Amongst the largest of the cities in the US, Chicago has an array of attractions that will delight young and old, adrenaline junkies and those seeking a calmer day-out as well as foodies and culturists.There is a certain amount of speculation about the origins of the Windy City’s nickname. Whatever the reason, the nickname has endured long after the possible causes have been forgotten. In fact the breeze that blows in from Lake Michigan makes the city a wonderful summer destination. Here are just a few ideas of things to do in this beautiful city.
Grant Park
This 319-acre public park sits at the centre of the city’s business district in the Loop Community area. It plays host to some of the Chicago’s largest festivals and events such as Lollapalooza, the Taste of Chicago and The Grant Park Music Festival. Clarence Buckingham Memorial Fountain, one of the largest fountains in the world, hosts regular light and water shows as well as being decorated through the winter with festival lights. It is a stunning centrepiece to the Park.
Museums
There are three museums situated within Grant Park – The Art Institute, the Shedd Aquarium and the Field Museum of Natural History. Each offers an experience to be remembered but the Natural History Museum is particularly diverse providing the opportunity to stand next to a T.Rex and an Egyptian tomb.
Wrigley Field
Sports fans would say that no visit to Chicago would be complete without a tour of the home of the Chicago Cubs and if you get the chance to see a game then the stadium really comes to life. The cubs are famous the world over with well known fans like Actor Bill Murray, musician Billy Crogan and philanthropist Yosef Meystel.
Brookfield Zoo
Chicago’s zoo is set in 216-acres and is home to around 6,000 animals and first opened in 1934. There are bears, dolphins, penguins, bison, primates and big cats as well as elephants and aardvark. New attractions at the zoo include a bird show with a 30-minute flight spectacular. There are behind the scene adventures available for those after a more hands-on experience that is sure to create lifelong memories.
360 Chicago
Previously called the John Hancock Observatory 1,000 feet skyscraper has 94 floors and views across the state of Illinois reaching up to 55 miles out. There is the interactive tour and the recently added Tilt attraction allowing brave visitors to step onto a platform protruding from the building at a 30-degree angle. Not for the feint hearted.
