From Willis Tower to Wrigley Field, Chicago can offer you a wealth of things to do and see, whether you’re here for business or just to enjoy a break away. The bustling city centre leads back from the waterfront, either side of the Chicago River. With so many attractions to pack into your trip, it can be hard to know where to begin.
Wind-free shopping
Contrary to the stereotype, Downtown Chicago doesn’t usually feel especially windy - but it is one of the globe’s great shopping centres. Just inland from the lake, you’ll find the Magnificent Mile - a glossy strip of world-class shops including big designer names along Michigan Avenue. Don’t miss the Niketown museum also on the Mile – it celebrates the home of the famous sports brand.
A short walk west is Marshall Fields, a wonderfully old-fashioned department store that has become a Chicago institution. Officially it has been taken over by Macy’s and bears that name, but locals still dress up and head to here for Sunday lunch in the Edwardian walnut panelled dining room. This 13-storey store even has its own visitor centre and museum.
Sky-high attractions
In Chicago, you’ll be able to some of the US’s tallest buildings, including the 110-storey Willis Tower (also known as Sears Tower), with a rocket-like lift trip to the Skydeck viewing room travelling at 1,600-feet-per-minute. The views across the city and lake are, of course, amazing.
For an eating experience like no-other, head for the grand 94th-floor restaurant of Hancock Tower and enjoy a meal overlooking the lights and amusements on Navy Pier. Offering panoramic views across the entire of Chicago, sit back and relax as the world moves underneath your feet, and you can learn all about the city below you in the Tower's interactive exhibits.
Lakeside Trail
Being on the banks of Lake Michigan gives Chicago a beautiful backdrop of clear blue waters, and offers visitor a whole host of activities and attractions to soak up along this 18-mile long stretch. Take to the Lakeside Trail and tick off all the places to see on your way, like the Lincoln Park Zoo, perfect for an afternoon out with the kids, and try your hand at a game of softball in Grant Park, regarded as "Chicago's front yard".
Call in at The Shedd too. This large lakeside block houses one of the world’s largest aquariums. It’s not just a collection of pretty tropical fish and seahorses, inside you can see whales and dolphins. The trail will lead you north all the way to Montrose Harbour, where you can enjoy the spectacular views across the water.
Whether you're flying in for a business meeting in the Windy City, or looking to explore the tranquillity of Illinois' great outdoors, hiring a car from Chicago O'Hare Airport is a straight-forward way to get from A to B.