Chicago, Illinois sits on the shores of Lake Michigan and is the third most populous city in the United States, behind New York City and Los Angeles. In 2009, 39.6 million people visited the city, contributing more than $10.2 billion to the economy, according to Choose Chicago. The Windy City is home to a wide array of attractions, restaurants and shopping, making it an ideal location for a vacation.
Located in Chicago's Grant Park, the Art Institute of Chicago is home to the third largest collection of art in the United States. This must-see cultural attraction is known for its extensive collection of impressionist and post-impressionist paintings including works by Claude Monet, Pierre-Auguste Renoir, Vincent Van Gogh and Georges Seurat. Guests can also view the museum's American collection featuring 'American Gothic" by Grant Wood and "Nighthawks" by Edward Hopper. In addition to paintings the Art Institute of Chicago showcases artifacts, photography and sculptures.
Navy Pier, a 3,300 foot boardwalk located in Chicago on the shores of Lake Michigan, attracts more than 8.6 million visitors annually. Visitors can take advantage of a host of attractions including the 150-foot Ferris wheel, IMAX Theater, Chicago Children's Museum or many boat and Segway tours. The Navy Pier has a large variety of eating establishments from casual restaurants to fine dining, and guests will be hard pressed to leave without visiting one of the pier's many shops.
Open 365 days a year, Skydeck Chicago offers breathtaking views of the Windy City from 1,353 feet above street level. Named by Travel + Leisure as one of the "World's Coolest Observation Decks," the Skydeck offers a 360-degree view spanning four states. Guests visiting Skydeck in Willis Tower --- formerly known as Sears Tower --- can step out onto The Ledge, the observation deck's balcony with glass floor. Interactive exhibits showcasing the history of Chicago are also available with admission.
For those traveling with children, no visit to Chicago would be complete without a stop at Lincoln Park Zoo. This free attraction is home to a large assortment of animals including African lions, tigers, polar bears, chimpanzees and zebras. Patrons can take a spin on the zoo's carousel which features 48 artisan-crafted animals showcasing endangered and rare species. A variety of shops and restaurants are available on the premises.
