Vacation rentals in Chicago

Chicago has plenty to keep kids occupied. Right along the lake on Museum Campus lie three institutions within walking distance of each other. The Adler Planetarium has the coolest astronomy shows and exhibits, while the Shedd Aquarium features majestic sharks, dolphins, whales, and other superb marine life. The kids will love the giant Tyrannosaurus Rex skeleton in the Field Museum of Natural History. How about a picnic on the clean shores of Lake Michigan to finish up? The waters are safe and excellent for swimming.

Art and history enthusiasts will have plenty of choice with the variety of art galleries and museums scattered across the city. The Art Institute of Chicago in the Loop district houses priceless Impressionist and Modernist works, and there's also the National Museum of Mexican Art in Pilsen, the Museum of Photography, the Polish Museum of America in Wicker Park, the International Museum of Surgical Science, and more. Buy the Chicago CityPASS to save money if you plan on visiting several attractions in a short span of time.

For improvisational comedy and performance art, catch a show at The Annoyance Theater, I.O., or the Playground. Steppenwolf in Lincoln Park is more serious, having hosted the likes of John Malkovich. Visit the Auditorium in the Loop for its architecture and brilliant use of performance space. For rock, blues, jazz, and spoken-word performances, the Chicago Theater awaits.

Chicago's international neighborhoods are so true-to-life, you'd be forgiven for thinking you were genuinely in another country. There's Chinatown, the Korean community in Lawrence Avenue, the Swedish settlement at Andersonville, Little Italy, Greektown, and several other international pockets. The Polish Cathedrals of St. Mary of the Angels in Bucktown and St. Hyacinth Basilica in Avondale are exquisite. Experience the different facets of the city with guided architecture walks or a river boat tour.

The world comes to Chicago for gastronomical expertise, so indulge those taste buds! Devon Avenue is the place for Indian delights, and a mix of everything is served in Uptown, including American, Ghanaian, Nigerian, Japanese, and even Swedish delicacies.

Chicago is a drinking city that is home to a record number of dive bars, lounges, and breweries, the best of them found in the Logan Square and Bucktown areas.

The city’s location makes it convenient to explore neighboring destinations on short day trips. Just a 90-minute drive will take you to Milwaukee, a city known for its breweries. The Milwaukee Public Museum, Discovery World, and Harley-Davidson Museum are popular attractions in this Wisconsin city.

Get more out of your stay at a Chicago vacation house with a trip to Starved Rock State Park. A delight for outdoor enthusiasts, this park is known for the many sandstone canyons that were created by glacial meltwater. Explore the different hiking trails through lush green areas and spend time by the waterfalls.

Another worthwhile trip is to Michigan City, just an hour away from Chicago. Spend the day visiting popular attractions like Washington Park, the Old Lighthouse Museum, and the gorgeous Barker Mansion. Family vacationers can visit the zoo and later hit the beach area for some boating, surfing, and swimming.

1. 360 Chicago Observation Deck

What better to way to see the city than from above? Travel up to the 94th floor of the John Hancock Center for stunning views of the city and over Lake Michigan.

2. Lincoln Park Zoo

The city's most popular attraction, this iconic zoo houses African apes and other interesting species. Be sure to allow for plenty of time to explore its plentiful and varied exhibits!

3. Museum of Science and Industry

At this world-class interactive museum, you'll find a life-size replica coal mine and recreated historic Chicago streets, with functional shops and other interesting querks.

4. Cloud Gate

One of the most iconic pieces of art in the United States, Cloud Gate was created by Anish Kapoor. This beautiful reflective sculpture is nicknamed 'The Bean' due to its shape, and attracts photographers from across the world.

5. Millennium Park

This majestic urban park in the center of Chicago is a great place to wile away an afternoon amidst a tranquil backdrop. Concerts, local fairs, and fun events are held regularly at the park.

6. Art Institute of Chicago

As one of the oldest and largest galleries in the country, this impressive museum showcases over 300,000 artworks. Modern art, photography, and ancient sculptures are all on display for visitors to enjoy.