By Toma Toma
Chicago, aka the Windy City, is known for its beautiful landscapes and most iconic skyscrapers, for Chicago Cubs and Chicago White Sox baseball games, restaurants with great views of the city, museums and more. However, there are ten top places every tourist should visit while in Chicago, even though U.S. News and World Report ranked them slightly different from the list bellow. All these must-see attractions are situated in the heart of Chicago which makes it easier to move from one to the other.
Skydeck Chicago -The top attraction in Chicago for visitors to make pictures from a glass balcony on 103rd floor in the Willis Tower. For few years it was the tallest building in the world, and now ranks the 16th tallest in the world. 1,450 feet high, this amazing attraction gives a spectacular view of the city and a unique experience.
360 Chicago – An unforgettable experience of a platform made out of glass and steel that tilts visitors from 94th floor of John Hancock Center toward a breathtaking view of Magnificent Mile at 360 degrees. For those who are not afraid of heights, this is a must-try attraction.
The Magnificent Mile – The perfect avenue right in the heart of Chicago which offers amazing skyscrapers, luxury hotels, popular restaurants and best shopping experience. From John Hancock Center till DuSable Bridge, tourists can visit few landmarks like Trump International Hotel & Tower, the Chicago Tribune building, and NBC Chicago Tower.
Millennium Park – A public park with a spectacular view of Chicago’s downtown reflected in the Cloud Gate, also known as The Bean, and Pritzker Pavilion known for outdoor cultural performances. During the Summer, visitors can attend the Chicago Jazz Festival, or enjoy free concerts and movies. All they need is a blanket and some snacks.
Art Institute of Chicago – A real treasure of Chicago that helds unique collections from Medieval, Renaissance, Contemporary and Modern artwork. Visitors can explore Picasso’s Mother and child, 1921, Seurat’s A Sunday on La Grande Latte, 1884, artwork from Monet, Caillebotte, Rembrandt and others.
Chicago River Cruise – A memorable experience in a boat on Lake Michigan while learning the history of Chicago’s skyscrapers. This attraction is perfect for a weekend with family or friends, while enjoying the Chicago Riverwalk or taking a lunch with a breathtaking view of Lake Michigan.
Buckingham Fountain – An iconic sculpture with a spectacular view of Chicago’s skyscrapers. Usually, the newlyweds come here to take memorable pictures at the romantic fountain that offers a spectacular water show accompanied by light and music display from dusk till 10 p.m.
The Field Museum of Natural History – A great museum that offers an adventurous journey of exploring the past. The Field Museum is mostly known for the exhibition of Sue which is the largest dinosaur from Tyrannosaurus rex species and best preserved.
Navy Pier – A pier situated on the Lake Michigan’ shoreline that attracts visitors for its centennial wheel and year-round expositions. At Navy Pier, visitors can enjoy an Odyssey Dining Cruise during night when the amazing skyline’s view of the city is best seen along with some spectacular fireworks.
The Chicago Theatre – A theatre designed in a French Baroque style that welcomes its visitors for various concerts, musicals and broadway shows. The Chicago Theater has become an iconic place for visitors to make pictures as its vertical sign depicts the symbol of the city.