Central Chicago Travel Guide
Tourist Guide
Visit Central Chicago
Where to stay in Central Chicago
Magnificent Mile
Are you interested in fascinating museums, panoramic lake views and popular shops? A visit to Magnificent Mile might be the perfect thing. You can also explore top sights like Michigan Avenue and Chicago Water Tower.
River North
Known for its fantastic nightlife, stunning river views and popular shops, there's plenty to explore in River North. Top attractions like Merchandise Mart and Bally's Casino Chicago are major draws. Catch the metro at Merchandise Mart Station or Chicago Station (Brown Line) to see more of the city.
Theatre District
While you're in Theatre District, take in top sights like Michigan Avenue or State Street, and hop on the metro to see more of the city at Washington Station or Monroe Station (Blue Line).
Streeterville
Michigan Avenue and Navy Pier are just a few worthwhile attractions to visit in Streeterville. Travellers also love the fascinating museums, panoramic lake views and popular shops.
Near North Side
Known for its fascinating museums, panoramic lake views and popular shops, there's plenty to explore in Near North Side. Top attractions like Michigan Avenue and Navy Pier are major draws. Catch the metro at Clark-Division Station or Chicago Station (Brown Line) to see more of the city.
Gold Coast
The ample dining options and fantastic lake views are top of the list for many visitors to Gold Coast. A stop by Michigan Avenue or Lake Michigan might round out your trip.
Embassy Suites by Hilton Chicago Downtown River North
Clean room. Super friendly front desk staff. Complimentary drinks were a big plus! Whole property was amazing. Walking distance to everything.
Reviewed on 12 Nov 2025
Palmer House a Hilton Hotel
Excellent!
Reviewed on 13 Nov 2025
Hilton Chicago/Magnificent Mile Suites
Amazing
Reviewed on 14 Nov 2025
Sentral Michigan Avenue
Loved my stay here! The bed was soft, fluffy, and super comfortable. The room’s insulation was excellent — I barely heard any of the traffic outside. The staff was very polite and professional, which made my stay even more enjoyable. The space’s aesthetic is great too — cozy and thoughtfully designed. ...
Reviewed on 11 Nov 2025
Kasa Magnificent Mile Chicago
Room was very clean, staff was responsive, perfect location, so close to the train station and to all the great places in the middle of Chicago!
Reviewed on 13 Nov 2025
Level Chicago – Old Town
Great place!
Reviewed on 15 Nov 2025
Popular places to visit
Michigan Avenue
You can find the perfect gifts to bring home when you visit Michigan Avenue, a popular shopping spot in Chicago. Amble around this vibrant area's riverfront and enjoy its top-notch restaurants.
McCormick Place
Attend an event at the United States’ largest convention center, which features hyper-modern facilities and huge exhibition spaces connected by promenades and sky bridges.
Navy Pier
One of Chicago’s most popular attractions, especially on a hot day, with its fun fair, boats, circus and theatre.
Millennium Park
See mind-bending sculptures, a musically-inspired lawn and giant water fountains that double-up as video screens.
Soldier Field
Events center, NFL stadium and historic landmark all in one, this waterfront field is one of Chicago’s most popular destinations.
Chicago Riverwalk
Stroll along the waterfront of the Chicago River to pass some of the city’s most appealing attractions and appreciate how a once grim area has been successfully revamped.
Activities
Skydeck - Willis Tower Admission
Chicago: Navy Pier Centennial Wheel Ticket
Chicago Architecture Center River Cruise aboard First Lady
Wendella's 90-min Chicago River Architecture Tour
Chicago Crime and Mob Bus Tour
- McCormick Place
- Navy Pier
- Millennium Park
- Grant Park
- Willis Tower
- Art Institute of Chicago
- Wintrust Arena
- Field Museum of Natural History
- Water Tower Place
- 875 North Michigan Avenue
- Cloud Gate
- Merchandise Mart
- House of Blues Chicago
- Chicago Water Tower
- Skydeck Ledge
- Adler Planetarium and Astronomy Museum
- Buckingham Fountain
