Chicago walking tour & city guide

The Loop and Millennium Park

Millennium Park is the city's front yard, home to Cloud Gate, the giant mirrored sculpture everyone calls 'The Bean', and the Crown Fountain with its changing video faces. Next door, the Art Institute of Chicago is one of the finest art museums in the country.

The elevated 'L' trains rattle above the streets of the Loop, giving the district its name. Look up to admire landmark buildings, and visit the Willis Tower Skydeck, where glass boxes extend out from the 103rd floor.

The river and Magnificent Mile

The Chicago Riverwalk runs along the south bank of the river through downtown, with cafés, boat docks and views of the towers above. Architecture boat tours are considered one of the best things to do in the city.

North of the river, Michigan Avenue's 'Magnificent Mile' is lined with shops and landmarks such as the Wrigley Building, the gothic Tribune Tower and the Water Tower, which survived the Great Chicago Fire of 1871. Navy Pier extends into the lake with rides and views back at the skyline.

When to visit

Chicago has proper seasons. Summers are warm and full of festivals and beach days on the lakefront, while winters can be bitterly cold and windy. Late spring and early autumn are perfect for long walks along the lake.