When you’re in town for a trade show, it can be tempting to stay close to McCormick Place. However, Chicago is so easy to get around and has so much to explore that doing so would be a waste. Here are just a few things to do in Chicago when you are in town attending or exhibiting at a show.
- Chicago Museums: Chicago boasts several museums, including the Museum of Contemporary Art, the Museum of Science and Industry, the Field Museum of Natural History, and the Art Institute. There’s also the Adler Planetarium and the Shedd Aquarium. All are wonderful places to spend a day, and all are accessible via public transit. The Field Museum, aquarium, and planetarium are all located on the Museum Campus, a beautiful green space that allows you to travel from one building to the other on foot.
- Comedy: Chicago is known for comedy. It’s home to the Second City, the famous improvisational theater where many Saturday Night Live cast members got their start. A show there is absolutely worth checking out. There are also many other hot spots for comedy and a thriving independent scene. Check out the Laugh Factory, the Lincoln Lodge, and Comedians You Should Know for a glimpse of Chicago’s rising stand-up stars.
- Architectural Tours: There are many options to explore the wonderful architecture of the city. You can take a bus tour, a walking tour, or a Segway tour, but many prefer the boat tour in nicer weather. Sail along the river as your guide points out historic and architectural landmarks – it’s the best of both worlds.
- Lincoln Park Zoo: The zoo is free for all visitors, and provides a lovely and scenic walk as well as an opportunity to get up close to the animals. After, you can explore Lincoln Park or take a leisurely stroll on the lake shore path.
- Shop the Magnificent Mile: The stretch of Michigan Avenue features some of the biggest department stores and unique boutiques. Not only that, it’s a lovely walk from the Chicago River down to Oak Street. You’ll find lots to hold your attention on the way.
Chicago is large and packed with things to do. When you’re in town exhibiting, you could take a tour of the various neighborhoods Chicago is known for and have an entirely different experience every night.
