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Must Visit Attractions in Chicago

, 14 Options Found

The Bahá' Temple in Wilmette is one of the seven originals around the world. The temple celebrates the Bahá' religion, which embraces a world that is fair, peaceful, and sustainable. This religion affirms both the uniqueness of God and the universality of humanity. Baha'is refer to the shrine as the "Mother Temple of the West". Like other conventional Bahá' temples, it has nine sides and rises to a height of 138 feet (42 meters). The temple, made of white Portland cement concrete, is the recipient of several honors for its exquisite architecture and design.

The origins of this huge downtown park date back to the 19th Century. Spread across 319 acres (129 hectares), Grant Park is nestled between Michigan Avenue and Lake Michigan. Inspired by French parks, it has geometric layouts that are entwined by bridges, huge lawns, trails, artworks, monuments, marinas, sports fields and many gardens. The iconic Buckingham Fountain, Millennium Park, Museum Campus and Petrillo Music Shell are some of its popular attractions. Grant Park is also home to major festivals and cultural events in the city.

Cloud Gate is an iconic Chicago sculpture located in Millennium Park. Designed by artist Anish Kapoor, its highly reflective surface appears to be seamless but is actually made up of 168 stainless steel plates that were welded together. Its legume-like shape has earned it the nickname "The Bean" among Chicago residents. It is interesting to note that a massive droplet of liquid mercury is the inspiration for this structure which tends to spark curiosity among visitors. The Bean is a must-see attraction while in downtown. Admire the unique structure and make sure you take a picture with this architectural marvel for social media.

Representing the spirit of American shopping, this well-known stretch of Michigan Avenue has something for everyone in hundreds of trendy stores, one-of-a-kind galleries, Chicago souvenir shops, mouth-watering bakeries, fine restaurants, and cafes selling anything and everything. A sight worth seeing during the holiday season, check out the decorations that make the mile look even more magnificent. Hardcore shoppers will want to start at the north end, a cluster of malls: Water Tower Place and the 900 North Michigan Shops. Store hours vary.

The best way to enjoy the sights around the Chicago River is on foot. Walk along the promenade, from the south shore to the Lakefront Bike Path along with several other walkers. Immerse yourself in the captivating sights and sounds while you indulge in the mesmerizing architecture and breathtaking river views. Should you get hungry or thirsty on the walk, you'll be delighted to discover a multitude of enticing shops along the route, offering an array of delectable snacks and beverages. The most common sight here is people munching on a hot dog or sipping a cup of beer while strolling along the promenade.

875 North Michigan Avenue, formerly the John Hancock Center, has been gracing Chicago's skyline since 1969. An architectural marvel, this 100-story structural expressionist building is among the world's tallest buildings. Its X-braced glass facade is crowned with a band of changing lights that can be seen from across the city at night. A trip to the 94th floor observatory reveals a breathtaking picture of Lake Michigan and the Chicago skyline. Talking telescopes provide information on the sights below, while an open-air skywalk promises a chance to experience why Chicago is called the Windy City from 1,000 feet (304 meters) up. Virtual tours of popular Chicago sights are available here. One of the city's major attractions, 875 North Michigan Avenue is truly iconic.

360 Chicago is what used to be John Hancock Observatory, atop the 94th floor of the skyscraper, John Hancock Center. A huge landmark in Chicago, the observation deck offers a glorious 360-degree panorama of the Windy City. 360 Chicago is also home to the city's only SkyWalk, and the amazing Tilt offers a unique view of the Magnificent Mile, titled at an angle of 30 degrees. There's an on-site cafe where you can retire for some snacks after the exhilarating experience, 1,000 feet (304.8 meters) up in the air. Open all week, from 9a onward, 360 Chicago makes for an unforgettable visit.

Formerly the Sears Tower, the Willis Tower stands proud at a towering 1450 feet (442.1 meters). The 108 storied landmark was a pinnacle of modern architecture when it was completed in 1973 and held the title of the Western Hemisphere's highest skyscraper till 2014. The top of the building's 1353-foot (412.4 meters) Skydeck on the 103rd floor features bird's eye views of Lake Michigan, both the North and South Sides of the city, the surrounding suburbs and on clear days, parts of Indiana, Wisconsin and Michigan. The Skydeck Tour also includes a multimedia presentation and an exhibit with information on the Willis Tower and other architecturally significant buildings.

Standing tall in the heart of the quaint town of Niles, Illinois, is the Leaning Tower of Niles. A replica of its namesake in Pisa, this striking monument is a National Landmark. Built to preserve the bucolic beauty of the sprawling parkland that it graces, the tower is believed to be half the size of the original structure. Apart from its inspiration, the Leaning Tower of Niles is also famous for its historic bells. Every day, during designated hours, these bells ring to the tune of classics such as Red River Valley. When touring the quaint town, it is almost mandatory for tourists to stop by and take a picture with the Leaning Tower of Niles.

Jutting out from the Willis Tower, 1,353 feet above the sprawling Chicagoland metropolis below, Skydeck Chicago offers visitors an unrivaled view of the entire expanse of America's Second City, Chicago. After an express elevator ride to the country's highest observation deck, visitors are free to explore 360º views of the city below. For an additional fee, guests can purchase a guided audio tour of some of the sights visible from the extendable viewing booths that protrude from the building's exterior.

Nestled on the coast of the sprawling Lake Michigan, Shedd Aquarium is home to more than 650 species of fish, reptiles, amphibians, invertebrates, birds, and mammals from across the globe. Explore Caribbean waters at the massive coral reef exhibit, experience 4-D thrills in a spectacular aquatic show, or watch whales and dolphins play during marine mammal shows. Relish snacks and coffee at Soundings Cafe, where you will find a panoramic view of Lake Michigan, or indulge in Chicago hot dogs at Bubble Net Food Court. Aquatic souvenirs are available in the gift shop. Â

From its versatile journey as a crucial dock for freights to becoming a training complex for the Navy during World War II and to finally being redeveloped as a massive one-stop entertainment destination on Chicago's Lake Michigan shoreline, the Navy Pier has served diverse functions over the centuries. This 3,300-foot-long (1,010 meters) pier named in honor of the Great War's naval veterans hosts a legion of recreational options that span museums, restaurants, retail, entertainment, and outdoor activities. A whirlwind attraction that juts out into the Great Lake, the pier's highlight is the iconic Ferris Wheel that spins against the Chicago skyline. Dinner cruise ships ply the waters around the pier, inviting visitors to step aboard a vibrant extravaganza. The pier is also home to the botanical Crystal Gardens, Chicago Children's Museum, and the Chicago Shakespeare Theater that showcases Shakespearean productions.

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