Chicago is the third largest city in the United States of America and is interestingly home to the only river in the world that flows backwards. The Windy City is famous for inventing the very first Ferris Wheel, gorgeous skyline, Chicago-style deep-dish pizza and much more.

From historically rich Art Institute of Chicago to the visually striking masterpiece Cloud Gate, here are 6 Must-Visit Attractions in Chicago that you must include in your itinerary.

#1 ART INSTITUTE OF CHICAGO

Established in 1879, Art Institute of Chicago boasts an impressive collection of more than 300,000 art pieces from all over the world. A trip to the encyclopedic art museum will easily take up an entire day and is a must-visit for all aspiring artists. From Post-Impressionist to modern artworks, visitors can immerse themselves in a fantasy-like realm of world-class art.

111 S Michigan Ave, Chicago
IL 60603, United States
Tel: +1 312-443-3600
Mon to Wed, Fri to Sun: 10.30am – 5pm,
Thu: 10.30am – 8pm
Nearest Station: Adams/Wabash

#2 CHICAGO CULTURAL CENTRE

Constructed more than a century ago, Chicago Cultural Centre is an important landmark and one of the city’s most visited attractions. The venue features film screenings, free exhibitions and dance performances from time to time, but its stunning dome itself is worth a special visit. In fact, Chicago Cultural Centre is home to the world’s largest Tiffany stained-glass dome.

78 E Washington St, Chicago
IL 60602, United States
Tel: +1 312-744-6630
Mon to Thu: 9am – 7pm
Fri and Sat: 9am – 6pm
Sun: 10am – 6pm
Nearest Station: Millennium

#3 CHICAGO RIVERWALK

Why pay an expensive amount to board a riverboat cruise when you can simply walk around Chicago Riverwalk at your own pace and enjoy the scenic view for absolutely free? During your leisure stroll, you will come across several prominent infrastructures such as Trump International Hotel & Tower Chicago, John Hancock Centre and the Tribune Tower.

If you happen to visit Chicago during St. Patrick’s Day, do know that the Chicago River would actually be dyed green! What a spectacular sight.

E Upper Wacker Dr, Chicago
IL 60601, United States
Tel: +1 312-742-7529
Daily: 24 hours
Nearest Station: Millennium

#4 CLOUD GATE

Created by British Artist Anish Kapoor, Cloud Gate—also known affectionately as The Bean—is an unmissable sculpture which reflects Chicago’s beautiful skyline. Weighing 110 tonnes and standing at 12 feet, the mirror-like elliptical stainless steel art allows visitors to view themselves from a variety of interesting perspectives.

201 E. Randolph St.
Between Michigan Ave & Columbus AveMillenium Park, Chicago
IL 60602, United States
Tel: +1 312-742-1168
Daily: 24 hours
Nearest Station: Millennium

#5 SKYDECK CHICAGO

Located on the 103rd floor of Willis Tower is Skydeck Chicago, where you can step outside the tallest skyscraper in America! The highlight would be the opportunity to stand atop a clear glass-bottomed balcony which is definitely not for the fainthearted. The observatory deck offers visitors an unrivalled breathtaking panoramic view which extends to four states.

233 S Wacker Dr, Chicago
IL 60606, United States
Tel: +1 312-875-9447
Daily: 10am to 8pm
Nearest Station: Quincy / Wells

#6 THE CHICAGO THEATRE

The Chicago Theatre is one of the world’s last remaining movie palaces and an iconic landmark of Chicago. In 1986, the grandeur of the theatre was restored to its glory of yesteryears, think majestic chandelier and elegant grand staircase in French Baroque style. Visitors can still catch Broadway shows and other performances at this lavish venue.

175 N State St, Chicago
IL 60601, United States
Tel: +1 312-462-6300
Nearest Station: Lake (Subway)