What to do in Central Chicago, IL

Activities, attractions and tours
Chicago which includes rides

Central Chicago Attractions

Let Expedia help you to experience the best that Central Chicago has to offer! If you’re planning a trip to Central Chicago, we can provide you with a list of the top sightseeing attractions, as well as helping you to find unmissable activities. Whether you’re travelling to Central Chicago with your family, planning a romantic trip with your loved one, or visiting on business, we’ll make it easy to plan an unforgettable holiday that checks all the boxes.

Places of interest in Central Chicago

Central Chicago is crammed with must-see places to visit and things to do. We can help you decide where to stay in Central Chicago, and make it a breeze to explore Central Chicago and the surrounding areas with our guides on where to go, what to see and when to see it. No matter how long your stay, it’s easy to find places of interest in Central Chicago to make sure that you enjoy your holiday to the fullest and don’t miss a thing. Leave the local knowledge to us and leave the hassle behind.

If you’re planning a visit to Central Chicago, why not check out our handy guides to places of interest in the area? You can browse lists of things to do, learn about the most popular attractions, and get help with planning the details of your trip. Expedia makes it easy for you to check out all the top sights in Central Chicago.

Central Chicago attractions

Central Chicago has something for everyone, so whether you’re planning to get active on a summer holiday, put a spring in your step with a romantic rendezvous, or pamper yourself with a leisurely winter trip, you’ll find plenty of attractions in Central Chicago to keep you entertained. Expedia makes it easy to book your flight, hotel and rental car in advance, making for hassle-free travel and freeing you up to explore the sights of Central Chicago.

Looking for things to do in Central Chicago can be time-consuming, but we can take the hassle out of planning your holiday. Whether you’re looking to get active in the great outdoors, sample the cuisine of Central Chicago or catch up with the vibrant local culture, our guides to Central Chicago attractions ensure that you’ll have a successful trip, whatever the season. Happy trails!


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Most fun & popular experiences in Central Chicago


Popular places to visit

Explore areas of Central Chicago

Downtown Chicago featuring a city

Downtown Chicago

The heart of the Midwest’s glittering metropolis has many offerings, from shopping and dining to parks, museums and exciting contemporary public art.

Downtown Chicago
Magnificent Mile - River North

Magnificent Mile

Shopaholics need look no further this glittering street packed with boutique and luxury shops, famous department stores and cafes.

Magnificent Mile
The Loop - Downtown featuring a river or creek

The Loop

4.5/5(187 area reviews)

Bordered roughly by the surrounding elevated train circuit, this Chicago neighborhood has restaurants, galleries, parks and a giant silver bean.

The Loop
Shops at North Bridge featuring street scenes, cbd and a city

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.

River North
Chicago featuring a city and modern architecture

Lincoln Park

5/5(5 area reviews)

Both a neighborhood and a park, this northern Chicago area has gorgeous scenery, residential streets lined with stately homes and extensive shopping and dining.

Lincoln Park
Magnificent Mile - River North which includes street scenes, signage and night scenes

Near North Side

4.5/5(248 area reviews)

Known for its fascinating museums, panoramic lake views and popular shops, there's plenty to explore in Near North Side. Top attractions like Navy Pier and Michigan Avenue are major draws. Catch the metro at Clark-Division Station or Chicago Station (Brown Line) to see more of the city.

Near North Side

Day trip destinations from Central Chicago