Top Downtown Chicago Attractions & Things to Do

Downtown Chicago packs a lot into a few square miles. Here you’ll find world-famous
downtown Chicago attractions like Millennium Park and “the Bean,” Navy Pier, the
Chicago Riverwalk, Willis Tower, Grant Park, and the Art Institute of Chicago — all within easy reach.

Our guides highlight the must-see tourist attractions in downtown Chicago, plus
free things to do in downtown Chicago year-round, so you can build a great itinerary
without wasting time or money.

Explore public art, river cruises, museums, walking tours, and
things to do in the Chicago Loop, River North, Streeterville, and the South Loop — all
in one place.

👉 Explore our full guide to the
best things to do in downtown Chicago.

Restaurants & Places to Eat in Downtown Chicago

If you love food, you’ll never run out of options at
downtown Chicago restaurants, from classic
steakhouses in downtown Chicago and legendary deep-dish pizza to stylish rooftop spots
and cozy neighborhood cafés.

Our guides highlight some of the best restaurants in downtown Chicago for every kind of
night out — family dinners, business lunches, quick bites before a show, or a special date. If you’re not
sure where to eat in downtown Chicago, we break it down by neighborhood, price, and style
so you can choose with confidence.

Want river views with your meal? We also feature
the best restaurants in downtown Chicago near the Riverwalk, Navy Pier, and major hotels,
so you can plan dinner around your plans instead of the other way around.

• Steakhouses, deep-dish pizza, and Chicago classics
• Family-friendly restaurants with kids’ menus
• Romantic date-night spots and rooftops with skyline views
• Cheap eats, quick lunches, and late-night options

👉 Explore our full

downtown Chicago restaurant guide
.

Best Hotels in Downtown Chicago

Not sure where to stay in downtown Chicago for sightseeing? We break down the
best hotels in downtown Chicago by neighborhood, price, and vibe.

Find the perfect base for your trip with:

• Boutique hotels in the Loop close to theatres and office towers
• Luxury hotels in downtown Chicago with riverfront or lake views
• Family-friendly hotels in downtown Chicago with pools and suites
• Budget hotels in downtown Chicago near major attractions and transit

Each area guide includes tips on getting around, what you can walk to, and
which hotels in downtown Chicago are best for first-time visitors, couples, or families.

👉 Compare

hotels in downtown Chicago by neighborhood
.

Downtown Chicago Nightlife & Rooftop Bars

When the sun goes down, the city lights up. From laid-back lounges to sky-high patios,
downtown Chicago nightlife has something for every mood.

Our nightlife guides highlight:

• Rooftop bars in downtown Chicago with skyline views
• Best bars in downtown Chicago for cocktails, wine, or craft beer
• Sports bars in downtown Chicago to catch the game
• Cozy spots that are perfect for a relaxed, romantic night out

👉 Discover the best

rooftop bars in downtown Chicago
.

Explore the Loop, River North, Riverwalk & More

“Downtown” isn’t just one place. It includes several neighborhoods and landmark areas, each with its own
feel. Use our guides to find things to do in the Chicago Loop, hidden corners of
River North, and can’t-miss stops
near Navy Pier, Millennium Park, and the Chicago Riverwalk.

We break down:

• What each neighborhood is known for
• Things to do near Millennium Park and the Bean
• Things to do near Navy Pier and along the lakefront
• Walking-friendly things to do in downtown Chicago without a car

👉 Start with our

neighborhood and landmark guides
.