Near South Side Travel Guide
Tourist Guide
Visit Near South Side
Popular places to visit
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.
Soldier Field
Events center, NFL stadium and historic landmark all in one, this waterfront field is one of Chicago’s most popular destinations.
Shedd Aquarium
Make time in your itinerary to visit the sea life who live at Shedd Aquarium during your visit to Chicago. Amble around this vibrant area's lakeside or experience its acclaimed theatre scene.
Field Museum of Natural History
Explore hidden worlds, ancient secrets, and bizarre creatures – and a dinosaur terror named Sue.
Northerly Island Natural Area
Bird life, paved paths and a built-in music venue give one of Chicago’s newest green spaces much to offer to nature lovers, exercisers and music fans.
Adler Planetarium and Astronomy Museum
Opportunities for fun, learning and wonder abound at this historic and state-of-the-art museum on the pretty shore of Lake Michigan.
Activities
Chicago Sightseeing River and Lake Cruise
Wendella's Lake and River Architecture Tour
Chicago Architecture Center River Cruise aboard First Lady
Wendella's 90-min Chicago River Architecture Tour
Chicago By Night River & Lake Cruise
Our pick of the best Near South Side Hotel Deals
Congress Plaza Hotel
Reviewed on 1 Oct 2025
Freehand Chicago
Reviewed on 30 Sept 2025
Embassy Suites by Hilton Chicago Downtown River North
Reviewed on 1 Oct 2025
Hilton Chicago/Magnificent Mile Suites
Reviewed on 30 Sept 2025
Hilton Garden Inn Chicago Downtown/Magnificent Mile
Reviewed on 27 Sept 2025
InterContinental Chicago Magnificent Mile by IHG
Reviewed on 30 Sept 2025
Other neighbourhoods around Near South Side
South Loop
Soldier Field and Lake Michigan are a few top attractions in South Loop. Hop around the city on the metro at Roosevelt Station or Cermak-McCormick Place Station and check out the area's fascinating museums, panoramic lake views and popular shops.
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).
The Loop
Michigan Avenue and Lake Michigan are a few top attractions in The Loop. Hop around the city on the metro at Washington Station or Lake Station and check out the area's fascinating museums, popular shops and acclaimed art galleries.
Near West Side
Live music, theatres and shopping highlight some notable features of Near West Side. Make a stop by United Center or Credit Union 1 Arena while you're visiting, and jump aboard the metro at Racine Station or Polk Station (Pink Line) to get around town.
Downtown Chicago
Known for its fascinating museums, stunning river views and gorgeous architecture, there's plenty to explore in Downtown Chicago. Top attractions like Michigan Avenue and Navy Pier are major draws. Catch the metro at State Station or Clark-Lake Station to see more of the city.
West Loop
Consider a visit to Milwaukee Avenue and take some time to enjoy the abundant dining options during your time in West Loop. If you want to see more of the city, jump on the metro at Racine Station or Ogilvie Transportation Center.
