Where can I buy flowers in Chicago?
Where is the best place to buy fresh flowers?
How can I send flowers to Chicago?
Going direct to the local florists in Chicago means bigger, more beautiful bouquets and floral arrangements and excellent service from the local florists. Fresh flowers delivered by our local Chicago florists. Order flowers by 2pm local time and get your flowers delivered same day by the florists you choose.
Flower Delivery Chicago - Send flowers by 2 florists with 27 reviewswww.direct2florist.com › illinois › flowers-delivery-chicago
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What are the best flower delivery websites?
15 best online flower delivery services for 2021
Best flower delivery service: Haute.
Best flower delivery service for letterbox flowers: Marks & Spencer.
Best flower delivery service for personal touch: Interflora.
Best flower delivery service for ease of ordering: Bloom & Wild.
Best flower delivery service for presentation: Flowerbx.
More items...•Jan 18, 2021
15 best online flower delivery services for 2021, tried and testedwww.goodhousekeeping.com › house-garden › best-flow...
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What do white roses mean?
White has always been a symbol of purity, innocence and in some cases, chastity, and for roses, it is no exception. For that reason, white roses are often given at weddings and other ceremonial occasions like christenings and graduations. However, white roses can also be given as a sign of respect or remembrance.Jan 31, 2018
Rose Color Meanings - FTD.comwww.ftd.com › blog › give › rose-color-meanings
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Where can I buy real flowers?
Are Costco flowers a good deal?
How much are roses at Costco?
How do you make fresh flowers last longer?
Bleach. Freshly cut flowers will last longer if you add 1/4 teaspoon bleach per quart (1 liter) of vase water. Another popular recipe calls for 3 drops bleach and 1 teaspoon sugar in 1 quart (1 liter) water. This will also keep the water from getting cloudy and inhibit the growth of bacteria.Feb 13, 2019
How to Make Flowers Last Longer: 8 Pro Tricks - Reader's Digestwww.rd.com › list › how-to-make-flowers-last-longer
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Can you buy flowers at Target?
Are From You Flowers legit?
Does Walmart sell flowers?
Who has the cheapest flower delivery?
Can I send flowers through Amazon?
Do Tesco still deliver flowers?
What does 15 white roses mean?
Do white roses mean death?
As one of the most recognizable flowers, roses can be a beautiful part of an arrangement of funeral flowers. White roses evoke reverence, humility, innocence, and youthfulness. Red roses convey respect, love, and courage. Pink roses signify love, grace, appreciation and gentility.
Symbolic Meaning of Funeral Flowers - Marine Floristswww.marineflorists.com › sympathy › funeral-flowers-me...
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What does 12 white roses mean?
seriousness
A Dozen White Roses Meaning
A dozen is 12. 12 roses placed together in the one bouquet means seriousness. ... so, when a dozen of roses is in white, it is a representation of more than just a commitment. It is commitment because the love is pure and sincere. Well, it is definitely so sweet.
What is Dozen White Roses Meaning? | All Rose Color Meaningsallrosemeaning.com › what-is-dozen-white-roses-meaning
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What are the cheapest flowers to buy in bulk?
Does Sam's Club have flowers in store?
How long do fresh flowers last?
7-12 days
Most cut flowers can last anywhere from 7-12 days if properly cared for, but there are easy ways and simple tricks to make your bouquets last longer with common household items.Jun 23, 2020
How to keep fresh flowers alive and healthy longer after they've ...www.businessinsider.com › how-to-keep-flowers-alive-an...
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What fresh cut flowers last the longest?
13 Long Lasting Cut Flowers
Calla Lilies 'Ruby Sensation' and 'Natural Bouquet' ...
Gladiolus as Cut Flowers. ...
Chrysanthemums. ...
Freesia 'Pink' ...
Alstroemeria. ...
Carnations. ...
Dahlias. Dahlias are exceptionally longest-lasting cut flowers. ...
Cherry Zinnias. Zinnias are a classic choice for cutting.
More items...
Long Lasting Cut Flowers | HGTVwww.hgtv.com › outdoors › flowers-and-plants › 13-long...
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What is a reasonable budget for wedding flowers?
Estimate Your Wedding Flower Costs
Common Floral Items for Weddings Low-Priced High-Priced
Bridal Bouquet $65 $255
Bridesmaids' Bouquets (each) $30 $100
Flower Girl (each) $15 $75
Groom's Boutonniere $5 $12
3 more rows•Sep 15, 2020
Average Cost of Wedding Flowers - ValuePenguinwww.valuepenguin.com › average-cost-of-wedding-flowers
Search for: What is a reasonable budget for wedding flowers?
When should you buy flowers?
When To Buy Her Flowers: The Happy Times Principle
To Say “I'm Sorry”. Guys, we all know this works, but it works best when following the Happy Times Principle. ...
Just Because. This is the most important part of the Happy Times Principle. ...
Third Date. ...
Birthday. ...
Anniversary. ...
The Next Morning. ...
Valentine's Day.
Feb 14, 2018
What Every Man Should Know About Giving Flowerswww.primermagazine.com › learn › what-every-man-sho...
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What do florists spray on flowers?
Believe it or not, hairspray will stop flowers from fading too soon. Give the petals a very light spritz and they'll maintain their bold hues longer. Fruit, as well as other plants, can emit a gas known as ethylene that will cause your beautiful bouquet to wilt prematurely. 8. ...Feb 12, 2014
10 Things A Florist Won't Tell You | HuffPost Lifewww.huffpost.com › entry › things-a-florist-wont-tell-yo...
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Why is bleach good for flowers?
Bleach: Add ¼ teaspoon of bleach to your vase of fresh flowers and they should stay fresh longer, at least that's what they say. Bleach will keep your water from getting cloudy as well as help fight bacteria. ... In fact, it may have caused the flowers to open too quickly resulting in a few wilting flowers by day 7.Apr 28, 2020
How to Make Flowers Last Longer: 9 Tricks | ProFlowerswww.proflowers.com › blog › how-to-make-flowers-last-l...
Search for: Why is bleach good for flowers?
How often should you change flower water?
Change the water entirely every 2-3 days. Flowers drink a lot of water! It is not uncommon for a large flower arrangement to suck up all the water in a vase within the first day or two you have it at home. Keep the vase full to ensure the flowers do not dry out and wilt.
Flower Care Tips - Love 'n Fresh Flowerslovenfreshflowers.com › flower-farm › flower-care-tips
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Why is flower delivery so expensive?
There are several reasons: flowers are delicate, high maintenance, perishable, difficult to grow, often imported and can cross continents as they make their way from field to florist. So as 12 May approaches – Mother's Day in nearly 100 countries – you may find yourself grumbling about how much a bouquet costs.May 8, 2019
What roses mean sexually?
What does 🌹 mean from a guy?
What does 3 roses mean?
Which flower symbolizes death?
What flower means goodbye?
What does the black rose mean?
Why do flowers die in a vase?
How do florists keep flowers fresh?
Fresh, clean water will keep your cut flowers alive longer. ... Rinse the vase with warm water to clean it out then fill it to two-thirds with fresh water. If you have a packet of “plant food” provided by many florists (see below) to help keep your arrangement alive longer, this is a perfect time to add it.Apr 9, 2018
6 Tricks Florists Use to Keep Cut Flowers Alive Longer – Green ...
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Best Things To Do in Chicago
Chicago has all the offerings you'd expect from a major city: world-class museums, vibrant shopping districts and ample nightlife venues, just to name a few. If you're here to learn, plan to spend a fair amount of time in Grant Park: This area is home to such notable institutions as the Art Institute of Chicago and The Field Museum. For a more Windy City-centric education, start your vacation with an architecture river cruise – which can provide background on Chicago's famous skyscrapers like the Willis Tower and Tribune Tower – before exploring the city's innovative roots at the Museum of Science and Industry. Just save time for some of the city's quintessential experiences like catching a game at Wrigley Field and window-shopping along The Magnificent Mile.
HOW WE RANK THINGS TO DO
Updated February 12, 2021
All Things To Do
Free
1-Day Itinerary
2-Day Itinerary
3-Day Itinerary
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Grant Park and Buckingham Fountain
FREE
#1 in Chicago0.4 miles to city center [SEE MAP]
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Free, Parks and Gardens, Recreation
TYPE
Half Day to Full Day
TIME TO SPEND
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Often referred to as "Chicago's front yard," Grant Park is a 319-acre swath of green space that starts at the eastern edge of the Loop and stretches down to the northern fringes of the Near South Side. First-time visitors should plan on spending a fair amount of time in Grant Park: This is where you'll find several of Chicago's most popular things to do, including The Field Museum, the Art Institute of Chicago and Shedd Aquarium. (Millennium Park also rubs elbows with the northwest corner of Grant Park.) Baseball diamonds, flower gardens, walking paths and wide-open grassy terrain are available as well.
At the heart of Grant Park is Buckingham Fountain. One of the largest fountains in the world, this tiered water feature boasts 133 jets that shoot water as high as 150 feet into the air during 20-minute choreographed displays (which take place every hour on the hour between 9 a.m. and 10:35 p.m. from April to October). At night, the fountain's performance is accompanied by lights and music.
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Millennium Park
FREE
#2 in Chicago0.1 miles to city center [SEE MAP]
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Free, Parks and Gardens, Sightseeing
TYPE
1 to 2 hours
TIME TO SPEND
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A first-time visit to Chicago isn't complete without a stop at Millennium Park. Situated in the Loop just north of the Art Institute of Chicago, this 24.5-acre space is used to showcase cutting-edge art, architecture and landscaping; it also acts as a backdrop for concerts and festivals. Most visitors come to Millennium Park to see the Crown Fountain and Cloud Gate, better known as "The Bean." Designed by Spanish artist Jaume Plensa, the Crown Fountain features two 50-foot towers that face each other at opposite ends of a shallow reflecting pool. The towers' LED screens project the faces of 1,000 different Chicago residents, which are perfectly aligned with spouts so that it appears they are spitting water on passersby. Cloud Gate – created by British artist Anish Kapoor – is a 110-ton bean-shaped sculpture forged from stainless steel. The Bean's elliptical shape reflects the Chicago skyline.
There are plenty of other reasons to visit Millennium Park: You can see a concert at the Frank Gehry-designed Jay Pritzker Pavilion, stroll through the Lurie Garden or the Boeing Galleries (where contemporary sculpture is displayed outdoors), or sign up for a Segway tour at the McDonald's Cycle Center.
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Lincoln Park Zoo
FREE
#3 in Chicago2.8 miles to city center [SEE MAP]
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Zoos and Aquariums, Free
TYPE
2 hours to Half Day
TIME TO SPEND
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Located 2 miles north of the Loop in the North Side neighborhood of Lincoln Park, the Lincoln Park Zoo is home to dozens of species, such as zebras, sloths and hippos. Visitors can view the zoo's furry (or scaly) friends in their natural habitats: Check out the gorillas in the sprawling Regenstein Center for African Apes, or head to the Kovler Seal Pool to get up close and personal with harbor seals.
Travelers appreciated all of the large mammal species found here, as well as the zoo's lack of an entrance fee. If you have kids in tow, head to the Farm-in-the-Zoo exhibit, where little ones can meet barnyard favorites like cows, pigs and goats. Also, plan on using public transportation or a taxi to get to the zoo since there's limited availability in the zoo's parking lot and parking fees start at $20 per vehicle (or $25 per vehicle on weekends) for 31 minutes to 2 hours of parking.
Cruises, Sailing & Water Tours
90-min Chicago River Architecture Tour
90-min Chicago River Architecture Tour
(194 reviews)
from $39.00
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Chicago Architecture River Cruise
Chicago Architecture River Cruise
(3008 reviews)
from $38.85
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Chicago City Minibus Tour with Optional Architecture River Cruise
Chicago City Minibus Tour with Optional Architecture River Cruise
(129 reviews)
from $39.95
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The Magnificent Mile
FREE
#4 in Chicago0.7 miles to city center [SEE MAP]
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Free, Cafes, Neighborhood/Area, Shopping
TYPE
2 hours to Half Day
TIME TO SPEND
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If you can feel your credit card burning a hole through your wallet, make your way to The Magnificent Mile. This portion of Michigan Avenue – which stretches between Lake Shore Drive and the Chicago River – beckons to shopaholics with department stores and luxury retailers like Saks Fifth Avenue, Neiman Marcus, Macy's and Lord & Taylor. Additionally, The Magnificent Mile is home to several top-notch eateries and luxury hotels, including The Drake, a Hilton Hotel the Four Seasons Hotel Chicago and the InterContinental Chicago Magnificent Mile.
Architecture buffs will also appreciate a stroll down this street thanks to its eclectic collection of buildings. While you're walking around, turn your eyes upward for views of the Historic Water Tower, which survived the Great Chicago Fire of 1871 and is the longest standing structure on Michigan Avenue. Other structural highlights include the Wrigley Building (once the headquarters of chewing gum magnate William Wrigley Jr.) and Tribune Tower (home to the Chicago Tribune daily newspaper).
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Museum of Science and Industry
#5 in Chicago6.6 miles to city center [SEE MAP]
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Museums
TYPE
2 hours to Half Day
TIME TO SPEND
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Chicago's extensive Museum of Science and Industry pays tribute to the city's innovative roots, showcasing more than 35,000 artifacts and a variety of hands-on exhibits meant to inspire creativity. The museum resides in the 14-acre former Palace of Fine Arts, which hosted the famous World's Columbian Exposition in 1893. The fair brought together some of the world's greatest scientific minds, including Thomas Edison and Nikola Tesla, who at the time were competing to prove which type of electricity – direct current or alternating current – was more effective.
You can learn more about the "war of the currents" and a variety of other topics inside the museum. Displays here cater to all types of curious minds: Enjoy a tour of the only U-505 German submarine captured during World War II; explore distant stars and planets at the Henry Crown Space Center; and see baby chicks up close at the Baby Chicks Hatchery. The Museum of Science and Industry also features an Omnimax Theater and hosts a variety of live demonstrations.
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Navy Pier
FREE
#6 in Chicago1.1 miles to city center [SEE MAP]
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Amusement Parks, Free, Sightseeing
TYPE
2 hours to Half Day
TIME TO SPEND
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Extending out onto Lake Michigan, Navy Pier offers plenty in the way of family-friendly entertainment. The first thing you'll spot once you set foot on the pier is the towering Ferris wheel (which stands 196 feet tall); you'll also find a swing-seat ride and a carousel. Once the kids have had their fill of thrill rides, you can spend some time practicing your putt at the 18-hole miniature golf course or spend a few hours exploring the Chicago Children's Museum, with hands-on exhibits ranging from treehouses to firetrucks.
But you don't have to be a kid to enjoy a visit to Navy Pier. Grown-ups can catch a show at the Chicago Shakespeare Theater, flex some credit card muscle at a variety of shops or grab a drink at the Miller Lite Beer Garden. And be sure to check Navy Pier's website for a list of events: Concerts are often held here, and during the summer (and New Year's Eve), impressive fireworks displays are the norm. In fact, many of the city's top Segway tours offer special summer evening tours to the pier to catch the semiweekly fireworks show.
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Art Institute of Chicago
#7 in Chicago0.1 miles to city center [SEE MAP]
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Museums
TYPE
2 hours to Half Day
TIME TO SPEND
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Home to one of the country's most impressive collections of impressionist and post-impressionist art (plus works from numerous other genres), the expansive Art Institute of Chicago features more than 300,000 works from all over the world in its permanent collection. You'll find pieces created in the Byzantine era, as well as paintings done just a few decades ago. The Art Institute's exhibits also include all sorts of intriguing artifacts, from European armor to the Thorne Miniature Rooms, which showcase interior design and furnishings in Europe and America from the late 13th to early 20th centuries. In addition to the permanent collection, the Art Institute hosts traveling exhibitions covering a variety of subjects and showcasing a diverse array of artists and genres.
The Art Institute of Chicago earns high praise from recent visitors, thanks in part to its impressive collection. Art enthusiasts particularly commend the museum's impressionist collection, which features pieces from famous artists like van Gogh, Monet and Renoir.
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The Field Museum
#8 in Chicago1.1 miles to city center [SEE MAP]
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Museums
TYPE
2 hours to Half Day
TIME TO SPEND
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This extensive natural history museum occupies half an acre of Grant Park's Museum Campus and houses extensive exhibits that showcase artifacts from multiple eras and destinations, making it a must-see for kids (as well as any fans of the "Indiana Jones" movies). Some of the most popular parts of the museum include the Inside Ancient Egypt exhibit, which features a reconstruction of a three-story Egyptian tomb and interactive representations of life on the Nile, and the Restoring Earth area in the Abbott Hall of Conservation, where visitors can learn more about sustainability through hands-on activities. But no visit to The Field Museum would be complete without some quality time with SUE, the facility's T. rex who just happens to be the largest, most complete T. rex ever discovered. Sue is 42 feet long from nose to tail and boasts 58 terrifying teeth.
Travelers say there's plenty to see in this museum, so allot at least a few hours here. Also, consider purchasing a Chicago CityPASS or a Go Chicago Card, which include admissions to the museum. The Chicago CityPASS also covers access to a 3-D film.
Sightseeing Tickets & Passes
360 CHICAGO Observation Deck Admission (Hancock Center)
360 CHICAGO Observation Deck Admission (Hancock Center)
(121 reviews)
from $25.00
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Chicago CityPASS
Chicago CityPASS
(272 reviews)
from $109.00
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Go Chicago Explorer Pass with SkyDeck and 360 Chicago
Go Chicago Explorer Pass with SkyDeck and 360 Chicago
(172 reviews)
from $66.00
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360 CHICAGO Observation Deck
#9 in Chicago1.2 miles to city center [SEE MAP]
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Sightseeing
TYPE
1 to 2 hours
TIME TO SPEND
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One of Chicago's most notable attractions is its skyline, and one of the best places to experience it is at the 360 CHICAGO Observation Deck. Formerly known as the John Hancock Observatory, 360 CHICAGO towers 1,000 feet over The Magnificent Mile from its location on the 94th floor of the John Hancock Center. Encased by floor-to-ceiling windows, 360 CHICAGO boasts expansive views of the city; on a clear day, you can see for 55 miles in any direction. Meanwhile, the interactive screens will help you identify different landmarks that appear in your panorama.
For a different point of view (and an adrenaline rush), test out 360 CHICAGO's TILT. In this mechanized room, visitors hold on to handlebars as the top of the room's windows extend outward, tilting you toward bustling North Michigan Avenue down below. Should you prefer to experience the view without feeling your heart skip a beat, grab a cup of coffee, a glass of wine or a snack at the cafe and bar or look for souvenirs in the gift shop.
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The Chicago Riverwalk
FREE
#10 in Chicago0.6 miles to city center [SEE MAP]
Free, Parks and Gardens
TYPE
Less than 1 hour
TIME TO SPEND
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When the weather warms up in Chicago, there are few better places to enjoy the outdoors than the Chicago Riverwalk. The 1.25-mile pedestrian walkway on the south bank of the Chicago River is the perfect place to take a walk and observe the city skyline. Plus, there are numerous activity options to enjoy directly on the water, such as a boat tour or kayaking. If you prefer dry land, explore the public gardens and art displays or grab a meal at a popular restaurant or bar overlooking the Chicago River. And if you want to learn more about the river's unique history, check out the McCormick Bridgehouse & Chicago River Museum, which celebrates the city's famous movable bridges. Boat tours, many of which sail the Chicago River, are another way to learn about the city's waterways.
Recent guests said walking the Riverwalk is a nice way to view the city, but they did not recommend visiting during the frigid winter. The urban park is free to access, and it is open daily from 6 a.m. until 11 p.m. If you can, visit during St. Patrick's Day weekend, when the entire river is dyed green. Just keep in mind that there are a few ongoing construction projects causing the closure of some parts of the Riverwalk (you can check this website for updates on construction). The public walkway is located downtown, following the south bank of the river from North State Street and stretching east to North Lake Shore Drive; it features several access points. There are a few parking lots and L stations near the attraction.
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Chicago Architecture River Cruise
#11 in Chicago0.5 miles to city center [SEE MAP]
Tours, Sightseeing
TYPE
1 to 2 hours
TIME TO SPEND
READ MORE
A visit to 360 CHICAGO or Skydeck Chicago will give you a good overview of the city's layout. But if you want to learn more about Chicago's sky-high buildings, tag along on an architecture river cruise. During a river cruise, you'll gain great views and historical insight about well-known structures like The Wrigley Building, the Leo Burnett Building and the Fulton House.
Though several companies, including Wendella Sightseeing Co. and Chicago Line Cruises, offer architecture river cruises, most travelers recommend climbing aboard a Chicago's First Lady Cruises boat with a Chicago Architecture Foundation docent. You'll learn tons of information about the area's architecture, plus catch superb skyline photo ops.
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The Chicago Theatre
#12 in Chicago0.3 miles to city center [SEE MAP]
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Entertainment and Nightlife, Tours, Sightseeing
TYPE
1 to 2 hours
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Aside from Cloud Gate and Buckingham Fountain, The Chicago Theatre's red and yellow marquee is perhaps one of the city's most recognizable landmarks. Illuminating North State Street at the northern edge of the Loop, The Chicago Theatre first opened its doors in 1921 as an extravagant movie theater and performance venue. Throughout its history, the theater has hosted such big names as Duke Ellington, Diana Ross and Lewis Black in addition to screening blockbuster flicks. Though the theater fell into disarray in the '70s, new management and a full renovation in the '80s helped return the venue to its former glory. Today, the theater is still used for a variety of comedic, theatrical and musical performances.
According to past patrons, the theater's historic appearance enhances the overall experience of catching an event here. If you're unable to score tickets to an event, travelers recommend participating in a one-hour theater tour, which are offered daily at noon (excluding Thanksgiving, Christmas and select event days) and take you through the lobby, into the theater and backstage. And remember, cameras and video cameras, including those on cell phones, cannot be used during tours or performances.
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Maggie Daley Park
FREE
#13 in Chicago0.3 miles to city center [SEE MAP]
Free, Parks and Gardens, Recreation
TYPE
1 to 2 hours
TIME TO SPEND
READ MORE
Maggie Daley Park is an expansive property located just east of Millennium Park in downtown Chicago. The massive green space offers numerous activities for both kids and adults on-site, including a climbing wall, a mini-golf course, a playground, a public garden, an ice skating rink (during the winter) and a tennis facility. Whatever you choose to do, you'll get to enjoy fantastic views of the Chicago skyline. Recent guests loved that the park is free to access, and they noted that the attraction is excellent for family fun.
Though many attractions within the park are free, there are costs associated with the climbing wall, mini-golf course, skating rink and snack kiosk, and some things to do are only seasonal. The park is open 365 days a year from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m., but most people enjoy the green space more during the warmer weather. The park is within walking distance of many downtown attractions and hotels, and a few bus routes stop right next to the attraction. The nearest L station is Washington/Wabash. There are parking lots within walking distance of Maggie Daley Park as well, but they can be expensive and crowded. For more information, visit the park's website.
Tours & Sightseeing
90-min Chicago River Architecture Tour
90-min Chicago River Architecture Tour
(194 reviews)
from $39.00
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Chicago Crime and Mob Bus Tour
Chicago Crime and Mob Bus Tour
(436 reviews)
from $45.00
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Big Bus Chicago Hop-On Hop-Off Tour
Big Bus Chicago Hop-On Hop-Off Tour
(119 reviews)
from $26.10
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Shedd Aquarium
#14 in Chicago1.1 miles to city center [SEE MAP]
Find Tours & Tickets
Zoos and Aquariums
TYPE
2 hours to Half Day
TIME TO SPEND
READ MORE
Shedd Aquarium is one of the world's largest indoor aquariums, housing around 32,000 creatures. While you're here, you can feel stingrays float beneath your fingers, listen to sea lions bark and learn all about a variety of turtles. A visit to Shedd Aquarium will lead you through a cornucopia of habitats, where you'll find additional animals like penguins, piranhas, sharks and beluga whales. Or, for an additional fee, you can participate in specialty experiences like animal encounters, feeding experiences and behind-the-scenes tours.
Though many travelers said they enjoyed their time at the aquarium, a few bemoaned the additional fees incurred here for parking, special exhibits and hands-on experiences. Lines to get into the aquarium are also known to get long, so it's best to purchase upgraded tickets online (general admission tickets are not available online) or arrive early.
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Skydeck Chicago
#15 in Chicago0.6 miles to city center [SEE MAP]
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Sightseeing
TYPE
1 to 2 hours
TIME TO SPEND
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Nearly 2 million people make their way to Willis Tower's Skydeck Chicago each year, and it's easy to see why. Occupying the 103rd floor – that's nine floors higher than 360 CHICAGO – of the 110-story Willis Tower (the second-tallest building in North America after One World Trade Center), Skydeck Chicago boasts breathtaking views of the city. Visit on a sunny day and you may be able to see far beyond Chicago's borders to Indiana, Michigan, Wisconsin and other parts of Illinois.
The highlight for most visitors is the Ledge. Extending beyond the building's exterior, this platform is made entirely of glass – even the floor. Travelers also liked the video screens that show what it would be like to stand 103 floors above other Chicago attractions, including Wrigley Field and Millennium Park. However, long lines quickly form for Skydeck Chicago, so plan on arriving early or purchasing a Chicago CityPASS, which covers Fast Pass admission into the attraction. Or, visit on a Saturday or Sunday and buy an Early Bird ticket to get into the Skydeck before it opens to the public.
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Wrigley Field
#16 in Chicago4.9 miles to city center [SEE MAP]
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Sports, Tours
TYPE
2 hours to Half Day
TIME TO SPEND
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Any fan of "Saturday Night Live" knows that Chicagoans take their love of sports very seriously. So for a real taste of Chicago culture, head north of the Loop to Wrigley Field to see "da Cubs" play ball. History buffs will also appreciate this sports treasure, which was built in 1914 and holds the honor of being the second-oldest MLB ballpark in the country (after Fenway Park in Boston).
Those who have been to a game at Wrigley Field say that the experience is unforgettable – mostly because of the fans' enthusiasm (though the hot dogs also receive a thumbs-up). If you can't score game tickets, consider signing up for a guided tour of the ballpark. Basic tours cost $25 per person and last 75 to 90 minutes. Past travelers who have taken the tour described the experience as nostalgic, noting that they especially loved the stories the guides told about the teams and fans.
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The Second City
#17 in Chicago2.2 miles to city center [SEE MAP]
Entertainment and Nightlife
TYPE
1 to 2 hours
TIME TO SPEND
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If you've seen a sketch comedy show or hilarious movie in the last 30 years, it's likely that someone from The Second City appeared in it. The Second City is one of the world's most iconic improvisational comedy theaters, and it has helped launch the careers of numerous famous comedians, including Bill Murray, Tina Fey, Keegan-Michael Key, Steve Carell and Stephen Colbert. If you're in the mood for a laugh, check out a live show on any night of the week at any number of The Second City's seven locations across Chicago. If you want to watch the comedy brand's classic show on the mainstage, see The Best of The Second City performance, held Mondays at 8 p.m. and Saturdays and Sundays at 4 p.m. What's more, The Second City offers classes for developing comedians at their training center, and they offer rates for private dinners and events.
Recent reviewers said that everyone in their group could not stop laughing during the shows, which typically last one and a half to two hours. Tickets for the Best of The Second City show typically cost between $20 and $50 dollars, depending on availability, date and seat. To see all of The Second City's venues, classes, shows and ticket prices, visit the website. Keep in mind: Many shows are rated "R" by the venue, so be sure that everyone in your group is comfortable with some explicit content. The Second City's Chicago Mainstage is located in Old Town near Lincoln Park. If taking public transit, travelers can hop on the brown or purple line to Sedgwick or the red line to North/Clybourn, the nearest L train stations.
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North Avenue Beach
FREE
#18 in Chicago2.3 miles to city center [SEE MAP]
Beaches, Free
TYPE
2 hours to Half Day
TIME TO SPEND
READ MORE
Located in Lincoln Park directly on Lake Michigan, North Avenue Beach is one of the most popular swimming spots in Chicago. The sandy beach has volleyball courts, plenty of space for visitors to stretch out and multiple things to do near nearby, plus it offers spectacular views of the city skyline. Beachgoers can also find restaurants, sports rental companies, restrooms and more inside a 22,000-square-foot beach house adjacent to the shore. Recent guests said the beach is a nice spot that is perfect for relaxing, biking and running, but they warned that it can get busy on hot days.
The beach is free to access, and lifeguards are on duty from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. A number of bus routes can take you close to the beach, and the nearest L station is Sedgwick (brown and purple lines). Keep in mind that parking is expensive in this part of this city, and that the beach and water can get very cold during the winter.
Unique Experiences
Gangsters and Ghosts Tour in Chicago
Gangsters and Ghosts Tour in Chicago
(237 reviews)
from $27.00
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Underground Donut Tour: Chicago's First Donut Tour
Underground Donut Tour: Chicago's First Donut Tour
(25 reviews)
from $30.00
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Chicago Favorites Ultimate Food & Walking Tour
Chicago Favorites Ultimate Food & Walking Tour
(70 reviews)
from $62.99
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Goose Island Beer Company Tour
#19 in Chicago2.5 miles to city center [SEE MAP]
Tours, Wineries/Breweries
TYPE
1 to 2 hours
TIME TO SPEND
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The Goose Island Beer Company is a well-known brewery with nationwide distribution, and it is a leader in Chicago's booming beer culture. Its repertoire of brews includes lagers, porters, IPAs and saisons, and its two Chicago locations offer tours and tastings. At the main brewery on West Fulton Street, visitors can learn about the history and massive production process at Goose Island on an hourlong tour around the brewing facilities. Visitors will also get to try three fresh beers while listening to experienced guides, and they will receive a custom pint glass at the end of the tour. At the Goose Island Brewhouse on North Clybourn Avenue, guests can book a similar tour at a smaller brewpub facility. Recent patrons called their experience at Goose Island fun and informative, with most visitors complimenting the guides and recommending future travelers stop in for a tour and beer tasting.
The West Fulton Street location offers tours every hour from 2 to 6 p.m. on Thursdays, 2 to 7 p.m. on Fridays, noon to 7 p.m. on Saturdays and noon to 5 p.m. on Sundays. The accompanying tap room is open Wednesday through Sunday, and it features rarely distributed Goose Island beers as well as widely known best-sellers. Tours cost $12 and they can be booked on the Goose Island Beer Company website. The North Clybourn Avenue location is a brewpub that serves food and beer daily from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Travelers can take the L to the Ashland station (green and pink lines) to reach the Goose Island Beer Company's main brewery on West Fulton Street. The North/Clybourn station (red line) is the closest to the North Clybourn Avenue location.
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Chicago Crime Tours
1.1 miles to city center [SEE MAP]
Historic Homes/Mansions, Tours, Churches/Religious Sites, Sightseeing
TYPE
1 to 2 hours
TIME TO SPEND
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Until relatively recently, notorious mobsters like Al Capone and John Dillinger were the characters who may have come to mind when someone mentioned the Windy City. Chicago Crime Tours takes visitors on a bus tour highlighting these gangsters' lives. The route weaves across the city, highlighting memorable crime scenes and educating travelers on Chicago history from the 19th century to modern times. There is also a walking tour option that includes samples of the city's famous pizza.
Recent reviews of the tour frequently mention how comfortable the air-conditioned bus is, which makes this excursion a great way to see Chicago on a hot summer day. Visitors also rave about the tour guides' willingness to engage with the group, and their general knowledge of crime history. There are three tour types to choose from: the Chicago Crime Tour, the Night Crimes Tour and the Crime & Pizza Walk.
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The 606
FREE
5.4 miles to city center [SEE MAP]
Free, Parks and Gardens, Recreation
TYPE
1 to 2 hours
TIME TO SPEND
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Dividing Chicago's Logan Square and Humboldt Park neighborhoods, The 606 is a former industrial rail line that's been transformed into a nature trail and a public space. In addition to being an excellent place to enjoy the outdoors, the 2.7-mile-long park hosts an assortment of events and shows for visitors to experience.
Recent travelers loved that The 606 has a variety of access points, which means visitors can explore the trendy western Chicago neighborhoods that the park borders. Physically active reviewers also suggest travelers complete a run, walk or bike ride along the length of the trail. (Divvy, Chicago's bike-share program, has a station near the park.)
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Courtesy of US News