Chicago

Illinois

Chicago Travel Guide

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Chicago, IL - September 28, 2021: Friends hang out along Riverwalk, along the Chicago River, downtown in the Loop. 1405281535 riverwalk

Chicago, IL - September 28, 2021: Friends hang out along Riverwalk, along the Chicago River, downtown in the Loop. 1405281535 riverwalk

Overview

With steely skyscrapers, top chefs, renowned museums and rocking festivals, the Windy City will blow you away with its multifaceted splendors.

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Planning Tools

Expert guidance to help you plan your trip

Best Things to Do

Chicago is a city that will keep you busy from dawn till long after dark. Here are 13 of our favorite things to do in the Windy City.

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Best Time to Visit

From its icy winters to steamy summers and an always-packed cultural calendar, here are the top times to visit Chicago.

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Things to Know

Follow a few key bits of advice – take public transportation, pack for the season, never put ketchup on a hot dog – for a smooth visit to Chicago.

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Transportation

Chicago's efficient public transportation makes this busy city easy to navigate. Here's how to use the L, Metra and buses for your best experience.

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Free Things to Do

Chicago is jam-packed with fun activities and not all of them are designed to blow your budget. Here are 20 free (and nearly free) things to do there.

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Best Neighborhoods

Lincoln Park and Old Town are two of Chicago’s oldest and most charming neighborhoods. Discover the best things to do, the best places to eat and more.

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Day Trips

Within 2 hours of the Windy City, historic architecture, charming lakefront towns and natural attractions await. Here are the best day trips from Chicago.

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Money and Costs

Chicago may be big on experiences, but that doesn't mean you have to fork over big bucks. Here are our tips for navigating the Windy City on a budget.

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Traveling with Kids

With its wealth of interactive museums, fabulous parks, jaw-dropping architecture and family-friendly attitude, Chicago is tailor-made for travel with kids.

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