Central Chicago Travel Guide
Tourist Guide
Visit Central Chicago
Where to stay in Central Chicago
Magnificent Mile
Are you interested in fascinating museums, panoramic lake views and popular shops? A visit to Magnificent Mile might be the perfect thing. You can also explore top sights like Michigan Avenue and Chicago Water Tower.
River North
Known for its fantastic nightlife, stunning river views and popular shops, there's plenty to explore in River North. Top attractions like Merchandise Mart and Bally's Casino Chicago are major draws. Catch the metro at Merchandise Mart Station or Chicago Station (Brown Line) to see more of the city.
Theatre District
While you're in Theatre District, take in top sights like Michigan Avenue or State Street, and hop on the metro to see more of the city at Washington Station or Monroe Station (Blue Line).
Streeterville
Michigan Avenue and Navy Pier are just a few worthwhile attractions to visit in Streeterville. Travellers also love the fascinating museums, panoramic lake views and popular shops.
Near North Side
Known for its fascinating museums, panoramic lake views and popular shops, there's plenty to explore in Near North Side. Top attractions like Michigan Avenue and Navy Pier are major draws. Catch the metro at Clark-Division Station or Chicago Station (Brown Line) to see more of the city.
Gold Coast
The ample dining options and fantastic lake views are top of the list for many visitors to Gold Coast. A stop by Michigan Avenue or Lake Michigan might round out your trip.
Congress Plaza Hotel
"Bath tub didn’t drain, elevator/s didn’t work, we could hear the people next door like there weren’t even walls in between us."
Reviewed on 31 May 2026
Hotel Riu Plaza Chicago
"Great location, nice room, great buffet breakfast with very attentive and friendly staff."
Reviewed on 31 May 2026
The Chicago Hotel Collection - Magnificent Mile
"Great location for shopping. Well maintained, slightly dated rooms."
Reviewed on 31 May 2026
Sentral Michigan Avenue
"Great location"
Reviewed on 29 May 2026
Kasa Magnificent Mile Chicago
"Perfect stay"
Reviewed on 31 May 2026
Level Chicago – Old Town
"Staff was amazing and the apartment building was phenomenally clean!"
Reviewed on 28 May 2026
Popular places to visit
Michigan Avenue
You can find the perfect gifts to bring home when you visit Michigan Avenue, a popular shopping spot in Chicago. Amble around this vibrant area's riverfront and enjoy its top-notch restaurants.
McCormick Place
During your trip, find out what's happening in McCormick Place, a top convention centre in Chicago. Discover the acclaimed art galleries and notable monuments in this vibrant area.
Navy Pier
With a visit to Navy Pier, a favourite shopping spot in Chicago, you can search for that perfect souvenir. Amble around this vibrant area's lakeside or experience its fascinating museums.
Millennium Park
After visiting Millennium Park, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in Chicago. Stroll along the riverfront or experience the entertainment choices in this vibrant area.
Soldier Field
Catch an event at Soldier Field during your trip to Chicago. Stroll along the lakeside or visit the notable monuments in this vibrant area.
Chicago Riverwalk
After visiting Chicago Riverwalk, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in Chicago. Stroll along the riverfront in this vibrant area or visit its top-notch restaurants.
- McCormick Place
- Millennium Park
- Soldier Field
- Grant Park
- Willis Tower
- Art Institute of Chicago
- Merchandise Mart
- Water Tower Place
- Cloud Gate
- Northwestern Memorial Hospital
- 360 CHICAGO
- 875 North Michigan Avenue
- Chicago City Hall
- CIBC Theatre
- Northerly Island Natural Area
- Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago
- Cadillac Palace Theatre
- Bally's Casino Chicago
- Dearborn Station
- Auditorium Building and Theatre
- Buckingham Fountain
