Best Train Station & Airport Layover Destinations in Chicago, Illinois, United States
1. Millennium Park
An iconic urban park with The Bean sculpture and the Frank Gehry-designed Jay Pritzker Pavilion.
- Artistic Attraction: Features unique public art installations
- Outdoor Activities: Offers green spaces for relaxation and picnics
- Event Venue: Hosts concerts, films, and other events throughout the year
2. The Art Institute of Chicago
One of the oldest and largest art museums in the United States with works from all time periods.
- Impressive Collection: Houses a vast collection of American, European, and Asian art
- Iconic Pieces: Includes famous works like American Gothic and Nighthawks
- Architectural Beauty: Showcases two distinct architectural styles: the original building designed by Daniel Burnham and the Modern Wing by Renzo Piano
3. Museum of Science and Industry
A large museum exploring science and technology through interactive exhibits.
- Interactive Exhibits: Offers hands-on experiences for visitors
- Historic Collections: Features a coal mine, a German submarine U-505, and a 40,000-year-old mummy
- Educational Programs: Hosts science demonstrations, workshops, and shows
4. Shedd Aquarium
A large indoor aquarium that houses a variety of marine life.
- Marine Life Diversity: Displays fish, reptiles, birds, and mammals from around the world
- Conservation Efforts: Supports wildlife conservation through research and breeding programs
- Interactive Experiences: Provides interactive exhibits like a sea otter learning pool and a beluga whale tank
5. Navy Pier
A large pier on Lake Michigan with shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues.
- Variety of Attractions: Offers a Ferris wheel, boat tours, and the Chicago Shakespeare Theater
- Lakefront Views: Provides stunning views of Lake Michigan and downtown Chicago
- Community Events: Hosts fireworks shows, festivals, and concerts throughout the year
6. The Field Museum
A natural history museum with exhibits on ancient civilizations, dinosaurs, and ecosystems.
- Natural History Focus: Dedicated to the study of Earth's history and natural world
- Exhibit Diversity: Covering topics like Ancient Egypt, Sue the T. rex, and wildlife habitats
- Sustainability Initiatives: Engages in conservation efforts through research and collaborations
7. Lincoln Park Zoo
A free zoo located within Lincoln Park featuring a variety of animals.
- No Entrance Fee: The only free ticketed attraction in Chicago
- Animal Diversity: Includes lions, elephants, giraffes, and penguins
- Conservation Efforts: Participates in breeding programs for endangered species
8. Magnificent Mile
A stretch of Michigan Avenue known for upscale shops, restaurants, and hotels.
- Shopping Variety: Home to major retailers, boutiques, and department stores
- Dining Options: Features a wide range of restaurants, from fast food to high-end dining
- Architectural Beauty: Showcases stunning architectural styles, including historic and modern buildings
9. 360 Chicago Observation Deck
An observation deck on the 94th floor of John Hancock Center offering panoramic views of Chicago.
- Panoramic Views: Provides breathtaking views of the city, Lake Michigan, and four states
- Tilt Experience: Allows visitors to lean out over the city on a glass balcony
- Exhibits: Includes interactive exhibits about Chicago's history and architecture
10. Willis Tower Skydeck
An observation deck located on the 103rd floor of Willis Tower, offering views of Chicago and beyond.
- Skyline Views: Provides a unique view of Chicago's iconic skyline
- The Ledge Experience: Allows visitors to step out onto glass boxes extending 4.3 feet from the building
- Historical Exhibits: Showcases exhibits about Willis Tower and Chicago's history
11. Chicago Cultural Center
A free public library, art gallery, and performance venue located in the former Chicago Public Library.
- Free Admission: Entrance is free for all visitors
- Art and Culture: Features rotating art exhibitions, Tiffany Glass Dome, and a variety of cultural programs
- Architectural Beauty: Showcases the stunning Beaux-Arts architecture
12. Grant Park
A large urban park that serves as a hub for music festivals and events like Lollapalooza.
- Event Venue: Hosts major concerts, parades, and festivals throughout the year
- Outdoor Activities: Offers green spaces for relaxation, picnics, and exercise
- Monumental Sculptures: Includes the Buckingham Fountain and the statues of Abraham Lincoln and Joan of Arc
13. Chicago Riverwalk
A pedestrian-only riverfront promenade featuring restaurants, boat tours, and kayak rentals.
- River Views: Offers stunning views of the Chicago River and skyline
- Dining Options: Features a variety of cafes, bars, and restaurants along the riverfront
- Boat Tours and Activities: Includes architectural boat tours, kayak rentals, and seasonal activities
14. Chicago Sports Museum
A museum dedicated to the history of Chicago sports featuring interactive exhibits.
- Interactive Exhibits: Offers hands-on experiences for visitors
- Local Sports History: Focuses on the history of Chicago sports teams, like the Cubs and Bulls
- Game Simulations: Allows visitors to simulate popular Chicago sports games
15. Millennium Park Plaza
A public plaza in Millennium Park featuring outdoor concerts, ice skating rink, and a reflective pool.
- Outdoor Concerts: Hosts free outdoor concert series during the summer
- Winter Activities: Transforms into an ice skating rink in the winter months
- Reflective Pool: Features a shallow, reflective pool that mirrors Chicago's famous skyline