Chicago is one of America’s most iconic cities — and one of the best places to visit for a fun weekend getaway or a day trip. With King-Bruwaert House being located only 20 miles away from the Windy City, it’s a great opportunity to soak in the multicultural ambiance, explore culinary adventures, visit museums, check out the art scene, and much more.
Grant Park and Buckingham Fountain
Grant Park is a 313-acre natural park that spans from the eastern edge of the Loop community to the northern edges of the Near South Side. The Field Museum, the Art Institute of Chicago, and the Shedd Aquarium are all located in Grant Park, as well as the park’s iconic centerpiece — Buckingham Fountain. Known as the crown jewel of Grant Park, the design of the fountain was inspired by one built for Louis XV at the Palace of Versailles in France.
Millennium Park
Another top thing to do in Chicago is visiting Millennium Park where you’ll find baseball diamonds, flower beds, strolling trails, and open grassland terrain. And, of course, what would a trip to Chicago be if you didn’t see your reflection in The Bean — the popular outdoor sculpture that captures a unique aspect of the city to view.
Chicago Pizza Tours
Tours of Chicago’s most famous culinary export are definitely worth exploring. Chicago Pizza Tours offers two options — The Big Shoulders Downtown Tour (3-hour walking tour) and the Chicago Pizza and Cocktail Tour (3.5-hour chauffeured tour). Dive into the classic styles of deep dish, Roman, artisanal, and Neapolitan at historic pizzerias, sip on some tasty beverages, and enjoy the good eats of the city.
Urban Kayaks
Kayaking on the Chicago River or lakefront can be a refreshing experience when guided by experts at Urban Kayaks. Embark on a paddling adventure along the Chicago Riverwalk or the lakefront at Monroe Harbor, and catch stunning views of the Field Museum, the Adler Planetarium, the Shedd Aquarium, Soldier Field, Merchandise Mart, Grant Park, Navy Pier, and more. And don’t worry about your fitness level because the skilled guides and various tour options based on fitness preference will accommodate you perfectly.
Lincoln Park Zoo
Lincoln Park Zoo was founded in 1868 and serves as a tourist highlight for visitors and Chicagoans year-round. The now 49-acre free zoo started with only two swans as a gift from New York’s Central Park, and has grown to house nearly 200 species from around the world in specially designed habitats full of natural plant ecosystems. With a mission to connect people to nature, the zoo offers a number of animal exhibits, self-guided tours, plants and gardens with 1,200 plus species, and more.
Chicago Cultural Center
Free classical music, art exhibitions in one of the building’s numerous galleries, visitors admiring the Tiffany Favrile glass dome, films, lectures, and more can all be found at the Chicago Cultural Center on any given day. Almost everything in this facility is free and open to the public, so take your time perusing the many exhibits within a stunning architectural and historical structure.
