Top Attractions for First Timers
The Magnificent Mile
No trip to Chicago is complete without a stroll down the Magnificent Mile. This famous stretch of Michigan Avenue offers premier shopping, dining, and architecture. From massive department stores like Macy’s to luxury boutiques, you’ll find every kind of retail therapy. Refuel with everything from deep dish pizza to gourmet fare before checking out landmarks like the Wrigley Building and Tribune Tower.
Millennium Park
Millennium Park is a can’t miss green space located right in the heart of downtown. Here you’ll find the iconic Cloud Gate sculpture aka “The Bean” as well as the Crown Fountain’s interactive video towers. In the summer, concerts and events pack the park. And the landscape architecture is as impressive as the public art installations.
Navy Pier
Jutting out into Lake Michigan, Navy Pier offers plenty of family fun. Ride the iconic Centennial Wheel for stunning city views, catch a show at the Chicago Children’s Museum or Chicago Shakespeare Theater, or grab some classic amusement park treats. You can even take a boat cruise from the pier to enjoy the Chicago skyline from the water.
Willis Tower Skydeck
For bird’s eye views of Chicago from over 1,000 feet up, head to the Skydeck at Willis Tower. This observatory offers unmatched panoramic vistas from its glass boxes that let you stand out from the 103rd floor. It’s a thrilling way to put the city’s grid system and massive skyline into perspective.
Art Institute of Chicago
One of the oldest and largest art museums in the U.S., the Art Institute of Chicago should be on every first timer’s itinerary. The collection houses iconic works like Edward Hopper’s “Nighthawks,” Grant Wood’s “American Gothic,” and Georges Seurat’s pointillism masterpiece “A Sunday Afternoon on the Island of La Grande Jatte.” Give yourself several hours to take it all in.
Wrigley Field
You don’t have to be a baseball fan to appreciate the history and charm of Wrigley Field. The second oldest ballpark in the majors, it’s filled with traditions like the manual scoreboard and throwing back opposing teams’ home run balls. If you can, catch a Cubs game to fully soak in the atmosphere. But you can also take a tour on non-game days.
How to Get Around Chicago
Public Transportation
Chicago has an extensive public transportation system that makes getting around efficient and affordable. The “L” elevated train system is particularly useful for visitors, with color coded and numbered lines that hit all the major attractions. You can also take buses and the Metra commuter rail. Just be sure to purchase a Ventra card ahead of time to pay your fare.
Taxis and Rideshares
Taxis and rideshares like Uber and Lyft operate throughout the city. These can be especially convenient options when traveling from the airport or if you’re not located near an L station. Rates vary, but expect to pay around $35 for a taxi from O’Hare to downtown.
Charter Buses
For ultimate convenience and comfort when sightseeing with a large group, consider a charter bus. You’ll have door-to-door service in a spacious vehicle complete with amenities like WiFi, TVs, and restrooms. No need to navigate public transportation or split up to take multiple taxis. Charter buses let everyone stick together and focus on fun instead of logistics. Contact our team at 331-212-8002 to start planning your Chicago charter bus rental today!
Ready to Get Started?
We hope this first timer’s guide gets you excited to explore Chicago! Our team at Charter Bus Company Chicago can help make transportation a breeze, whether you need an airport shuttle or a vehicle for a multi-day sightseeing extravaganza. Call 331-212-8002 or request a free quote online to start planning your Windy City getaway.