8 Places to Learn Something New in Chicago
Where to Find Chicago’s Arts and Culture Venues?
Traveling is a great way to learn something new and Chicago offers amazing opportunities to widen your horizons. Whether you’ve a hankering for high art, rocking music, or laugh out loud comedy, Chicago got you covered. The Windy City’s art hubs focus on upmarket River North brimming with high-end galleries, edgy cool West Loop, and Pilsen, home to the city’s folk artists. Alongside these art districts, Chicago’s long embraced public art, with plenty of outdoor sculptures brightening up its streets and parks.
History was made here when the first skyscraper in the world opened in 1884. No matter where you wander, you’ll notice the original pioneering Chicago Style showcasing simple functional design, among the modern, gleaming glass towers.
1. Field Museum of Natural History
Your adventure starts here
Good for: Families, History, Photo
The Field Museum of Natural History is a treasure trove of knowledge, offering a unique opportunity to explore the wonders of our planet and beyond. Behind its Neo-Classical façade, this versatile museum brims with artifacts, relics, and replicas, including gemstones, mummies, and fossils. There’s also a T. Rex named Sue, a 13ft-tall skeleton that’s the museum’s crowning glory. She’s hard to miss, and a kids’ favorite, too.
The museum masterfully transforms complex scientific information into interactive and captivating exhibits that cater to all ages. Whether you’re interested in ancient civilizations, the depths of the ocean, or the mysteries of space, there’s something to spark your curiosity. Read more
Location: 1400 S Lake Shore Dr, Chicago, IL 60605, USA
Open: Daily from 9 am to 5 pm
Phone: +1 312-922-9410
Field Museum of Natural History
2. Willis Tower
Where the sky meets the city
Good for: Photo, Families, History
As one of the world’s tallest buildings, the Willis Tower is a testament to human ingenuity in engineering and architecture. You might know this Chicago landmark as the Sears Tower, its more common name. A 70-sec elevator ride will whizz you to the mind-boggling Skydeck, where you can edge out over the city streets below on jutting glass-floored ledges.
Not only will you learn about the tower’s history, including the engineering challenges faced during its construction, but you’ll also get a bird’s-eye view of Chicago’s urban landscape. So, make sure to bring your camera. Read more
Location: 233 S Wacker Dr, Chicago, IL 60606, USA
Open: Daily from 9 am to 10 pm
Phone: +1 312-875-0066
Willis Tower
3. Art Institute of Chicago
Timeless art, endless discovery
Good for: History, Couples
With a vast collection spanning centuries and cultures, the Art Institute of Chicago offers a comprehensive overview of human creativity. From ancient artifacts to contemporary masterpieces, there’s something to spark your curiosity. The Art Institute showcases works from around the globe, offering a unique opportunity to explore different cultural perspectives and artistic traditions.
Tucked in the Loop, this is one of the country’s largest meccas for the arts. You’ll be surrounded by the works of giants like Renoir, Picasso, and Van Gogh. Look out as well for iconic American images, such as Grant Wood’s much-imitated and parodied American Gothic. Read more
Location: 111 S Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60603, USA
Open: Monday, Friday–Sunday from 11 am to 5 pm, Thursday from 11 am to 8 pm (closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays)
Phone: +1 312-443-3600
Art Institute of Chicago
4. Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio
The original home of one of North America’s greatest architects
Good for: History, Photo
The Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio is the very first home designed and built by the namesake renowned architect. On a guided 60-minute tour of the magnificent 1889 home, you can see and learn about Wright’s unique architectural style that came to be known as the Prairie style. Think open-floor plans, central chimneys, and organic materials.
If you’re interested in seeing more of Wright’s designs, buy a map or an audio guide from the gift shop and take an hour-long self-guided walk around the surrounding neighborhood. Read more
Location: 951 Chicago Ave, Oak Park, IL 60302, USA
Open: Daily from 10 am to 4 pm
Phone: +1 312-994-4000
Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio
5. Chicago Symphony Orchestra
Chicago’s sound of excellence
Good for: Couples, Nightlife
Attending a Chicago Symphony Orchestra (CSO) performance is a truly unforgettable experience. There’s no doubt that the CSO is one of America’s best symphony ensembles. From classical masterpieces to contemporary compositions, the CSO offers a wide range of programs.
The Symphony Center, home to the CSO, boasts impeccable acoustics that enhance the musical adventure. Whether you’re a seasoned classical music aficionado or simply looking for a unique and enriching evening, the Chicago Symphony Orchestra is sure to leave a lasting impression. If you’re in town between September and May, don’t miss one of their epic performances. Read more
Location: 220 S Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60604, USA
Phone: +1 312-294-3000
Chicago Symphony Orchestra
6. DePaul Art Museum
Showcasing the works of local Chicago artists
Good for: History, Budget, Couples
The DePaul Art Museum (DPAM) in the heart of DePaul University’s Lincoln Park campus brims with international modern and contemporary art. There are 3 to 5 temporary exhibitions per year as well as a permanent collection of some 4,000 pieces of work. Much of the art expresses the voices of Chicago’s marginalized artists and communities.
DPAM also features some notable historical works in its collection, including some of the paintings by Salvador Dali, Francisco De Goya, and Andy Warhol. Entry is free. Read more
Location: 935 W Fullerton Ave, Chicago, IL 60614, USA
Open: Wednesday and Thursday from 11 am to 7 pm, Friday–Sunday from 11 am to 5 pm (closed on Mondays and Tuesdays)
Phone: +1 773-325-7506
DePaul Art Museum
7. Chicago Water Tower
A hidden gem
Good for: History, Budget, Unusual
Situated on the Magnificent Mile, the Chicago Water Tower a convenient stop while exploring the city’s shopping and dining scene. Built in 1869, this iconic yellow limestone building was one of the few structures to survive the devastating Great Chicago Fire of 1871. Its Gothic Revival style is a stunning example of 19th-century architecture.
Originally part of a water works to provide clean lake water. These days it hosts the City Gallery, which showcases local art and photography, works of art lining the tower’s turreted walls. If you’re looking for inspiration or just want to admire the beautiful building, swing by and you might just learn something new. Read more
Location: 806 Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
Open: Monday–Friday from 10 am to 7 pm, Saturday–Sunday from 10 am to 5 pm
Chicago Water Tower
8. Lyric Opera at the Civic Opera House
Opera, ballet, and architectural splendor
Good for: Nightlife, Couples
As the home of the Lyric Opera of Chicago and the Joffrey Ballet, the Civic Opera House a top venue for experiencing world-class opera and dance. Modern premieres as well as tried and tested classical operas and ballets are put on between September and March, when the highly esteemed opera and ballet companies put on their ground-breaking shows.
If you’re an architecture enthusiasts, the stunning Art Deco design of the building is a masterpiece in itself, a true visual feast. For post-performance drinks, head to one of the cool bars in the neighborhood. Read more
Location: 20 N Wacker Dr, Chicago, IL 60606, USA
Open: Box office: Monday–Saturday from 9 am to 5 pm
Phone: +1 312-827-5600
Lyric Opera at the Civic Opera House
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