Your Guide to Downtown Chicago

The commercial core of the city got the nickname "The Loop" after it was encircled by public rail lines in the 19th century—at least, that's conventional wisdom about how the unusual moniker came into being. It's very easy to come to The Loop and never leave because of all the things to do. Here are just a few downtown Chicago attractions.

Orientation and Getting Around

The intersection of State and Madison streets marks the heart of downtown. Addresses advance in number moving away from the intersection. While much of downtown is easily walkable and cabs are everywhere, it helps to know the city's public transit system. That way you can get to those places that may be a bit far for walking or too pricey to reach by a taxi or ride-share service. Chicago's affordable public transit system, the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA), has rail and bus lines that crisscross the downtown area. You'll likely hear someone mention the "L"— a short-hand nickname for the elevated rail system.

Fun for Free

Like all big cities, Chicago can be expensive to visit, but that doesn't mean it's unaffordable. In fact, some of the best things to do in town are free. You won't have to spend a penny to gawk at Cloud Gate in Millennium Park. Unofficially called "The Bean" because of its legume-like shape, this reflective sculpture looks like a giant drop of liquid mercury. Grant Park serves as the city's "front yard" and its centerpiece, the enormous Buckingham Fountain, is a famous Chicago landmark.

The Chicago Riverwalk provides stunning scenery of historic and towering architecture along the Chicago River. For indoor fun and enlightenment, don't miss the historic environs of the Chicago Cultural Center, a.k.a. "The People's Palace," filled with artwork and cultural activities for all ages.

Going Up

At 108 stories, Willis Tower claims to be the tallest building in the Western Hemisphere. Its observation deck, Skydeck, is located on the 103rd floor. A glass ledge protrudes four feet out from the side of the building, inducing either a squeal of delight or terror from many who step onto it. Those not inclined to walk out onto a glass platform nearly a quarter-mile high can still enjoy the panoramic vistas and interactive exhibits inside. Skydeck is open every day of the year, including Thanksgiving and Christmas.

Museum Campus

At the south end of Grant Park along the shore of Lake Michigan you'll find Museum Campus, home to three of the city's most well-known cultural institutions: Adler Planetarium, Shedd Aquarium and the Field Museum of Natural History. The lakeside locale also includes a large public beach and Soldier Field, a historic stadium where the city's football team plays its home games.

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