Chicago, Chicago… It’s YOUR Kind of Town (Joytravel.com style!)

 If you want art, architecture, entertainment and beauty all within one city, Chicago just might be your answer. Boasting everything from famous skyscrapers (John Hancock Center) and landmarks (Sears Tower – now Willis Tower) it’s not uncommon to spend the day at a museum and the evening at the theater. We could go on and on, but why not just peruse the list below and call JoyTravel.com to book an amazing Chicago adventure?

Shopping and Entertainment: 

Magnificent Mile
From rivers and old architecture to luxurious strolling and shopping, the Magnificent Mile is considered one of the most upscale consumer adventures in Chicago. It’s located on the Chicago and can easily take up an entire day’s worth of site seeing – from people watching to a variety of upscale restaurants.

Parks, Architecture and Landmarks:

Grant Park
Featuring such main attractions as Millennium Park, the Art Institute of Chicago, and Buckingham Fountain, this city sprawled greenery is lined with fountains and rivers. It’s akin to Central Park but with more buildings, apartments and businesses. 
Chicago Water Tower
One of the only relics to survive Chicago’s great fire of 1871, the Chicago Water Tower is now considered a national landmark. It’s old history nestled among modern shopping complexes.
Michigan Avenue Bridge
Considered a true Chicago landmark, the Michigan Avenue Bridge (along with the Wacker Drive Esplanade) was designed in the 1920’s as a way to improve waterway transportation. Come for the beautiful views of the water as well as to see the impressive statues, plaques and artwork.
Chicago Park District
For those looking for a little beach, park and even golfing, the Chicago Park District offers over five hundred and eighty parks to choose from. Each has its own flare and is a true favorite for kids and the young at heart.
Skydeck Chicago
If you’re stopping at the Sears Tower (and we highly recommend you do) you must stop on the hundred and third floor. From this height you can enjoy extended views of the city from observation boxes. Not only will you get a clear view of Chicago but a view of four states!
Maggie Daley Park
This twenty-acre public park resides adjacent to Lake Michigan near North Eastern Grant Park. It’s especially beautiful in springtime!

Zoos and Aquariums:

Lincoln Park Zoo
This zoo is a favorite with locals and tourists alike. It is very small, but it’s also free, and features a hands-on farm, too! Stop in on your way to shopping or dining and visit the lions, reptiles, primates and more.
Shedd Aquarium
This indoor aquarium features incredible views of Lake Michigan. It has a wide variety of fresh and saltwater fish and is a great way to learn about the local wildlife.
Brookfield Zoo
Don’t think lions, tigers and dolphins reside in Chicago? Think again. This wildlife reserve features animals in a “natural” indoor/outdoor environment.

Museums:

Museum of Science and Industry
If you and the kids like hands-on education, this is the museum for you. It features everything from child-friendly science activities to more adult oriented industrial workshops and exhibits.
Art Institute of Chicago
If you were to visit one museum in Chicago, this would be it. Featured in a plethora of movies and television shows thanks to its famous lion statues out front, this museum has a lovely cross section of modern and ancient art.
Adler Planetarium
The Griffith Park Observatory has competition with their interactive stargazing experiences. Come for the exhibits and big tech sky shows, but stay for the views of the lake.
Chicago Children’s Museum
If you want a museum specifically for kids, check out the Chicago Children’s Museum located on Navy Pier. There’s plenty of activities for young kids to get their hands on.

Theater and Music:

Look out New York and L.A. – Chicago has a worldwide reputation for its classic music and theater venues. Just a few to consider checking out include:
Chicago Tribune (a 3600 seat French Baroque masterpiece)
Chicago Symphony Center (famous for its classical and jazz concerts)

Water & Attractions:

Due to Lake Michigan, it’s not surprising that Chicago has a ton of water activities to enjoy. A few include:
Navy Pier (Carnival rides, fireworks, shops and more!)
North Avenue Beach (Casual dining, sand and shops)

Contact Joy Travel Today!
For a vacation packed with art, entertainment and incredible views, let us book you a trip to Chicago today!