Chicago Museums & Culture
Explore Chicago’s illustrious cultural institutions and fascinating museums from the perfect location. Chicago is home to some of the world’s best cultural attractions, including the Field Museum, Shedd Aquarium, Museum of Contemporary Art and The Art Institute of Chicago – to name just a few. Take a day (or several) to discover some of the history, science and art that the Windy City has to offer.
Art Institute of Chicago
Housing 300,000 works, the Art Institute is Chicago’s most revered and well-known institution, famous for having one of the world’s largest impressionist collections. Pick up a map and make a plan or simply wander the incredible light-filled halls and galleries. With so much to see, you’ll want to return again and again.
Field Museum of Chicago
Learn all about natural history at this revered institution, founded for the 1893 World’s Fair. With more than 300,000 square feet and 30 permanent exhibitions, the Field Museum’s star attractions include Sue the T. Rex and Maximo the Titanosaur.
Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago
Visit the best place in the Midwest to see the latest up-and-comers, avant-garde exhibitions and permanent collections by Koons, Picasso, Calder and many more. Be sure to check out the events calendar for outstanding programming and upcoming exhibitions.
Shedd Aquarium Chicago
Look nature in the eye at Shedd Aquarium, which takes a fun and holistic approach to ocean life and conservation that goes beyond expectations. Try outdoor yoga or enjoy a Chicago River kayaking trip. Aquarium favorites include the shark-filled wild reef exhibit, rescued sea otters of the Oceanarium, belugas and dolphins.
Chicago Parks Guide
Chicago Shopping Guide
Chicago Theater Guide
Fairmont Chicago
Experience the neighborhood charm and welcoming spirit of Chicago at this quintessential Windy City tap house.
Walking Distance: 1 minuteFounded in 1893 for the World’s Fair. Explore over 300,000 square feet of exhibition space.
Walking Distance: 32 minutesThe third largest department store in the world, this spectacular building is on the National Historic Register and features a Tiffany ceiling.
Walking Distance: 9 minutesA top spot for sunbathing, swimming and volleyball, right downtown.
Walking Distance: 29 minutesAn iconic Chicago beach that is great for cycling, city views, and water sports.
Walking Distance: 49 minutesOur partner sports facility features 120,000 square feet for weights, swimming, indoor climbing, basketball and more.
Walking Distance: 12 minutesChicago’s largest and oldest non-profit theater, featuring some of the city’s best-known actors.
Walking Distance: 12 minutesAn icon from 1921, this glamorous theater in the Loop hosts all the greats when they come to Chicago.
Walking Distance: 10 minutesA boundary-pushing ballet company synonymous with uncompromising excellence in traditional and modern dance.
Walking Distance: 10 minutesFamed for over 75 years, this opera house features one of the world’s best opera companies.
Walking Distance: 23 minutesChicago’s world-famous shopping district, featuring a dazzling array of upscale shops, stunning architecture and top dining and attractions.
Walking Distance: 17 minutesGet designer deals for less at this chic outlet center near O’Hare International Airport.
The third largest department store in the world, this spectacular building is on the National Historic Register and features a Tiffany ceiling.
Walking Distance: 9 minutesNordstrom is the anchor store at this four-level shopping area featuring 50 brands and 20 restaurants.
Walking Distance: 13 minutesAn anchor on the Magnificent Mile, shop over 100 stores and explore the Chicago Sports Museum and diverse dining options.
Walking Distance: 21 minutesKnown as “Chicago’s Front Yard,” this massive park includes several smaller parks and provides superb views of Chicago’s skyline and plenty of public art.
Walking Distance: 19 minutesFeaturing winter ice-skating and summer roller skating, this 20-acre park is perfect for family fun and travel selfies.
Walking Distance: 4 minutesThis combination urban park and public art gallery covers 25 acres and includes the famous Bean sculpture and Lurie Garden.
Walking Distance: 7 minutesStroll the floating boardwalk and take in stunning skyline views from this tranquil urban garden.
Walking Distance: 7 minutesThere’s always something happening at Navy Pier, one of Chicago’s top attractions for events and dining.
Walking Distance: 23 minutesDiscover the many wonders of this legendary aquarium, including sharks, dolphins and sea otters.
Walking Distance: 31 minutesWith one of the country’s biggest contemporary art collections, MCA Chicago “champions the new and unexpected.”
Walking Distance: 20 minutesChicago’s most revered and well-known art institution, famous for its 300,000 works.
Walking Distance: 9 minutes