Your Travel Guide to the Chicago Area

Welcome to the Windy City! Chicago is an amazing destination with something for everyone. From its iconic deep-dish pizza to its fascinating history, there is no shortage of sights to see and activities to do. Instead of overwhelming you with a lengthy guide, we've compiled just a few of the very best things to see and do in Chicago. Prepare to experience this city in all its glory, whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler.

Walking Paths in Chicago

You’ll definitely have ample opportunity to get your steps in when you visit Chicago. The city of Chicago has created a stunning 1.25-mile-long pathway along the Chicago River that is open to the public day and night. The Riverwalk weaves through four districts and offers breathtaking views of the city. But there's more to this path than just scenery: You can also find delicious restaurants and unique shops along the way. It's no wonder that Chicago takes immense pride in this impressive creation.

Make sure to also explore the Magnificent Mile, located in the heart of downtown Chicago. This neighborhood boasts a fascinating assortment of sleek commercial buildings, quaint residences, and beloved cultural landmarks that are a must-see for any tourist. One can easily spend hours wandering through the eclectic streets, taking in the many sights and sounds.

Restaurants in Chicago

Chicago is a culinary paradise with an endless selection of restaurants. Uncover hidden gems, indulge in local favorites, and savor dishes from around the world. From the gooey goodness of deep-dish pizza to mouth-watering Chicago-style hot dogs, your taste buds are in for a treat. With so many options, you may need to plan a second (or third) trip just to scratch the surface of what Chicago has to offer.

Parks in Chicago

Grant Park, also known as “Chicago’s Front Yard” encompasses many famous spots in the city, including Millennium Park. Grant Park has over 300 acres of land that stretch through the city’s central business district. Be sure to spend some moments in front of the beautiful Clarence F. Buckingham Memorial Fountain, which sits at the center of Grant Park.  

Millennium Park is known for the legendary Chicago bean, actually known as Cloud Gate—among other attractions. Take a picture of yourself in front of this giant structure then maybe join a public art walking tour.

River Tours in Chicago

For sunny days, hit the water instead of walking around. Hop on a riverboat cruise and take in the city from a different perspective. Watch the architectural wonders that Chicago has to offer from the water and learn some history about the city, too, depending on which tour you attend. For a romantic vibe, try a sunset cruise. You could even find a boat cruise around Lake Michigan. 

Indoor Activities in Chicago

Chicago has a bunch of indoor activities for those looking to do something exciting regardless of weather conditions. Art lovers will enjoy the Art Institute of Chicago, which rotates exhibits frequently and has numerous staple collections. Step back in time and explore the vast natural history museums at the Field Museum, or spend a day engaging with over 400,000 square feet of hands-on exhibits at the Museum of Science and Industry. 

More Fun Things to Do in Chicago

If you're looking for a family-friendly outing, the Lincoln Park Zoo is a must-see stop. Since 1868, this world-renowned zoo has been delighting visitors with its wide variety of animals. It all began with two pairs of swans from the New York Central Park Zoo. Now, they have almost 200 different species. The Lincoln Park Zoo also has beautiful gardens and a conservation center, making it the perfect place to spend an afternoon learning and exploring.

A trip to Chicago wouldn’t be complete for baseball fans without touring the legendary Wrigley Field. Daily tours of this historic stadium are available rain or shine.

There isn’t a shortage of things to do in Chicago, whatever the season. You might not want to lounge by the urban beaches in the winter, but that’s a perfect summertime activity in Chicago. There are also holiday-specific, cultural, and seasonal events, such as Chicago festivals for history, food, art, and music.  

Relocating to the Greater Chicago Area

If your trip to the Chicago area is testing the water for a permanent relocation, block off some time in your itinerary to check out new homes in the greater Chicago area. Naperville, Illinois, a suburb of Chicago has new and stylish homes, such as those in Naper Commons. This community features townhomes and single-family houses, which come in ranch and two-story styles. The community is located in highly rated school districts, and for commuters who need easy access to the city, Naperville has Metra stations and sits alongside I-88. These gorgeous new homes have coveted open floor plans with thoughtfully designed living spaces. Discover stunning floor plans and check out Pulte's new home communities today!

For more design tips, local attraction guides, and homeowner lifestyle articles, check out the Pulte Homes blog for inspiration.