopping malls provide another activity option where residents can browse stores, grab a bite to eat, attend family movie nights at the theater, or go on rides at amusement parks like Six Flags Great America.

Cultural Activities

• Each suburb has its own unique culture with various festivals during the year such as Taste of Chicago . Sports fans will appreciate venues like Wrigley Field or Soldier Field while music lovers might enjoy live concerts at Navy Pier or Ravinia Festival Park. Other popular destinations include art galleries, theaters, comedy clubs, historical sites, botanical gardens, and aquariums.

The abundance of educational and recreational choices makes it easy for people living in any Chicago suburb to find something fun to do no matter their interests or budget size; making it an ideal place for all types of individuals who want access to both city’s amenities without having to leave home!

What To Consider When Moving To A Suburb

Moving to a suburb can be an exciting prospect, but there are several considerations to make beforehand. Location is key when it comes to the suburbs of Chicago; the closer you live to the city center, the higher your housing prices will likely be. It’s also important to research prospective schools and their rankings as well as nearby job opportunities if commuting into the city isn’t feasible. Additionally, take note of what amenities each neighborhood offers in terms of parks or recreational activities.

When deciding on a suburb, don’t forget about commute times too! Many suburbs offer public transportation options that allow for easy travel into Chicago and its surrounding areas . However, if you’re planning on relying on your car for work commutes, consider how long it will take during peak hours before settling in a particular area.

Finally, safety should always be taken into account while picking out a new place to call home. Research crime rates within different neighborhoods so that you feel safe living in whichever suburb you end up choosing. Having this information can help ensure peace of mind when making such an important decision – not just for yourself, but for your family as well.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best way to get to downtown chicago from the suburbs.

Getting to downtown Chicago from the suburbs is a common concern for many commuters. With so many transportation options available, it’s important to get familiar with all of your commuting possibilities. From public transportation and ride-sharing services to carpooling and more, there are plenty of ways to make your way into the city.

Public transportation is one of the most popular options for getting around in the area. The CTA offers bus routes as well as access to trains that can take you directly downtown. This form of transit is cost-effective and efficient if you know where you’re going and which route works best for your needs. Additionally, Metra provides train service between downtown Chicago and various suburban locations throughout northern Illinois.

Finally, cars are also an option when traveling from the suburbs into Chicago’s downtown district. Commuters have several choices here too: they can either drive themselves or choose a carpooling option like LiftShare or ZipCar to reduce their costs while still being able to get around quickly and easily. No matter what method you prefer, there’s sure to be something out there that fits your commute goals!

In summary, no matter how far away you live from downtown Chicago, there are plenty of options when it comes to getting into the city from the suburbs – whether through public transportation, ride-sharing services or even just driving yourself. Each commuter will find something that meets his/her individual needs – allowing them maximum flexibility on their travel plans!

Are There Public Transportation Options Available In The Suburbs?

Are you looking for public transportation options in the suburbs? The answer might surprise you.

If you’re living in a suburban area and want to get downtown, it can be daunting trying to figure out your best option. But there are actually plenty of ways to make that journey without relying on a car or rideshare service. From bus routes to train lines and commuter rail, there are numerous reliable transportation services available in many suburban areas across Chicago.

To illustrate this point further, let’s look at one example. For those who live near Evanston, they have access to two Metra train lines (Union Pacific North Line and Union Pacific Northwest Line) as well as several Pace buses that run all over town. Here is just a partial list of what’s available:

• Two Metra train lines with frequent stops throughout the city
• Multiple express bus routes operating during peak hours
• Local bus lines provide easy connections from surrounding neighborhoods
• A variety of ride-sharing programs offer discounts for those traveling together

No matter where you live in the suburbs, chances are good that you have access to some kind of public transit service that will take you downtown quickly and safely. And if trains aren’t an option then there are always other alternatives like Uber/Lyft or biking which provide great alternatives for getting around town. So don’t worry – no matter how far away from downtown Chicago you may be, there’s still an efficient way of making your journey into the city!

What Are The Job Opportunities Like In The Suburbs?

When it comes to job opportunities, the suburbs of Chicago have a lot to offer. With its diverse job market and numerous employment options available, there are plenty of career choices for those looking to make a move. Whether you’re an experienced professional or just starting out in your field, the suburbs of Chicago provide ample opportunity for growth and success.

The job market in this area is bustling and ever-changing. There’s something here for everyone – from entry-level positions to more advanced roles in tech and finance. Companies that range from small startups all the way up to Fortune 500s are always on the lookout for qualified candidates who can bring their skillsets and experience to the table. Here, you’ll find competitive salaries, comprehensive benefits packages, and flexible working arrangements designed with employee satisfaction in mind.

What’s more, many local organizations provide resources like mentorship programs and networking events to help individuals grow professionally as they transition into new roles or start their own businesses. All these factors combined create a prime environment where talented professionals can thrive while pushing themselves toward reaching their goals.

From established corporate giants down to innovative newcomers, the suburban Chicago job market has something for everyone who’s ready to take advantage of what it offers – no matter what stage they’re at in their careers.

How Safe Are The Suburbs Compared To The City?

When it comes to safety, many people are curious about how safe the suburbs can be compared to a major city. Recent statistics show that suburban crime overall is lower than in cities like Chicago. Suburban crime rates have been steadily declining since the mid-2000s, making these areas increasingly safer and more desirable for residents.

Though there are always exceptions to any rule, generally speaking, suburban communities within Chicago tend to be much safer than downtown or other heavily populated urban areas. This makes sense when taking into account factors such as population density, economic opportunity, and access to police protection services which all play a role in reducing criminal activity.

The presence of law enforcement in suburban towns adds an extra layer of security for its citizens. According to data from the FBI’s Uniform Crime Report released earlier this year, burglary and larceny-theft – two of the most common crimes – were both down significantly from previous years in the nation’s suburbs surrounding Chicago. Additionally, reported violent offenses dropped by nearly 5%, indicating that those living outside of the city may feel less prone to becoming victims of violent acts due to increased awareness by local authorities.

It’s important for prospective homeowners looking at properties outside of central Chicago locations to understand that they will likely experience greater peace of mind with regard to their personal safety on a daily basis if they choose one of these outlying neighborhoods over an area closer toward downtown.

Are There Any Cultural Attractions In The Suburbs?

Are there any cultural attractions in the suburbs? Absolutely! Suburban areas are full of places to visit, local events to attend, recreational activities, and more. From farmer’s markets to historical sites, and art galleries to outdoor festivals, suburbanites have an abundance of choices when it comes to exploring their culture.

Take a stroll through one of Chicago’s many suburban parks for a dose of nature combined with entertainment. The summer months bring plenty of outdoor concerts, plays, and movie screenings that can be enjoyed by all ages. Local museums feature interactive exhibits that provide insight into the area’s history and heritage. Check out nearby artisan shops or craft shows for unique gifts or souvenirs that capture the essence of your hometown.

Don’t forget about family-friendly fun either – popular destinations include amusement parks and arcades where kids can try their luck at winning prizes while parents relax with some treats from food trucks parked nearby. Whether you’re looking for a quiet night out or an all-day adventure, there is something available in the suburbs that will fit every interest and budget.

No matter what kind of experience you’re after, chances are good you’ll find it just outside your front door if you live in the suburbs of Chicago – so go ahead and explore your backyard!

In conclusion, the Chicago suburbs offer a great way of life that is both convenient and enjoyable. From public transportation options to job opportunities and cultural attractions, there is something for everyone in the suburban areas around Windy City . It’s like stepping into a new world – one where you can have all the benefits of city living without having to deal with its hustle and bustle .

The safety of the suburbs gives people peace of mind as they go about their day-to-day lives. With low crime rates, families can feel secure raising children or just enjoying time together in a quiet neighborhood. The feeling of community among neighbors is strong here, creating an atmosphere that feels like home.

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The 10 Best Suburbs to Commute to Chicago

Ready to leave the city? The ‘burbs are a solid option for tons of reasons: great public schools, affordable costs of living, not breaking into a cold sweat every time you look for parking (and that’s just the tip of the iceberg). Of course, there are a bazillion wonderful townships, but if you’ll be commuting back and forth to the city for work—or you simply want easy access to the Tamale Guy —you’ll want to be able to get there without too much of a hurdle. Below, we breakdown some of the best suburbs to commute to Chicago.

What Is the Most Affordable Suburb of Chicago?

Of course, “affordability” varies depending on lots of factors, including everything from property taxes to what things you value in a community. But to answer this question, we looked mostly at suburbs of Chicago known for lower costs with a relative access to the city. So, based on commuting options to the city, housing prices, property taxes and cost of living, it looks like the most affordable suburbs of Chicago are towns like Elgin, Aurora, Joliet and Waukegan . All of these cities have more affordable housing options compared to suburbs closer to the city and lower taxes. (And psst: Waukegan is even on the water.)

1.  Skokie, IL

• Commute time to/from Downtown by car: 23 minutes
• Commute time to/from Downtown by Metra: 45 minutes

Only 15 miles from Chicago’s Loop, Skokie, dare we say, has it all. Going to a Cubs game and don’t want to worry about parking? Park at the CTA Yellow Line, transfer at Howard to the Red Line and arrive at Addison in 40 minutes or so. But you don’t have to skip town to enjoy yourself. Skokie’s historic corridor on Lincoln Ave. is cute as pie replete with a hometown theater . In fact, arts and culture do exist in the burbs. See: North Shore Center for the Performing Arts , Northlight Theatre and the Skokie Valley Symphony Orchestra , The Skokie Northshore Sculpture Park, and The Illinois Holocaust Museum are all based here. There’s also Westfield Old Orchard, an upscale outdoor mall with everything from Zara to Bloomingdale’s reimagined small format shop. And when it comes to dining, Skokie offers a melting pot of options: hit up Poochie’s for a best-in-class Chicago char burger or hot dog, Libertad for a city-worthy dining experience, or Pita Inn for some cult-favorite, no-frills falafel.

2. Evanston, IL

• Commute time to/from Downtown by Metra: 40 minutes from Central St., Davis St., Main St.

Evanston is kinda like “Chicago Lite” since it’s highly walkable with lots of restaurants, cafes, shops and a mix of buildings from new mid-rises to historic Victorians on tree-lined streets. It’s definitely got more in common with parts of the city like Andersonville, Lincoln Square or Lakeview than it is to, say, Buffalo Grove (we’ll get to that later)—which makes sense considering the city is directly north of Rogers Park with Lake Michigan as its eastern border. That said, it has its own school district and overall vibe.

Home to Northwestern University, there’s both a sense of collegiate seriousness (the gothic architecture helps) and a liberal, socially conscious spirit. In fact, in 2019, Evanston became the first city to pass a reparations resolution. Only 12 miles from Downtown Chicago, you can easily hop on the CTA Purple line or Metra or, if you dare to brave traffic, take the scenic view on Lake Shore Drive.

3. Oak Park, IL

• Commute time to/from Downtown by car: 20 minutes
• Commute time to/from Downtown by CTA: 37 minutes from Green Line at Ridgeland

Literally a hop, skip and a jump from Chicago proper, the Village of Oak Park is a very special place for lots of reasons. For one, it’s a Frank Lloyd Wright mecca . The architect’s Prairie School footprint is on display in dozens of private homes and public structures throughout the city. The walking tours are a delightful hat trick for out-of-towners (or, say, friends visiting from the city). It’s also—literature geeks hold onto your pants— the birthplace of Ernest Hemingway , and yes, you can tour the author’s childhood Queen Anne-style home. Historical treasure chest aside, Oak Park is uber family-friendly. Visit the penguins and polar bears at the Brookfield Zoo or get lost at the Galloping Ghost Arcade , the largest video arcade in the U.S.

4. Hinsdale, IL

• Commute time to/from Downtown by car: 32 minutes
• Commute time to/from Downtown by Metra: 22 minutes on express line

A western suburb 20 miles outside of Chicago on the BNSF Metra Line, Hinsdale feels a bit like Pleasantville. Its robust and historic downtown—featuring more than 100 local shops—means you can park and spend the day hopping from brunch to the salon to coffee to shopping and then meeting up for a dinner and drink. And if you thought all Illinois was flat, a walk around Hinsdale’s rolling hills and woodland will certainly change your mind. Grab your picnic supplies for an idyllic afternoon at one of the village’s many public spaces, like Katherine Legge Memorial Park , located on 52 acres of woodland and replete with all your park needs, including frisbee golf, tennis courts and a sledding hill (come winter, of course). There’s also the community pool to get in your laps, a skate park to practice your ollies and lots more.

5. Flossmoor, IL

• Commute time to/from Downtown by car: 33 minutes
• Commute time to/from Downtown by Metra: 40 minutes on express line

This small southwestern suburb has made quite a name for itself over the last century. Known in the early 20th-century for its golf courses and country clubs, the town even hosted the 1920 PGA Championship. Today, the city still maintains its affluent status, but the population has transitioned over the years from a white community to predominantly Black. 

6. Buffalo Grove, IL

• Commute time to/from Downtown by car: 45 minutes

This fairly large town approximately 35 miles northwest of downtown Chicago is known for its excellent schools and strong sense of community—easy highway access and public transportation also don’t hurt its reputation. U.S. News & World Report ranks Stevenson High School   as 185th nationally and 7th in Illinois. Though the city isn’t known for a central district, the sprawling town offers plenty of dining, shopping and fun. Visit the wonderful Willow Springs Park for tennis, disc golf, parks and seasonal ice skating rinks and make sure not to miss Buffalo Grove Days, the end-of-summer festival bringing rides, food and live music to town.

7. Highland Park, IL

• Commute time to/from Downtown by car: 36 minutes
• Commute time to/from Downtown by Metra: 45 minutes on express line

This charming city is situated along the shores of Lake Michigan, which of course adds to its beautiful natural surroundings. Highland Park is a triple threat, offering highly rated schools, a wonderful cultural scene and a lovely, walkable downtown with boutique shops just blocks from the beach. On summer nights, head to Ravinia Festival for live music, whether you enjoy it in the amphitheater or on the lawn with a bottle of wine and picnic. (Psst: Commuters can hop off the Union Pacific North line inside the park.) You’ll also get to enjoy food truck nights, the highly curated Port Clinton Art Fair and much more.

8. Naperville, IL

Consistently ranked as one of the best places to live in the country , the city of 145,000 residents and about 30 miles west of downtown Chicago clearly has a lot to offer beyond its access to multiple train stations and major highways. One of Naperville’s favorite brags is that it has the “amenities of a modern city and all the charm of a small town.” And with its excellent schools, Riverwalk, vibrant downtown and acclaimed library, Naperville certainly delivers on the promise.

9. Wheaton, IL

• Commute time to/from Downtown by car: 41 minutes
• Commute time to/from Downtown by Metra: 1 hour

Although Wheaton College is a dry campus, the city of Wheaton has been known for hosting an annual Wheaton Wine Walk and the Wheaton Brew Fest. In fact, this year, they’ve expanded the fest to include seltzer . Among an active community with lots of events, Wheaton is also home to a historic downtown with shops, restaurants and farmers market. As for public space, the town boasts numerous parks and a robust forest preserve district that includes almost 25,000 acres, 31 lakes, 145 miles of trails and 1,450 picnic tables. You can even take horseback riding lessons at the Danada Equestrian Center .

10. Tinley Park, IL

• Commute time to/from Downtown by car: 35 minutes
• Commute time to/from Downtown by Metra: 40 minutes on express train

There’s a lot going on in this southwest suburb, including the Credit Union 1 Amphitheatre —28,000-capacity live outdoor music venue—and Tinley Park Convention Center, bringing lots and lots of business into town. As for locals, the city offers a diverse community and affordable housing options, which probably accounts for why the 2020 U.S. Census noted that Tinley Park was one of the fastest growing suburbs in the country. Since its centennial in 1992, the city has been focused on downtown renovation projects including various mixed-use developments like The Boulevard , a new indoor/outdoor brewery and a new plaza right-smack in the center of town.

The 11 Most Charming Small Towns in Illinois

Executive Editor, Frazzled Mom, Bravo-Holic

31 of the Best Things to Do This January Around Chicago and the Suburbs

It’s a new month, and a fresh start to a new year. Say hello to 2021 with opportunities to get outdoors, safely take in the arts, support local restaurants, and more. Here are the best things to do this January around Chicago.

Don’t forget to tag us in your posts on Instagram  @betterchicago

Tune In: Lincoln Park Zoo

Lincoln Park Zoo may be closed until March 4, but you can still see the animals in their new YouTube series, “Stay Tuned to the Zoo!” New episodes will air every Tuesday and Thursday.

Celebrate National Soup Month at Chez Moi

Chez Moi is offering a special Soup Duo ($14) for National Soup Month this January. The duo features  Vichyssoise  — potatoes, onions, leek, butter, and cream — and  Gumbo  — gumbo filé, rice, shrimp, chicken, tasso ham, okra. The duo will be available to order all month long in January.

Movies at Chi Town Drive In

Drive-in theaters of the past are making a resurgence, with social distancing and safety measures at the forefront of the fun. Drive in this January for “Bring on Summer” classics like American Graffiti , Jaws and High School Musical , from the toasty comfort of your car. 2343 S. Throop Street, Chicago

Skating Ribbon at Maggie Daley Park

The Skating Ribbon is back at Maggie Daley Park! Due to Covid-19, reservations are required to skate this year. Limited spots are available at each session, so make sure to book in advance. Masks are required while skating and in the park at all times.  337 E Randolph St .,  Chicago

Take the Downtown Evanston Takeout Pledge

Support Downtown Evanston restaurants by taking the pledge to take out your brunch, lunch or dinner to support restaurants during this difficult time. Find a list of area restaurants offering curbside or carry-out here .

Sledding Outside Soldier Field

The 35-foot sledding hill outside Soldier Field is officially open for the season. Grab your sled, tube and face mask and head down for some fun in the outdoors. 425 E. McFetridge Drive.

Virtual Penguin, Sea Lion and Sea Otter Encounters with the Shedd Aquarium

Experience a live virtual visit with the penguins, sea lions or sea otters that call Shedd home from  your  home with the Shedd’s brand-new Virtual Penguin Encounter. For a limited time, purchase two links for the price of $69.95 ($64.95 Members), to share this experience with a friend or family member from anywhere in the world.

Virtually Tour Illinois Holocaust Museum’s Notorious RBG Exhibit

This is your last chance to virtually see the Illinois Holocaust Museum & Education Center’s Notorious RBG exhibit before it leaves the museum (to make way for a new exhibit !). Since the museum is closed, you can view virtually through Feb. 20.

Skating in the Park at Chicago Wolves Ice Rink at Parkway Bank Park

Take a spin on the ice at the Chicago Wolves ice rink in Rosemont. Advanced registration is required, and time slots are limited to 45 minutes.  5501 Park Pl., Rosemont

Visit Harold Washington Library’s Winter Park

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While you browse the classics and new releases , check out the sun-filled Winter Garden — the perfect spot to soak up some Vitamin D and a great read. Make sure you check for closures before your visit. 400 S State St, Chicago

Steppenwolf Live: Red Folder

An illustrated short play, The Red Folder , featuring Carrie Coon, is summarized as “the red folder belongs to a first grader. It is the source of all his woes. Years later, he seeks vengeance.” Sound intriguing? Become a virtual member for just $75 and stream Steppenwolf’s content wherever you are, whenever you want.

Queen’s Gambit Fashion Challenge with the Main-Dempster Mile

Did you love the Netflix miniseries, Queen’s Gambit ? The Main-Dempster Mile is challenging you to find fabulous fashions like Beth Harmon at Evanston stores, on any budget. Submit a photo for consideration, and you could win a $25 gift card. Learn more here .

Go For a Walk: Lakefront Trail and Chicago Riverwalk

Miss the sights? Bundle up and take in the city and frozen lakefront from the 18 miles of Chicago’s Lakefront Trail, or along Chicago’s Riverwalk. Just remember to wear your mask, and social distance.

Warm Up with a Festive Drink

• Noir d’Ebene is offering  hot chocolate in tons of cool flavors  (we hear the peanut butter hot chocolate is amazing). 1309 Chicago Ave., Evanston
• Belgian Chocolatier Piron has their iconic hot chocolate for sale. 509-A Main St., Evanston.
• Firehouse Grill is serving  a gluhwein-inspired “Winter Wine”  along with hot chocolate and a Few-infused cider. 750 Chicago Ave., Evanston

Jan. 6-10: Order a King Cake from French Quiche

King Cake will be available at French Quiche from January 6–10 to honor Kings Day in France, also known as the Epiphany. If you miss out, The King Cake will also be available from February 12–16 in celebration of Mardi Gras before the Lenten season. King Cakes are available in an individual size ($9) or full size ($28). They are made with almond flour, butter, eggs, sugar, puff pastry, and milk. Order here .

Jan. 7: Virtual Women in History with Martina Mathisen

Join historical interpreter Martina Mathisen as she portrays six dynamic women in history, including Annie Oakley, Florence Nightingale, and Amelia Earhart. Hosted by the Niles-Maine District Library.

Jan. 7: City Grange Lincoln Square Warehouse Sale

Help City Grange clear out their warehouse and save big on a variety of goods to gear up for your 2021 garden adventure, including pottery, tools, gift items and houseplants. 5700 N. Western Ave., Chicago

Jan. 9: Northwestern University Wirtz Center’s “The Glass Menagerie”

In this virtual performance, Northwestern University’s refreshing new take on Tennessee Williams’ “The Glass Menagerie” is told through the lens of a Chinese American family. This audio drama will include images of the final set and costumes designed by MFA students that were captured in the fall. $10 (general public) and $5 (full-time, non-NU students).

Through Jan. 9: Let it Shine Drive Thru Light Show

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Experience a touchless and socially safe family tradition this season with a drive-through light show. Running through Jan. 9 at the Northbrook Court Mall, this light show will have a wonderland of smart pixel LEDs that will perform a show all synchronized to your favorite holiday classics. Tickets are sold per vehicle and in 30-minute increments.  1515 Lake Cook Road, Northbrook

Jan. 10: The Book Stall Presents Jeanne Bishop “Grace From the Rubble”

The Book Stall presents a free online event with author and public defender Jeanne Bishop , discussing her acclaimed book “Grace from the Rubble: Two Fathers’ Road to Reconciliation After the Oklahoma City Bombing.” Register here .

Through Jan. 10: Garfield Park Conservatory Winter Flower Show – Gratitude

While the Conservatory is currently closed, you can view this beloved annual tradition virtually. This year’s Winter Flower Show is named “Gratitude,” as the Conservatory is “grateful for the beauty of nature and for each other as they navigate these challenging times.”

Jan. 10: Evanston Art Center: Meet the Artist, Susan Smith Trees

On Sunday, January 10, 2021, meet Evanston Art Center’s upcoming exhibiting artist Susan Smith Trees, and view her work in their Second Floor Atrium Gallery. Susan Smith Trees is a sculptor who has exhibited throughout the United States for the past 25 years. She has created installations, wall reliefs and floor works in addition to pen and ink and oil drawings. Registration is required . All visitors are required to wear masks and take their temperature upon entry using provided gloves, and share results with an EAC staff member. 1717 Central Street, Evanston.

Jan. 13: Virtual Alliance Française du North Shore’s Brush Up Your French Class 

Looking to start your prep for that eventual European trip now? Join the Alliance Française du North Shore’s intermediate French classes led by Mme Ann Koller, on Wednesdays from 4:30–6 pm, online. The class includes 10 lessons through March 17. AFduNS members: $150; nonmembers: $165.

Jan. 14: The Executives’ Club of Chicago – 2021 Annual Economic Outlook

Hear from a panel of financial experts on their forecasts for the economy, taxes, the markets, interest rates, and regulatory changes that are likely to impact your investments and business decisions. Nationally syndicated columnist Terry Savage will moderate this conversation with panelists that include Dr. Bob Froehlich, Owner, Kane County Cougars Baseball Club & Former Vice Chair, Deutsche Asset Management, Jeffrey Gundlach, CEO & CIO, DoubleLine, James McDonald, Chief Executive Officer of Hercules Investments and Diane Swonk, Chief Economist, Grant Thornton LLP. Register here .  Member – complimentary. Nonmember – $50.

Through Jan. 14: SHINE ON, a Virtual, Project Onward Art Exhibit Lights Up The Coming Year

The artists of Project Onward are known for embellishing their large and small works with shiny, metallic material. For this latest exhibition Shine On , they showcase their unique ways of depicting light and illumination. The exhibition features artists Paul Kowalewski, George Zuniga, Molly McGrath, RJ and Janno Juguilon, Sereno ‘Glitter Man’ Wilson, Jacqueline Cousins Oliva, and more. Art is priced for sale between $50 and $800. 1200 W. 35th St., 4th Floor, Chicago

Jan. 15: Chalet Virtual Learning – Houseplants Best of + RARE Collection

Join Chalet on Zoom where Jennifer Brennan, Chalet Horticulturist, as she highlight the best varieties of indoor plants for your space based on your desired qualities, experience level, light requirements, and color options. She will also introduce you to the Chalet RARE collection. Register here .

More January events from Chalet:

Jan. 18: MLK Day Terrarium Workshop Jan. 22: Virtual Learning – Orchid 101 Jan. 23 & Jan. 24: Dry January Pop Up with Seedlip Jan. 24: Virtual Learning – How to Grow Edibles Plants Jan. 29: Virtual Learning – Air Plants 101 Jan. 30: Virtual Learning – Vertical Plant Decor 101

Jan. 16: Museum of Contemporary Art’s “The Dreamscape “

Bringing together the time-based and live performances of artists featured in The MCA’s The Long Dream,  this virtual event gathers and juxtaposes distinct artworks to evoke new connections between them. Audiences navigate through livestreamed music, video art, meditative performances, and intimate conversations with artists, choosing their own experience. Register here .

Jan. 19: The Executives’ Club of Chicago – Together We Rise: Why We All Win With An Equitable Recovery

On January 19, from 9-10 a.m., The Executives’ Club of Chicago will host Together We Rise: Why We All Win with an Equitable Recovery, a panel discussion to explore the region’s path forward to a just and equitable economic recovery. The conversation will be moderated by Helene Gayle, President and CEO of The Chicago Community Trust, and feature Gloria Castillo, Director of Together We Rise, a multi-faceted initiative that will provide funding, encourage changes to business practices, and pursue policy reforms to ensure the region comes back from the impacts of Covid-19 better on the other side. Panelists will include David Doig, President of Chicago Neighborhood Initiatives, Martin H. Nesbitt, Co-CEO of The Vistria Group and Anne Vela-Wagner, Executive Director of The Mars Wrigley Foundation. Register here . Member & nonmembers – complimentary.

Jan. 22: The Executives’ Club of Chicago – Mapping Your CSR Journey: Planning Today for Tomorrow’s Future

Over the course of the past year, Corporate Social Responsibility has received new urgency and attention in the Chicago business community. Have you taken the time to assess where your company lands in the spectrum of development and implementation of your CSR Strategy? Join The Executives’ Club of Chicago on January 22 at 9am virtually to learn more about an evaluating framework that will inspire greater action and effectiveness within your organization, led by Seth Green of Loyola University’s Baumhart Center. Register here . Member – complimentary. Nonmember – $25.

Jan. 28: Newberry Library’s “The Great Migration, Reconsidered”

During the twentieth century, the Great Migration transformed the demographic landscape of America and led to lasting social, economic, and cultural changes. In this virtual program, three scholars — Matthew Cressler , Courtney Pierre Joseph and Lionel Kimble — will discuss aspects of the Great Migration that are often overlooked in history books. Open to all, this free event will be held on Zoom.

Jan. 30: Plunge Where You Are

Take an icy plunge – wherever you are – for a good cause this month! The Chicago Polar Bear Club is helping participants raise funds for three deserving families. Make your pledge here , fundraise, take your icy plunge (bathtub, bucket, pond… it’s up to you!) and then join in for a virtual celebration on the 31st.

Jan. 31: Evanston Art Center “In Focus” Lecture Series: Holly Clayson, Modern Art and Light/s

On Sunday, January 31, 2021 at 2pm, join Evanston Art Center for a lecture about Modern Art and Light/s featuring Holly Clayson. The lecture will look closely at artworks that responded to light by focusing on the differences and connections between art shaped by light (lumière) and art inspired by lighting (éclairage). That the French capital has long been known as “The City of Light” will necessarily be a topic of analysis not least because improvements in lighting helped to define the cultural and technological landscape of Paris during the entire course of the 1800s. Registration is required . Attend virtually or safely in person. 1717 Central Street, Evanston.

More from Better:

• Let’s Brunch: Italian Baked Eggs and Grapefruit, Champagne, and Vodka Spritz — Recipes from Belinda Smith-Sullivan’s New Cookbook
• Inside the Minds of MacArthur ‘Genius’ Grant Winners Monika Schleier-Smith and Forrest Stuart
• Family Philanthropy: Expert Financial Tips to Help You Align Your Money with Mission in 2021

Macaire Douglas lives in the Chicago suburbs with her husband and two sons. She proudly supports  Save Abandoned Babies Foundation , a Chicago-based nonprofit organization that works tirelessly to prevent the illegal abandonment of newborns nationwide. Since its inception in 2000, more than 3,600 newborns have been safely surrendered and adopted into loving homes.

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Where to Eat in Suburban Chicago

The best bites outside city limits

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Chicago is a world-class culinary city. What often gets overlooked, though, are the terrific options available in the surrounding areas. Destination dining exists in the suburbs and those who live near the following spots can likely attest to their excellence. There’s a range here, from fine dining to the finest burgers and hot dogs in northeastern Illinois. So think outside the city limits and pursue a tasty adventure.

Chicago Culinary Kitchen

Owners Kristina and Greg Gaardbo have earned high marks and a devoted following for their Texas-style barbecue. Before the pandemic, the couple sold limited quantities of brisket, pulled pork, ribs, and other smoked meats on the weekends. They’ve since expanded into a full-fledged restaurant with an extensive menu of craft beer and weekly specials.

• Open in Google Maps

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Charlie Beinlich's

Charlie Beinlich’s was created back in 1950 in the image of a north woods bar, complete with wood paneling and fish trophies on the wall. Its menu is simple: shrimp cocktail and sandwiches (grilled cheese, ham, tuna and egg salad). But the true standout is the burger. It’s a thick patty of meat, cooked on a grill, served on a toasted and buttered bun, ideally with grilled onions and a side of crispy crinkle fries. There’s nothing fancy about it, but it’s the sort of burger that makes a diner sigh afterward, “Ah, that hits the spot.” Be warned: it’s cash only.

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Fans have flocked to Chef Ping for more than six decades, delighting in its robust Korean-Chinese menu and family-friendly dining room. Regulars praise its consistency — a feat in light of its tenure — and favorites like jajang myuen and fu chi fae pian (Sichuan spice-marinated beef and tripe).

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Buffalo Joe's

For North Shore residents, wings are synonymous with this Evanston institution . The chicken is fried until it’s extra crispy and then tossed in founder Joe Prudden’s tangy, buttery sauce. Spiciness ranges from mild to “suicide,” and the quintessential game day food is best paired with a side of Buff Joe’s waffle fries.

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FONDA cantina

Chef Miguel Escobar, sous chef Carlos Cahue, and wine director Sergio Angel leverage this newish Mexican restaurant as a platform to highlight the cuisine they grew up eating Huandacareo in Michoacan and Huitzuco in Guerrero. Longtime colleagues and business partners of Lachowicz (Aboyer, George Trois), the trio are bestowing dishes like chile relleno (queso Oaxaca, pintos martajados) and pork rendering-laced sope manteca upon Evanston.

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Bombay Chopsticks

Bombay Chopsticks bore great responsibility as one of the only Indo-Chinese restaurants in the Chicago area. Find great noodles, dumplings, and more. There’s a second location in Naperville.

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Mitsuwa Marketplace

Chicago’s premiere Japanese market is actually tucked away in suburban Arlington Heights, where legions of longtime fans beat a path to shop for produce and Asian packaged goods. It also houses Pastry House Hippo, a bakery packed with delectable Japanese pastries, an outpost of the confectionary brand J. Sweets, and a bustling food court with stalls featuring sugary Japanese-style crepes, ramen, udon, donburi, and more.

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Since it opened 40 years ago, Pita Inn has become celebrated for its falafel, shawarma, kebabs, hummus, lentil soup, and, of course, its soft and pillowy pitas. (Keeping up with the times, there are now Impossible kebabs.) But also don’t overlook the garlic sauce, which elevates anything it touches, from a pita sandwich to a plate of french fries. There are now four additional locations, plus a grocery store in Skokie.

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Kaufman's Bagel & Delicatessen

After more than six decades of serving Ashkenazi Jewish cuisine and baked goods, it’s safe to say that Kaufman’s is a Skokie institution. Its eye-popping menagerie of delights includes house-smoked pastrami, knishes, babka, lox, and much, much more. Patrons in a hurry should check the calendar before visiting — if a Jewish holiday is coming up, expect a crowd.

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Burt's Place

Burt’s Place was the last restaurant founded by Burt Katz , the legendary Chicago pizza-maker who first added a ring of caramelized cheese around the crust (his other spots include Pequod’s and the recently-closed Gullivers ); Anthony Bourdain once said that Burt’s was the only Chicago-style pizza he ever loved. Before his death in 2016, Katz passed his recipes onto Jerry Petrow, his hand-picked successor, who continues to run Burt’s Place in the style of the master.

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Chodang Tofu Village

Stay nourished with sizzling-hot tofu soups courtesy of this Korean stalwart in Mount Prospect. Chodang dedicates much of its menu to comforting sundubu-jjigae served in stone pots. There are several variations, including seafood, beef, and pork, and diners choose their spice level. Each order arrives with a host of banchan and an egg to poach in the broth.

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CHICAGO RAMEN

Japanese chef Kenta Ikehata turned Des Plaines into a ramen destination for suburbanites and city-dwellers alike with the 2019 debut of Chicago Ramen Widely seen as one of the best noodle shops around, the restaurant specializes in tsukemen, composed of cold ramen noodles and a rich broth for dipping. The digs are unfussy and a wait is likely, but worth it. Ikehata and his team have rapidly expanded to locations in Schaumburg and Rolling Meadows.

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New York Bagel & Bialy

The best bagels in Chicagoland are boiled and baked in a Lincolnwood strip mall just off I-94. This 24-hour shop slings New York-style bagels that are soft, chewy, and doughy. Grab a dozen to go or enjoy them in sandwich form, filled with lox, corned beef, or pastrami.

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Gene & Jude's

The iconic River Grove hot dog stand needs little introduction. Its famous Depression Dog is topped with just mustard, onions, relish, sport peppers, and a handful of fries. Ketchup lovers will have to look elsewhere for the tomato condiment: it’s expressly forbidden inside Gene & Jude’s.

Johnnie's Beef

Italian beef aficionados know that the finest version of the sandwich is out in Elmwood Park (there's a second Johnnie’s in Arlington Heights, too). The well-seasoned beef is finely chopped and loaded onto Gonnella bread, and diners can (and should) have it dipped in jus and balanced with giardiniera or sweet peppers. On a hot day, the housemade Italian ices are also required eating.

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Burmese restaurants are few and far between in Illinois, but Pa Lian in suburban Wheaton provides a rare opportunity to dive head-first into the culinary culture of Myanmar, the Southeast Asian country formerly known as Burma. Founded in 2018 by owner Tawk Zalian, it specializes in distinctive dishes like crunchy tea leaf salad, moh-hin-gar (rice vermicelli in catfish and bean broth), and tofu gyaw, a fried Burmese favorite made with chickpeas.

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Bien Trucha

It doesn’t get as much recognition as some Chicago taquerias but Geneva residents know Bien Trucha stacks up to the best. The town’s busiest restaurant, whose name roughly translates to “on top of one’s game,” sets the standard for Mexican dining in the suburbs with an outstanding array of tacos. The signature Bien Trucha taco — carne asada, chorizo, roasted tomatillo salsa, and a layer of melted Chihuahua cheese — is a must-try.

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Al's Drive-In

Originally founded in 1955, Al’s Drive-In is a street food icon in suburban Maywood, serving generations of locals and students at nearby Proviso East High School. In addition to a stellar lineup of classics like Chicago-style hot dogs and pizza puffs, Al’s sets itself apart from the crowd with American Chinese dishes delivered with Thai twists. Its fried rice — loaded with salt, pepper, MSG, and a mixture of dark soy and Golden Mountain sauce — is by far the best seller, with customers devouring up to 320 quarts per day.

Autre Monde Cafe & Spirits

In 2011, four Spiaggia vets landed in Berwyn and opened a cozy neighborhood bistro . The result: Destination-worthy Mediterranean fare consisting of seasonal shared plates, pastas, and flatbreads. The eclectic drink list is equally impressive, showcasing a selection of old-world wines and small-batch spirits.

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Berwyn Chicken Co

The wasteland-like atmosphere of to-go food in the suburbs has somewhat improved in recent years with fresh entrants like Berwyn Chicken Co, a takeout- and delivery-only spot from the team behind Big Guys Sausage Stand. It specializes in crispy, juicy fried chicken dinners, plus fried whole wings, jumbo fried shrimp, and delightful mini-churros that come with 15 to an order.

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Katy's Dumplings

An essential spot for Chinese food, Katy’s is renowned for its hand-pulled noodles and fresh dumplings. Menu favorites include pan-fried potstickers, beef noodle soup, and scallion pancakes stuffed with meats and veggies.

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Sparrow Coffee

The preferred coffee purveyor for many lauded Chicago restaurants (including Oriole and The Publican), Sparrow Coffee roasts some of the most sought-after beans around town. In Naperville, its distinctive, industrial-style cafe is a haven for caffeine fiends with cutting-edge equipment — including a custom-built Kees van der Westen espresso machine — not to mention skilled baristas and a selection of 100 unique single-origin coffees.

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Mall of India

Naperville’s Mall of India is an ambitious suburban hub that aims to channel the cultural and culinary legacy of Devon Avenue under a single roof. Its sprawling complex includes a 25,000-square-foot grocery store, retail shops, and a food court with stalls like Dosa Village, Surya Tiffins, and an outpost of the Hyderabad House, a local mini-chain from Mall of India owner Vinoz Chanamolu. The food court adheres to Muslim and Hindu traditions by serving halal meat and omitting beef.

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Chuck's Southern Comforts Cafe

Head to Chuck’s Southern Comforts Cafe for some divine smoked meats. The menu boasts Cajun staples, like seafood gumbo and po’ boys, but the star of the show is the barbecue. Feast on ribs, pulled pork, brisket, smoked chicken, and more. Can’t decide on just one? Order the three-meat sampler platter. A second Chuck’s is located in Darien.

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Dell Rhea's Chicken Basket

A secret fried chicken recipe passed down over generations has helped Dell Rhea’s become a historic and necessary pit stop along Route 66. The restaurant has been feeding hungry travelers the same juicy chicken with a side of nostalgia since 1946.

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Al Bawadi Grill

There are several Middle Eastern restaurants in densely Arab-populated Bridgeview, but Al Bawadi stands above the others. Once guests step inside, they’re treated to Arabian décor, servers dressed in traditional outfits, and wood-fired meats and seafood. An added bonus: Every meal starts with complimentary eggplant dip. A second location is in Niles.

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CAKE N' BAKE

Wasfia Shalabi’s petite bakery Cake ‘N Bake, tucked inside a strip mall in Palos Hills, is a sugary wonderland of treats that range from classicly decorated cakes to trendy spiral croissants.

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Schoop's Hamburgers

Originally founded in 1948, Schoop’s is a regional chain with 14 locations in Illinois and Indiana. With that information alone, one might (accurately) guess that the hit regional chain serves up a serious smash burger. Fans rave about its crispy edges, griddled to lacy perfection, along with decadent shakes and sundaes.

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Maple Tree Inn

Beloved Cajun-Creole restaurant Maple Tree Inn reopened in 2019 in Homewood after a fire destroyed its original location in Blue Island, where it had been serving Big Easy-style meals since 1980. (Previously, it had been a modern American restaurant until its owner had a hangover-fueled epiphany one New Year’s Day.) All the classics are here — barbecue shrimp, gumbo, jambalaya — plus some originals, like voodoo nuts, garlic cloves covered in andouille sausage and then smoked.

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The 32 best Chicago attractions

The best Chicago attractions include museums, vast city parks, jazz clubs and theaters.

Chicago might be the Second City, but our attractions are first class. Need evidence of that fact? Look no further than the many Chicago museums , where you'll find everything from the best-preserved T.Rex skeleton ever found to paintings from Van Gogh and Picasso. Or take a stroll through our gorgeous parks and gardens , home to some of the best public art in Chicago (hello to The Bean). Or spend a day swimming in Lake Michigan's surprisingly huge freshwater waves at one of the many Chicago beaches , or see a jazz show at a bar once frequented by Al Capone, or have a Michelin-starred meal at one of the best Chicago restaurants ... the list goes on. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or a lifelong Chicagoan looking to see a little more of their home city, we’ve curated a list of the very best attractions Chicago has to offer, just for you.

RECOMMENDED: The best things to do in Chicago right now RECOMMENDED: The best cheap things to do in Chicago RECOMMENDED: The best hotels in Chicago RECOMMENDED: The best boutique hotels in Chicago

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Best Chicago attractions

1.  Art Institute of Chicago

• Art and design
• price 2 of 4

What is it? Located in downtown Chicago, the Art Institute is a great art museum that is home to  more than 300,000 artworks that span centuries .

Why go? Here, you can find one of the world’s most iconic   paintings like Georges Seurat’s A Sunday on La Grande Jatte (which you may have seen in the cinematic classic  Ferris Bueller’s Day Off ), Edward Hopper's Nighthawks and Grant Wood's American Gothic . Afterwards, explore the stunning Modern Wing, itself a work of art by architect Renzo Piano, or special exhibitions like Life and Afterlife in Ancient Egypt , featuring artworks and artifacts spanning 3,000 years.

2.  Lincoln Park Zoo

• Things to do
• Lincoln Park

What is it? It's   l ocated smack dab in the middle of Lincoln Park, and is home to more than 1,000 animals, including lions, bears, apes and red pandas! 

Why go? You don't even need to open your purse to come here, as it's the only remaining free zoo in Chicago, so just walk right in! It's a great place to take the kids to and requires very little planning. They even offer parties for adults at night, if that's your bag. 

3.  360 CHICAGO

• Streeterville

What is it? Sitting right at the top of the towering 875 N Michigan Avenue building (formerly the John Hancock building), this observation deck places you 1,030 feet in the air. On a clear day, visitors can see four different states ( Illinois, Indiana, Wisconsin and Michigan) .

Why go? If you want to do more than just take a really good look at the view then you should probably test your mettle on 360 CHICAGO’s TILT attraction , which dares guests to not freak out as the observation deck is tilted (duh) out over the busy streets below. If you’ve got a fear of heights, this may not be for you.

4.  Garfield Park Conservatory

• Parks and gardens
• East Garfield Park

What is it? T his enormous greenhouse in Garfield Park is a mong the largest conservatories in the United States. It provides a home for some 600 species of plants (most of which aren’t indigenous to the region).

Why go? Make sure to secure a (free!) reservation online and then s top by to admire the gigantic trees that fill the Palm House, or the Jurassic Park -evoking Fern Room, designed to show you what Illinois may have looked like millions of years in the past. In the warmer months, be sure to make time to explore the sprawling outdoor gardens too. 

5.  The Field Museum

• Science and technology
• Museum Campus

What is it? In 1893, this huge natural history museum   was created to become the home to biological and anthropological collections. And, fun fact: It has more dinosaur bones and ancient artifacts than any other institution in Chicago.

Why go? Take a trip here and be transported back in time. Here, you'll find a recreation of   an ancient Egyptian tomb, stand beneath a towering skeleton of Máximo the titanosaur, or encounter Chicago's most famous prehistoric resident, SUE the T. Rex , the largest and most complete T. Rex fossil skeleton ever found. Fuel your passion for discovery with dinosaurs, ancient artifacts, cultural insights and groundbreaking science.

6.  Millennium Park

• Millennium Park

What is it? One of the most popular places to spend time outdoors in the city, Millennium Park really is vast, covering a massive 24.5 acres. It hosts well-known pieces of public art and a long list of special events, including free concerts and movie screenings in the summer—plus it’s also very good for a nice sit-down.

Why go? Snap a requisite selfie in front of the hulking Cloud Gate (a.k.a. the Bean), take a walk to the Boeing Galleries, go for a stroll through the serene Lurie Gardens or relax on the lawn in front of the Frank Gehry-designed Jay Pritzker Pavilion.

7.  Museum of Science and Industry

What is it? Interactivity is the name of the game at the Museum of Science and Industry, a long-running Hyde Park institution and the largest science center in the Western Hemisphere. It boasts such attractions as a mirror maze, a simulated tornado and an entire WWII-era U-505 submarine.

Why go? Step inside a building that dates back to the World’s Columbian Exposition of 1893 and explore exhibits that depict a Chicago street circa 1910 and a massive model railroad that depicts the 2,200-mile journey from Seattle to Chicago. Right now MSI is hosting Pompeii: The Exhibition, dedicated to the ancient Roman city that was destroyed by a volcanic eruption 1,900 years ago.

8.  Wrigley Field

• Sports and fitness
• Baseball & softball
• Wrigleyville
• price 1 of 4

What is it?   Built in 1914, this timeless institution is home to the city’s North Side baseball team, the Chicago Cubs.

Why   go?   Whether it’s a weekday afternoon or a Saturday night game, expect a sold-out crowd of faithful fans as well as out-of-towners who have made the pilgrimage just to visit the venerable stadium. Even if you have no interest in baseball, you can grab a Chicago-style hot dog and soak in the electric atmosphere. And when the last out has been recorded, head over to the myriad of neighborinig bars and restaurants to keep the good times going.

9.  The 606

• Humboldt Park

What is it? This is Chicago’s version of NYC's High Line,  a  2.7-mile stretch of an abandoned elevated rail line. It has now been revamped into a pedestrian path that connects Logan Square, Humboldt Park, Bucktown and Wicker Park.

Why go? Try coming here for a run, or even take a bike along and quickly get around to many different neighborhoods, with more than a dozen entrance and exit points along the route. You'll see some great art on your journey.

10.  Shedd Aquarium

• Zoo and aquariums
• price 3 of 4

What is it? This Museum Campus staple is the home to thousands of aquatic creatures from all around the world, including adorable rockhopper penguins, a truly impressive selection of sharks and a giant Pacific octopus.

Why go? Watch tropical fish swim through a 90,000-gallon aquarium in the gigantic Caribbean Reef exhibition or pony up some extra cash to have a face-to-face encounter with a penguin, otter or an adorable beluga whale.

11.  Chinatown

What is it?  One of the oldest Chinese-American communities in the country.

Why go?  Explore a variety of Asian businesses, learn about Chinese culture by checking out a museum or have a picnic in a beautiful park when you visit Chinatown. There’s no shortage of things to do and you can easily spend an entire day wandering the South Side neighborhood. Best of all, a seemingly endless wealth of restaurants are at the ready to help you refuel once you’re worked up an appetite, so prepare to feast on dumplings, noodles, barbecued meats and much more. 

12.  Music Box Theatre

• Movie theaters
• Independent

What is it? This beloved two-screen Lakeview movie house doesn’t usually show the latest blockbusters, but that’s kind of the charm. What it does offer is a beautifully curated selection of films in a vintage theater with clouds projected on its ceiling.

Why go? The Music Box is one of the best spots in town to see movies that don't typically make it to the multiplex. Think arthouse releases, documentaries and foreign language films. It’s also got a comfortable lounge and garden, perfect for killing some time before or after a film. If you don't feel like leaving the house to see a flick, you can rent one through the Music Box Direct streaming platform .

13.  The Green Mill

• Cocktail bars

What is it? This Uptown cocktail lounge is a fixture of Chicago’s live jazz scene and has been slinging drinks since before Prohibition (Al Capone and other gangsters used to hang out at the Green Mill—his associate ‘Machine Gun’ Jack McGurn was even a part-owner).

Why go? Once you’ve snapped a picture of the iconic Green Mill marquee, head inside, order a cocktail and take in a set from some of the city’s top jazz musicians. The music typically goes late—weekdays it shuts at a whimsical 1:11am—but you’ll usually need to show up early if you want to score a good seat.

14.  Jackson Park

• Literary events

What is it? You might know Jackson Park best for the fact that it served as the site of the World’s Columbian Exposition of 1893. It's also a great place to visit to get lost in nature, without even having to leave the city.

Why go? Take a walk through the Garden of the Phoenix and see Yoko Ono's stunning Skylanding sculpture. Or head over to the iconic Statue of the Republic at the intersection of Hayes and Richards Drives. Or, if you’re really looking for a ramble, take a detour to the nearby Midway Plaisance Park, which leads to Washington Park.

15.  Lakefront Trail

• South Shore

What is it? This epic 18-mile trail stretches all the way from Hollywood Avenue to 71st Street. On it you'll find walkers, runners and cyclists, getting their daily exercise and soaking in the glorious lakeside views.

Why go? Unsurprisingly the trail is hugely popular—prepare to fend off crowds in summer, though it's worthwhile to make a trip for the view and easy access to the lake for a dip. 

16.  National Museum of Mexican Art

• Lower West Side

What is it? Located in the Latino neighborhood of Pilsen, this cultural institution hosts one of the country’s largest collections of Mexican art—and admission is always free.

Why go? Inside the permanent “Nuestras Historias” exhibition, you’ll see work from famous artists like José de Páez and Miguel Cabrera as well modern pieces by Chicago-based talent such as muralist Héctor Duarte and imagist Errol Ortiz.

17.  Hideout

• River West/West Town

What is it? Situated in a tiny house on a nondescript industrial corridor is o ne of Chicago's smallest and most hallowed independent music venues .

Why go?  It can be difficult to reach this tucked-away spot via public transportation, but it is worth it for the cheap beer, fresh sounds and DJs dropping nostalgia, from Prince to Devo.

18.  Museum of Contemporary Art

What is it? T his iconic Chicago museum mainstay is a destination for cutting edge exhibitions and programming. It h osts one of the largest collections of contemporary art in the United States.

Why go? Take in a constantly shifting lineup of exhibitions, including touring shows from the likes of Takashi Murakami and Kerry James Marshall, or stop by the MCA Store, where you'll find everything from ceramics made by local artists to apparel from internationally-renowned designers.

19.  Chicago Riverwalk

What is it? T he Riverwalk provides a pedestrian path along the city’s most popular waterway as it hugs  the banks of the main branch of the Chicago River. It’s lined with restaurants, bars and gathering spaces.

Why go? The waterside walkway allows you to observe some of the city’s most gorgeous architecture from a new perspective. Plus, it's the best spot to take in the late night Art on theMart, which projects images on the side of Merchandise Mart in the evenings.

20.  Humboldt Park

What is it? Humboldt Park is one of the biggest stretches of green space on Chicago’s West Side. And it’s a good one, filled with  lagoons, pedestrian paths, wide-open fields and a boathouse.

Why go?  Humboldt Park is especially great in the warmer months, when it becomes something of a community hub, attracting crowds who come to enjoy the views of the lagoons from the boathouse, eat Puerto Rican food sold by vendors throughout the park and ramble along the winding paths.

21.  Chicago Architecture Center River Cruise

What is it? A 90-minute boat tour on the Chicago River.

Why go?  You may be familiar with the city’s gorgeous skyline, but do you know the deep history behind it? The Chicago Architecture Center's renowned boat cruise will take you down the Chicago River and give you the fascinating scoop on more than 50 buildings along the way. It’s the perfect way to see the city from new angles and learn something in the process.

22.  Chicago Theatre

• Music venues

What is it? A hundred-year-old theater in the heart of downtown.

Why go?   From Aretha Franklin to Frank Sinatra, some of the biggest names in the world have performed at this legendary, 3,600-seat theater. You can catch all types of concerts and stand-up sets here every week. If you’re more interested in the history side of things, book a tour that lets you explore the venue and even stand on the historic stage!

23.  Chicago Cultural Center

What is it? Cultural events and the arts are the focus of this public building, which also happens to contain the world’s largest stained glass Tiffany dome.

Why go? There’s always something happening in the Chicago Cultural Center, including free concerts in the Preston Bradley Hall and art exhibitions on the third floor. Best of all, you’ll never have to pay admission. Want to snag a souvenir? Stop by Buddy , a shop showcasing local artists.

24.  Chicago History Museum

What is it:  Once upon a time this museum was just the stodgy old Chicago Historical Society, which let you sift through thousands of archived photographs and curio. That library still exists, but joining it are several permanent and temporary exhibits, the largest of which is "Chicago: Crossroads of America," a treasure trove of fascinating historical objects, including a chunk of the original Fort Dearborn.

Why go:  I f you want an in-depth look at the people, places and things that make Chicago what it is today, the History Museum is well worth a visit.

25.  WNDR Museum

• Installation

What is it?  An interactive experience based around art and technology that encourages guests to reconsider the world around them.

Why go?  The WNDR Museum is the home of Chicago's only Infinity Mirror Room, created by Japanese artist Yayoi Kusama. After you snap a selfie inside of it, check out more one-of-a-kind art installations, including a room dedicated to the work of artist Keith Haring and a hallway that features a light-up floor.

26.  Historic Pullman Foundation Visitors Center

What is it?  This destination houses exhibits about the growth and preservation of this historic South Side neighborhood, site of the 1894 Pullman Strike and other important moments in U.S. labor history.

Why go? Back in the 1880s, businessman George Pullman built a company town to house employees for his eponymous railroad sleeper car company. The town was annexed into Chicago at the turn of the 20th century, and the industrial complex has since been designated a National Monument. Swing by the Visitors Center on the first Sunday of every month for a guided tour.

27.  The Second City

• Comedy clubs

What is it? Bill Murray, Tina Fey, Stephen Colbert and Joan Rivers are just a few of the famous folks who honed their talents onstage at this theater devoted to sketch and improvised comedy.

Why go? You’ll see some of the most talented rising comedic talents (and maybe a couple future Saturday Night Live cast members) on the Second City’s Mainstage. If you want to learn more about improv, stand-up or sketch writing, you can sign up for a class at the Training Center.

28.  Goose Island Fulton Street Brewery & Taproom

• United Center

What is it? Goose Island, one of Chicago's oldest craft breweries, produces many of its beloved beers at this facility. It also contains a barrel aging warehouse and a sleek taproom where visitors can pop in for a drink.

Why go?  Whether you’re after a fresh-poured Goose Island beer or you’re on the lookout for a rarity (including the sought-after Bourbon County Stout and its many variants), you can grab a seat in the Fulton Street brewery's taproom or patio. 

29.  Robie House

• Historic buildings and sites

What is it? This house is widely considered to be the greatest example of architect Frank Lloyd Wright's signature Prairie-style architecture. It was inspired by the flat Midwestern plains when it was constructed in 1910.

Why go? It's free to admire the building from outside. But if you want to get the full experience, snag a ticket for a tour offered by the Frank Lloyd Wright Trust, you can go inside and see the original art glass accents, restored furniture and a fireplace that divides the home's living and dining areas.

30.  Navy Pier

What is it? Navy Pier is a popular spot for tourists to flock to, and it stretches out into  the waters of Lake Michigan. It's also home to a 200-foot Ferris wheel, Chicago Children's Museum, Chicago Shakespeare Theater and plentiful dining options.

Why go? This is a great place to bring the whole family along to, as there's something to do for everyone. You can take a ride on the Ferris wheel, take a boat tour or even visit the world's largest rooftop bar, Offshore .

31.  The B_Line (Hubbard Street Murals)

What is it? Back in 1971, artist Ricardo Alonzo and local volunteers from the West Town Community Art Center filled a stretch of Hubbard Street in the West Loop with vivid murals on environmental themes as a street art project. Now, with curator and managing director Levar Hoard at the helm, local artists have been working to restore and reimagine this open-air street art gallery since 2019.

Why go? There are many incredible places to view street art in Chicago, but The B_Line, which runs along West Hubbard Street roughly between Racine and Halsted, is diverse, vivid and a clash of past and present—you'll see some of the original works alongside newer landmarks, including a powerful tribute to late Chicago rapper Juice WRLD.

32.  DuSable Museum of African American History

What is it?  Founded in 1961 by educator and artist Margaret Taylor Burroughs, the DuSable Museum is the country's oldest independent African American museum. The museum is named for Jean Baptiste Point DuSable, a Haitian trader who is considered the first permanent resident of Chicago, and holds more than 15,000 pieces. Pay a visit to see paintings, sculptures, print works and historical memorabilia relating to the history, contributions and experiences of African and African American people.

Why go?  The DuSable Museum hosts a variety of exhibitions focusing on national, local and global Black history and culture, as well as timely programming—current highlights include "Fighting Racism in the Trenches," which chronicles the story of World War I veteran Kathryn Magnolia Johnson.

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Chicago   Travel Guide

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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.

• All Things To Do
• 1-Day Itinerary
• 2-Day Itinerary
• 3-Day Itinerary

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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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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City in Illinois

• • Rating 4.19 out of 5   720 reviews

Current Resident: We moved to Naperville with remote jobs that allowed us to live anywhere. Why? The schools and the community! People are genuine friends here and the park district offers so many activities. The teachers in D203 are professional and teach a “can’t do YET” positivity mindset. The downtown makes the city feel small and vibrant. Summer is the best season here with Centennial Beach, swim teams for the kids and outdoor concerts. In winter residents decorated their houses in creative themes with the goal of getting on the Believe Map. There is even a Christmas trolley that drives past the best homes. Naperville is not very economical diverse, but it is international! We are European immigrants and there are people of all nationalities and many language opportunities for kids. We have moved many times and Naperville was the easiest place to feel at home. ... Read 720 reviews

• grade  A+ Overall Niche Grade
• grade  A+ Public Schools

Population 149,089

#1 Best Suburbs to Live in Chicago Area .

City in Illinois ,

720 Niche users give it an average review of 4.2 stars.

Featured Review: Current Resident says We moved to Naperville with remote jobs that allowed us to live anywhere. Why? The schools and the community! People are genuine friends here and the park district offers so many activities. The... .

Read 720 reviews.

Overall Niche Grade : A+ ,

Population : 149,089 ,

Clarendon Hills

Suburb of Chicago, IL

• • Rating 4.5 out of 5   34 reviews

Former Resident: Our family absolutely loves living in Clarendon Hills! The schools here are top-notch, providing our kids with a fantastic education. The community is incredibly friendly and welcoming, making us feel right at home. We feel safe letting our kids walk around the neighborhood, enjoying the beautiful parks and playgrounds. Clarendon Hills truly is a wonderful place for families to thrive. ... Read 34 reviews

Population 8,658

#2 Best Suburbs to Live in Chicago Area .

Suburb of Chicago, IL ,

34 Niche users give it an average review of 4.5 stars.

Featured Review: Former Resident says Our family absolutely loves living in Clarendon Hills! The schools here are top-notch, providing our kids with a fantastic education. The community is incredibly friendly and welcoming, making us... .

Read 34 reviews.

Population : 8,658 ,

• • Rating 4.18 out of 5   17 reviews

Visitor: We visited friends here a few years ago. It was a very nice place to visit and seems like it would be a great place to live. ... Read 17 reviews

Population 8,279

#3 Best Suburbs to Live in Chicago Area .

17 Niche users give it an average review of 4.2 stars.

Featured Review: Visitor says We visited friends here a few years ago. It was a very nice place to visit and seems like it would be a great place to live. .

Read 17 reviews.

Population : 8,279 ,

Solomon Schechter Day School

Private School •

NORTHBROOK, IL •

• • Rating 4.78 out of 5   23

Chicago City Day School

CHICAGO, IL •

• • Rating 4.6 out of 5   15

Chicago Christian High School

PALOS HEIGHTS, IL •

• • Rating 3.92 out of 5   163
• • Rating 4.32 out of 5   50 reviews

Current Resident: The best area to raise a family-safe, clean, excellent schools, friendly people! Hinsdale is a beautiful town and community. Our family feels so lucky to live here. ... Read 50 reviews

Population 17,169

#4 Best Suburbs to Live in Chicago Area .

50 Niche users give it an average review of 4.3 stars.

Featured Review: Current Resident says The best area to raise a family-safe, clean, excellent schools, friendly people! Hinsdale is a beautiful town and community. Our family feels so lucky to live here. .

Read 50 reviews.

Population : 17,169 ,

Buffalo Grove

• • Rating 3.99 out of 5   178 reviews

Current Resident: I grew up in Buffalo Grove and went to elementary school, middle school, and high school there. There was never a time I felt unsafe in my neighborhood and everyone is constantly friendly. Once I was able to drive, I never experience traffic during my commute and there are a lot of great stores, restaurants, and homes in close proximity which is convenient. ... Read 178 reviews

Population 42,934

#5 Best Suburbs to Live in Chicago Area .

178 Niche users give it an average review of 4 stars.

Featured Review: Current Resident says I grew up in Buffalo Grove and went to elementary school, middle school, and high school there. There was never a time I felt unsafe in my neighborhood and everyone is constantly friendly. Once I was... .

Read 178 reviews.

Population : 42,934 ,

Vernon Hills

• • Rating 4.07 out of 5   132 reviews

Former Resident: I think it is a very nice, clean and safe area to live with great schools surrounding it. There are all types of stores around and it’s nearby many other cities with different kinds of activities and I would suggest living here if you want a suburban life style. ... Read 132 reviews

Population 26,750

#6 Best Suburbs to Live in Chicago Area .

132 Niche users give it an average review of 4.1 stars.

Featured Review: Former Resident says I think it is a very nice, clean and safe area to live with great schools surrounding it. There are all types of stores around and it’s nearby many other cities with different kinds of activities and... .

Read 132 reviews.

Population : 26,750 ,

• • Rating 4.47 out of 5   17 reviews

Current Resident: Kildeer itself doesn't have many opportunities for jobs or social life. However, the surrounding areas like Buffalo Grove, Lincolnshire, and Lake Zurich make up for the small community offering places to meet people, work at, and enjoy. ... Read 17 reviews

Population 4,133

#7 Best Suburbs to Live in Chicago Area .

17 Niche users give it an average review of 4.5 stars.

Featured Review: Current Resident says Kildeer itself doesn't have many opportunities for jobs or social life. However, the surrounding areas like Buffalo Grove, Lincolnshire, and Lake Zurich make up for the small community offering... .

Population : 4,133 ,

Town in Illinois

• • Rating 4.11 out of 5   220 reviews

Current Resident: I moved to Evanston as a freshman in high school. We live in a neighborhood about 1 or 2 blocks from the high school (ETHS). Since living here I noticed that everything is easily accessible, public transport is really useful and I think most would agree with me. The lake is 15-30 minutes away and the public beaches are available for all residents for free. All Chicago beaches are free for everyone, and I believe that college students get a beach pass. Northwestern even has their own beach that is open to the public occasionally. ... Read 220 reviews

Population 77,181

#8 Best Suburbs to Live in Chicago Area .

Town in Illinois ,

220 Niche users give it an average review of 4.1 stars.

Featured Review: Current Resident says I moved to Evanston as a freshman in high school. We live in a neighborhood about 1 or 2 blocks from the high school (ETHS). Since living here I noticed that everything is easily accessible, public... .

Read 220 reviews.

Population : 77,181 ,

• • Rating 4.08 out of 5   100 reviews

Current Resident: I’ve lived in Northbrook my entire life and I am very proud to say so. Northbrook is a great community and I feel very privileged to live here. The safety is great and the schools are top-tier. Northbrook is the place to live. ... Read 100 reviews

Population 34,950

#9 Best Suburbs to Live in Chicago Area .

100 Niche users give it an average review of 4.1 stars.

Featured Review: Current Resident says I’ve lived in Northbrook my entire life and I am very proud to say so. Northbrook is a great community and I feel very privileged to live here. The safety is great and the schools are top-tier.... .

Read 100 reviews.

Population : 34,950 ,

• 2024 Best Neighborhoods to Live
• Sponsored Explore Homes in the Area
• 2024 Best Suburbs to Raise a Family
• • Rating 4.18 out of 5   11 reviews

Current Resident: I have lived in Riverwoods for seven years now and overall it has been a great experience. Living in the forest has been very peaceful and the community is amazing. Riverwoods has some of the prettiest homes and an amazing connection to nature. I have been very satisfied with my time living here but if there would be any changes it would be expanding the services provided. Often times we need to go to the neighboring towns for schools, public libraries, etc. Otherwise Riverwoods is a great place to live. ... Read 11 reviews

Population 4,007

#10 Best Suburbs to Live in Chicago Area .

11 Niche users give it an average review of 4.2 stars.

Featured Review: Current Resident says I have lived in Riverwoods for seven years now and overall it has been a great experience. Living in the forest has been very peaceful and the community is amazing. Riverwoods has some of the... .

Read 11 reviews.

Population : 4,007 ,

• • Rating 3.98 out of 5   50 reviews

Current Resident: Deerfield is a great town to live in, it's safe and quiet. There is a lot to do but also a lot of open space to hang out. We celebrate holidays and decorate the town, the 4th of July is really fun here. ... Read 50 reviews

Population 19,173

#11 Best Suburbs to Live in Chicago Area .

50 Niche users give it an average review of 4 stars.

Featured Review: Current Resident says Deerfield is a great town to live in, it's safe and quiet. There is a lot to do but also a lot of open space to hang out. We celebrate holidays and decorate the town, the 4th of July is really fun... .

Population : 19,173 ,

Western Springs

• • Rating 4.16 out of 5   43 reviews

Current Resident: I loved living here! I think this is a great place to grow up because of the great schools, communtry and overall environment! ... Read 43 reviews

Population 13,557

#12 Best Suburbs to Live in Chicago Area .

43 Niche users give it an average review of 4.2 stars.

Featured Review: Current Resident says I loved living here! I think this is a great place to grow up because of the great schools, communtry and overall environment! .

Read 43 reviews.

Population : 13,557 ,

Lincolnshire

• • Rating 4.29 out of 5   17 reviews

Current Resident: Lincolnshire is a great community of people with excellent schools. D103, a K-8 district is located in Lincolnshire that is one of the main reason people move here as well as for being a feeder to Stevenson High School. Stevenson High School is the largest public high school in Illinois, and they are only making the school more inviting to students to provide a place of community in and out of the classroom. Lincolnshire also has close access to the tollway for easy transportation to the city, which makes living in the suburbs more reasonable for those with a commute. Sadly there is no downtown of Lincolnshire it is more of home and schools. Which means there is no walking in downtown during the day. ... Read 17 reviews

Population 7,907

#13 Best Suburbs to Live in Chicago Area .

17 Niche users give it an average review of 4.3 stars.

Featured Review: Current Resident says Lincolnshire is a great community of people with excellent schools. D103, a K-8 district is located in Lincolnshire that is one of the main reason people move here as well as for being a feeder to... .

Population : 7,907 ,

• • Rating 4.27 out of 5   98 reviews

Current Resident: Wilmette is a vibrant community just north of Chicago near Lake Michigan. I have been very fortunate to have such a wonderful experience in a town where inclusivity, compassion, and support are so highly valued. In the local school district, students are aided with a plethora of support systems, and the teachers are wonderfully selected. While there may not be much that needs changing in Wilmette, one area of note is the lack of diversity within the community. A predominantly white town, Wilmette does not have much opportunity to learn about the cultures and traditions of different minority groups. If we were able to attract young minority families to the area, I think it would be very well-rounded. ... Read 98 reviews

Population 27,801

#14 Best Suburbs to Live in Chicago Area .

98 Niche users give it an average review of 4.3 stars.

Featured Review: Current Resident says Wilmette is a vibrant community just north of Chicago near Lake Michigan. I have been very fortunate to have such a wonderful experience in a town where inclusivity, compassion, and support are so... .

Read 98 reviews.

Population : 27,801 ,

• • Rating 4.2 out of 5   146 reviews

Current Resident: Glenview is a great suburban neighborhood just north of Chicago and easily accessible by the highway. It has a ton of restaurants and great schools. It is a very safe and friendly neighborhood. ... Read 146 reviews

Population 47,896

#15 Best Suburbs to Live in Chicago Area .

146 Niche users give it an average review of 4.2 stars.

Featured Review: Current Resident says Glenview is a great suburban neighborhood just north of Chicago and easily accessible by the highway. It has a ton of restaurants and great schools. It is a very safe and friendly neighborhood. .

Read 146 reviews.

Population : 47,896 ,

• • Rating 3.93 out of 5   44 reviews

Current Resident: Barrington is a great place to raise a family in a safe and supportive community. The public school systems are unmatched. The only downside to living here is a less than impressive downtown area, with limited restaurants and almost no nightlife. ... Read 44 reviews

Population 11,244

#16 Best Suburbs to Live in Chicago Area .

44 Niche users give it an average review of 3.9 stars.

Featured Review: Current Resident says Barrington is a great place to raise a family in a safe and supportive community. The public school systems are unmatched. The only downside to living here is a less than impressive downtown area,... .

Read 44 reviews.

Population : 11,244 ,

• • Rating 4.04 out of 5   56 reviews

Current Resident: I moved here from out of state and couldn’t be happier. Lisle has a small-town feel but is close to larger suburbs and retail areas as well as about 30 mins from downtown Chicago. The area is gorgeous, the people are friendly, the schools are great. It’s not very diverse, however. Overall I really enjoy living here. ... Read 56 reviews

Population 23,499

#17 Best Suburbs to Live in Chicago Area .

56 Niche users give it an average review of 4 stars.

Featured Review: Current Resident says I moved here from out of state and couldn’t be happier. Lisle has a small-town feel but is close to larger suburbs and retail areas as well as about 30 mins from downtown Chicago. The area is... .

Read 56 reviews.

Population : 23,499 ,

Highland Park

• • Rating 4.09 out of 5   65 reviews

Current Resident: Highland Park is a beautiful community that is consistent with the eager to be better. Our community has overcome many tragedies in the past two years. With serval shootings and educational threats, we have taken the proper steps and procedures to want to be better. With those tragedies, we have worked together as a community to become one. We learn on each other's shoulders and turn to one another to be a light in the darkness. Highland Park has always been great, but we want to be even greater. With its beautifully ran government and historic landmarks, Highland Park has been an amazing home that I never want to leave. Highland Park is the home that I want to give to my children, because I know how the importance it has held to my life. ... Read 65 reviews

Population 30,209

#18 Best Suburbs to Live in Chicago Area .

65 Niche users give it an average review of 4.1 stars.

Featured Review: Current Resident says Highland Park is a beautiful community that is consistent with the eager to be better. Our community has overcome many tragedies in the past two years. With serval shootings and educational threats,... .

Read 65 reviews.

Population : 30,209 ,

• • Rating 4.01 out of 5   145 reviews

Current Resident: I've lived in Elmhurst for 25 years, born and raised here. The park district is a great asset. The schools are incredible. It is a friendly town. Though, it has gotten more expensive as years go on and there is not enough cultural diversity in town. ... Read 145 reviews

Population 45,648

#19 Best Suburbs to Live in Chicago Area .

145 Niche users give it an average review of 4 stars.

Featured Review: Current Resident says I've lived in Elmhurst for 25 years, born and raised here. The park district is a great asset. The schools are incredible. It is a friendly town. Though, it has gotten more expensive as years go on... .

Read 145 reviews.

Population : 45,648 ,

Hawthorn Woods

• • Rating 4.41 out of 5   22 reviews

Current Resident: This is a nice town. They have very nice events. They have very nice parks. Something is that they don't have schools, so they go to lake Zurich schools which are still great. The mayor is great! I wish they could have more events like festivals. Also if the town was walkable with more sidewalks would be amazing!!! ... Read 22 reviews

Population 9,111

#20 Best Suburbs to Live in Chicago Area .

22 Niche users give it an average review of 4.4 stars.

Featured Review: Current Resident says This is a nice town. They have very nice events. They have very nice parks. Something is that they don't have schools, so they go to lake Zurich schools which are still great. The mayor is great!... .

Read 22 reviews.

Population : 9,111 ,

Libertyville

• • Rating 4.05 out of 5   124 reviews

Current Resident: Incredible school systems. Definitely prepared me for college and helped me through the school and application process. Very safe and friendly. Restaurants have incredible food and many are locally owned small businesses. Community is very involved with schools, holidays, and town events. ... Read 124 reviews

Population 20,555

#21 Best Suburbs to Live in Chicago Area .

124 Niche users give it an average review of 4 stars.

Featured Review: Current Resident says Incredible school systems. Definitely prepared me for college and helped me through the school and application process. Very safe and friendly. Restaurants have incredible food and many are locally... .

Read 124 reviews.

Population : 20,555 ,

• • Rating 3.95 out of 5   189 reviews

Current Resident: I have enjoyed Oak park. I love that lots of things are closed by each other. there are many different places to choose to eat from, there is two pharmacy nearby, places to by clothes and make up. I like that it's a fairly safe place to live in and there is always plenty to do. The people I have encountered for the most part has been nice. The only thing i would chance is that some places there are homeless people that stays right in front of the shops door. However, they don't really bother you. I also like that the commute is easy to get around places if you need to drive. ... Read 189 reviews

Population 53,834

#22 Best Suburbs to Live in Chicago Area .

189 Niche users give it an average review of 4 stars.

Featured Review: Current Resident says I have enjoyed Oak park. I love that lots of things are closed by each other. there are many different places to choose to eat from, there is two pharmacy nearby, places to by clothes and make up. I... .

Read 189 reviews.

Population : 53,834 ,

• Review your area
• • Rating 3.87 out of 5   30 reviews

Current Resident: I find this town very lovely, surrounded by nature is truly amazing. People are very friendly even though we are all separated by large lots. The Village Center has great restaurants, so much variety, though I wish we had more boutique stores! My 2 major complaints is that, we need a public library and more side walks! This town has so much potential and I am hoping we will see it grow more. Other than that I will not change Burr Ridge for any other town. ... Read 30 reviews

Population 11,131

#23 Best Suburbs to Live in Chicago Area .

30 Niche users give it an average review of 3.9 stars.

Featured Review: Current Resident says I find this town very lovely, surrounded by nature is truly amazing. People are very friendly even though we are all separated by large lots. The Village Center has great restaurants, so much... .

Read 30 reviews.

Population : 11,131 ,

• • Rating 4.13 out of 5   54 reviews

Current Resident: Nestled along the banks of the Des Plaines River, Riverside, Illinois, is a historic gem that seamlessly combines historical charm with modern tranquility. My family moved to Riverside, IL from Chicago in February 2021. It was snowing and I barely recognized the neighboring houses. The next day, I walked down the street to get to know the area. Through the thick snow, I found Riverside to be a delightful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, offering its historic architectural beauty. I was amazed by the luscious wildlife from the forest preserve. The locals are blessings as they capture the kind essence the town captures. Riverside has more to offer than its preserved nature. The town includes humble shops, a lush library, and a historic water tower that is the symbol for Riverside. Whether you're an architecture enthusiast, nature lover, or someone looking for a charming weekend getaway, Riverside has much to offer. ... Read 54 reviews

Population 9,225

#24 Best Suburbs to Live in Chicago Area .

54 Niche users give it an average review of 4.1 stars.

Featured Review: Current Resident says Nestled along the banks of the Des Plaines River, Riverside, Illinois, is a historic gem that seamlessly combines historical charm with modern tranquility. My family moved to Riverside, IL from... .

Read 54 reviews.

Population : 9,225 ,

• • Rating 4.1 out of 5   21 reviews

Current Resident: Good Schools. Local, small community with lots of activities. Can pretty much walk anywhere and close to the lake. ... Read 21 reviews

Population 5,919

#25 Best Suburbs to Live in Chicago Area .

21 Niche users give it an average review of 4.1 stars.

Featured Review: Current Resident says Good Schools. Local, small community with lots of activities. Can pretty much walk anywhere and close to the lake. .

Read 21 reviews.

Population : 5,919 ,

Horizon Science Academy Southwest Chicago

City Of Chicago Sd 299, IL •

• • Rating 4.14 out of 5   14

Immanuel Lutheran School

VALPARAISO, IN •

• • Rating 4.8 out of 5   10

Holy Family Catholic Academy--An International Baccalaureate World School

INVERNESS, IL •

• • Rating 4.63 out of 5   30

Showing results 1 through 25 of 406

The 10 Best Chicago Suburbs To Live In For 2024

The best chicago suburbs are western springs and kenilworth for 2024 based on saturday night science..

If you need one more reason to move to one of Chicago’s best suburbs, HomeSnacks is here to give you ten. We’ve created a list of the top ten best suburbs in Chi-town for 2024 and listed them below.

Whether you’re a die hard Chicago Bears fan, a deep dish ‘za fan, or just a fan of a great people, Chicago’s suburbs have all this and then some. And because we know that when searching for your forever home, the amount of information can be overwhelming; take the guessing out of the equation and use our guide to help you navigate Chicago’s suburban waters.

How did we calculate our list? To get the most scientific list, we looked at the latest FBI data for and Census for Chicago’s 167 suburbs. We looked at things like crime reports , median income levels, unemployment rates, and poverty rates for each place. We then ran each suburb through our SnackAbility formula for things like affordability, education levels, safety, and amenities. And, folks, the top ten best suburbs in Chicago are very snack worthy: 8 of the top ten scored a perfect 10/10!

If you’re looking for a safe, family friendly Chicago burb, River Forest’s real estate agents are ready to take your calls, if you’re a new professional just starting out, Clarendon Hills is on Chicago’s “L” and the unemployment rate is relatively low and if you are looking for a suburb with lots to do, Inverness has twenty parks and first class shopping.

More importantly, if you don’t want to be left out in The Windy City’s cold, take a look at our list below so that you are in the know.

Table Of Contents: Top Ten | Methodology | Summary | Table

The 10 best suburbs to live around Chicago for 2024:

• Western Springs, IL
• Kenilworth, IL
• Wilmette, IL
• Hinsdale, IL
• Riverside, IL
• Winnetka, IL
• Deerfield, IL
• La Grange, IL
• Glencoe, IL
• La Grange Park, IL

Chicago is America’s 3rd biggest city , so to put up the numbers that this city’s best suburbs have done in terms of our SnackAbility criteria, deserves a good ‘ol fashioned shout out! Not to mention, Chicago’s number one best suburb should be the poster suburb for the rest of the country.

So, what is Chicago’s best suburb for 2024? Well, according to the latest data, that award goes to Western Springs.

And if Chicago is your kind of town like it’s our kind of town, do yourself a favor and hit that down arrow key to see where the rest of Chicago’s suburbs landed on our list.

Feel free to check out some more reading about Illinois:

• Best Places To Live In Illinois
• Cheapest Places To Live In Illinois
• Best Places To Raise A Family In Illinois

The 10 Best Chicago Suburbs To Live For 2024

1. western springs, il.

Population: 13,557 Median Income: $198,836 Unemployment Rate: 2.5% Poverty Rate: 2.6% More on Western Springs: Data | Crime | Cost Of Living | Real Estate

Western Springs is always mentioned as one of the best suburbs in the Chicago area. We’ll tell you the good about “Awesome Western Springs.”

Everyone here is rich; families average $198,836 a year, which is the 10th highest in the Chicago region. And only 2.54% are out of work. Homes average more than $700,654 each.

Their is no crime in that town and the neighborhood is nice. Their are a lot of things to do in that town and have a nice ice cream shop called Oberweis Dairy. Their are also Metra trains their too.

Spring Rock Park is a nice park with baseball fields and a hockey rink. Oberweis Dairy has good ice cream.

2. Kenilworth, IL

Population: 2,537 Median Income: $250,001 Unemployment Rate: 3.3% Poverty Rate: 3.2% More on Kenilworth: Crime | Real Estate

Kenilworth is the second best ‘burb we looked at near Chicago for 2024.

It ranks 2nd for incomes in the area and only 0.71% of residents lack insurance, good for 3rd best.

3. Wilmette, IL

Population: 27,801 Median Income: $183,750 Unemployment Rate: 4.3% Poverty Rate: 2.9% More on Wilmette: Data | Crime | Cost Of Living | Real Estate

Here in Wilmette, it’s really safe, and residents are just about as rich as you’ll see in the Chicago metro area.

The bad side? Schools are more crowded, and the cost of living puts a large part of the city out of reach for most families.

But price is based on demand and a lot of people want to live in Wilmette.

I love living in Wilmette. People are so friendly and the town is well run offering many activities. It is a same place to live.

I love being close to Lake Michigan Beach and the pool in Wilmette is fantastic.

4. Hinsdale, IL

Population: 17,169 Median Income: $250,001 Unemployment Rate: 2.6% Poverty Rate: 1.4% More on Hinsdale: Data | Crime | Cost Of Living | Real Estate

Hinsdale ranks as the 4th best suburb of Chicago for 2024.

You won’t find many better places to raise your kids in the region than in Hinsdale and the schools are some of the best around.

5. Riverside, IL

Population: 9,225 Median Income: $149,464 Unemployment Rate: 3.1% Poverty Rate: 3.2% More on Riverside: Data | Crime | Cost Of Living | Real Estate

Coming in as the fifth best is Riverside.

Riverside gets kudos for having the 28th most expensive homes in the Chicago area, where houses sell for an average of $476,379. However, the cost of living here is among the highest in the area.

6. Winnetka, IL

Population: 12,607 Median Income: $250,001 Unemployment Rate: 3.7% Poverty Rate: 1.9% More on Winnetka: Data | Crime | Cost Of Living | Real Estate

Winnetka is proud of its 6th place finish on this list. And here’s why.

Most residents have great jobs and the unemployment rate sits at 3.66%.

According to online reports, Winnetka is quickly becoming one of the more affluent suburbs in the Chicago area, meaning you need to get in soon.

7. Deerfield, IL

Population: 19,173 Median Income: $185,762 Unemployment Rate: 2.4% Poverty Rate: 2.7% More on Deerfield: Data | Crime | Cost Of Living | Real Estate

The 7th best suburb on our list goes to Deerfield.

Deerfield schools are some of the best in the region, and crime is really low. The cost of living makes it a lot more desirable for many families, especially first-time home buyers.

And, it’s only 24.3 miles to downtown, which is a good thing.

8. La Grange, IL

Population: 16,128 Median Income: $141,235 Unemployment Rate: 2.0% Poverty Rate: 4.4% More on La Grange: Data | Crime | Cost Of Living | Real Estate

La Grange is growing quickly, and for a good reason. Crime is far below average, and most residents are gainfully employed. Even the cost of living is reasonable.

A solid 3.03% of people lack insurance, good for 36th in the area.

9. Glencoe, IL

Population: 8,787 Median Income: $228,750 Unemployment Rate: 3.9% Poverty Rate: 1.9% More on Glencoe: Data | Crime | Cost Of Living | Real Estate

Is ‘Everything Better In Glencoe?’

It placed 9th on our list thanks to the fact that it’s really expensive to live here, but the schools are great, so you get what you pay for in that regard.

I am from Glencoe and I do NOT appreciate being called the snobbiest town in Illinois, thank you very much. I would also say that nobody else who lives here likes it either. Yes, we are a wealthy town, but there is a fine fine line between s****y and wealthy.

Plus, since the houses get more expensive as they get closer to the lake and Glencoe is right on the lake, the houses will obviously be expensive!!!! That comment that you said about the art galleries and theatres, that’s just because we all like performing arts!!

10. La Grange Park, IL

Population: 13,332 Median Income: $113,419 Unemployment Rate: 3.8% Poverty Rate: 3.8% More on La Grange Park: Data | Crime | Cost Of Living | Real Estate

And rounding out the top ten for 2024 is La Grange Park.

This city is far above average in every category, and the best part? It’s far more affordable than the other cities listed above. So, you get a big bang for your buck here.

Next 10 Cities

Methodology: How We Determined The Best Suburbs Around Chicago for 2024

Figuring out the best suburbs around Chicago was simple. We used Saturday Night Science to find things people like about living in the suburbs and then locate the suburbs with those things.

We analyzed the newest American Community Survey data for 2018-2022 to research each suburb. We decided upon the following criteria:

• Low unemployment rate
• High median household incomes
• Population density (lots of things to do)
• High home values
• A lot of college-educated people
• Low poverty
• High rate of insured families

We defined a suburb as being within 30 miles of Chicago.

Additionally, we limited the analysis to places that have over 2,000 people. This left us with a grand total of 167 suburbs to evaluate around Chicago.

We ranked each place with scores from 1 to 167 in each category, where 1 was the “best.

Next, we averaged the rankings for each place to create a quality-of-life index.

Finally, we crowned the city with the best quality of life index, the “Best Suburb near Chicago.” We’re lookin’ at you, Western Springs.

This result may differ from our state-wide data as we did not include commute times and crime for this analysis to allow for a more extensive selection of suburbs.

We updated the data for 2024. This report is our tenth time ranking the best Chicago suburbs. Skip to the end to see the list of all the suburbs ranked from best to worst.

Summary: Welcome to the Best Chicago ‘Burbs of 2024

We said it once, and we’ll say it again–life in the big city isn’t for everyone. At least not all the time.

The best suburbs of Chicago are .

So if you’re craving the amenities of a larger city like Chicago but don’t want to deal with the drawbacks, one of these suburbs might be for you.

For more Illinois reading, check out:

• Best Places To Retire In Illinois
• Richest Cities In Illinois
• Safest Places In Illinois

Table: Best Chicago Suburbs

Chris Kolmar has been in the real estate business for almost ten years now. He originally worked for Movoto Real Estate as the director of marketing before founding HomeSnacks.

He believes the key to finding the right place to live comes down to looking at the data, reading about things to do, and, most importantly, checking it out yourself before you move.

If you've been looking for a place to live in the past several years, you've probably stumbled upon his writing already.

You can find out more about him on LinkedIn or his website .

30+ kid-friendly things to do in Chicago

It’s the inspiration kids find in all the things to do and see in Chicago that makes the city feel like home — if home was the ultimate playground. From toddlers to teens, there’s a family friendly activity or attraction to satisfy every interest and fuel all imaginations.

Free things to do in Chicago with kids

Outdoor things to do in chicago with kids, indoor things to do in chicago with kids, kid-friendly attractions & museums.

Lincoln Park Zoo Free to the public, this is one of the nation’s oldest zoos . Kids love the old-school carousel, locomotive rides, and the Pritzker Family Children’s Zoo, a kid-friendly home for North American animals. Just next door is the Farm-in-the-Zoo, which gives kids the chance to pet goats, cows, and ponies, and experience a little country life in the city.

Brookfield Zoo Brookfield Zoo is set within a 216-acre nature park. World-renowned, the zoo’s 2,000+ residents have captivated and educated visitors since 1934. Don’t forget to take in a dolphin show at Seven Seas, and sign up for seasonal giraffe feedings, penguin encounters, and education-focused animal kingdom experiences.

Millennium Park In Millennium Park each summer, kids splash around in Crown Fountain’s shallow pool and dash underneath the water spouting from the lips of video-projected Chicago locals. Springtime is perfect for a self-guided scavenger hunt through Lurie Garden. In winter, skate with the city skyline as your backdrop at the magical McCormick Tribune Ice Rink. And no matter the season, and make faces in the reflective surface of the stainless steel sculpture Cloud Gate, aka “The Bean.”

Navy Pier Iconic Navy Pier is the place for rides on a towering climate-controlled Ferris wheel, an old-fashioned Wave Swinger, and a whimsical 1920s-inspired musical carousel at Pier Park. And it’s the place to feel the excitement of summer fireworks, sightseeing cruises, Segway tours, an amazing maze, the Chicago Children’s Museum, fun stores, and the immersive FlyOver Chicago ride.

Shedd Aquarium Right next door to Adler Planetarium and Field Museum on the Museum Campus, Shedd Aquarium gives new meaning to “wow.” Not only can you explore underwater worlds from across the globe, but the Shedd offers unique, up-close-and-personal experiences, like museum sleepovers, behind-the-scenes tours, and extraordinary animal encounters, like joining in a shark feeding tour, being a trainer for a day, and interacting with stingrays.

Art Institute of Chicago Don’t think the kids will enjoy an art museum? Then you haven’t visited the Art Institute ‘s Thorne Miniature Rooms. These meticulously reproduced miniature rooms bring the world of art and architecture to a kid’s level. There’s also free admission to the Ryan Education Center, which hosts special events, interactive workshops, and family programming for kids 14 and under.

American Writers Museum Visit the Children’s Literature Gallery at the American Writers Museum to get the kids all fired up about reading. A fabulous mural created by celebrated illustrator and author Paul O. Belinsky adorns the gallery, depicting friendly squirrels reading classic kids’ books.

Bronzeville Children’s Museum The Bronzeville Children’s Museum is the first African American children’s museum in the country. It’s filled with exhibits for children aged 3 to 9, with a unique tour format that ensures kids get maximum educational value from each exhibit.

Chicago Children’s Museum Kids can stretch out, crawl, and use all five senses throughout interactive exhibits such as WaterWays, Dinosaur Expedition, and Treehouse Trails. Best of all, the Chicago Children’s Museum is located at Navy Pier — a goldmine of family-friendly things to do on Chicago’s scenic lakefront.

Chicago History Museum Climb aboard the very first ‘L’ train car, ride a high-wheel bicycle, hear the Great Chicago Fire, catch a fly ball at Comiskey Park, smell the Union Stock Yard, dive into a giant Chicago-style hot dog — all at the Chicago History Museum .

Sloomoo Institute Kids — and kids at heart — and invited to experience the Sloomoo Institute ‘s interactive slime museum. Visitors can explore a variety of hands-on exhibits featuring all sorts of textural, scented slimes. Come experience the joys of sensory play, soothing ASMR, and contemporary art.

Chicago Sports Museum The Chicago Sports Museum combines high-tech interactivity with unique sports memorabilia and an impressive collection of game-used treasures and other artifacts. Kids can test their skills against some of the all-time greats, use CSI-type technology to unravel some of Chicago’s most infamous sports mysteries, step into a replica broadcast booth and call a game just like Harry Caray, and so much more.

Field Museum Field Museum takes adventure to a whole new level with the likes of SUE the T. rex , man-eating tigers, and Máximo the Titanosaur, the largest dinosaur known to man. The Field sits on the lakeside Museum Campus, along with Adler Planetarium and Shedd Aquarium. Take a Shoreline Sightseeing boat from Navy Pier or Willis Tower and explore all three.

Museum of Science & Industry The Museum of Science & Industry  is the largest science museum in the Western Hemisphere, which means there’s plenty of room for spinning tornados, a real-life U-boat, trains, planes, and, well, just about everything else you could possibly imagine. Oh, and don’t miss screenings at the five-story, wraparound Giant Dome Theater.

Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum From native animals and nature-inspired art, to toddler-friendly play spaces and an exotic butterfly house, the exhibits at Peggy Notebaert Museum are sure to thrill young visitors (and grown-up ones, too). As a bonus, the museum sits within the grounds and gardens of Lincoln Park, where kids can run wild among shady trees, blossoming flowers, and chattering squirrels.

Adler Planetarium Part of the lakeside complex known as Museum Campus, Adler Planetarium is the oldest planetarium in the Western Hemisphere. It’s also a great museum. Future explorers and astronomers of tomorrow will marvel at interactive exhibits, immersive planetarium shows, and special programming designed to inspire the rocket scientists of tomorrow.

Kid-friendly outdoor activities

Maggie Daley Park Maggie Daley Park is a magical place where you’ll find a Skating Ribbon, a 3-acre Play Garden created in the spirit of Alice in Wonderland and Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, a mini golf course that takes you through Chicago-themed obstacles (like a mini Willis Tower), and a climbing wall right on the lakefront.

Bike tours Sign up for Bobby’s Bike Hike’s kiddie edition, Bobby’s Tike Hike, designed specifically for kids aged 10 and under. Both Bobby’s Bike Hike and Bike and Roll Chicago give you the option of buying infant/toddler tickets that include special equipment such as child seats, comfy trailer carriers, and tag-a-long attachments.

Grant Park Skate Park It’s not only skateboarders who love the skate park at Grant Park . You’ll see rollerbladers and BMX bike enthusiasts making the most of the park’s multi-skill-level concrete ramps and grinding rails — all with a lakefront view.

Kayaking Take the kids on a kayak tour of Chicago’s waterways from Monroe Harbor or the Chicago River. Sail along with Urban Kayaks and be guided through breathtaking city vistas. No experience is necessary, guided tours are provided.

Kid-friendly experiences

American Girl Place For little kids with big imaginations, a visit to Chicago would not be complete without a trip to American Girl Place, the first store of its kind in the United States. Consider making a reservation for the café at the downtown doll mecca, which serves brunch, lunch, afternoon tea, and dinner. American Girl is located in Water Tower Place on The Magnificent Mile .

Escape rooms Take the kids on the greatest adventure ever with a Chicago escape room. Make a prison break, escape an ‘L’ car, and even take a mission to Mars while testing kids’ problem-solving and team-building skills. Take your pick from Escape Artistry , The Escape Game Chicago , and Fox in a Box – Chicago , among others.

Indoor skydiving It’s like skydiving, without the sky — or the dive. iFLY is the ultimate indoor body-lift experience, and you don’t need any prior experience to give it a whirl. This is a sure win for teen and tween visitors in particular.

LEGOLAND Discovery Center Take a day trip to LEGOLAND Discovery Center , a giant indoor playground located in nearby suburban Schaumburg. Two rides, 10 LEGO build-and-play zones, and a 4D cinema are just a few of the great LEGO-themed experiences you’ll have here. Once back in the city, visit the colorful building-block wonderland that is The LEGO Store at Water Tower Place.

Skydeck Chicago Walk on air at Skydeck Chicago . Located in Willis Tower, one of the tallest buildings in the world, glass boxes extend approximately 4 feet from the skyscraper’s facade, more than 1,300 feet above ground level.

TILT at 360 CHICAGO Literally tilt outward over 1,000 feet above The Magnificent Mile and get 360-degree views of four states. Located at 875 N. Michigan Ave., TILT is housed in the former John Hancock Building, one of Chicago’s most iconic buildings.

Urban Adventure Quest Experience an adventurous city tour by competing in a family-friendly Urban Adventure Quest scavenger hunt. Incorporating elements of the Amazing Race, this competition involves solving clues and completing challenges, all while learning about local history.

Kid-friendly theatre

PlayMakers Laboratory PlayMakers Laboratory has been celebrating the power of children’s imaginations since 1997, with arts programs that focus on storytelling, theatre, and social-emotional skills. In fact, the professional actors perform material written by Chicago Public School students, providing a unique outlet for their creative works.

Blue Man Group Blue Man Group is the epitome of theatre fun — a multi-sensory, performance art experience that keeps kids wide-eyed from the moment the curtain goes up. And if you pick a seat in the “Splash Zone,” expect things to get pretty messy!

Chicago Children’s Theatre For two decades, Chicago Children’s Theatre has presented a year-round schedule of plays, classes, and camps designed to inspire curiosity in kids and families. 

ComedySportz ComedySportz ’s interactive 90-minute show has kids in stitches as two teams compete for laughs during improvised comedy scenes, songs, and games. Geared toward all ages, this is a great way to get kids in on the act, with audience suggestions as the actors’ inspiration.

Broadway in Chicago Broadway in Chicago brings hit musicals, world premieres, and more exciting productions to Chicago stages. Check the schedule for family-friendly programming like Peter Pan , The Lion King , Beauty and the Beast , and more.

See the best attractions in Chicago at up to 48% savings with CityPASS.

Explore the famous Shedd Aquarium, see scientific discoveries at the Field Museum, take in spectacular views from the Skydeck and more! With two options to choose from and up to 9 days to enjoy, you can't go wrong.

• Lincoln Park Zoo and Brookfield Zoo

Millennium Park

Maggie daley park.

• Garfield Park Conservatory
• Lincoln Park Conservatory
• Free museum days
• Chicago Cultural Center
• Hyde Park Art Center
• Bobby’s Bike Hike  and  Bike and Roll Chicago

Urban Kayaks

• Lake and river boat tours
• Chicago Children’s Museum

Shedd Aquarium

Art institute of chicago, american writers museum.

• Bronzeville Children’s Museum
• Chicago History Museum

Chicago Sports Museum

• Field Museum
• Museum of Science & Industry
• Peggy Notebaert Museum

Adler Planetarium

• American Girl Place
• Skydeck Chicago

Sloomoo Institute

• TILT at 360 CHICAGO
• PlayMakers Laboratory
• ComedySportz

Blue Man Group

From this article.

Special Event Venues

Brookfield zoo chicago.

Southwest Suburbs

Tours & Attractions

Lincoln park zoo.

Lincoln Park

Convention Centers / Conference Facilities

Streeterville

Bronzeville Children’s Museum

South Shore

The Magnificent Mile

Museum of Science and Industry

Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum

Fox in a Box – Chicago

The Escape Game Chicago

River North

360 CHICAGO Observation Deck

Urban Adventure Quest – Amazing Scavenger Hunt Adventure – Chicago

Online only

Sports & Recreation

Bike and roll chicago.

Theater & Performing Arts

Csz theater chicago.

Bobby’s Bike Hike Chicago – Bike, Walking, Food Tours & Rentals

Broadway In Chicago

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The Travel Sisters

Where to see tulips in chicago + nearby tulip fields & festivals (2024).

Spring in Chicago not only brings warmer temperatures but also beautiful flowers in and around Chicago for those that want to enjoy spending time outdoors or take photos for instagram. If you live in or are visiting Chicago this spring and googled “tulip fields near me” or “tulips in Chicago” you are in the right place. There are several places to see tulips in Chicago and the suburbs during the spring. If you are willing to drive a bit further, you can also find farms with large tulip fields and tulip festivals near Chicago that are close enough to visit on a day trip.

Tulips in the Chicago area usually bloom around mid to late April and last until mid to late May . Exacts dates vary every year due to weather conditions.  Update as of 4/18/2024 : The tulips are in bloom right now.

I suggest bookmarking this blog post as I will be updating it regularly.

Best Places to See Tulips in and near Chicago (2024)

Note: Make sure to check the websites and social media pages for the most current information and to purchase tickets in advance (if required).

Tulips in Chicago

These are the best places to see tulips in the city.

Michigan Avenue

This includes the medians in the Magnificent Mile (including in front of the 360 Observation Deck , the Water Tower and the Tribune Tower) as well as in front of the The Art Institute of Chicago .

Read this article for more about the history of the tulips on Michigan Avenue.

State Street

Tulip Gardens & Fields Near Chicago

Below is a list of the best places to see tulips near Chicago (listed in order of distance from downtown Chicago).

Chicago Botanic Garden

Oh, hello living color! ? Blooming now: Cheerful #tulips , in dramatic sweeps throughout the Garden. Track spring’s superstars and plan your visit in advance: https://t.co/84tfKBwjcB #springshowtime pic.twitter.com/de6DRYKx5b — Chicago Botanic Garden (@chicagobotanic) April 23, 2021

Chicago Botanic Garden is one of the world’s great living museums and conservation science centers with 27 gardens and four natural areas, situated on 385 acres on and around nine islands, with six miles of lake shoreline. You can find thousands of tulips here in April and May especially in the Circle Garden . Its website has several garden walks online including an April walk .

Address: 1000 Lake Cook Road, Glencoe, Illinois 60022

Distance from Chicago: 24 miles north of Chicago

Lilacia Park, Lombard

Lilacia Park is an 8.5-acre park in Lombard with lilac and tulip gardens in the spring. You can see over 50 kinds of tulips.

Address: 150 S Park Ave, Lombard, IL 60148

Distance from Chicago: 23 miles west of Chicago

Cantigny Park

The Tulips have just started their show for Spring… pic.twitter.com/5Lr1hz6ATw — CantignyPark (@CantignyPark) May 5, 2020

Address: 1 S 151 Winfield Road, Wheaton, IL 60189

Distance from Chicago: 34 miles west of Chicago

Phillips Park Sunken Gardens

Over 10,000 tulips are planted at Phillips Park Sunken Gardens in preparation of the springtime bloom, which usually occurs in early to mid-April.

Phillips Park , a magnificent 325-acre urban park is also home to Phillips Park Zoo, Phillips Park Family Aquatic Center, Phillips Park Golf Course, play areas, and a lakeside walking and running trail.

Address: Ray Moses Dr, Aurora, IL 60505

Distance from Chicago: 43 miles west of Chicago

Kuipers Family Farm

Kuipers Family Farm will be hosting their Midwest Tulip Fest for the second year. They have planted 500,000 tulip bulbs in a mixture of color across 7 acres. The flower fields will be fully accessible for strolling through and taking pictures. They will also have specific fields set aside to cut tulips. Admission to the Midwest Tulip Fest will also include access to some of their feature activities on the FunFarm. Tickets will go on sale soon and will be available online in advance  or at the gate.

Address:  1N318 Watson Rd Maple Park, IL 60151

Distance from Chicago: 57 miles west of downtown Chicago

Dates:   April 19-May 6, 2024

Hours:   Sunday – Thursday: 10am – 6pm; Friday – Saturday: 10am – 7pm.

Prices:  Prices are $17.99 per person on weekdays and $19.99 per person on weekends. U-Cut tulips are extra and are not included with base admission. Ages 2 & Under FREE ADMISSION

Check their Facebook page for updates.

Richardson Adventure Farm

Richardson Adventure Farm will be hosting its third Richardson Tulip Festival this spring and have planted 300,000 new bulbs this year (plus last year’s bulbs will be popping up). They have 30 different varieties – 500,000 tulips are in colorful blocks with a central design for pictures and 100,000 tulips are mixed colors in a pick-your-own area. The tulips are planted near their own, private 36 acre lake for a beautiful setting. Friendly dogs on a leash are welcome.

Admission includes entrance into the flower field, access to the picnic area around Richardson Lake, an activity area, live music on the weekend, and more! Flowers, food items, and memorabilia are available for an additional fee.

Address:   909 English Prairie Rd, Spring Grove, IL 60081

Distance from Chicago: 65 miles northwest of downtown Chicago

Dates:   April 20 -May 6, 2024. Check their Facebook page for up-to-date information.

Hours:   11 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Tuesdays through Sundays. Closed on Mondays.

Prices: Tuesdays through Fridays: $16 per person. $19 for those 13 and older, and $16 for those ages 4 through 12 on Saturdays and Sundays. Ages 3 and younger are free. Admission includes 1 free tulip per person – there is a charge of $2 per additional tulip picked. You can purchase tickets in advance here .

Tulip Fields & Festivals in the Midwest

If you are looking for a weekend getaway from Chicago in early May, these small Dutch towns in the Midwest are home to two of the best tulip festivals in the US.

Tulip Time Festival in Holland, Michigan

Tulip Time Festival is an annual festival held in Holland, Michigan and you can see millions of tulips in local parks, attractions and lining the streets. The Tulip Time Festival has been held every year in mid-May since 1929 and is currently the largest tulip festival in the United States.

Dates: May 4-12, 2024

Distance from Chicago: Holland, Michigan is located 150 miles from Chicago (close enough for a day trip from Chicago )

Tulip Festival in Pella, Iowa

Pella, Iowa is celebrating its Dutch heritage and 300,000+ vibrantly blooming tulips. In addition to admiring tulips, you can enjoy delicious Dutch foods, performances, museum tours and more.

Dates: May 2-4, 2024. You can find detailed information and a schedule of events here .

Distance from Chicago: Pella, Iowa is located approximately 315 miles west of Chicago (44 miles from Des Moines)

Have you visited any tulip fields in and near Chicago?

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Home » North America » Chicago

37 BEST Places to Visit in Chicago (2024)

Everyone’s heard of the windy city and it’s an incredibly popular destination for tourists from inside and outside of the US. Chicago is known for its amazing food, especially the unusual pizzas they have there, as well as iconic buildings that reflect this city’s tumultuous past. And if you’re looking for entertainment, there’s always something going on in Chicago for every taste, from concerts to theater and a vibrant nightlife.

But Chicago isn’t all pizza, history and entertainment. It also has a darker side that makes some people reluctant to visit the city. It’s sometimes called one of the most dangerous cities in the US, with a higher than average crime rate, and yet this isn’t the full story. Careful travelers rarely ever see this side of the city. Instead, they spend all their time enjoying everything that Chicago has to offer. If this is what you want for your trip to Chicago, we’ve created a guide on how to stay safe while exploring this exciting part of the US.

Need a place quick? Here’s the best neighbourhood in Chicago:

These are the best places to visit in chicago, faq on the best places to visit in chicago, final thoughts on the coolest places to visit in chicago.

Downtown/The Loop

Home to the city’s business district, this area of Chicago is packed with skyscrapers, lively theatres, and picturesque architectural landmarks. Walking distance away from Chicago’s best attractions, you’ll get to explore a lot.

• Take a picture at Cloud Gate, the iconic Bean sculpture.
• Climb to the 99th floor of Willis Tower and enjoy sweeping views out over the city.
• Dig into an exquisite Italian dinner at Trattoria No. 10.

Hold off on that deep dish for a second because although we know you want to get going, we think you should check out where to stay in Chicago first. It’s a sprawling and diverse city, so we’ve condensed all of our recommendation options down for you. Give it a whirl and then get back to your deep dish.

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#1 – Shedd Aquarium – Awesome place to visit in Chicago with kids!

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• More than 80 different habitats.
• Great for kids and adults as well.
• Has live animal shows and encounters if you want to get up close and personal.

Why it’s so awesome : There’s nothing like a great aquarium. They’re a chance to get out of the heat and spend time marvelling at a whole different world. The animals that live under the sea are some of the strangest and most amazing creatures in the world, which is why spending time learning about them can create a fascination that lasts a lifetime.

What to do there : Spend some time while you’re at this aquarium so you get the chance to see all the exhibits. The Shedd Aquarium has more than 80 different habitats, so you’ll probably see a few sea animals that you’ve never even heard of before let alone seen. But if you still want more, you can have a penguin encounter and be introduced to one of these adorable, tuxedoed animals, or see a live animal show featuring some of the aquarium’s most amazing residents. Some of Chicago’s best hostels are located nearby so you could go multiple times and not pay for transport if you wish!

#2 – The Art Institute of Chicago

• Voted one of the best art museums in the world by travelers.
• Home to some of the most famous paintings in the world.
• A great place for art lovers.

Why it’s awesome : Have you ever heard of American Gothic with the farmer and his wife standing with the pitchfork? Or wanted to see a work created by Van Gogh in real life? Well, you can do all of that here. The Chicago art museum is one of the best in the world and now it includes the recently completed Modern Wing, which houses artwork from around the world and from different times in history.

What to do there : Make sure you take a look at the Modern Wing with its artwork from ancient Greece and Rome. Another favorite houses the Thorne Miniature rooms, which have tiny, detailed houses from key times in European and American history. You’ll quite literally be able to see how people from other times lived and marvel at the amount of detail in each piece.

With a Chicago City Pass , you can experience the best of Chicago at the CHEAPEST prices. Discounts, attractions, tickets, and even public transport are all standards in any good city pass – be sure invest now and save them $$$ when you arrive!

#3 – Second City

• Some of the best comics in the world started out here!
• A fun night out for groups and people on their own.
• Make sure you stick around for the encore to see new material.

Why it’s so awesome : Steve Carrell, Tina Fey, Bill Murray and Chris Farley all started out at this venue. Second City has been the home of the best comedy in the city for a long time and that hasn’t changed. When you attend a show at this location, you’ll get to see some of the best comedy sketches in the world, which will make for a laughter-filled evening.

What to do there: Check what’s on and when while you’re in the city and make sure you reserve your seat! And once the show’s over, stay there until the encore’s finished too, because this is when the comedians improvise, and that’s sometimes funnier than the rest of the show!

#4 – The Empty Bottle – A nice non-touristy place to visit in Chicago

• One of the best rock and roll clubs in the US!
• A chance for you to see the best newcomers to the music scene.
• Is the perfect location for a night out with friends.
• This club is mostly for the locals, so you probably won’t see too many tourists while you’re there.

Why it’s so awesome : If you like rock and roll then you must spend an evening at the Empty Bottle. This is a small club that books some of the best music acts in town, and the venue has become a rite of passage for up-and-coming bands. If you are lucky enough to visit Chicago on a weekend then this place will really come alive.

What to do there : Take your friends, get there early, and enjoy the music. The club has a maximum capacity of about 300, so make sure you’re there early so you don’t get locked out. And if you’re there on a Monday, take advantage of the slow night special to see a free show.

#5 – The 360 Chicago

• Has a one of a kind open Skywalk.
• Gives a gorgeous view of some of Chicago’s prime tourist spots.
• Great for photographers.

Why it’s so awesome : This attraction boasts the fastest elevator in North America, which will take you up to the 94th floor in 40 seconds. There you can look out over the city and spot some of Chicago’s best tourist attractions from a bird’s eye view. The site also has educational features where you can learn about the city’s history, its culture, and some of the architecture that you’re looking at.

What to do there : While you’re there, see how many of the city’s attractions you can spot from your sky-high view. And if you’re a history buff, you can explore the city’s past by spending some contemplating the history wall. But if you want a little more from your experience, try the TILT, which allows you to lean over the edge of the building to see the city from high up without any barriers. It’s hair-raising but almost worth the terror!

#6 – Adler Planetarium

• Great for kids and adults.
• A place to indulge the science geek in you.
• Includes hand on exhibitions and display that will fascinate you even if you aren’t a science buff.

Why it’s so awesome : This planetarium does its best to push back the pollution that crowds the skies of most big cities and show visitors the stars. With some of the most technologically advanced theaters in the world, you’ll get a closeup view of the universe in living color in this Planetarium, and walk away with a whole new appreciation of the size of the universe and our tiny place in it.

What to do there : Make sure you spend some time at the Galaxy Wall, which shows the largest and most complete picture of the Milky Way that we have at the moment. And check what shows they have on in the theaters too. Whether you’re a child or an adult who’s curious about the world, you’ll love learning about this side of the universe that most people only see through a telescope. This is one of the best things to do in Chicago by far.

A new country, a new contract, a new piece of plastic – booooring. Instead, buy an eSIM!

An eSIM works just like an app: you buy it, you download it, and BOOM! You’re connected the minute you land. It’s that easy.

Is your phone eSIM ready? Read about how e-Sims work or click below to see one of the top eSIM providers on the market and  ditch the plastic .

#7 – Museum of Science and Industry – Cool place to see in Chicago with friends!

• The largest science museum in the western hemisphere.
• The first museum in North American to get interactive displays.
• Great for kids and science lovers.

Why it’s so awesome : This museum is all about encouraging visitors to interact with the displays and this makes it one of the most interesting and personally relevant museums that you can spend time in. There is also a 5 story, wrap around theater where you can watch Omnimax shows and learn even more about the world around you!

What to do there : This is a museum where you should wander around and try everything. You can explore the weather through the Science Storms display, play basketball with a virtual instructor, and wander through a German submarine from World War II. Whatever you’re interested in, you’ll find something here that will help you learn more about it. School was never as fun as this!

#8 – The Field Museum – A fascinating educational place to visit in Chicago

• Travel through time billions of years in one place.
• Great for history buffs and people who want to learn more about how the world came to be.
• Kids will love the animal and dinosaur displays.

Why it’s so awesome : If you want to understand the history of the planet then this is the place to do it. The Field Museum explores billions of years of the world’s history in living, exciting color. And if you like your displays a little closer to home, there are also displays showing the history of human civilization as well as exciting exhibitions that will make you see the world from a whole new, much smaller perspective.

What to do there: Check out the Egyptian tomb with all the trimmings including a book of the dead, mummies and other artifacts. And make sure that you spend some time in the Underground Adventure exhibition, where you’ll explore the world from the view point of a creature that’s 1/100th of your size. From this perspective, spiders are enormous, and you’ll get to experience what it’s like to be hunted by one!

#9 – Navy Pier – An awesome place to visit in Chicago for half a day!

• A city within the city.
• Truly one of Chicago’s most iconic spots.
• There’s no end to the activities that you can indulge in here.

Why it’s so awesome : Navy Pier is one of the most popular spots in the city for tourists and locals alike. It consists of more than 50 acres of lakefront territory and is home to shopping centers, restaurants, gardens and lots of other attractions. This area is like a city within a city, with its own energy and vibe, and you could literally spend days here just seeing what it has to offer.

What to do there : Well, what are you interested in? Some of the most popular options are the river or dinner cruises, where you can take in the city from the water. There’s a 150-foot Ferris wheel that operates year-round as well as fireworks twice a week during the summer. And if you enjoy the theater, then you must go to one of the shows put on at the Chicago Shakespeare theater, which is one of the best in the world and dedicated to groundbreaking productions. And if none of that appeals, you can just wander the area, sightsee and shop!

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#10 – Skydeck Chicago – One of the most amazing places in Chicago!

• The tallest building in the Western Hemisphere.
• Great for photographers and anyone who wants a shot of the iconic skyline of Chicago.
• The best place to take in the whole city.

Why it’s so awesome : This is the tallest building in the Western hemisphere and that makes it a great spot to get photographs of Chicago’s famous skyline . The observation deck is on the 103rd floor and you’ll be able to see some of Chicago’s most famous buildings from this vantage point. This is definitely not a place for people who are scared of heights, but it’s the best view in the city!

What to do there : If you’re really brave, you can step out onto The Ledge, a glass-enclosed balcony where there’s nothing between you and the city but air. Make sure you have a strong stomach if you try this because you’ll have a clear view all the way down. And it’s a really long way down. Otherwise, just take some great pictures with the skyline in the background and try to pick out some of the buildings you’ve already seen in your travels around the city!

#11 – Millennium Park – One of the most incredible free places to go to in Chicago

• A brand-new attraction that’s become one of the city’s hotspot.
• Holds hundreds of free concerts and events, so you’ll definitely get to see something good!
• A lovely natural area where you can escape from the busyness of the city.

Why it’s so awesome : Chicago is a busy city and sometimes it’s nice to get away from the streets and the pollution and spend time in a natural area. Millennium Park is the best place in the city to do that. Not only is it a beautiful park, but there are also lots of unique art pieces throughout the area for you to enjoy and sometimes puzzle over.

What to do there : While you’re in the Millennium Park, make sure you check out the Jay Pritzker Pavilion, where the city holds free concerts and events throughout the year. Even if you don’t catch a concert, the park is a lovely natural area so spending some time wandering around. And if you don’t like to walk, you can hire a bike or a Segway and see the park on wheels!

#12 – The Magnificent Mile – A great place in Chicago if you love to shop!

• Shopping, shopping, shopping.
• One of the busiest, most popular areas for tourists in the city.
• This area is also the heart of Chicago’s restaurant scene.

Why it’s so awesome : If you love to shop then this is where to come! The Magnificent Mile is basically a collection of streets where every shop you can imagine has a home. No matter what you’re looking for, you’ll find it here. And when you get tired, some of the best restaurants in Chicago are in this area. So, the only thing you’ll have to worry about is how to choose one!

What to do there : There are a lot of shops and a lot of streets included in this area so make sure you visit every one of them if you’re looking for something in particular! Whatever you’re looking for, from clothes to pet goods to jewelry, you’ll find it here, so just explore until you find some treasure!

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#13 – Grant Park – One of the most incredible free places to go in Chicago

• Over 300 acres of natural space.
• It includes bike trails and softball diamonds so you can play sports.
• It’s also known as a public art space, so there’s no shortage of things to see.

Why it’s so awesome : Grant Park is located between the city and the riverfront so it’s basically Chicago’s front yard. This is the perfect place to enjoy a bit of nature, get your blood pumping with some sports, or take advantage of the free music concerts that are frequently held in the area. There are also a number of art installations around the park, so no matter what you’re interested in, you’ll find something to occupy your time here.

What to do there : While you’re in the area you can go biking, play some softball or baseball, or just sit on the grass. The gardens themselves are gorgeous and well worth a look on their own, but you should also have a look at the headless figures dotted throughout the landscape. These art installations are striking and make an interesting statement about modern life.

#14 – Cloud Gate

• An odd, fascinating piece of artwork.
• A great place for photos.
• The ‘Bean’, as it’s known, as become Chicago’s most iconic piece of art.

Why it’s so awesome : Cloud Gate is a futuristic, silvery bean that was put in place during the grand opening of Millennium Park. It has a shiny exterior surface that reflects everything around it in a distorted and highly entertaining way. Looking at the bean is a little like being in a mirror house, except for the fact that everything from the sky to the buildings to the people are reflected, versus just a single person.

What to do there : There are pictures of the ‘bean’ all over social media, so why not join the crowd? You can get a great shot of the Chicago skyline all twisted by the surface of this slightly odd piece of artwork. But you can do more than look at it. This piece of art is meant to be touched and its shiny, smooth surface makes it irresistible, so don’t try to fight the urge!

#15 – The Chicago Theater

• Interesting architecture.
• The theater has played host to lots of big stars, so if you’re interested in celebrity culture then this is the place to go.

Why it’s so awesome : The theater itself is beautiful. It boasts a vertical Chicago sign that’s almost six stories high and lights up the night. But even if you aren’t interested in architecture than go for the shows. This theater is known as a hub for great entertainment and has hosted stars like Dolly Parton, Aretha Franklin, Oasis and Ellen Degeneres. So, if you’re looking for a great show to watch, you’ll probably find it at this theater.

What to do there : Get dressed up and see a show. This theater used to be a movie mansion, but now it hosts live theater with amazing productions and stars. So, if you feel like having an elegant night on the town, then make this a part of your evening.

#16 – Chicago Lakefront Trail – A beautiful and scenic place to check out in Chicago

• Great views of Lake Michigan!
• The most scenic route you can take to Chicago’s hotspots.
• A great way to get some exercise in beautiful surroundings.

Why it’s so awesome : Lake Michigan is iconic, and you’ll never be able to get a better view than along this trail. It’s 18 miles of stunning views of both nature and the city and is the ideal way to travel when you have a little extra time and don’t mind the walk. There are also several beaches, parks and attractions along the way, so you don’t have to go one more step than you want to.

What to do there : Run, walk or job along the lakefront if you want to get some exercise in during your stay. And if you’re just there for the views and the experience, walk a little way and then stop off at some of Chicago’s best attractions. The Field Museum of Natural History and the Shedd Aquarium are both easily accessible from the walk, so you don’t have to stick it out for the whole 18 miles.

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#17 – Wrigley Stadium – A must visit place to visit in Chicago on the weekend!

• Home to Chicago’s iconic sports team, the Cubs!
• If you manage to grab a game, it’s a great afternoon out with snacks and an exciting vibe!
• You can also visit the souvenir store and take home some Cubs memorabilia!

Why it’s so awesome : Chicago is a city that loves its sports which, is why going to a game is a must-do while you’re in Chicago. Even if you don’t like sports, the trashy food, the excitement, and the entertainment that goes on throughout the day make it well worth the trip.

What to do there : If it’s the right time of year, then you absolutely must go and see a game. There’s something about seeing a sport in real life, with thousands of other fans, that just can’t be missed. Games are a big deal in this city, so there’s no shortage of food and non-stop entertainment for you to enjoy on game days.

#18 – Chicago Cultural Center

• Great for music and lovers of art of all kinds.
• Lots of free public events are held in this building.
• Brings culture, history and art together in a stunning and fascinating display.

Why it’s so awesome : If you want to learn more about any facet of Chicago then you’ll probably be able to learn it here. This beautiful building is a masterpiece on its own, but it’s also home to the city’s best music and art scene. You can see movies, dance performances, theater, and art exhibitions at any time of year. And there’s always something going on, so make sure you check out what’s on offer while you’re in the city.

What to do there : There’s so much to do in the Cultural Center that it can be hard to choose what to do first. Visit the building for Chamber Mondays and delight in the shows put on by jazz, classical and ethnic musicians. Or take the building tour and learn about its many stunning features including the world’s largest stained glass Tiffany dome that holds pride of place at the top of the building.

#19 – Lincoln Park

• The park is a beautiful natural area by day.
• At night it’s part of Chicago’s exciting night life.
• Great for photographers and nature lovers.

Why it’s so awesome : Most of the attractions in Lincoln Park are free, which makes the area the perfect place to spend an afternoon without spending all your money. And it’s great for the family too, with a range of exhibits that kids of all ages will enjoy as well as some great dining options.

What to do there : Make sure you check out Lincoln Park Zoo if you’re visiting with the family or just enjoy seeing animals without paying an admission fee. You can also check out the Lincoln Park Conservatory and other attractions dedicated to different types of plants and the most beautiful parts of nature. And when you’re tired of all that green, you can head up to the beach area to get your feet wet or visit one of the cafes in the area for a nice relaxing snack and sit down.

#20 – Chicago Botanic Garden

• A great place to have a break from the city.
• The beautiful displays look great in photos.
• There’s a tram tour of the garden if you don’t feel up to walking it.

Why it’s so awesome : There’s nothing like exploring a bit of nature when you’re spending most of your time in the city. The Chicago Botanic Gardens are beautiful, expansive, and include a number of displays that will delight anyone. You will be able to relax in this area while you’re entertained and educated at the same time, and even the kids will like it so much that they won’t notice they’re actually learning!

What to do there : Take the narrated tram tour around the gardens to you can get an idea about the layout of the area. This will help you to find your favorite places later! And also make time to explore the Waterfall Garden and the English Oak meadow to glimpse beautiful and vibrant natural worlds that will make you feel like you’re a world away from the busy city!

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#21 – Logan Arcade – Easily one of the most fun places to check out in Chicago

• A chance to revisit some old favorite pastimes.
• You’ll get to play arcade games and drink at the same time.
• This is one of the best and the biggest arcade bars in the city.

Why it’s so awesome : Arcade bars are extremely popular in Chicago and the city has a few of them. Logan’s Arcade has one of the largest collections of well-maintained arcade games, which makes it a standout in this group. You’ll get to play all your old favorites and see for yourself if you still have the knack.

What to do there : Unapologetically retro, these types of venues play into the best parts of the past and will probably be a lot more fun than you think. Make sure you have a look around at the arcade games and find the ones you remember playing when you were younger. They have old favorites like Mario Kart, Ms. Pac Man and Jurassic Park, and you can have a drink while you play too, which just doubles the enjoyment.

#22 – Neo Futurarium

• A theater with a difference.
• The shows are different every time.
• Great for people who enjoy the unusual and the quirky.

Why it’s so awesome : This is a show that prides itself on leaving behind the restrained, polite world of the theater in favor of pure madness. It’s a 60-minute show that includes 30 miniature shows, all of them different and with a zany energy that’s infectious and sometimes just crazy! You’ll never know what you’ll get to see here, so just sit back and enjoy the spectacle!

What to do there : When you buy your ticket for this venue, you’ll have to pay a price that’s based on the roll of a dice. So, if you’re really lucky you could end up paying almost nothing. And this barrier to entrance is indicative of the tone of the entire show, so you have been warned. Strange as it sounds, you need to sit back, enjoy the show, and expect to be surprised when you spend time here.

#23 – The Robie House – A great place to see in Chicago if you love architecture

• Created by the famous architect Frank Lloyd Wright.
• A marvel of engineering and naturalistic lines and shapes.
• Take a tour to get the most from the experience.

Why it’s so awesome : Frank Lloyd Wright was a maverick in the field of architecture and his work stands as a symbol of the new style he inspired. The Robie House is one of his best pieces of work and you don’t have to leave the city to see it. The art-glass windows alone are worth the trip there, and the rest of the house is one of the best examples of Wright’s Prairie School style that you’ll ever see. We really wish this place was an Airbnb, but you’ll have to settle for one of the great Chicago Airbnb’s nearby and hope they’ve copied the architecture.

What to do there : Unless you’re an architecture student or an architect yourself, make sure that you take the tour through the Robie House. This is the best way to ensure that you get the full effect and that you understand just how significant this architectural style was in the past and how it still affects our present.

#24 – Boystown

• The center of homosexual culture in Chicago.
• One of the best places in the city to go bar hopping.
• Has everything from cocktail bars to drag shows and famous gay bars.

Why it’s so awesome : If you like to bar hop then this is one of the most colorful places in the city to do it. Make sure you visit a few different venues while you’re in the area because this location boasts everything from amazing cocktail bars to drag shows that will have you in stitches. And the lively atmosphere is something that must be seen to be believed, so add it to your Chicago itinerary!

What to do there : There are a lot of bars and restaurants in this area but make sure you check out perennial favorite Sidetrack, have a cocktail at the Elixir bar, and watch a drag show at the Kit Kat bar.

#25 – Half Acre Brewery Balmoral

• A behind the scenes look at the brew scene.
• This venue has beers that you can’t get anywhere else, so if you enjoy unusual beer, then try some of what’s on offer.
• A quick, educational tour that ends with a beer. Does it get any better than that?

Why it’s awesome: Unusual brews, free samples, and a cheap and interesting tour that teaches you the basics about what you’re drinking. No matter what brew you enjoy you’ll find it and learn about it here, and you might find a new favorite while you’re at it!

What to do there : For 10 dollars you can take a tour of the brewery and learn about how your favorite drinks get from field to the bottle. You’ll learn a little something and get some free samples as an added bonus. Sounds like the perfect lazy afternoon!

#26 – The United Center

• Home of the Chicago Bulls.
• Once home of that legendary player, Michael Jordan!
• A great place to see a game and enjoy fattening snacks.

Why it’s so awesome : Chicago is a town that loves its sports, all sports, and this stadium is a great place to see a game and start to understand why. During basketball and hockey season you can see games here. And in the off-season, the venue holds some of the biggest music concerts in the city!

What to do there: When you’re going to see a sporting event you need to get into the spirit and try everything that’s on offer. Eat fattening food, cheer for your favorite team, and generally get caught up in the madness. And if you admire Michael Jordan, and who doesn’t, make sure you get a photo with his statue in the venue’s public atrium. If you don’t like sports, keep an eye out for any musical events the venue has planned. Everyone from U2 to Madonna has played here, so if there is a concert on, it’ll probably be amazing!

#27 – Rainbow Cone

• An iconic ice cream shop in Chicago.
• Home to some of the most amazing flavors as well as some more unusual choices!
• Great for kids and anyone who has a sweet tooth.

Why it’s so awesome : This shop is iconic in Chicago and one of the best places to get a sweet treat on a hot afternoon. The shop first opened in 1926 and is colored bright pink, so there really is no way to miss it.

What to do there: What else? Try some ice cream. You’ll find old favorites here such as delectable strawberry and diet busting worthy chocolate as well as some unusual flavors you probably haven’t tried before. And if you’re not in the mood for ice cream, they have some great sundaes, cakes and shakes as well.

#28 – The Signature Lounge – A great place to visit in Chicago at night

• An iconic bar.
• Panoramic views of the city at night that you can take in through the floor to ceiling windows.
• A long popular bar with great cocktails.

Why it’s so awesome : Taking in the lights of a city at night is amazing and it’s even better when you can do it with a drink in your hand. This bar, located at 875 N Michigan Avenue, has been the place to look at the lights with a drink in hand for years. Locals never get sick of that view, and neither will you once you relax and take it in.

What to do there : This is a place to relax, order your favorite drink, and take in the lights. It’s located on the 96th floor above the Hancock Observatory. So, rather than paying the entrance fee to the Observatory, just pay for your drink and take in the view from a comfortable chair.

#29 – Stony Island Arts Bank

• An old bank that was converted into an art gallery and media archive.
• It has free art exhibitions on the ground floor showcasing some of the best parts of the city’s media history.
• A great place to experience a slice of Chicago’s past.

Why it’s so awesome : Sometimes we forget that the internet and CD’s and online music haven’t always existed. In reality, these things are fairly new, and not so long ago there were other ways for artists to share their work with the world. And this is the place where you can experience that slice of the past and gain an appreciation for the changes and how lucky we are to live in an age driven by technology.

What to do there : Firstly, spend some time on the bottom floor and take in the art, which often showcases some of the best artists in the US. And when you’re done with that, go upstairs to see the permanent collections. You’ll see record collections, slides from Chicago University, and other ways that people showed off their work in times gone by.

#30 – Jackson Park – Quite the quirky place in Chicago!

• Home to one of Yoko Ono’s quirky creations.
• A very photogenic place where you can take a more unusual picture of your travels.
• Great for art lovers.

Why it’s so awesome : Yoko Ono is a controversial figure even today, and most people don’t even know that she was also an artist in her own right. This display of her work in the Garden of the Phoenix in Jackson Park is an indication of her talent and her vision. it’s become a major draw for tourists in recent years, so make sure you check out what all the hype is about.

What to do there : Take a photo next to one of the quirky, slightly strange looking installations before you move on to explore other parts of the garden. There’s actually a beautiful Japanese garden known as the Osaka Japanese Garden in the park as well. It’s laid out in a traditional style and is a relaxing, restorative place to spend some time.

#31 – Kingston Mines

• One of the oldest blues bars in the city.
• Two different stages where you can experience different sides of this soulful sound.
• Great for music lovers.

Why it’s so awesome : Chicago has an exciting music scene and blues music is a mainstay here, so you absolutely must catch a show and see what all the hype is about. The Kingston Mines is the oldest continuously operating blues club in the city, and it has an infectious energy that always makes for a fun night.

What to do there: This bar is open most nights of the year until late and features some of the best blues music in the city. It’s a high energy place, so make sure you come expecting to have a loud and lively night!

#32 – Montrose Beach

• A quieter beach that’s slightly off the beaten track.
• There are less tourists here, which makes for a more relaxing atmosphere.
• A great place to soak up the sun!

Why it’s so awesome : You probably don’t think of beaches in connection with Chicago and yet there are a number of them in the city. The closer the beach is to the Loop, the busier it is, which is why you should spend your time at Montrose Beach. It’s a little further away from the center of the city so it’s less crowded and more conducive to a relaxing afternoon!

What to do there : This beach is great for relaxing, but it also has the same amenities as some of the more popular choices. If you’re feeling energetic you can hire a kayak or play volleyball on the beach. And when you get hungry, there are lots of food places nearby to choose from too.

#33 – Pequod’s – A must-see for foodies!

• A local secret that has amazing Chicago style pizza.
• The place to go for great pizza at non-tourist prices.

Why it’s so awesome : You can’t go to Chicago without trying one of their famous pizzas. They’re super thick, with layers of cheese and sauce, and you can even get a stuffed crust if you want to really ruin your diet. There are a lot of places that sell these pizzas for tourists, but if you’re looking for a more local restaurant then Pequod’s is a great choice. There are two locations in the city, one of them in Lincoln Park, and you’ll get amazing pizza at local prices whichever one you find!

What to do there : Eat one of Chicago’s famous pizzas! This is where the locals come, so you know it’s good, and the prices are excellent. Going at lunchtime is an especially good idea, as you’ll get a pizza for a fraction of the price you’d pay at a more touristy spot.

#34 – Pilsen

• Chicago’s Hispanic Neighborhood.
• Great for foodies who enjoy Mexican dishes.
• There’s also some great street art in this area.

Why it’s so awesome : Spending time in Pilsen is a good way to see another side of Chicago. You’ll eat some amazing Mexican food, learn about another culture, and enjoy the rebellion and color of street art at the same time.

What to do there: This is a great neighborhood if you like to eat. There are a number of incredible eateries in the area including 5 Rabanitos , which offers some of the best meals in the city. Make sure you check out the National Museum of Mexican Art while you’re there and spend some time on 16th and 18th streets, where there are some colorful murals brightening up the buildings.

#35 – Chinatown

• The best dim sums in the city.
• Some amazing teahouses where you can get out of the heat and enjoy some varieties of tea.
• Check out the Chinese-American Museum while you’re there.

Why it’s so awesome : If you want some authentic Chinese food then you’ll find it in this area. Spread out over Cermak Road and Wentworth Avenue, this is a lively area where you can eat, shop and drink tea. There’s also a museum that explores the history of the area and its people which will give you an insight into another facet of Chicago and its culture.

What to do there: While you’re there, make sure you eat. You’ll find some of the best dim sums in the area here, especially in landmark locations like Dolo Chicago , which has a full bar, and Duck Duck Goat , which has a weekend menu to die for.

#36 – Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago

• A smaller, but no less impactful art museum than others in the city.
• Has a permanent collection that showcases Andy Warhol, Francis Bacon and Alexander Calder.
• The venue’s eatery  Marisol  is well worth checking out for the food and the ambiance.

Why it’s so awesome : This imposing building fits perfectly with the contemporary art that it showcases. It houses a smaller collection that’s absolutely fascinating for art lovers and people who are curious about modern art. The restaurant also has a range of startling dishes for brunch, lunch and dinner, so whatever time you go make sure that you check it out!

What to do there : If you’re an art lover then you’ll probably recognize many of the famous names that showcase their art in this museum. But if you don’t know as much about contemporary art then it’s a chance to wander and maybe find some new favorites! Make sure you check out the rotating display as well as the regular one to get the full effects. And grab a snack or a meal at the Marisol restaurant to experience some truly innovative dishes while you’re there.

#37 – Oz Park

• A quirky and whimsical place to spend a couple of hours.
• Great for kids and lovers of the movie or the books.
• A magical wonderland in the middle of the city!
• You’ll get some amazing and slightly quirky photos here too.

Why it’s so awesome : It’s a whole park dedicated to the Wizard of Oz movie and world, how could it not be awesome? This park started its transformation in 1974 and is now filled with Oz-inspired amenities and images. But the best part has to be the statues of the iconic characters who are on display throughout the park.

What to do there : This is a place to wander around and let your imagination go wild. You’ll see a playground called Dorothy’s Playlot and a green space known as the Emerald Gardens as well as all your favorite characters. The park is meant to provide a clean and safe space for children, one that excites their imagination, and it does that very well indeed.

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Find out what people want to know about the best places to visit in Chicago

What is the number 1 place to visit in Chicago?

The Navy Pier is the most popular tourist attraction in Chicago and is full of gardens, shops, restaurants and parks.

Is 2 days enough for Chicago?

If you only want to see the highlights of Chicago, then two days should be enough time to see them all.

What is Chicago famous for?

Chicago is famous for is skyscrapers, deep dish pizzas and mobster routes.

What is the most famous place to visit in Chicago?

Millenium Park and Navy Pier are the most famous places to visit in Chicago.

Chicago’s reputation has suffered a bit over the last few years, but this doesn’t mean that you should avoid the city. As long as you’re careful and stay away from certain key areas, your visit to Chicago should be safe and filled with great food, entertainment and amazing sites! So make sure you visit some of your favorite sites on this list, and you’ll see why people say that Chicago is one of the most exciting and interesting cities in the world.

Aiden Freeborn

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USA TODAY 10Best

Readers' picks: An essential guide to the best things to do in Chicago

May 2, 2024 // By Jacky Runice

By Jacky Runice Travel Journalist May 2, 2024

I fancy myself a Chicago know-it-all (lifelong Chicagoan, radio host, journalist, nosy neighbor), but just about every Chicagoan feels the same.

This guide highlights the USA TODAY 10Best Readers’ Choice Award winners of Chicago, from awesome restaurants and bars to the greatest hotels, events, and activities in this world-class town.

Chicago has been voted among the top 10 for Best Beer City , Most Walkable City in the U.S. , and Best Summer Destination , among others — all for good reason!

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Bookmark this list for your next trip to Chi-town.

Best hotels in Chicago

Voted one of the Best New Hotels in the U.S., The St. Regis Chicago is one of the city’s many architectural marvels, designed by award-winning architect Jeanne Gang. The property includes premier butler service, nightly champagne sabrage, and The St. Regis Spa , one of Chicago’s wellness meccas.

The hotel is home to two of Chicago’s finest restaurants: Tre Dita , a love letter to Tuscan cuisine, and the airy and light-filled Miru .

Insider tip: The hotel’s rooftop terrace overlooks the city with bird’s-eye views of fireworks at Navy Pier (crowned the Best Place to See Fireworks .)

The Peninsula Chicago Hotel is an extraordinary place to roost. Z Bar, Pierrot Gourmet, and Shanghai Terrace beckon with warm weather terraces and stellar food and beverage. Afternoon tea service in The Lobby is especially festive during the holidays when the hotel does it up with live music, extravagant decor, ice skating, and spectacular overnight packages. Those are just a few reasons readers voted this establishment among the best hotels for the holidays .

Need relief from the buzz of the city? Book a seasonal treatment at Leaf Spa at Fairmont Chicago Millennium Park , voted one of the best hotel spas in the country.

Environmentally minded visitors go for the LEED Gold-certified Virgin Hotels Chicago , voted one of the country’s best eco-friendly hotels .

The Publishing House , which has earned a 10 best ranking for Best Bed and Breakfast , will completely change the minds of travelers who don’t think they like bed and breakfasts, thanks to the chic decor, laid-back ambience, and outstanding breakfast near Chicago’s Restaurant Row.

Readers voted SOPHY Hyde Park as a Best Boutique Hotel . The South Side vibe combined with the hotel's smart rooms, artistic indoor, and outdoor spaces complements the cultural essence of the neighborhood that the Obamas once called home.

Best Chicago restaurants, cafes, and sweet shops

When that midafternoon snooze hits, sip a phenomenal cup of joe at Big Shoulders Coffee , a Best Independent Coffee Shop winner. With a former chef-turned-coffee roaster at the helm, stop here for no-nonsense artisan beans, roasted to perfection.

There are handmade candies galore at Windy City Sweets , a 2023 winner for Best Candy Store , from nostalgic treats to signature, homemade fudge, s’mores, and more. At Katherine Anne Confections , which got a nod for Best Chocolate Shop , you’ll find seasonal flavors plus classics like salted caramel.

Stock up on bakery goods or enjoy biscuits and gravy and two-fisted sandwiches at Wheat's End Cafe , one of the best gluten-free bakeries in the country.

In a city that takes its pizza seriously, both Chicago’s Pizza and Robert’s Pizza and Dough Co. made the top 10 for best gluten-free pizzerias for their in-house crusts and array of toppings.

The Oakville Grill & Cellar , one of 2024’s best new restaurants, has a great happy hour and weekend brunch. Featuring ingredients from farms and ranches across the Midwest, enjoy menus for lunch and dinner on the all-season patio.

Chicago has a plethora of notable steakhouses, and Asador Bastian , a Basque-inspired chophouse in River North's Gallery District, is something really special. Another Best New Restaurant winner, here you'll enjoy several varieties of flame-kissed beef, seafood, and a tortilla Española that will whisk you right to San Sebastian, Spain.

Traveling to or from Chicago? Don’t overlook the restaurants at O’Hare Internationl Airport , one of the best airports for dining . Notable stops include Rick Bayless’ Tortas Frontera, Berghoff Cafe for German items, cheeseburgers at Billy Goat’s, or Gold Coast Dogs for Chicago-style hot dogs and Italian beef sandwiches. For drinks, hangout at Goose Island Beer Company or Publican Tavern.

Best Chicago bars

With more than 160 Chicago breweries capturing the imagination and outsider appeal of craft beer culture, this Best Beer City continues to bag a barrel-full of awards.

Pilot Project Brewing , a springboard for startup breweries bringing exciting new brews from around the world, and Sleeping Village are both award-winning beer bars . Visit the Pilot Project Brewing’s incubator and taproom to sample beer, craft non-alcoholic brews, tea, and coffee.

Among 2024’s best new breweries , Black-owned Funkytown Brewery brings diversity to the craft brew space, winning multiple awards for suds like Hip-Hops, R&Brew, and Cuffin’ Season. Also voted a Best New Brewery by USA TODAY 10Best readers: Turner Haus, a Black, family-owned enterprise in Bronzeville. They brew and name beers after the family matriarchs.

Readers voted Chicago’s first botanical brewery and restaurant, Forbidden Root , as a Best Brewpub for its continuously rotating menu of Midwestern food and beverage tweaked with the seasons. Another Best Brewpub: Old Irving Brewing Company .

Don’t miss women-owned ERIS Brewery and Cider House , which topped the list as Best Cidery in the country.

Best events in Chicago

Chicago teems with festivals. Windy City Smokeout, an outdoor country music and BBQ festival, was a winner of the Academy of Country Music Awards' Festival of the Year, as well as a USA TODAY 10Best Readers’ Choice Award for Best Specialty Food Festival . Count on an impressive lineup featuring some of country music’s biggest names, along with the ultimate BBQ and craft beer from around the country.

A Chicago tradition since 1980, the Taste of Chicago thrills locals and visitors who want to experience Chicago’s expansive food scene, peppered with live music, entertainment, and family fun. The free-admission event takes place over three days in Grant Park. Chicagoans don’t mourn the end of festival season when the first leaves float off trees; they just keep partying!

The Chicago German-American Oktoberfest is a wunderbar Best Oktoberfest filled with music, dancing, and lots of wurst, pretzels, and beer.

The Magnificent Mile Lights Festival winds down Michigan Avenue and up to a top 10 spot on the Best Holiday Parade list. Stroll over to Christkindlmarket , the award-winning German-style bazaar that will fill you with holiday cheer.

Best attractions and other things to do in Chicago

Whether participant or fan, the Windy City has a roster of activities for sports fans year-round. One of two classic historic ballparks still standing in the U.S., Wrigley Field , clutched a spot as one of the best MLB stadiums . The 1914 ballpark has modern amenities, from a sensory room to electric vehicle charging stations. Don’t miss iconic Chicago snacks like Garrett Popcorn, Home Run Inn pizza, Vienna Italian beef, and Anthony Bourdain’s favorite, Hot Doug’s.

When the dogs start barking, get off of your feet and onto Chicago’s First Lady Cruises , a Best Boat Tour winner, an ideal way to see iconic architecture, or settle into a kayak to paddle the Chicago River.

This city has numerous must-visit institutions, like the internationally admired Art Institute of Chicago . This Best Art Museum is rife with Hoppers, Picassos, Van Goghs, and O’Keefes.

The most popular exhibit every year at the National Museum of Mexican Art is for the Day of the Dead. The museum dazzles with gleaming altars, whimsical sugar skull sculptures, and eye-popping art celebrating the dearly departed in colorful ways that are anything but grim. It ranks as one of the best free museums in the country.

Brush up on your science smarts and feel the physics at the massive Museum of Science & Industry , the largest science museum in the Western Hemisphere and a winner for Best Science Museum in the country.

Since Chicago was deemed one of the most walkable cities in the U.S. , you can easily torch some calories at the city’s first elevated park, The 606 ; the 18.5-mile Lakefront Trail ; walking paths at Millennium Park ; or just tooling around the neighborhoods.

About Jacky Runice

Born in Bucktown when bulletproof was a home safety choice and not a coffee order, Jacky Runice has been knocking around Chicago as a professional print, online and broadcast journalist and editor specializing in separating the riff from the raff in culture, entertainment, food, travel and pure unadulterated fun. Jacky is a member of the International Food, Wine & Travel Writers Association (IFWTWA). In her best Chicagoese, Jacky asks, "Who has the time or money to blow on hotels, attractions, restaurants, exhibits and activities that blow?"

Read more about Jacky Runice here.

Connect with Jacky via: Website | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | Pinterest

5 Illinois cities named among ‘Top 100 Best Places to Live' in U.S.

The ranking, which was based on "nearly 100 data points," included measures of a location's economy, housing, cost of living, amenities, transportation, safety, education, health and more, published april 30, 2024 • updated on april 30, 2024 at 4:52 pm.

Five Illinois cities have been named among the top 100 places to live in the U.S. -- and several nearby Midwest locations also made the cut.

According to city ranking site Livability, Naperville, Evanston, Bloomington, Peoria and Champaign all were named among the best places to live in the country.

Watch 24/7 free news online with NBC 5 Chicago’s stream

The ranking, which was based on "nearly 100 data points," included measures of a location's economy, housing, cost of living, amenities, transportation, safety, education, health and more.

It only included "small to mid-size cities with populations between 75,000 and 500,000," however. The cities also had to have a median home value of $500,000 or less, a factor in determining an area's affordability, according to the list.

"We also analyze average rent and home prices relative to income in each city, as well as other factors that influence the cost of living," the group stated.

Other Midwest locations to make the cut included Carmel, Indiana; Fishers, Indiana; Troy, Michigan; O'Fallon, Missouri; Bloomington, Minnesota; Rochester, Minnesota; Cedar Rapids, Iowa; Madison, Wisconsin; Ann Arbor, Michigan; Appleton, Wisconsin; Iowa City, Iowa; Duluth, Minnesota; Bloomington, Indiana; and St. Paul, Minnesota.

See the full ranking here .

Rockford named nation's top housing market by Wall Street Journal

New report reveals top 25 high schools in Illinois

Feeling out of the loop? We'll catch you up on the Chicago news you need to know. Sign up for the weekly Chicago Catch-Up newsletter here.

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Fun Places to Eat in Chicago: A Guide to the Best

I f you’re looking for fun places to eat in Chicago, you’re in luck. The city is known for its diverse and vibrant food scene, with something for everyone. From quirky and unique dining experiences to classic Chicago-style deep-dish pizza, there’s no shortage of delicious options.

Whether you’re in the mood for something quirky or upscale, Chicago has plenty of fun places to eat that are sure to satisfy your cravings.

Iconic Chicago Eateries

If you’re looking for a taste of Chicago, you can’t miss out on these iconic eateries. From deep-dish pizza to Chicago-style hot dogs, these spots are a must-visit for any foodie.

Deep Dish Pizza Spots

Chicago is famous for its deep-dish pizza, and for good reason. These spots serve up some of the best pies in town:

• Lou Malnati’s : With locations all over the city, Lou Malnati’s is a Chicago staple. Their deep-dish pizza is a must-try, with a buttery crust and plenty of cheese and toppings.
• Giordano’s : Another classic Chicago pizza joint, Giordano’s is known for its stuffed pizza. The pizza is so thick and filling that one slice is often enough to satisfy even the hungriest of diners.
• Pequod’s Pizza : If you’re looking for a unique take on deep-dish pizza, check out Pequod’s. Their pizza has a caramelized crust that adds a delicious sweetness to every bite.

Ethnic Cuisine in Chicago

If you’re looking for a taste of the world, Chicago is the place to be. With a diverse population, you can find a wide range of ethnic cuisines here. Here are a few neighborhoods and restaurants to check out:

Chinatown Dining

Chicago’s Chinatown is a vibrant neighborhood that’s home to some of the best Chinese food in the city. Here are a few restaurants to try:

• MingHin Cuisine : This popular restaurant is known for its dim sum. They have a huge selection of steamed and fried dumplings, as well as other traditional Chinese dishes.
• Cai : If you’re looking for something a little more upscale, check out Cai. This restaurant serves modern Chinese cuisine in a sleek, contemporary setting.
• Lao Sze Chuan : This restaurant is famous for its spicy Szechuan cuisine. If you’re a fan of heat, you won’t be disappointed.

Little Italy Favorites

Chicago’s Little Italy neighborhood is home to some of the best Italian food in the city. Here are a few restaurants to check out:

• Tuscany : This cozy restaurant serves classic Italian dishes like lasagna, spaghetti carbonara, and chicken parmesan. They also have an extensive wine list.
• Rosebud : This popular chain has several locations throughout the city, but the Little Italy restaurant is the original. They serve classic Italian-American dishes like meatballs and spaghetti, as well as steaks and seafood.

Mexican Food in Pilsen

Pilsen is a predominantly Mexican neighborhood that’s home to some of the best Mexican food in the city. Here are a few restaurants to try:

• Carnitas Uruapan : This casual restaurant is known for its carnitas, which are slow-cooked pork that’s crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. They also serve other traditional Mexican dishes like tacos and tamales.
• Nuevo Leon : This family-owned restaurant has been serving Mexican cuisine for over 40 years. They’re known for their homemade tortillas and mole sauce.
• La Casa Del Pueblo : This grocery store has a small restaurant inside that serves delicious Mexican food. They’re known for their tacos al pastor, which are made with marinated pork that’s cooked on a spit.

Upscale Dining

If you’re looking for a fancy dining experience in Chicago, you won’t be disappointed. The city is home to some of the best upscale restaurants in the world, with Michelin star ratings and stunning rooftop views.

Want a Michelin-Starred Restaurant?

Chicago has a total of 25 Michelin-starred restaurants, making it one of the top cities for fine dining in the world. Here are a few of the most notable ones:

• Alinea : This three-star restaurant is one of the most famous in the city. The 15-course tasting menu is a culinary journey that combines flavors from around the world.
• Oriole : This two-star restaurant is known for its contemporary American cuisine. The tasting menu changes frequently to reflect the seasons and the chef’s inspiration.
• Next : This two-star restaurant offers a unique dining experience with a constantly changing theme. Past themes have included Paris 1906, The Hunt, and Hollywood.

Rooftop Dining

Chicago’s skyline is one of the most iconic in the world, and there’s no better way to enjoy it than from a rooftop restaurant. Here are a few of the best options:

• Cindy’s : Located on the rooftop of the Chicago Athletic Association Hotel, Cindy’s offers stunning views of Millennium Park and Lake Michigan. The menu is a mix of classic American dishes and creative cocktails.
• The J. Parker : This rooftop bar and restaurant is located on top of the Hotel Lincoln in Lincoln Park. The views of the city skyline are breathtaking, and the menu features small plates and craft cocktails.
• The Terrace at Trump : This upscale restaurant is located on the 16th floor of the Trump International Hotel and Tower. The views of the Chicago River and the Magnificent Mile are unparalleled, and the menu features classic American cuisine with a modern twist.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want to treat yourself to a fancy meal, Chicago’s upscale dining scene has something for everyone.

Unique Dining Experiences

Chicago is known for its food scene, and there are plenty of unique dining experiences to be had in the city. From themed restaurants to waterfront dining, there’s something for everyone. Here are some of the best unique dining experiences in Chicago.

Themed Restaurants

If you’re looking for a dining experience that’s a little out of the ordinary, Chicago has plenty of themed restaurants to choose from. Here are a few of the most popular:

Waterfront Dining

Chicago is located on Lake Michigan, and there are plenty of restaurants that take advantage of the city’s waterfront location. Here are a few of the best:

Whether you’re looking for a themed dining experience or a meal with a view, Chicago has plenty of unique options to choose from.

Late Night Eats

Chicago is a city that never sleeps, and that means you can get a great meal at any time of the day or night. Whether you’re craving a hearty burger, a slice of pizza, or something a little more exotic, there’s always somewhere to satisfy your hunger. Here are some of the best late-night eats in Chicago.

Location: 2833 W Armitage Ave Chicago

Gretel is a Logan Square restaurant that’s open until midnight on weekdays and 1 a.m. on weekends. The food is a mix of German and Scandinavian cuisine, with dishes like schnitzel, spaetzle, and gravlax on the menu. The atmosphere is cozy and intimate, with wood-paneled walls and dim lighting. The cocktails are also excellent, with creative twists on classic drinks like the Old Fashioned.

Location: 2521 N Milwaukee Ave Chicago

The Owl is a 4 a.m. bar and restaurant in Logan Square that’s been a favorite of Chicagoans for years. The menu is simple but satisfying, with classic bar food like burgers, fries, and wings. The drinks are also excellent, with a wide selection of beers on tap and creative cocktails like the Spicy Margarita. The atmosphere is laid-back and welcoming, with a mix of locals and tourists hanging out until the early hours of the morning.

Furious Spoon

Location: 2410 N Milwaukee Ave Chicago

Furious Spoon is a ramen restaurant with locations all over Chicago, including one in Wicker Park that’s open until 2 am on weekends. The menu is simple but delicious, with a variety of ramen bowls to choose from, including vegetarian options. The atmosphere is casual and fun, with a hip-hop soundtrack and graffiti-covered walls. The cocktails are also worth trying, with creative twists on classic drinks like the Moscow Mule.

The Chicago Diner

Location: 2333 N Milwaukee Ave Chicago

The Chicago Diner is a vegetarian and vegan restaurant that’s been a staple of the city since 1983. The Logan Square location is open until midnight on weekdays and 1 am on weekends, making it a great spot for a late-night meal. The menu is extensive, with everything from burgers and sandwiches to salads and smoothies. The atmosphere is cozy and welcoming, with a retro diner vibe that’s perfect for a late-night hangout.

The Wiener’s Circle

Location: 2622 N Clark St Chicago

The Wiener’s Circle is a late-night hot dog stand in Lincoln Park that’s been around since 1983. The menu is simple but satisfying, with classic Chicago-style hot dogs, burgers, and fries. The real draw, though, is the atmosphere, which is loud, raucous, and often profane. The staff is known for their insults and banter, which can be both hilarious and offensive. If you’re looking for a true Chicago experience, The Wiener’s Circle is a must-visit.

Family-Friendly Restaurants

Chicago is a great place to take your family out for a meal. There are a variety of restaurants that cater to families with children of all ages. Here are some of the best family-friendly restaurants in Chicago.

Wildberry Pancakes & Cafe

Location: 130 E Randolph St Chicago

Wildberry Pancakes & Cafe is a great place to take your family for breakfast or brunch. This restaurant is located across from the iconic Millennium Park and offers a variety of delicious pancakes, waffles, and other breakfast items. They also have a kids’ menu with options like chocolate chip pancakes and French toast sticks.

Do-Rite Donuts & Chicken

Location: 233 E Erie St Chicago

Do-Rite Donuts & Chicken is a casual restaurant that serves up some of the best-fried chicken and donuts in Chicago. They have a kids’ menu with options like chicken tenders and grilled cheese sandwiches. Plus, their donuts are a hit with kids and adults alike.

The Polo Inn Bridgeport U.S.A.

Location: 3322 S Morgan St Chicago

The Polo Inn Bridgeport U.S.A. is a family-owned restaurant that has been serving up classic American dishes for over 60 years. They have a kids’ menu with options like mac and cheese and chicken tenders. Plus, their friendly staff will make you and your family feel right at home.

Revival Food Hall

Location: 125 S Clark St Chicago

Revival Food Hall is a great place to take your family if you’re looking for a variety of options. This food hall features a little bit of everything from some of Chicago’s best restaurants. They have options like tacos, pizza, sushi, and more. Plus, there’s plenty of seating so you can enjoy your meal with your family.

Overall, Chicago has plenty of family-friendly restaurants that will make your dining experience enjoyable for both you and your children.

Chicago is known for its hot dogs, and for good reason. The city has a long history of unique and delicious hot dog stands, each with their own take on the classic Chicago-style dog. Here are a few of the best places to grab a hot dog in the Windy City:

Gene & Jude’s Red Hot Stand

Location: 2720 N River Rd River Grove

Located in the suburbs, Gene & Jude’s Red Hot Stand is a must-visit for hot dog enthusiasts. The stand has been around since 1946 and is known for its simple, no-frills approach to the classic Chicago-style dog. Don’t ask for ketchup here – they don’t have it.

Instead, enjoy your hot dog topped with mustard, relish, onions, and sport peppers. Don’t forget to order a side of their famous fries, which are served on top of the hot dog for a truly unique experience.

Location: 3343 W. Addison Street Chicago

Portillo’s is a Chicago institution and a popular spot for locals and tourists alike. Their hot dogs are made with Vienna Beef and topped with mustard, relish, onions, tomatoes, pickles, and sport peppers. They also offer a variety of specialty hot dogs, such as the Jumbo Chili Cheese Dog and the Bacon Chili Cheese Dog. Be sure to save room for one of their famous chocolate cake shakes!

Tip: Be sure to join their app and get a free dessert with your birthday dinner.

Location: 6363 N Milwaukee Ave Chicago

Superdawg is a classic drive-in hot dog stand that has been around since 1948. The stand is known for its signature “Superdawg,” which is a hot dog topped with mustard, piccalilli, a dill pickle spear, chopped onions, and a hot pepper. The stand is also known for its unique decor, which includes two giant hot dogs on the roof.

Fatso’s Last Stand

Location: 2258 W Chicago Ave Chicago

Fatso’s Last Stand is a popular spot in Ukrainian Village for late-night eats. Their hot dogs are made with Vienna Beef and topped with a variety of creative toppings, such as giardiniera, bacon, and mac and cheese. They also offer vegetarian and vegan options, including a vegan hot dog topped with vegan chili and vegan cheese.

Whether you’re a Chicago native or just visiting, be sure to check out one of these hot dog stands for a true taste of the city.

Best Burgers

Chicago is famous for its deep-dish pizza, but it’s also home to some of the best burgers in the country. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic cheeseburger or something more creative, Chicago has got you covered. Here are some of the best places to grab a burger in the Windy City.

Location: 800 W Randolph St Chicago

Au Cheval is a must-visit for any burger lover. This West Loop spot has been named the best burger in America by numerous publications, and for good reason. The burger is made with two thin patties, American cheese, dijonaise, and house-made pickles, all served on a toasted bun. It’s simple, but it’s executed perfectly. Be prepared to wait, though – Au Cheval is always packed.

The Loyalist

Location: 177 N Ada St Ste 001 Chicago

The Loyalist is a cozy basement bar in the West Loop that serves up one of the best burgers in the city. The Loyalist Original Cheeseburger is a double patty burger topped with American cheese, lettuce, onion, and a special sauce. It’s juicy, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying. The Loyalist also has a great cocktail menu, so be sure to grab a drink while you’re there.

Kuma’s Corner

Location: 852 W Fulton Market Chicago

Kuma’s Corner is a heavy metal-themed burger joint with several locations throughout the city. The burgers are named after metal bands and are piled high with toppings. The Slayer, for example, is a burger topped with chili, cherry peppers, andouille sausage, andouille aioli, and jack cheese. The burgers are big and messy, but oh so delicious.

Edzo’s Burger Shop

Location: 1571 Sherman Ave Evanston

Edzo’s Burger Shop is a casual spot with locations in Evanston and Lincoln Park. The burgers are made with fresh, never frozen beef and are smashed on the griddle for maximum flavor. The menu is simple, with classic burgers, cheeseburgers, and a few specialty burgers. The truffle aioli burger is a standout – it’s topped with truffle aioli, gruyere cheese, and crispy onions.

Small Cheval

Location: 1732 N Milwaukee Ave Chicago

Small Cheval is the more casual offshoot of Au Cheval, located in Wicker Park and Old Town . The burger is similar to the one at Au Cheval – two thin patties, American cheese, dijonaise, and pickles – but it’s served on a sesame seed bun instead of a toasted bun. The fries are also a standout – they’re crispy and perfectly seasoned.

Chicago has no shortage of great burgers, but these five spots are some of the best in the city. Whether you’re a die-hard burger fan or just looking for a tasty meal, you can’t go wrong with any of these options.

Navy Pier Nibbles

If you’re looking for a fun place to eat in Chicago, Navy Pier is a must-visit destination. This iconic landmark offers a variety of dining options that cater to different tastes and budgets.

Savor the Flavors

One of the best things about Navy Pier is that it offers a diverse selection of cuisines. Whether you’re in the mood for American, Italian, Mexican, or Asian food, you’re sure to find something that satisfies your cravings.

For a taste of Chicago’s deep-dish pizza, head to Giordano’s, which is known for its delicious stuffed pizza. If you’re looking for something more upscale, Riva Crab House offers fresh seafood dishes and stunning views of Lake Michigan.

Grab-and-Go

If you’re short on time or want to eat on the go, Navy Pier has plenty of options for quick bites. From classic Chicago-style hot dogs at America’s Dog to sweet treats at Garrett Popcorn Shops , there’s something for everyone.

Iconic Eats

No visit to Navy Pier is complete without trying some of its iconic eats. The famous Navy Pier Funnel Cake is a must-try, with its crispy fried dough and a generous dusting of powdered sugar.

For a unique twist on a classic dish, head to Lirica , which offers Latin-inspired cuisine with a modern twist. Don’t miss their signature dish, the paella, which is bursting with flavor and served in a traditional cast-iron pan.

Overall, Navy Pier is a great place to grab a bite to eat while enjoying the sights and sounds of Chicago. With so many options to choose from, you’re sure to find something that satisfies your taste buds.

Great Outdoor Patio

When it comes to dining in Chicago, nothing beats the experience of eating outdoors on a beautiful day. Granted, this is only during the summer months, but only the people in the Midwest know how to make the most of downtown Chicago.

Luckily, the city is full of great restaurants with outdoor patios that offer stunning views and delicious food. Here are some of the best outdoor patios in Chicago that you should definitely check out:

Piccolo Sogno

Location: 464 N Halsted St, Chicago

Piccolo Sogno , located in River West/West Town, is a charming Italian restaurant with a beautiful outdoor patio. The patio is surrounded by ivy-covered walls, creating a lush and romantic atmosphere that is perfect for a date night or a special occasion. The menu features classic Italian dishes like pasta, pizza, and seafood, all made with fresh and high-quality ingredients.

Las Fuentes

Location: 2558 N Halsted St Chicago

Las Fuentes is a popular Mexican restaurant with a secret weapon: a beautiful private patio that is perfect for private events, including weddings. The patio is located near the restaurant’s main entrance and is surrounded by lush greenery, creating a peaceful and relaxing atmosphere. The menu features traditional Mexican dishes like tacos, burritos, and enchiladas, as well as a wide selection of margaritas and other cocktails.

Porter Kitchen & Deck

Location: 150 N Riverside Plz Chicago

Porter Kitchen & Deck is a riverside spot with two outdoor seating areas, including a waterfront patio and an elevated deck with city views. The patio is the perfect place to enjoy a delicious meal and a refreshing drink while taking in the stunning views of the Chicago River. The menu features American comfort food like burgers, sandwiches, and salads, as well as a variety of craft beers and cocktails.

Location: 1402 W Randolph St Chicago

Bambola is a recently opened spot in the West Loop that is quickly becoming a favorite among locals. The restaurant features an intimate, sun-drenched patio that is the perfect place to enjoy the new happy hour menu.

The patio is surrounded by greenery and features comfortable seating and a relaxed atmosphere. The menu features modern Italian dishes like pasta, pizza, and seafood, as well as a selection of craft cocktails and wines.

No matter what type of cuisine you’re in the mood for, Chicago has plenty of great outdoor patios to choose from. Whether you’re looking for a romantic date night spot or a casual place to grab a drink with friends, these restaurants are sure to impress.

Final Thoughts

Chicago is a city that has it all, from world-class museums to stunning architecture, and of course, fantastic food. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, there’s no shortage of fun and exciting places to eat in the Windy City.

From the quirky and unusual to the sophisticated and stylish, Chicago’s dining scene has something for everyone. Whether you’re in the mood for pizza, steak, seafood, or something more exotic, you’re sure to find a restaurant that fits the bill.

One thing to keep in mind when exploring the city’s dining options is that many of the most popular restaurants can get quite busy, especially on weekends or during peak tourist season. It’s always a good idea to make a reservation in advance, or consider visiting during off-peak hours if you want to avoid the crowds.

Another tip for dining out in Chicago is to be prepared for a wide range of prices. While there are plenty of affordable options available, some of the city’s most famous restaurants can be quite expensive. If you’re on a budget, consider exploring some of the city’s lesser-known neighborhoods, where you’re more likely to find affordable eats.

Overall, Chicago is a food lover’s paradise, with an incredible range of dining options to suit every taste and budget. Whether you’re looking for a fun night out with friends or a romantic dinner for two with great food, you’re sure to find a restaurant that fits the bill. So why not start exploring the city’s culinary scene today?

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some popular restaurants in chicago that don’t require reservations.

Chicago has plenty of popular restaurants that don’t require reservations. Some of the best include Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria , Portillo’s , and The Purple Pig . These restaurants are known for their delicious food and casual atmosphere, making them perfect for a spontaneous night out.

What are some of the hottest new restaurants in Chicago?

Chicago is always buzzing with new restaurants to try. Some of the hottest new spots include Aviary , Kumiko , and Pacific Standard Time. These restaurants offer unique menus and trendy atmospheres that are sure to impress.

What are some of the best restaurants to try during Restaurant Week in Chicago?

Chicago Restaurant Week is a great opportunity to try some of the city’s best restaurants at a discounted price. Some of the top picks include Girl & the Goat , The Capital Grille , and RPM Steak . These restaurants offer delicious prix-fixe menus that showcase their signature dishes.

What are some fun kid-themed restaurants in the Chicago suburbs?

If you’re looking for a fun dining experience for the whole family, check out Rainforest Cafe , Medieval Times , or Chuck E. Cheese’s . These restaurants offer interactive experiences that kids will love, from animatronic animals to jousting knights.

What are some interactive restaurants to try in Chicago?

Chicago has no shortage of interactive dining experiences. Check out The Melting Pot for a fondue feast, or Korean BBQ restaurant Gogi for a DIY grilling experience. For a truly unique meal, head to Alinea , where the chefs create stunning dishes right in front of your eyes.

What are some cool and fun restaurants to check out in the Chicago suburbs?

If you’re willing to venture outside the city, there are plenty of cool and fun restaurants to check out in the suburbs. Some top picks include The Lucky Monk in South Barrington, which offers craft beer and delicious burgers, and The Bavarian Lodge in Lisle, which serves up authentic German cuisine and a wide selection of beers.

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Maps of Two Cicada Broods, Reunited After 221 Years

By Jonathan Corum

This spring, two broods of cicadas will emerge in the Midwest and the Southeast, in their first dual appearance since 1803.

A cicada lays eggs in an apple twig.

“Insects: Their Ways and Means of Living,” by Robert E. Snodgrass, 1930, via the Biodiversity Heritage Library

Brood XIII , the Northern Illinois Brood, hatched and burrowed into the ground 17 years ago, in 2007.

Brood XIX , the Great Southern Brood, hatched in 2011 and has spent 13 years underground, sipping sap from tree roots.

Historic maps adapted from “The Periodical Cicada,” by Charles L. Marlatt, 1907, via the Biodiversity Heritage Library; modern brood maps adapted from Gene Kritsky, Mount St. Joseph University

The entomologist Charles L. Marlatt published a detailed map of Brood XIX , the largest of the 13-year cicada broods, in 1907.

He also mapped the expected emergence of Brood XIII in 1922.

This spring the two broods will surface together, and are expected to cover a similar range.

Up to a trillion cicadas will rise from the warming ground to molt, sing, mate, lay eggs and die.

A Name and a Number

Charles L. Marlatt proposed using Roman numerals to identify the regional groups of 13- and 17-year periodical cicadas, beginning with Brood I in 1893.

A brood can include up to three or four cicada species, all emerging at the same time and singing different songs . Long cicada lifespans of 13 or 17 years spent underground have spawned many theories , and may have evolved to reduce the likelihood of different broods surfacing at the same time.

Large broods might sprawl across a dozen or more states, while a small brood might only span a few counties. Brood VII is the smallest, limited to a small part of New York State and at risk of disappearing.

At least two named broods are thought to have vanished: Brood XXI was last seen in 1870, and Brood XI in 1954.

Not Since the Louisiana Purchase

Brood XIII and Brood XIX will emerge together this year, for the first time in more than two centuries. But only in small patches of Illinois are they likely to come out of the ground in the same place.

Maps adapted from “An Historical Geography of the United States,” 1911, via the Library of Congress

In 1786 and 1790, the two broods burrowed into Native lands, divided by the Mississippi River into nominally Spanish territory and the new nation of the United States.

Brood XIII entered the ground in 1786, and Brood XIX in 1790. (Expected 2024 ranges are overlaid on the map.)

As the ground was warming in April 1803, France sold the rights to the territory of Louisiana, which it acquired from Spain in 1800, to the United States for $15 million.

That spring, Brood XIII and Brood XIX emerged together into a newly enlarged United States.

Their descendants — 13 and 17 generations later — are now poised to return, and will not sing together again until 2245.

A ‘Great Visitation’

After an emergence of Brood X cicadas in 1919, the naturalist Harry A. Allard wrote:

Although the incessant concerts of the periodical cicadas persisting from morning until night became almost disquieting at times, I felt a positive sadness when I realized that the great visitation was over, and there was silence in the world again, and all were dead that had so recently lived and filled the world with noise and movement.

It was almost a painful silence, and I could not but feel that I had lived to witness one of the great events of existence, comparable to the occurrence of a notable eclipse or the invasion of a great comet .

Then again the event marked a definite period in my life, and I could not but wonder how changed would be my surroundings, my experiences, my attitude toward life, should I live to see them occur again seventeen years later.

The transformation of a cicada nymph (1) , into an adult (10) .

“The Periodical Cicada,” by Charles L. Marlatt, 1907, via the Biodiversity Heritage Library

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