What to do in Chicago?
There’s no shortage of things to do in Chicago, whether it’s your first visit or your tenth. Start with the icons: stroll the Magnificent Mile, see the city reflected in Cloud Gate—better known as “The Bean”—at Millennium Park, spend an afternoon at the Art Institute of Chicago, or take in the skyline from one of Chicago’s observation decks. Walk along the Chicago Riverwalk, head out to Navy Pier, explore the lakefront, or see the city from the water on one of Chicago’s famous architecture cruises. Sports fans can catch a Cubs game at Wrigley Field, while theater, comedy, live music and some of the country’s best museums offer plenty to do year-round.
One of the advantages of staying at Magic Factory Lofts is that you don’t have to choose between downtown Chicago and a neighborhood stay. Our location near Lincoln Park and Old Town puts many of Chicago’s most popular attractions just minutes away, while giving you an easy starting point for exploring beyond the usual visitor itinerary. Head downtown for the museums and Millennium Park, north to Wrigleyville and the lakefront, west for Wicker Park and Fulton Market, or spend the day exploring the restaurants, shops, theaters and neighborhood streets right around us.
Top tours & attractions in Chicago
Visitor favorites, Popular with locals
Magnificent Mile
Shopping, architecture, and river access
Navy Pier
Lakefront views, family attractions, and seasonal events
Millennium Park
"The Bean” & Squirting Faces gardens, outdoor concerts, skating,
Chicago Riverwalk
Strolling, boat tours, patios, and skyline views
Lincoln Park Zoo
Everyone's favorite and always free - a classic Chicago stop (and a bonus if you're with kids)
River boat cruise
The architectural boat cruise is even a local favorite
The Art Institute of Chicago
One of the oldest and largest art museums in the world, featuring masterpieces like Grant Wood’s American Gothic and Georges Seurat’s A Sunday on La Grande Jatte
Skydeck Chicago at Willis Tower
Yes, we locals still call it Sears Tower, but whatever you call it the "Ledge" experience on the glass balcony 103 floors above the city is not for the faint of heart!
Some of our favorites - so easy to reach & hard to forget
Food & Drink Experiences
- Deep dish (yes… but we’ll point you to the best version 😉)
- Italian beef, classic hot dogs, and Chicago-style sandwiches
- Chef-driven dining in the West Loop
- Neighborhood cocktail bars and breweries
- Can’t decide?? Try one of our favorite foodie tours
Family-Friendly Ideas
- Shedd Aquarium & Field Museum (easy day combo)
- Lakefront paths, beaches (in season), and bike rentals
- Museum Campus + skyline photo stops
For more local ideas, browse our Chicago blog.
Want help matching your plans to the best home base? Start with our Properties, check Our Location, or go straight to Book Now.
Popular with Locals, Visitor Favorites
Of course, some of the best things to do in Chicago aren’t necessarily the things on a first-time visitor’s checklist. Chicago is a city of neighborhoods, and part of the fun is getting out and discovering them. Wander through Old Town and Lincoln Park, browse the independent shops and restaurants of Wicker Park and Bucktown, explore the galleries and dining scene in the West Loop and Fulton Market, or spend an evening listening to live music, seeing improv or comedy, catching a play, or finding a neighborhood restaurant you’ll still be talking about when you get home.
Old Town
Old Town offers a charming blend of historic cobblestone streets, Victorian-era architecture, vibrant dining options, and legendary comedy at The Second City, all just minutes from the lakefront.
River North
River North is a chic, bustling hub known for its massive concentration of art galleries, upscale dining, and trendsetting cocktail lounges, all set against striking architectural high-rises.
West Loop
West Loop is Chicago’s premier culinary destination, where historic industrial warehouses have transformed into the famed "Restaurant Row," packed with world-class eateries and trendy boutiques.
Wicker Park
Wicker Park is a trendy, creative hub famous for its indie boutiques, vintage record shops, vibrant street art, and an eclectic mix of artisan coffee houses and energetic music venues.
Lincoln Park
Lincoln Park is a picturesque neighborhood defined by its vast lakeside park, free historic zoo, and charming tree-lined streets filled with historic row houses, acclaimed theaters, and casual dining spots.
Northalsted
Northalsted, still know as "Boystown" to us locals, is a vibrant, historic neighborhood celebrated as the country's first officially recognized LGBTQ+ district. It features a lively mix of bustling nightlife, diverse dining, and independent shops.
Chinatown
Chinatown is a vibrant, historic enclave entered through an iconic dragon gate, featuring bustling outdoor plazas, traditional tea shops, specialty markets, and an incredible array of authentic regional Chinese dining options.
Pilsen
Pilsen is a vibrant neighborhood rooted in Mexican-American culture, renowned for its incredible street murals, authentic taquerias, independent cafes, and the brilliant National Museum of Mexican Art.