America’s third city on Lake Michigan and birthplace of the modern skyscraper, with landmark towers along the river; famous for the Art Institute, Millennium Park and deep-dish pizza.
Great for the lakefront, river architecture cruises and outdoor festivals. source
September–October
The heat eases — good for walking architecture tours. source
Weather: May–September is best, with lakefront days and festivals in summer; December–March is bitterly cold off the lake. source
Times to avoid: In winter (December–March) the lake wind makes it feel far colder; keep indoor days like the Art Institute in reserve. source
Weather varies from year to year; check the forecast before you go.
Don't miss in Chicago
Art Institute of Chicago Renowned for Impressionist masterpieces like Seurat’s A Sunday on La Grande Jatte; prices depend on where you live, and under-14s are free. source
Skydeck Chicago (Willis Tower) The 103rd-floor observatory with The Ledge, glass boxes jutting out from the tower. source
Millennium Park The downtown park with the mirrored Cloud Gate (“The Bean”) — free. source
Deep-dish pizza Born in 1940s Chicago: a bowl-shaped crust filled with cheese, sauce, then toppings. source
Where to stay in Chicago
The Loop (Downtown)
The centre ringed by the elevated L, within walking distance of the Art Institute, Millennium Park and Willis Tower.
River North / Magnificent Mile
Restaurants and shopping, close to the river architecture cruises.
What to eat in Chicago
Deep-Dish Pizza — Bowl-shaped crust filled with cheese, tomato sauce and toppings
Italian Beef — Thin-sliced roast beef in a jus-soaked roll with spicy giardiniera
Chicago-Style Hot Dog — All-beef frank on a poppy-seed bun with mustard, onion, relish, pickle and tomato — no ketchup
Chicago tips and things to watch out for
Chicago travel tips
Menu prices exclude tax and tip: restaurant tax in Chicago is about 10.75% (10.25% sales tax + 0.5% restaurant tax), and an 18–20% tip is usual. source
Airport to city: the Blue Line runs from O’Hare to the Loop in about 45 minutes; boarding at O’Hare costs $5, other stations $2.50. source
Good to know in United States
In the US, sales tax may be added to the displayed price depending on the place and product. Check a restaurant menu for extra charges before ordering. source
In LA, both public transit and ride-hailing are available. Check Metro routes and ride-hail pickup points before moving between sights. source
Watch out for in United States
Car break-ins are common; never leave bags or anything visible in a parked car. source
In unfamiliar parts of the US, avoid walking alone through quiet areas, especially at night. source
General advice for the whole country. Check official government travel advice for entry rules and safety before you go.
Restaurant prices for Chicago are still being collected. The estimate also uses some official meal and transit prices checked in other cities in United States.
Chicago attraction & theme park tickets
Official sellers’ prices for one adult admission. Select attractions in the calculator to add them to your budget.