The Chicago 5! Don't waste your trip on anything else.

If you are heading to Chicago for the weekend or vacation or for a conference there are dozens of things you can do and enjoy in the city. Here we go through my favorite things to do in Chicago. From the Art Institute of Chicago to the Field Museum to taking in a Cubs Baseball game there is a lot of travelers to enjoy in Chicago.
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[@alexlindquist2986]

Chicagoan here, I always bring visiting friends to the Cultural Center. It’s completely free, right there in downtown by all the attractions. Gorgeous building that always has some amazing local art, a great way to get a sense about the heart of Chicago and what it means to all the diverse people living here.

[@booklover555]

Yes, a definite favorite of mine too!! The Tiffany dome, the intricate tile work, the free lunch time performances and the rotating art exhibits.

[@kkarllwt]

In the 60s I spent a lot of time there because it was the main library.

[@gumerzambrano]

I went for Halloween and it was amazing! The Boat Architecture Tour was worth every penny! Best to go close to sunset😀

[@GregKulevich]

Chicagoan here. I second the Art Institute, the Architectural Boat Tour, and the Chicago Style Hot Dog. These are a must for any visitor.

[@woltersworld]

Thanks Greg!

[@JimJoeKnoxTenn]

A personal favorite during the summer months is Buckingham Fountain, located in Grant Park midway between "The Bean" sculpture and Art Institute and the Chicago Museum Campus (Field Museum, Shedd Aquarium, and Adler Planetarium). During the day there's a 20-minute water show and, after sunset, a pretty spectacular colored lights and music show on the hour. Best part -- it's free, and a great way to enjoy the breezes off the lake on a hot summer day or evening.

[@booklover555]

1. Yes!! 2. Yes 3. Yes!!! Field Museum is the best!! 4. Yes, but I recommend an Italian beef dipped or a Do-Rite old fashioned donut. 5. YES, I absolutely love the architecture tour on the Chicago River. My addition to the list would be a *free* walk along the lakefront where you can get great skyline views at many stops along the way, from the south to the far north. And by the way Walter is correct, it will always be the Bean and the Sears Tower.

[@Beatriz_xx]

This should be a nice location to add to my must visit bucket list, traveling is just so much fun, I am really happy I was introduced to Mrs. Anne Marie Martin, I must say, financially she turned my story around

[@felixsadio120]

There’s nothing sweeter than being able to afford the luxury of traveling to different locations as enchanting and beautiful as this

[@Beatriz_xx]

That’s the same woman, I have been investing with her for the past 2 years and I must confess that has been the best financial decision I have made

[@goodman5350]

Hello everyone, I’m a travel enthusiast myself, I got attracted to the first comment, I was surprised when I realized that the replies I was seeing was about Anne Marie, this woman deserves some praise, she is really good at what he does

[@gingersgiraffes219]

When I moved to Chicago, the first thing I did was search for the FREE days at all the museums and other attractions...they all have free days.

[@TheCosmicGenius]

Every time I'm in Chicago, I like to visit the Sears Tower & see the city from up high. Also, I like to window shop at Marshall Fields. And visit the Navy Pier. Of course, I haven't been there since the mid-90s, so I'm sure things've changed. Oh, yeah - pizza, too! And listening to live blues.

[@dianefreeman7194]

Also, if you come in the summer, go to the beach! Chicago has fun sand beaches.

[@lisakurkowski9131]

Great!

[@lifewithjosef]

For fans of Americana, I suggest taking a picture at the terminus point of Route 66, the Mother Road. The "beginning" signs are at Adams and Michigan. For those who watched 80s TV, Buckingham Fountian is in Grant Park. It's the fountain at the beginning of Married With Children. I tried a Chicago style deep dish pizza. I managed two pieces, it's very filling. Finally, a pic at The Bean, in your background, is always a worthy stop. Love your content and style!

[@Creole_Lady]

Yes! I did that and I have one I took in Santa Monica

[@tjstraw1]

Funny how you mention 80s TV. During this video, I kept thinking of Perfect Strangers.

[@tobiojo6469]

I have been to Chicago multiple times with my family and it’s a great city regardless of the crime.

[@minimansonstar]

The BEST places have the WORST crime! 😂

[@coffeecoffeecoffee7651]

It’s the hot dog’s RELISH that makes you question it’s healthiness??? 😂😂

[@bettersteps]

Thank you for the clarification. Sears Tower and The Bean. You're 100% correct.

[@76tennboy]

I am so glad you mentioned the ghost in the darkness! I was getting ready to comment that! That’s one of the main reasons why I plan on going and checking out Chicagothis late fall. I’m seriously having a hard time coming up with stuff to do in Chicago, unlike New York or DC or wherever just I don’t know that much about Chicago other than the movie the fugitive. But I did know about the lions.

[@monykalynf3604]

Fabulous ideas. Field museum, Shedd aquarium are not to be missed. and the boat tour was absolutely fascinating!

[@minimansonstar]

ADLER PLANETARIUM 🤘

[@leohickey4953]

Great video as always, Mark. I've seen American Gothic in two cities - once in Chicago, and once in a travelling exhibition in Paris. Slightly embarrassed by how willingly I mimicked the Ferris Bueller poses in the Art Institute. Architecture boat trip - check (compulsory for my educational background); Sears Tower - check (top floor views are amazing and despite my acrophobia I had to lean my forehead against the glass to get the full effect); Bean - check (plus the Crown Fountain, Calder's Flamingo, etc. - Chicago has great public art); Wrigley Field - check (my brother's a Cubs fan and although we arrived just out of season we asked a janitor if we could sneak in for a couple of minutes to take a picture and we could see he wanted to say "yes" but wasn't allowed to, so we had a whiskey and a chat with the staff in Murphy's bar instead). It really is time I went back. Greetings from the UK Chicago your city is great.

[@maureencora1]

I Love Chicago in the Spring, Summers, Fall & Christmas Holiday Season. (smile)

[@regina_filange2.0]

Just came back from Chicago! So, Chicago theatre is outstanding. If you can't make it to see NYC shows, Chicago offers beautiful theatres for hosting Broadway tours. Some shows even have long runs there, like Hamilton was there for about 3 years. Just be careful out there. Follow the same awareness and safety as you would with any big city❤

[@ang8574]

I’ve been binging your videos all day lol . They’re really great 👍🏾 I’m hoping to definitely travel more.

[@AkbarAkhyari]

I once traveled to this beautiful and dreamy city and I have very good memories of Chicago

[@silver852]

Perfect timing,i`m in May the first time in Chicago.Super excited🤩

[@ARealtorNamedHouse]

Love your videos!

[@Geekabibble]

Hahahaha! Yes, it will always be the Sears Tower! Chicago has THE BEST museums! You listed my three favorite! There's also the Planetarium and Shedd Aquarium. Navy Pier, Buckingham Fountain, the Magnificent Mile, Hancock building & Sears Tower, China Town. Fermilab is in a suburb of Chicago, but if you really love science it is really cool to take a tour!

[@kabouterwesley83]

Just like it will always be the John Hancock Center, not 875 north michigan avenue.

[@Geekabibble]

@@kabouterwesley83 OMGosh they changed the name of the John Hancock building too?!? Nope, nope, nope!! You are right, will always be John Hancock building. What are these people thinking....renaming our buildings we know and love. How dare they! 😛

[@karenjordan5731]

So cool!

[@woltersworld]

Thanks Karen!

[@heatherframpton9693]

Born and raised in Chicago South Suburbs...these Museums have been my favorite places as long as I can remember. ❤️ ...yes to that boat tour idea, too!

[@minimansonstar]

I used to work in the Adler Planetarium! 🎉

[@anthonyrynes5669]

I would say that the only thing that I would add is the Shedd Aquarium. It’s one of the largest in the world and it has some of the best exhibits that I’ve seen, but like you said, all the Chicago museums are fantastic.

[@woltersworld]

I know. The shed is awesome.

[@pacluv]

You’re absolutely right, it’s the bean 🫘, and the Sears tower. That’s what I call them. 😄😄😄

[@minimansonstar]

S E A R S T O W E R 🤘

[@ck4426]

Margie’s Candies!!! The Beatles ate there and it looks the same. Also the lobby of the Chicago Board of Trade building is stunning.

[@tobiojo6469]

Awesome video

[@mmcchl]

Sears tower observation deck, second city shows, lakefront boat tour, museums, Lou malnatis deep dish

[@Sarah_Eva]

The absolute best field trips when I was a kid were to the museums in Chicago! 😀❤️

[@woltersworld]

Amen to that!

[@minimansonstar]

Something that makes the difference in how a kid grows up. VERY positive experience to go to museums as a kid! ❤

[@lilvealy]

Gotta have Harold's Chicken, specifically 6 wings fried hard with lemon pepper and mild sauce. And don't forget Garrett's Popcorn. I tell all my rideshare riders that.

[@eldorado17427]

Thank you for another Chicago video! Nobody knows more than a local!

[@woltersworld]

Thanks Taylor!

[@gerryz1839]

Very nice!

[@frednich9603]

Good list! Glad to see you give MSI some love. So many people forget about it because it's not connected to downtown like the Shedd and the Field. I would have added the Hancock or the Sears towers (yes I said HANCOCK and SEARS)

[@GregKulevich]

Fun fact: the killer Lions of Tsavo at the Field Museum are actually female lions. This is why they don't have manes. Lionesses do most of the hunting.

[@GreatLakesDrifta]

Lived in Chicago for over a decade, totally agree with these top 5. One thing I would add would be to rent a divvy bike and ride up the lakefront path to Lincoln Park Zoo, always a must do activity for me when I visit in the summer. Also would add the Shedds Aquarium. And of course, for eats, an Italian beef sandwich from Al’s is always amazing.

[@bendawson1296]

Will be travelling from Australia in may to Chicago thanks for the tips

[@woltersworld]

glad to help out Ben!

[@minimansonstar]

G'day! Hope you visit the Adler Planetarium! 😘

[@umaerabid4124]

Hey walter, can u help with list for ppl who cannot walk much and have walking disability My understanding, bean, sears tower and boat tour is must with the grqnt park for fountain. And one of the museums in 2 days. Also a any opposite place to see complete skyline of chicago, appreciate ur response. Thanks We r planning to visit in mid August

[@thebabbler8867]

Chicago is the best city in the world.

[@ritakinchen4525]

I always take visitors on the architecture tour!

[@woltersworld]

it is pretty awesome

[@MeansToTravel]

Thanks for calling out some of our great Chicago museums individually! I'm so lucky to live in a city with such fabulous museums, and my favorite is the Art Institute! I also love the Oceanarium part of the Shedd Aquarium with the dolphins. Quick tip for travelers - every once in a while there are free admission days or evenings at many of the museums, which saves a ton of money for both locals and tourists!

[@woltersworld]

Thanks Eliz! Love your Chicago videos!

[@kabouterwesley83]

I will be visiting Chicago in April.

[@minimansonstar]

Yes!

[@minimansonstar]

I can get you into all the museums for FREE... but you'll have to let me hang out with you, and you will have to buy me lunch and treat me like a ROCK STAR... because I AM one! Look at my videos... 🤘

[@incognito682]

I miss the city ❤ 🌆 it’s the best city in the world 🗺

[@HalConick]

A great one for tourists or townies: Signature Lounge on the 96th floor of the Hancock. Get a window seat. Drinks are expensive and mediocre, but you aren't paying for the drinks, you're paying for the best damn city view in the world. If I recall correctly, even the bathrooms have tremendous views of the city.

[@d.l.l.6578]

Wrigley Field is inside Chicago and easily accessible by bus. Don’t even think about driving and parking there.

[@olfenite]

Long time subscriber, first time commenter. Would you consider making a video about how to get the best deals on places to stay? I would love to visit some of these cities but, man, the prices to stay at these places are insanely expensive. The last few major cities I've visited, which were D.C., NYC, Portland/Seattle, and Denver I was lucky enough to know some people who live there and I could stay with and that cut down the cost of the trip by a lot, but I don't know anyone in some of the other cities like Chicago and the people I knew in those cities have all moved out. What do you say Mark?

[@woltersworld]

We've had a number of videos over the years that talk about getting deals and best prices, why people don't always find those incredible deals you hear about, and such. They are there. I have a big "Budget Mistakes" video coming out the end of February that will cover a lot of stuff that will help out and put it all together for you.

[@Tramptraveller]

❤❤❤❤❤

[@TheFibtastic]

Chicago resident here. Yes and no. If you really want to get a feel for Chicago you have to get out of downtown, off the museum campuses, and out into the neighborhoods. Go to Clark Street in Lakeview. Go see all the new snooty restaurants in Fulton Market. Walk down 18th street in Pilsen. You will only know tourist-Chicago if you don't leave the loop (and I say this as somebody who lived in the loop for 6 years).

[@Rustyjamesman]

right next to american gothic is nighthawks too!

[@climbfl410]

Stroll around on Magnificent Mile, enjoy the New Years Fireworks from Navy Pier, watch a Chicago Bulls Game at United Center, visit Oak Park, take the elevator up to the observation Deck of Hancock Tower, say hi to the animals of Lincoln Park Zoo or take a Look to President Obamas old house 🇺🇸 near Washington Park. You can find a shit 💩 fountain in Chicago as well 😏 - the Windy City offers a lot 😃 Thanks for your videos! Lukas from Dortmund, Germany 🇩🇪

[@ashantitraylor7240]

A poo fountain? 😂😂

[@ashantitraylor7240]

Hancock Tower is different from Sears Tower?

[@climbfl410]

@@ashantitraylor7240 Yep. The shit fountain 💩 is located at 1001 N Wolcott Ave. Chicago, IL - Willis Tower (former Sears Tower) and John Hancock Tower are different skyscraper. Both have an observation deck 🌆 Have a nice sunday!

[@timmmahhhh]

@@climbfl410 I never knew of that one thanks for sharing. I looked it up on Google Maps and it's a real thing, wow.

[@climbfl410]

@@timmmahhhh You’re welcome! The fountain isn‘t a big one but definitely something different 😝

[@MercenaryTX]

I was going to Navy Pier before they called it that.

[@woltersworld]

That's a few moons ago my friend

[@billfuhry2112]

Great video! Do grab a hot dog because they're easy to do right and hard to screw up. Italian beef on the other hand... Grab a drink at Miller's Pub. Or the Berghoff, opened by German immigrants over 100 years ago and the first post-prohibition liquor license in Chicago. Get a drink at the Green Door, built right after the Chicago Fire; a beef at Mr. Beef, which people might recognize from its fictional twin on The Bear; or cross the street for old school Italian at Club Lago, which is as Chicago as it gets. That's all before you leave the center of the city to see the neigborhoods!

[@enriquealonso6351]

I really like going to Chinatown, Ukrainian Village and Mexican Village.

[@VeggiesbyEos]

My mom has a lifetime membership to the art institute so I can go for free whenever I visit her in Chicago :) I also have a tattoo of one of the lion statues that stands Infront of the art institute

[@gerryz1839]

Don't forget the pizza and the Billygoat! (Cheeseburger, cheezeburger, cheeseburger).

[@MrPickledede]

Don't go to Chicago without Wolter's World Merch!

[@minimansonstar]

You came to Chicago, and you didn't visit me? I'm a Gothic ENTERTAINER! I also could have gotten you into all the museums... for FREE. 😋

[@ashantitraylor7240]

Hi Walter! I love your videos. Do I need rental car or Uber for Chicago? Hotels are really $400/$500 a night?

[@climbfl410]

No, you don‘t. Public transport (CTA) is good there. Sometimes an Uber is a good option. It depends on the area and time. Enjoy Chicago!

[@TheAndysim66]

No car needed. Bus, train, bike, and Uber/Taxi

[@TheAndysim66]

You can get hotels for $250/night

[@ashantitraylor7240]

@@TheAndysim66 Hi, are these prices for the downtown area?

[@sahilanant123]

Looks like a much cleaner city than I thought.Hmm. Is it?

[@billfuhry2112]

It is. I grew up in Chicago, but lived a few years in New Jersey. When you visit New York, around 5 PM, there is trash everywhere in a way there is not in Chicago. Why? Alleys. Chicago keeps the trash in alleys behind the buildings.

[@sahilanant123]

@@billfuhry2112 yeah nyc seems dirty from what iv seen. Cant judge since Iv never been to the US. Lived in Netherlands which was really nice and clean most places. Same with UAE. London right now which has its issues with cleanliness. 😅

[@cito4633]

Proper Chicago hot dogs are not cooked on a roller…

[@Jonny_O]

Notice how Mark did NOT say a word about Navy Pier? Follow that advice- it's little more than a tourist trap.

[@billfuhry2112]

Yes, but... as a born and raised Chicagoan relocated to the burbs, on a nice day, Navy Pier is a beautiful spot to grab a couple of beers and people watch by the lake. It is a huge tourist trap, but it's also a beautiful, historic outdoor space.

[@MajorHavoc214]

Although I don't like Chicago very much, I have to admit that I have more than a dozen family members in Chicago. And yes, the second best hot dogs in the United States. New York City has the best hot dogs available in the country.

[@grizwoldphantasia5005]

Aren't those two lions mane-less because they are females? Or did they really lose their hair while getting stuffed for display? ETA Wrongo! Indeed, two males, and Wikipedia says the skins were in terrible shape when the museum got them.

[@dzung1969]

Wouldn’t come here. Too many gangsters

[@chrisj.9882]

Chicago hot dogs are overrated. Portillos for an Italian beef - now that's the food you really should try when you go to Chicago.

[@slw0599]

No offence to the locals of Chicago, but that hot dog looks horrible..and what's wrong with ketchup on a hotdog?

[@bareit98]

Ew. Cubs game? Nah, you mean a White Sox game. You should definitely see a White Sox game.

[@woltersworld]

No, not a white Sox game. Cubs game for sure.

[@VeggiesbyEos]

@@woltersworld I'm wearing a Cubs shirt right now and I currently live in texas 😂

[@athoscolon8629]

Word of advice don’t go to Chicago. If you prefer gambling in the state of Nevada Sin City, Las Vegas, Nevada for picky travelers I went on Norwegian cruise line and tell yourself to stop teaching me Chicago people are actually really friendly and there’s beautiful girls in Chicago.

[@user-gq6ps7sb3r]

#1-#5: Just get out alive.

[@AndrewB221]

My favorite was UNO’s

[@minimansonstar]

Also Gino's East and Lou Malnotti's. 🎉