🏙️ 10 Things To Do In Chicago
✈️ The Smart Traveler's Toolkit
Whether you're heading to the beaches of Thailand or exploring cobblestone streets in Prague, these are the 5 travel essentials that seasoned globetrotters and travel editors universally recommend — the gear that makes every trip smoother, lighter, and more enjoyable.
🧳 Away The Carry-On Hard Shell Suitcase
The single most recommended carry-on in the travel world right now. Travel editors and frequent flyers rely on its durable polycarbonate shell, 360° spinner wheels, and built-in compression system to maximize packing space while gliding effortlessly through any airport terminal.
🎒 Osprey Daylite Plus Daypack
The go-to daypack that professional travel bloggers and adventure guides swear by for city explorations and shore excursions. Its lightweight, breathable mesh back panel keeps you cool in tropical heat, while the 20L capacity fits everything you need — camera, water bottle, sunscreen, and souvenirs — without weighing you down.
📦 Eagle Creek Pack-It Reveal Cube Set
The packing organization system that experts credit with fitting 30% more into any suitcase. These translucent, color-coded cubes separate tops, bottoms, and accessories so you spend zero time digging through your bag — universally recommended by professional packers and minimalist travel coaches worldwide.
🎧 Sony WH-1000XM5 Noise-Cancelling Headphones
The undisputed king of travel headphones that flight attendants and business travelers universally recommend. The industry-leading noise cancellation erases engine roar, crying babies, and airport chaos — giving you 30 hours of blissful silence for long-haul flights, road trips, and train journeys.
🔋 Anker PowerCore 26800 Portable Charger
The portable power bank that travel photographers and digital nomads rely on to keep devices charged through full-day excursions without hunting for outlets. With enough capacity to charge a phone 6+ times over, it's the non-negotiable lifeline for capturing every sunset, navigating unfamiliar cities, and staying connected abroad.
Okay, so you’re hitting up Chicago. Smart move. This city is seriously next-level, and no, it’s not just about the wind (though, prepare for that too). Forget the basic tourist traps you’ve already seen on Instagram. I’m here to spill the tea on the absolute must-dos that’ll make you feel like a local, or at least a really cool visitor. Get ready to explore, eat, and maybe even brave a little bit of that famous breeze. Let’s dive in.
1. Take an Architecture Boat Tour
Seriously, this isn’t just for history buffs. Gliding down the Chicago River while learning about the insane skyscrapers is an absolute game-changer. You get all the juicy details on why Chicago’s skyline is a masterpiece, plus some killer photo ops.
Pro tip: Book your tour for early evening. The golden hour light hitting those buildings is pure magic, and the city lights up as you finish. It’s an easy win for an unforgettable experience.
2. Devour Deep Dish Pizza
Yes, it’s touristy. No, we don’t care. It’s a rite of passage. Pick your poison – Lou Malnati’s, Giordano’s, or Pequod’s (my personal fave for that caramelized crust). Prepare for a cheese pull that defies gravity and a food coma that feels earned.
Don’t even think about calling it a casserole; it’s art. You probably won’t finish a whole slice, but you’ll definitely remember trying.
3. Snap a Selfie at The Bean
Millennium Park is home to Cloud Gate, affectionately known as “The Bean.” It’s iconic for a reason. You can’t come to Chicago and not see your distorted reflection in this giant, shiny legume. It’s surprisingly mesmerizing.
Walk around it, under it, and prepare for your Instagram to thank you. Plus, the park itself offers great views of the city skyline, perfect for a chill afternoon stroll.
4. Explore the Art Institute of Chicago
Even if you’re not an art snob, this place is incredible. Home to masterpieces like “American Gothic” and “A Sunday on La Grande Jatte”, it’s a treasure trove. You could spend days here, but even a few hours give you a serious culture fix.
Their modern wing is sleek, and the special exhibits are always top-notch. It’s a perfect escape on a chilly day, offering warmth and endless inspiration.
5. Catch a Show at Second City
Want to laugh until your abs hurt? Head to Second City. This legendary improv comedy theater launched the careers of pretty much every SNL star you love. The talent on stage is insane, and the shows are always fresh, hilarious, and often brilliantly satirical.
Grab a drink, settle in, and prepare for some seriously smart comedy. It’s an authentic Chicago experience that leaves you buzzing.
6. Wander Through Lincoln Park Zoo
Here’s a secret: it’s totally free. Yes, a world-class zoo, right in the middle of the city, and it costs you absolutely nothing. You can hang out with lions, gorillas, and polar bears without spending a dime. It’s a perfect budget-friendly activity.
The zoo is open year-round, and the surrounding Lincoln Park is beautiful for a walk, especially with skyline views over the lake. It’s a chill way to spend an afternoon.
7. Ride the Centennial Wheel at Navy Pier
Okay, Navy Pier can feel a bit touristy, but the Centennial Wheel offers some seriously stunning panoramic views of Lake Michigan and the city skyline. It’s a classic for a reason. You get a fully enclosed gondola, so no worrying about the wind.
Go at sunset for an extra dose of magic. It’s a straightforward way to see Chicago from a different perspective and snap some epic photos.
8. Stroll or Bike the Lakefront Trail
Chicago boasts one of the most beautiful lakefronts in the world. The Lakefront Trail stretches for miles, offering incredible views of Lake Michigan on one side and the city skyline on the other. Rent a Divvy bike or just take a leisurely walk.
It’s the best way to feel the city’s vibe and get some fresh air. You’ll pass beaches, parks, and museums. Trust me, it’s a breath of fresh air, literally.
9. Visit the Museum of Science and Industry
This place is massive and totally mind-blowing. You can walk through a captured German U-boat, experience a coal mine, and even see a real tornado in action (safely, of course). It’s incredibly interactive and fun for all ages.
Plan to spend several hours here; there’s so much to see and do. It’s a brilliant way to spend a day, especially if the weather isn’t cooperating.
10. Grab a Drink at a Speakeasy
Chicago has a killer cocktail scene, with plenty of hidden gems. Seek out a speakeasy for a unique evening. Places like The Violet Hour or Three Dots and a Dash (a tiki bar, but still hidden gem vibes) offer incredible drinks in a cool atmosphere.
Dress up a little, enjoy expertly crafted cocktails, and soak in the ambiance. It’s a perfect way to cap off a day of exploring and feel a little fancy.
🌍 The Adventure & Comfort Kit
From sun-soaked beaches to mountain treks and everything in between — these are the 5 comfort and photography essentials that experienced travelers never leave home without. Level up your adventure game with gear the pros actually use.
📸 GoPro HERO12 Black Action Camera
The action camera that professional travel photographers and adventure vloggers universally rely on to capture jaw-dropping footage in any environment. Its waterproof design, HyperSmooth stabilization, and stunning 5.3K video mean you'll capture crystal-clear memories whether you're snorkeling in Phuket or zip-lining through Costa Rica.
😴 Trtl Travel Pillow
The scientifically engineered neck pillow that frequent flyers and travel editors swear is the only one that actually works. Unlike bulky U-shaped pillows, this sleek scarf-style design holds your neck in an ergonomically correct position — the secret weapon for arriving at your destination rested instead of wrecked after an overnight flight.
☀️ Supergoop! Unseen Sunscreen SPF 40
The invisible, weightless sunscreen that beauty editors and dermatologists universally recommend for travelers who refuse to look greasy in vacation photos. This cult-favorite applies like a silky primer under makeup, never leaves white cast on any skin tone, and provides serious broad-spectrum protection for all-day adventures under any sun.
💧 Hydro Flask 32oz Wide Mouth Bottle
The insulated water bottle that outdoor adventurers and eco-conscious travelers refuse to travel without. It keeps water ice-cold for 24 hours even in scorching tropical heat, eliminates the need for single-use plastic bottles, and fits perfectly in any daypack side pocket — a hydration essential from beach days to mountain hikes.
🔌 EPICKA Universal Travel Adapter
The all-in-one power adapter that covers 150+ countries and eliminates the nightmare of hunting for the right plug in every new destination. International travelers and digital nomads rely on its built-in USB-C and USB-A ports to charge multiple devices simultaneously — phone, camera, and laptop from a single compact adapter.
Conclusion
There you have it, your ultimate Chicago hit list. This city seriously has it all, from deep-dish delights to skyline spectacles. You’ll leave with a camera full of memories and probably a new favorite pizza place. Go forth, explore, and let Chicago charm the pants off you. You’re welcome.
