Explore Chicago like a local

Explore Chicago like a local

Top 3 Things to do in Chicago

  1. 1
    Portrait from local undefined - Friendly Chicago Walking Guide
    Portrait from local undefined - Making architecture, design, & history fun & interesting!
    Choose your favorite local

    Highlights & Hidden Gems of Chicago

    12 reviews
    3 hours | city highlight tours | Chicago

    Want to see the best of Chicago? We got you covered. But as you can expect from a Withlocals experience, the real excitement is its hidden gems. Join your favorite local and get a feeling of the city's real vibe on a tour that has it all, so you can say: I experienced the real Chicago!

    €113.97per person
    Explore
  2. 2
    Portrait from local undefined - Friendly Chicago Walking Guide
    Portrait from local undefined - Making architecture, design, & history fun & interesting!
    Choose your favorite local

    Full Coverage Chicago City Tour

    12 reviews
    5 hours | city highlight tours | Chicago

    Ready for a jam-packed tour, full of history, culture, stories, and sights? Checkmark from your travel bucket list all your must-sees of Chicago, because if there’s a Withlocals tour that shows you all the city's ins and outs, it’s this complete and personalized tour of Chicago.

    €187.50per person
    Explore
  3. 3

    Step Back in Time: A Tour of Pullman's Company Town

    3 reviews
    4 hours | city highlight tours | Chicago

    Get ready to take the train to visit America's first company town; Pullman, Illinois. Join me as we explore the town of Pullman and learn about the fascinating part it played in the development of the world's largest train company!

    €95per person
    Explore

All Things to do in Chicago

Explore Chicago with a local of your choice

Learn about their personal stories, and find out how you can explore Chicago together

  • Hello I am
    Colm
    Friendly Chicago Walking Guide
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  • Hello I am
    Mike
    Making architecture, design, & history fun & interesting!
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  • Hello I am
    Withlocals
    Travel For The Better
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What other travelers love about our local experts

Louise
About local
Faboulous Chicago Tour

Mike was a fantastic guide and very informative. Would thoroughly recommend this tour. We went to places we would never have found on our own.

Highlights & Hidden Gems of Chicago
gimaklein
About local
Wonderful experience in Chicago

Our tour with Mike has been excellent - a great way to explore Chicago! Mike is extremely knowledgeable about all things history, culture and architecture of the city. Even more importantly, he is extremely nice and easy-going, so time flew. We highly recommend Mike!

Highlights & Hidden Gems of Chicago

What to see and do in Chicago

Chicago is a vibrant city with a lot to see and do. Some of the top attractions in the city include the Willis Tower, Millennium Park, and the Art Institute of Chicago. One of the best ways to experience Chicago is by taking a tour with a local guide. A local guide can provide insight into the city's history and culture, and can help you find the best places to eat and shop. Withlocals offers a variety of tours led by knowledgeable and experienced guides who can show you the hidden gems of Chicago. In addition to its many museums and cultural attractions, Chicago is also known for its world-class dining scene. The city is home to a wide variety of restaurants, from fine dining establishments to hole-in-the-wall local favorites. Be sure to try some of the city's famous deep dish pizza, and wash it down with a cold beer from one of Chicago's many craft breweries. Shopping is also a popular pastime in Chicago. The city is home to the Magnificent Mile, which is packed with high-end stores and boutiques. Whether you're looking for luxury goods or one-of-a-kind souvenirs, you'll find plenty of options in Chicago. Overall, there's no shortage of things to see and do in Chicago. Whether you're interested in history, culture, food, or shopping, this dynamic city has something for everyone.

  • Your Must see guide to Chicago

    Chicago is a vibrant and dynamic city, and there are many must-see attractions for visitors to explore. Some of the top things to see and do in Chicago include the following:

    The Willis Tower: This iconic skyscraper, formerly known as the Sears Tower, is the tallest building in the Western Hemisphere. Visitors can take a trip to the Skydeck on the 103rd floor for breathtaking views of the city.

    Millennium Park: This beautiful public park is home to the famous Cloud Gate sculpture, also known as "The Bean," and the Lurie Garden. The park also hosts a variety of concerts and events throughout the year.

    The Art Institute of Chicago: This world-renowned museum is home to a stunning collection of art, including works by Monet, van Gogh, and Renoir.

    Navy Pier: This popular tourist destination features a ferris wheel, an IMAX theater, and a variety of shops and restaurants. It's a great place to spend a day by the lake.

    The Chicago Theatre: This historic venue is one of the city's most famous landmarks, and it hosts a variety of concerts, plays, and other live performances.

    Overall, there are many must-see attractions in Chicago, and a trip to the city wouldn't be complete without visiting some of these iconic landmarks.

  • What to see in Chicago in 1 day?

    Chicago is a vibrant and diverse city with plenty to see and do. If you only have one day to spend in Chicago, here are a few recommendations to help you make the most of your time:

    Start your day at the iconic Willis Tower, formerly known as the Sears Tower. Take a trip to the Skydeck on the 103rd floor for breathtaking views of the city.

    Afterward, head to the Art Institute of Chicago to see some of the world's finest art collections, including works by Monet, van Gogh, and Seurat.

    For lunch, grab a bite at one of the many delicious restaurants in Chicago's famous food district, known as the Loop.

    In the afternoon, visit the Field Museum to learn about natural history and see the museum's famous exhibit of Sue, the largest and most complete Tyrannosaurus Rex skeleton ever found.

    End your day with a stroll along the Lakefront Trail, where you can take in the beautiful views of Lake Michigan and the Chicago skyline.

    There's so much to see and do in Chicago, and this is just a small sample of what the city has to offer. Whether you're interested in art, history, or simply soaking up the city's lively atmosphere, you'll find plenty to keep you entertained in Chicago.

  • What to see in Chicago in 2 days?

    If you have two days to spend in Chicago, you'll have even more time to explore all that the city has to offer. Here are a few suggestions for things to see and do during your visit:

    On your first day, start with the Willis Tower and the Art Institute of Chicago, as mentioned above.

    In the evening, catch a show at the legendary Second City comedy club, where many famous comedians got their start.

    On your second day, spend the morning at the Lincoln Park Zoo, where you can see a wide variety of animals, from lions and gorillas to polar bears and penguins.

    After the zoo, visit the Museum of Science and Industry to see fascinating exhibits on science, technology, and industry.

    In the evening, head to Millennium Park to see the famous Cloud Gate sculpture, also known as "The Bean," and take a boat tour of the Chicago River.

    These are just a few suggestions for what to see and do in Chicago over the course of two days. The city has many other attractions, from sports games and concerts to shopping and dining, so you'll never run out of things to do during your visit.

  • Where can I take the best photos of the Willis Tower in Chicago?

    The Willis Tower, formerly known as the Sears Tower, is one of the most iconic buildings in Chicago and offers many opportunities for great photos. Here are a few suggestions for where to take the best photos of the Willis Tower:

    From the Skydeck on the 103rd floor of the Willis Tower, you can get stunning views of the city and the Willis Tower itself.

    The Willis Tower is located in the heart of the Loop, so you can get good views of the building from many spots around the neighborhood. Try taking photos from the corners of Jackson Boulevard and Wacker Drive, or from the Chicago Riverwalk.

    The Willis Tower is also visible from many other parts of the city, so you can get good photos of the building from a variety of different perspectives. Some popular spots for photos include the Lakefront Trail, Millennium Park, and the Hancock Observatory.

    The best photos of the Willis Tower will depend on your personal preferences and the type of photo you're looking to capture. With its unique architecture and central location, the Willis Tower offers many opportunities for great photos, so be sure to explore the city and see what you can find.

  • What is the best museum in Chicago?

    Chicago is home to many world-class museums, and it can be difficult to choose just one as the "best." Here are a few of the most popular and highly-rated museums in Chicago:

    The Art Institute of Chicago: This museum is known for its impressive collection of art from around the world, including works by Monet, van Gogh, and Seurat.

    The Field Museum: This museum is dedicated to natural history and science, and is home to the famous Sue, the largest and most complete Tyrannosaurus Rex skeleton ever found.

    The Museum of Science and Industry: This museum has a wide range of interactive exhibits on science, technology, and industry, making it a great choice for families with children.

    The Shedd Aquarium: This aquarium is home to thousands of aquatic animals, including dolphins, sharks, and beluga whales.

    Overall, the best museum for you will depend on your personal interests and what you're looking to see and do during your visit to Chicago. No matter which museum you choose, you're sure to have a great time exploring the city's rich cultural offerings.

  • How to enter Lincoln Park in Chicago?

    Lincoln Park is a large public park in Chicago that is free and open to the public. To enter Lincoln Park, you can simply walk or bike through any of the park's many entrances. Some popular entrances to the park include:

    North Avenue Beach: Located on the north side of the park, this entrance offers easy access to the beach and lakefront.

    Diversey Harbor: Located on the east side of the park, this entrance offers access to the harbor, marina, and boathouse.

    Fullerton Avenue: Located on the west side of the park, this entrance offers access to the Lincoln Park Zoo and other attractions.

    Armitage Avenue: Located on the south side of the park, this entrance offers access to the park's gardens and nature areas.

    You can also access Lincoln Park by public transportation. The CTA has several bus routes that serve the park, and the Fullerton, Armitage, and Diversey L stations are located near the park's entrances.

    Lincoln Park is a welcoming and accessible park, and you can enter it easily from many different points around the city. Enjoy your visit to this beautiful green space in Chicago!

  • Travelling to Chicago with kids

    Chicago is a great destination for families with kids, with plenty of fun and educational activities to enjoy together. Here are a few suggestions for things to do in Chicago with kids:

    Visit the Museum of Science and Industry, where kids can learn about science, technology, and industry through hands-on exhibits and demonstrations.

    Take a trip to the Shedd Aquarium to see a wide variety of aquatic animals, including dolphins, sharks, and beluga whales.

    Spend a day at the Lincoln Park Zoo, where kids can see animals from around the world, including lions, gorillas, and polar bears.

    Explore the city on a boat tour of the Chicago River, where kids can see the city's famous skyline from a different perspective.

    Visit Navy Pier, where kids can ride the Ferris wheel, visit the children's museum, and see a variety of other attractions.

    Overall, Chicago has many fun and educational activities for kids to enjoy, making it a great destination for families. With its many museums, parks, and other attractions, Chicago offers something for everyone, no matter what your family's interests may be.

  • Travelling to Chicago with teenagers

    Chicago is a great destination for families with teenagers, with plenty of fun and interesting activities to enjoy together. Here are a few suggestions for things to do in Chicago with teenagers:

    Visit the Art Institute of Chicago, where teenagers can see some of the world's finest art collections, including works by Monet, van Gogh, and Seurat.

    Take a boat tour of the Chicago River, where teenagers can see the city's famous skyline from a different perspective.

    Spend a day at Millennium Park, where teenagers can take in the city's famous Cloud Gate sculpture, also known as "The Bean," and enjoy the park's many other attractions.

    Visit the Willis Tower, formerly known as the Sears Tower, and take a trip to the Skydeck on the 103rd floor for breathtaking views of the city.

    In the evening, catch a show at the legendary Second City comedy club, where many famous comedians got their start.

    Chicago has many fun and interesting activities for teenagers to enjoy, making it a great destination for families. With its rich cultural offerings, vibrant nightlife, and many other attractions, Chicago has something for everyone, no matter what your family's interests may be.

  • Travelling solo to Chicago

    Chicago is a great destination for solo travelers, with plenty of things to see and do. Here are a few suggestions for things to do in Chicago if you're traveling solo:

    Visit the Art Institute of Chicago, where you can see some of the world's finest art collections, including works by Monet, van Gogh, and Seurat.

    Take a boat tour of the Chicago River, where you can see the city's famous skyline from a different perspective.

    Spend a day at Millennium Park, where you can take in the city's famous Cloud Gate sculpture, also known as "The Bean," and enjoy the park's many other attractions.

    Visit the Willis Tower, formerly known as the Sears Tower, and take a trip to the Skydeck on the 103rd floor for breathtaking views of the city.

    In the evening, catch a show at the legendary Second City comedy club, where many famous comedians got their start.

    Overall, Chicago is a welcoming and vibrant city that offers many opportunities for solo travelers to explore and enjoy. Whether you're interested in art, history, or simply soaking up the city's lively atmosphere, you'll find plenty to keep you entertained in Chicago.

  • Nightlife in Chicago

    Chicago is a vibrant and exciting city with a lively nightlife scene. Here are a few suggestions for things to do in Chicago at night:

    Catch a show at the legendary Second City comedy club, where many famous comedians got their start.

    Visit the Green Mill Jazz Club, where you can see live jazz performances in a historic setting.

    Head to the House of Blues for live music and dancing.

    Visit one of the city's many rooftop bars, such as the Cindy's Rooftop or the J. Parker, for stunning views of the city and tasty cocktails.

    In the summer, attend a Chicago Cubs game at Wrigley Field to experience the city's love of baseball and soak up the electric atmosphere of a live game.

    Chicago has a vibrant and diverse nightlife scene, with something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you're looking for live music, comedy, or simply a great place to grab a drink, you'll find plenty of options in Chicago.

Unforgettable experiences in Chicago with Withlocals

Withlocals tours are intimate, private experiences that allow you to truly connect with the city and your guide. No more being stuck on a crowded, generic bus tour, staring at a boring brochure - Withlocals brings the Windy City to life with personalized, authentic experiences. So come join us and let's discover the real Chicago together!

Your Food guide to Chicago

Chicago is known for its delicious and diverse food scene. From deep dish pizza to hot dogs and Italian beef sandwiches, there's no shortage of tasty options in the city.

One of Chicago's most famous dishes is deep dish pizza. This thick and hearty pizza is made with layers of cheese, sauce, and toppings, and it's baked in a deep, round pan. Some of the best places to try deep dish pizza in Chicago include Lou Malnati's, Giordano's, and Pizzeria Uno.

Another local favorite is the Chicago-style hot dog. This tasty sandwich is made with an all-beef hot dog, topped with mustard, onions, pickles, tomatoes, sport peppers, and a dash of celery salt. It's served on a poppyseed bun and is a must-try for any visitor to the city.

Chicago is also known for its Italian beef sandwiches. Thinly sliced roast beef is cooked in a flavorful broth and served on a crusty Italian roll, and it's often topped with peppers and giardiniera, a spicy mix of pickled vegetables. Some of the best Italian beef sandwiches in the city can be found at Al's Italian Beef and Portillo's.

In addition to its many local specialties, Chicago is also home to a wide variety of international cuisines. From sushi to tacos to Ethiopian food, you'll find plenty of options to satisfy any craving.

Overall, Chicago is a food lover's paradise, and there's no shortage of delicious options to try. Be sure to sample some of the city's famous dishes, and explore the many different cuisines that the city has to offer.

Your Transportation guide to Chicago

Chicago can be overwhelming for visitors to navigate. Fortunately, the city offers a wide variety of transportation options to help you get around.

The Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) operates a network of buses and trains that can take you to many different parts of the city. The CTA's "L" trains are a quick and convenient way to get around, and they offer views of the city that you can't get from the ground. A single-ride fare on the CTA costs $2.50, and you can purchase a 1-day, 3-day, or 7-day pass for unlimited rides.

If you prefer to travel by car, Chicago has a network of highways and surface streets that can take you to most parts of the city. However, traffic can be heavy, and parking can be expensive. If you're planning to rent a car, be sure to read up on the city's parking regulations and consider using a ride-sharing service instead.

Chicago also has a number of bike-sharing programs, including Divvy, that allow you to rent a bike for a short period of time. Biking is a great way to explore the city, and it can also be a fun and eco-friendly way to get around.

Overall, there are many different transportation options available in Chicago, and you'll have no problem getting around the city. Just be sure to plan ahead and choose the option that best suits your needs.

About Chicago

Chicago is the third most populous city in the United States, with a population of over 2.7 million people. Located in the state of Illinois, Chicago is known for its vibrant culture, diverse communities, and rich history. The city is located on the shores of Lake Michigan, and is a major center for commerce, finance, industry, and transportation.

Chicago is known for its world-class museums, including the Art Institute of Chicago, which houses one of the world's largest and most comprehensive collections of art. The city is also home to several major sports teams, including the Chicago Cubs, Chicago White Sox, Chicago Bulls, and Chicago Bears.

The city is renowned for its architecture, with many of its buildings designed by famous architects such as Frank Lloyd Wright and Daniel Burnham. The skyline of Chicago is dotted with iconic skyscrapers, including the Willis Tower, which was once the tallest building in the world.

Chicago is also famous for its food, with a wide variety of cuisines from around the world. The city is home to many famous restaurants, including Alinea, which has been named the best restaurant in the world by the World's 50 Best Restaurants Awards.

Overall, Chicago is a vibrant and exciting city that offers something for everyone, from its rich cultural and historical attractions, to its world-class museums, sports teams, and dining scene.

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