Illinois Attractions
Discover what makes Illinois tick with the very best tours & day trips. Check out our top {280 fun activities in Illinois fun activities in Illinois}, and rest easy knowing that we offer free cancellation and no added fees.
Things to do in Illinois
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Illinois must see attractions
1. Wrigley Field
Fans of baseball know Wrigley Field as the long-time home of the Chicago Cubs. Built in 1914, this is one of the oldest and best-known ballparks in the US. Some of the most memorable moments in baseball history have been played out here, including Babe Ruth’s now famous “called shot” in 1932 during the World Series. He allegedly pointed to the bleachers, predicting that he’d hit a home run, and then did. Legendary Cubs player Ernie Banks nicknamed the stadium "The Friendly Confines" because fans were wild about their team and ballpark. Catch a game and mingle with the passionate locals if you’re in town March through September.
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2. Navy Pier
Navy Pier draws more than 8.6 million visitors each year. It has rides, restaurants, shops, parks and boat tours, all within a 50-acre pier on Lake Michigan. Open year-round, it’s busiest in the summer months when there are open-air stalls selling souvenirs and weekly firework displays.
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3. McCormick Place
McCormick Place is both the biggest convention center in Chicago and the biggest one anywhere in the U.S. This vast, sprawling complex is an impressive feat of architecture and engineering that was founded well over half a century ago. Attend an event here to get a sense of its incredible scale.
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4. Soldier Field
Soldier Field has been one of Chicago’s most well-known landmarks since its construction in 1924 and is the oldest NFL stadium in the country.
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5. Millennium Park
Millennium Park is a 25-acre (10 hectare) park in the central Loop. Locals and tourists gather year-round for concerts, biking and jogging, and to admire the sculptures dotting the landscape.
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6. Chicago Riverwalk
Get a sense of the culture and character of the Windy City by wandering along the Chicago Riverwalk. This scenic stretch of the city follows the banks of the Chicago River from near the edge of Lake Michigan through Downtown to where the river splits. As you follow the walkway, pass impressive bridges, fascinating museums and trendy dining spots.
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What to do in Illinois
Free Things to Do in Illinois
Vacationing on a limited budget in Illinois? Spend time instead of cash on fabulous experiences.
Luthy Botanical Garden - Recharge your body, mind and soul by spending time in nature.
Things to Do in Illinois with Kids
There's fun for all the family no matter where you wander in Illinois. Here are a few family friendly experiences you can enjoy together that are sure to make your trip memorable:
Looking for sports, concerts, or theater events in Illinois? Search event tickets to see what's happening today, or to plan what to do this weekend!
Discover the most popular places to visit in Illinois
Michigan Avenue
4.5/5(332 reviews)
You can enjoy some retail therapy when you visit Michigan Avenue, a popular shopping spot in Chicago. Amble around this vibrant area's riverfront and enjoy its top-notch restaurants.
Wrigley Field
4.5/5(2,128 reviews)
Tour the iconic grounds and catch a game March through September at Chicago’s beloved baseball stadium.
Navy Pier
4.5/5(4,870 reviews)
A Ferris wheel, shopping, restaurants and more can be found in this waterfront entertainment district.
McCormick Place
4.5/5(1,805 reviews)
Attend an event at the United States’ largest convention center, which features hyper-modern facilities and huge exhibition spaces connected by promenades and sky bridges.
Soldier Field
4.5/5(1,256 reviews)
Events center, NFL stadium and historic landmark all in one, this waterfront field is one of Chicago’s most popular destinations.
Chicago Riverwalk
4.5/5(1,535 reviews)
Stroll along the waterfront of the Chicago River to pass some of the city’s most appealing attractions and appreciate how a once grim area has been successfully revamped.
Millennium Park
4.5/5(7,198 reviews)
A landmark gathering place for locals and visitors who come to admire the unique art, architecture and landscape.
United Center
4.5/5(701 reviews)
Catch an event at United Center during your trip to Chicago. Amble around this vibrant area's lakeside or experience its acclaimed art scene.
Grant Park
4.5/5(3,318 reviews)
Chicago’s front yard is a pretty landscaped park, which is home to public art displays, museums, themed gardens and international music festivals.
Discover the most popular landmarks and neighborhoods in Illinois
Downtown Chicago
The heart of the Midwest’s glittering metropolis has many offerings, from shopping and dining to parks, museums and exciting contemporary public art.
Magnificent Mile
Upscale shopping district with luxury department stores, boutiques, and acclaimed restaurants, featuring landmarks like the Wrigley Building and Chicago Water Tower. The Magnificent Mile is easily accessible by public transit and seasonal trolley service.
The Loop
4.5/5(9,481 area reviews)
Chicago's central business district boasts numerous global businesses, retail establishments, and theaters. Explore the Loop Retail Historic District, Chicago Landmark Historic Michigan Boulevard District, and visit iconic attractions like the Art Institute of Chicago.
River North
Artistic spirit thrives here, with art galleries and a design district featuring luxury interior furnishings. Explore Kingsbury Park, enjoy vibrant nightlife on Hubbard Street, and visit the iconic Contemporaine Building.
Theatre District
While you're in Theatre District, take in top sights like Michigan Avenue or State Street, and hop on the metro to see more the city at Washington Station or Monroe Station (Blue Line).
Streeterville
This lakefront neighborhood features some of the city’s best shopping alongside art galleries, beach parks, fairground rides and a 94th-floor observation deck.
Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.
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