Top Ten Places to Visit in Chicago

Plan out your next trip to Chicago with this helpful guide to attractions and make the most out of your traveling. By planning ahead, you could eliminate disappointing tours and save money.

Adler Planetarium and Astrology Museum:

The Adler Planetarium and Astrology Museum has a wonderful view of Chicago's skyline and is located on Lake Michigan. The Adler Planetarium is known as America's first planetarium. You can experience the all-digital StarRider Theater which is 3 stories tall or you can enjoy the Sky Theater.

Sears Tower Skydeck:

Chicago is known for the Sears Tower, the tallest building in North America. There a touch computers in the multi-media elevator ride. You can learn about Chicago's history and view new displays. The Skydeck is open every day of the year so you have plenty of time to plan your next trip.

Navy Pier:

Navy Pier is full of attraction, restaurants, shops and parks. It is a wonderful place for the entire family. You can jump on the Ferris wheel or start a game playing Navy Pier Adventure Golf. Also enjoy the Navy Pier Ropes Course which is an obstacle course with four platforms and twelve activities between each platform.

Medieval Times:

Just northwest of Chicago, in the Hoffman Estates, is the magnificent Medieval Times Dinner and Tournament. You will be able to watch 11^th century jousting tournaments while enjoying finger-licking roasted chicken and barbecued ribs, or roasted veggies for the non-meat eaters. You will be divided up into different sections of the audience. Each section cheers for a different knight. The knights ride real Andalusion horses and are dressed in exquisite costumes of the medieval time period. This event is a family favorite.

ESPN Zone:

If you like sports, then the ESPN Zone is the place for you. Take part in interactive sports that are played in the ESPN Zone such as Hoops Hysteria, MoCap Golf and NHL 2 Night. When you are finished playing, sit back and relax in the Screening Room which contains a 16 foot screen surrounded by skybox suites. There is high definition monitors placed throughout the entire ESPN Zone for watching all of the sporting events. There is also a wonderful American Grill dining selection as well as a merchandise shop.

Lincoln Park Zoo:

Lincoln Park Zoo is one of the last free cultural institutions left in the United States and it is open every day of the year. You can choose to get on rides such as the SBC Endangered Species Carousel, the swan boat, or the LPZOO Express train. Enjoy wonderful interactive exhibits and learn about all of the animals. There are a couple of gift shops and many different dining options to choose from.

Martini Ranch:

If you are looking for a place to go after a long day just to relax and have fun, then the Martini Ranch should do the trick. You can get a drink or any kind of Martini imaginable and also order some tasty appetizers such as chicken fingers, nachos, mozzarella sticks and potato skins. The Martini Ranch is popular and can get crowded at sometimes but it is worth it.

Chicago Architecture Foundation:

Learn about Chicago's Architecture in the ArchiCenter. The ArchiCenter is open every day of the year with free admission. Be a part of interpretive exhibition and visit the ArchiCenter museum shop. From the center, you have access to 75 different tours.

Shoreline Sightseeing Skyline Cruise:

Take a tour of Chicago's Skyline. This boat departs from Navy Pier and continues to the Hancock Building, past the lighthouse and Sears Tower to the Field Museum, Adler Planetarium and the Shedd Aquarium.

Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio:

Visit Wright's private residence and studio. His home was also his laboratory for architectural designs. There are available museum tours as well as walks that are self-guided audio tours. There are 25 of his buildings to view and learn about. Take part in the historical architecture.