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Top Chicago Attractions
The first time you visit Chicago, or any new destination,
the question asked isn’t usually what attractions should be
scene but what attraction to see first, what to expect, how to get
there, and how much time is needed. We’ve provided tips, advice,
and other information about the top tourist attractions in Chicago
to help with your itinerary planning.
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Navy Pier
Originally built in 1916 to serve Lake Michigan freighters and
provide transportation to their cities on the Great Lakes, Navy
Pier is now one of the most famous attractions in Chicago.
This pier features a number of events and entertainment daily.
The most visible feature is the 150-foot Ferris wheel. You will
also find a musical carousel to ride, a favorite among children.
Painted on the carousel are historical depictions of the pier. Pier
Park features an 18-hole miniature golf course and a cliff climbing
structure. When visiting on a rainy day, you will discover many
indoor options at the pier. Among these include a 15-minute walk-through
maze and a 3-D time travel ride taking you through the past, present
and future of this great city. It is also the locale of the Chicago
Shakespeare Theatre, with a 500-seat courtyard theatre and 200-seat
flexible black box theater. The Smith Museum of Stained Glass windows
has displays of 150 stained glass windows in an 800-foot long series.
For those wishing to hear some entertainment, Navy Pier has two
performance stages with local bands.
Want romance? Take a boat tour with extravagant dinner cruises
or get married in one of the boats.
Plenty of shopping and dining can be found along Navy Pier, with
traditional Chicago hot dogs, cotton candy and original souvenirs
found nowhere else.
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Boat Tours
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| Address
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Chicago Line Cruises
North Pier Docks, Ogdon Ship Docks |
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| Admission
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$27 |
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| Phone
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312-527-2002 |
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| Website
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www.chicagoline.com |
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Chicago is the queen of awe-inspiring architecture; structures
are creative, innovative and unlike any other. Famous architects
such as Frank Lloyd Wright have designed art and called them buildings.
Lasting for miles, the Chicago skyline is dramatic, distinctive
and matchless in form.
For a unique opportunity to see this breathtaking architecture of
Chicago, why not try a boat tour? The tour lasts 90 minutes in length,
sailing on the river. With its easy boarding location on the North
Pier Docks on Ogden Slip, you can experience the Chicago skyline
from the water—be sure to bring along a camera for the stunning
views. You will probably need a wide-angle lens.
Since 1982, Chicago Line Cruises has offered narrated architectural
cruises along Chicago’s water-arteries. Learn about the designer,
the architect and the interesting facts behind Chicago’s amazing
skyline.
These unforgettable cruises depart daily. Do not miss this once-in-a-lifetime
experience.
The company also offers historical cruises. Learn about the intricate
history of this once industrial town. A 90-minute tour takes you
around Chicago’s scenic lakefront, rather than the river on
the architectural tour. This voyage will provide expert narration
on the aspects of Chicago’s diverse and difficult history.
During the tour, enjoy complimentary Starbucks coffee, lemonade,
fresh-baked muffins and cookies. These fact-filled cruises depart
daily.
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Sears Tower
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| Address
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233 W. Wacker Drive |
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| Hours
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May-Sept. 10:00am-10:00pm
Oct-Apr. 10:00am-8:00 pm |
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| Phone
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312-875-9696 |
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| Website
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www.the-skydeck.com |
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The tallest building in America is the Sears Tower and is a staple
of the Chicago skyline. It is a symbol of the city and the view
from the top is unfathomable. During tourist season, there may be
a line to the Skydeck, but it is well worth the wait.
At 1,353 feet, the Skydeck is the highest observatory in Chicago.
On a clear day, you can see 40-50 miles with views of Michigan,
Indiana, Illinois and Wisconsin.
Not only can you experience breathtaking scenes, you can visit
exhibits on the inside walls of the Skydeck painted with Chicago’s
past and present. You will also find multi-language interactive
kiosks. You can take a tour of Chicago’s landmarks through
hands-on computer stations. Want to see what it looks like for a
younger person to see the view? You can get a different look at
this kid-level display that extends the perimeter of the Skydeck.
It contains cut-out windows with information on Chicago history,
sports and other interesting facts. Take a voyeuristic look at Chicago
with high-powered telescopes. Get a closer look at the people walking
the streets or driving the taxicabs. Even see into offices of other
buildings.
The best time to visit is after 4pm, during non-peak hours.
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Chicago Travel Guides
 Frommer's Chicago
Lonely Planet Chicago
Let's Go Chicago
Fodors Chicago
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