by Sophie Vick****
Ah, Chicago.
As someone who grew up a short train ride away from downtown, I’ve come to appreciate the city more now that I’ve moved away.
I always miss Chicago but now that it’s not at my fingertips, I think about the Windy City a lot more than most of my peers think about their hometowns.
Whether it be the urban beaches in the warmer months or figure skating in front of the notorious Bean, there’s never a shortage of things to do in this midwestern city. So I’m here to enlighten those who have not experienced the magical city that is Chicago.
Millennium Park
Millennium Park is one of the top tourist attractions in the city, but it earned that title for a reason. In the winter you can figure skate in front of the metal structure that is known as the Bean, and during the summer you can run through the Face Fountains to cool off. The park is also home to the Jay Pritzker Pavilion, which holds concerts, events and even movies.
The Magnificent Mile
Michigan Avenue is the place to go if you’re looking to get some shopping done. Known for its line of upscale shops, it’s the perfect spot to window shop. The north end of the street is home to Water Tower Place, a downtown shopping center packed with restaurants and a ton more stores where you can spend hours on end wandering around.
Wrigley Field
Built in 1914, this 106-year-old stadium is one of Chicago’s prized possessions. A summer staple in the city is a weekend Cubs game where you’re sure to have a good time with friends while eating someclassic ballpark food. Located in the heart of Wrigleyville, the stadium is a huge attraction for baseball fans and is a prime bar hopping location to celebrate the Chicago Cubs’ big wins.
Navy Pier
Always along the side of Millennium Park for best Chicago spots, Navy Pier is another one of Chicago’s unique attractions. It’s open all year round so you can always find something to do there. The Navy Pier ferris wheel has one of the best views of beautiful Lake Michigan, so if you’re looking for a scenic photo op this is definitely your spot!
Lake Michigan
Personally, I think of Lake Michigan as a defining feature of Chicago. It shaped my childhood in more ways than I can even articulate. This may seem dramatic but it is single-handedly one of the prettiest bodies of water this world has to offer. It’s crystal clear, absolutely huge, and ridiculously refreshing. When people ask me why I love the lake so much, I simply say “it’s a freshwater ocean, what more can you want?”
Lollapalooza
A world famous music festival in your backyard? What could be better than good music and even better food? Every summer music lovers from all over the world flock to Grant Park in the heart of the city to hear outstanding lineups of musicians play. Taking place in early August, Lollapalooza is always the signal that summer is coming to a close, but what a way to end the best time of the year!
The Museum Campus
Located right along the lake, Museum Campus has attractions for everyone. Home to the Field Museum, Adler Planetarium, and the Shedd Aquarium it’s obvious why tourists come in drones. Not only are there three award-winning museums all right next to each other, it’s also a great place to see Chicago’s unique skyline and take stunning pictures.
Maggie Daley Park
One of Chicago’s newer attractions, Maggie Daley Park is a playground on steroids. Featuring huge structures, a climbing wall, and a ribbon-shaped figure skating rink, it’s a great place to spend the day. Once you’re done taking pictures by the Bean, walk across the bridge above Lake Shore Drive and explore more of Chicago’s parks.
If I haven’t convinced you that Chicago is a must-see city, I guess you will have to see for yourself. These eight Chicago attractions are sure to make you fall in love with the city and keep you coming back for more.
Oh and one more thing…
When you visit Chicago and inevitably end up becoming obsessed, please, for the love of god, don’t become a White Sox fan.
CougarBuzz 
Great post…last line is the best!