Whether it's raining, snowing or you just want to do something indoors for a change, Chicago has multiple options for activities that will keep a roof over your head. Parents on vacation with their children or local Chicagoans can find refuge inside, but remember to wear comfortable clothes in case you have to turn your coat in at a coat check.
If you don't mind being on your feet for a few hours, check out one of Chicago's many museums. The Field Museum is ideal for history buffs who want to see dinosaur skeletons, while the Museum of Science and Industry offers more hands-on interactions with exhibits about the wonders of science. Art lovers have two excellent choices: the Museum of Contemporary Art for modern art fans, and the Art Institute of Chicago, which contains many original pieces of art history. All of these museums are open year-round, with varying free days.
Field Museum
1400 South Lake Shore Drive
Chicago, IL 60605
312-665-7683
fieldmuseum.org
Museum of Science & Industry
5700 South Lake Shore Drive
Chicago, IL 60637
773-684-1414
msichicago.org
Art Institute of Chicago
111 South Michigan Avenue
Chicago, IL 60603
312-443-3600
artic.edu
Museum of Contemporary Art
220 East Chicago Avenue
Chicago, IL 60611
312-280-2660
mcachicago.org
Two of Chicago's most exciting sports teams play at the United Center. The Chicago Bulls and the Blackhawks both offer high-energy entertainment for all ages. Families, friends and couples all come to the United Center to experience some of the best indoor athletic events in the Windy City.
United Center
1901 West Madison Street
Chicago, IL 60612
312-455-4500
unitedcenter.com
After a walk down the Magnificent Mile, the John Hancock building awaits with an incredible observatory on its top floor. If you're over 21, head one floor down to the Signature Room on the 95th, which serves food and drinks while offering a stunning view of the lake and skyline. If you want to experience the highest man-made point in America, head up to the Skydeck of the Willis Tower (formerly the Sears Tower). They even built an encased glass ledge that lets sightseers step a few feet out, allowing a perfect look directly below at the city street.
Willis Tower Skydeck
233 South Wacker Drive
Chicago, IL 60606
312-875-9696
theskydeck.com
Hancock Observatory
875 North Michigan Avenue
Chicago, IL 60611
888-875-8439
hancockobservatory.com
