4 Star Places To Visit in Illinois, United States (50)

1. 4.5 Millennium Park (25.0k reviews)
   - Very nice park
   Saturday: 6:00 AM - 11:00 PM Spent < 1 hour Points of Interest & Landmarks • Parks
   
   
   Three square blocks of open lakefront complete with a Ferris Wheel, outdoor music pavillion and ice skating rink; expected to become one of the city's most popular sites. See more..
   
2. 4.5 Cloud Gate (18.2k reviews)
   - Visit to Chicago to take part in the Marathon.
   Spent < 1 hour Points of Interest & Landmarks • Monuments & Statues
   
   
   Nicknamed "The Bean" for its sleek kidney shape, this Anish Kapoor sculpture is the centerpiece of AT&T Plaza in Millenium Park. See more..
   
3. 4.5 Skydeck Chicago - Willis Tower (17.7k reviews) from $44.00
   - Great view of Chicago
   Saturday: 9:00 AM - 8:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Points of Interest & Landmarks • Architectural Buildings • Observation Decks & Towers
   
   
   Don't miss out on visiting Skydeck Chicago, the tallest building in the Western Hemisphere. Check out the various exhibits here before heading straight up to the 103rd floor via a 70-second elevator ride. Visit on a clear day for panoramic views through floor-to-ceiling windows, where you can even see into the states of Michigan, Illinois, Wisconsin or Indiana. For the adventurous, step out onto the Ledge, a glass box protruding 4.3 feet from the building. Skip the line at the elevator with a V.I.P pass. You can also choose the Chicago CityPASS for expedited entry, discounted admission and to combine your visit with other attractions in the city. – Tripadvisor See more..
   
4. 4.5 The Magnificent Mile (15.8k reviews)
   - Definitely worth it
   Spent More than 3 hours Neighborhoods • Points of Interest & Landmarks
   
   
   The Magnificent Mile is a prime hospitality, dining and retail destination in the heart of Chicago. This section of Michigan Avenue, running from the banks of the Chicago River to Oak Street, features more than 460 shops, from high-end boutiques like Gucci and Burberry to pocket-friendly department stores. Amid lots of shopping and fine dining options, don’t miss the avenue’s historic landmarks like the Wrigley Building and the Chicago Water Tower. You can also take a walking tour of the area to make sure you’ll cover all the must-sees or stay in a room with an impressive view of downtown Chicago. – Tripadvisor See more..
   
5. 4.0 Navy Pier (15.1k reviews)
   - A Must-Stop for your Chicago Stay
   Saturday: 10:00 AM - 10:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Amusement & Theme Parks • Piers & Boardwalks
   
   
   Opened in 1995, Navy Pier is a 50-acre scenic waterfront destination that’s home to countless restaurants, exhibitions, shops, entertainment, and more. Take a ride on the 200-foot-tall Ferris wheel, explore the interactive Chicago Children’s Museum, enjoy a free concert, or go on an art and mural hunt—all against the spectacular views of Lake Michigan and the Chicago skyline. Adrenaline seekers will love the speedboat tours; otherwise, unwind on a sightseeing cruise. Parking can be rather pricey, so it’s best to make your way there via public transportation. You'll likely pass by the pier on a cruise of the Chicago River. – Tripadvisor See more..
   
6. 4.5 Museum of Science and Industry (11.1k reviews)
   - Enjoyable Science museum with lots to see and do
   Spent More than 3 hours Science Museums
   
   
   The largest science museum in the Western Hemisphere! Housed in the only remaining building from the 1893 World’s Fair, MSI is a Chicago must-see. You’ll experience 14 acres of hands-on exhibits and have the chance to stand before a 40-foot tornado; climb aboard a World War II German submarine; take a run in a human-sized hamster wheel; descend into an Illinois coal mine; tour a fully functioning eco-friendly home; board a 727 hanging from the ceiling; transmit your pulse to a 13-foot, 3-D beating heart; and much more! MSI is not a place where you walk around quietly and observe. No way! You get involved in the fun—and learn—by doing. Just a few miles from downtown with convenient underground parking. See more..
   
7. 4.5 360 Chicago Observation Deck (11.0k reviews) from $30.00
   - Spectacular views of the Lake Michigan and Chicago skyline
   Saturday: 9:00 AM - 11:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Architectural Buildings • Observation Decks & Towers
   
   
   Located on the 94th floor of the John Hancock Center, 360 CHICAGO offers breathtaking views of Chicago’s skyline, the lakefront, and four states. It’s the only place you can enjoy Chicago’s highest thrill ride, TILT – a giant moving platform that literally TILTs visitors over the edge of the building. Relax at BAR 94 with local favorites, a large cocktail selection, and front-row seating to the city’s best views from 1,000 feet up. Explore HD interactive touch screens in seven languages and learn more about the Windy City. If you really want to experience Chicago, make your first stop 360 CHICAGO. See more..
   
8. 4.5 Wrigley Field (9.908 reviews)
   - Very good tour
   Spent 1-2 hours Arenas & Stadiums
   
   
   Get a behind-the-scenes look at the legendary home of the Chicago Cubs with Wrigley Field Tours. Built in 1914, this must-see Chicago attraction houses more than 100 years of history. New this year, fans can join us on a non-gameday Ivy Tour which includes the opportunity to take a photo in front of Wrigley Field’s historic ivy wall. See more..
   
9. 4.0 Shedd Aquarium (9.807 reviews)
   - Amazing array of both saltwater and freshwater animals from all around the world, spectacular!
   Saturday: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Aquariums
   
   
   This amazing aquarium in Chicago houses an incredible array of aquatic animals from all over the world, from sharks to penguins to adorable Beluga whales. There are plenty of interactive experiences available too, like Animal Spotlights, shark feeding tours, and animal encounters. You can even spend the night with the "Asleep with the Fishes" program. Download the aquarium's official app before you go, so you can learn more about the animals and find your way around with ease. Visit on weekdays for fewer crowds and don't forget to buy your tickets online for additional savings with a Chicago CityPASS. – Tripadvisor See more..
   
10. 4.5 Field Museum (8.854 reviews) from $68.00
    - Tired but satisfied
    Saturday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent More than 3 hours Natural History Museums • Science Museums
    
    
    The Field Museum fuels a journey of discovery across time to enable solutions for a brighter future rich in nature and culture. With almost 40 million specimens and artifacts in our collections—including SUE, the world's most complete Tyrannosaurus rex—there's something for everyone. Start planning your visit at fieldmuseum.org. See more..
    
11. 4.5 Lincoln Park Zoo (5.938 reviews)
    - ZooLights delivers with even more lights this year!
    Saturday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Zoos
    
    
    Founded in 1868, the Lincoln Park Zoo is one of the country's last free-admission zoos. There are over 1,200 animal residents, self-guided tours, and interactive activities with seals, polar bears, and penguins—check the schedule for timings. Don’t miss the Regenstein Center for African Apes—a popular habitat showcasing cheeky chimpanzees and majestic gorillas. Navigating the zoo is a breeze with multiple points of entry and wide paths to boot. Check for early closures before visiting and arrive in the morning to cover the majority of the exhibits. – Tripadvisor See more..
    
12. 4.5 Buckingham Fountain (3.410 reviews)
    - Try to Figure Out When the Tall Water Spike Shoots Up, and then Let Me Know, OK?
    Saturday: 8:00 AM - 11:00 PM Points of Interest & Landmarks • Fountains
    
    
    Chicago's landmark is considered one of America's finest fountains due to its Beaux-Arts-style landscape design, finely wrought bronze sculpture and innovative use of technology. See more..
    
13. 4.5 Chicago Riverwalk (3.057 reviews)
    - Beautiful walk in the city
    Spent 1-2 hours Historic Walking Areas
    
    
    Located on the south bank of the Chicago River, this bustling urban space is filled with public art, museums, water activities, and more. See more..
    
14. 4.5 Chicago Cultural Center (3.050 reviews)
    - Great free tour, very pretty building
    Saturday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Art Galleries • Architectural Buildings
    
    
    The Chicago Cultural Center is the nation's first free municipal cultural center and one of the most visited attractions in Chicago. The stunning landmark building, opened in 1897 as the city's first public library, is home to two magnificent stained-glass domes, and annually presents hundreds of free cultural exhibits and performances. Admission is free. See more..
    
15. 4.5 Lincoln Home National Historic Site (2.856 reviews)
    - Great NHS but it's a school group magnet
    Saturday: 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM Historic Sites • History Museums
    
    
    The only house Abraham Lincoln ever owned is the centerpiece of this four-block historic neighborhood. Lincoln and his family lived in the two-story house from 1844 until 1861, when their address changed to the White House. See more..
    
16. 4.0 Six Flags Great America (2.716 reviews)
    - A quick review of an opening weekend visit – Sunday April 25, 2021.
    Saturday: 10:30 AM - 8:00 PM Spent More than 3 hours Amusement & Theme Parks • Water Parks
    
    
    Six Flags Great America is Chicago's biggest, most popular theme park! If your family is looking for things to do in Chicago, IL you’ve come to the right place. With dozens of rides and attractions, including soaring rollercoasters and enchanting children’s rides for families with young children, live entertainment, classic dining options, acclaimed holiday shows, and special events like Fright Fest and Holiday in the Park, there’s always something new and exciting happening in the park! See more..
    
17. 4.5 Lakefront Trail (2.442 reviews)
    - Walk, Run, Bike, Stroll, your views are excellent
    Biking Trails • Hiking Trails
    
    
    The Chicago Lakefront Bicycle Trail is roughly 22 miles of bike paths, stretching from Indiana border up to Evanston. The trail rides through many parks including Jackson Park (including U of Chicago), Grant Park (including Buckingham Fountain/Museum Campus) Millennium Park, and Lincoln Park with its Free Zoo. Plenty of beaches and bike rentals available at Bobby's Bike Hike - 540 N. Lake Shore Drive, Chicago IL 60611 (free maps, helmets). See more..
    
18. 4.5 Jumer's Casino Rock Island (2.065 reviews)
    - Always a pleasant stay
    Casinos
    
    
    There’s no better place for nonstop gaming action and luxurious amenities than this Illinois Casino & Hotel. Jumer’s Casino and Hotel is equipped with the best in slots, table games, world-class hotel accommodations, amenities and dining. Jumer's amenities include a full service salon and day spa, four restaurants, gift shop, pool, fitness center and so much more! So, plan your visit to Jumer’s Casino and Hotel resort today. Your greatest Illinois gaming adventure awaits you!Recently Added: Aqua Driving Range with Floating Green. See more..
    
19. 4.5 Chicago River (2.020 reviews)
    - Amazing
    Spent 1-2 hours Bodies of Water
    
    
    We parked right at the marina and were greeted by friendly, helpful staff. Our tour guide, Hillary was outstanding, full of fascinating information about the history and the city, the buildings, and the architecture. She delivered the information in a fun, but informative way so it was never dull or boring. The views from the boat were incredible. We brought our teenage daughters and they loved it as much as we did. I highly recommend this tour ! See more..
    
20. 4.5 Lincoln Tomb & War Memorials (1.979 reviews)
    - Beautiful…. and still sad
    Saturday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Points of Interest & Landmarks
    
    
    We took our kids on a field trip, and the day we ended up here it was lightly drizzling, and overcast…fitting. It was empty and quiet. You are able to tour the building yourself, including where the majority of the family is laid to rest. It felt almost personal and emotional all alone inside. Such an amazing memory made with my kids! See more..
    
21. 4.5 Starved Rock State Park (1.600 reviews)
    - Beautiful
    State Parks • Hiking Trails
    
    
    Known for its magnificent rock formations of St. Peter sandstone, this scenic park offers many hiking and horseback riding trails plus fishing and boating along the banks of the Illinois River. See more..
    
22. 4.5 United Center (1.495 reviews)
    - Another great concert outing here!
    Arenas & Stadiums
    
    
    This modern arena replaced the old Chicago Stadium as home court for the NBA's Bulls and the NHL's Blackhawks. See more..
    
23. 4.5 Richard H. Driehaus Museum (1.455 reviews)
    - Excellent tour--do the guided tour
    Saturday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Speciality Museums • Art Museums
    
    
    The Richard H. Driehaus Museum explores the art, architecture, and design of the late 19th century to the present. Its permanent collection and temporary exhibitions are presented in an immersive experience within the restored Nickerson Mansion, completed in 1883. See more..
    
24. 4.5 Ulysses S. Grant Home (1.389 reviews)
    - Interesting glimpse into Grant's family life
    Saturday: 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM Historic Sites
    
    
    This Italianate-style brick house, with original furnishings, looks very much as it did in 1865 when a group of townspeople presented it as a gift to Ulysses S. Grant on his victorious return from the Civil War. See more..
    
25. 4.5 Maggie Daley Park (1.338 reviews)
    - Terrific free park - #1 free place in city for kids
    Parks • Playgrounds
    
    
    Having been to Chicago many times, I'd say this is the #1 free place in the city to go with 5-12 year olds (with possible exception of Lincoln Park Zoo). There are a number of free towers, slides, and other very creative places for kids to play; plenty of benches for adults to sit in, and some other options like a climbing wall and bunji jump if you want to spend a bit of $. Easy to get to on public transportation or uber. Not a "hidden" gem but definitely a gem. See more..
    
26. 4.5 Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio (1.334 reviews) from $27.00
    - Learn about an American icon
    Saturday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Historic Sites • Points of Interest & Landmarks • Architectural Buildings
    
    
    In accordance with CDC recommendations, the Frank Lloyd Wright Trust requests that both vaccinated and unvaccinated persons wear a face mask indoors at all Trust sites. (8/3/21) The Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio in Oak Park, Illinois served as Wright's private residence and workplace from 1889 to 1909--the first 20 years of his career. Today, Oak Park is home to the world’s largest collection of Wright-designed buildings. Wright used his first home to experiment with design concepts that contain the seeds of his architectural philosophy. In his adjacent studio, Wright and his associates developed a new American architecture - the Prairie style. Enjoy guided tours of the museum complex and neighboring historic district seven days a week. Trained interpreters offer insights into Wright's family life and architectural legacy. Tour details are available on the Frank Lloyd Wright Trust website See more..
    
27. 4.5 The Loop (1.258 reviews)
    - Hey it's in every Chicago movie...you simply must visit it
    Neighborhoods
    
    
    This 35-block district in downtown Chicago is the commercial core of the city and home to some of its most iconic buildings and artworks. See more..
    
28. 4.5 Brookfield Zoo (1.202 reviews)
    - nice way to spend an outdoor day...even during a pandemic
    Saturday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Zoos
    
    
    216-acre Zoo With Over 400 Species Of Animals. See more..
    
29. 4.5 Chicago History Museum (1.179 reviews)
    - Chicago Overview
    Saturday: 9:30 AM - 4:30 PM Spent 2-3 hours History Museums
    
    
    From Chicago's sports to politics, the Union Stockyards to the Great Chicago Fire - there's so much to explore at the Chicago History Museum. Dive right in with the Museum's exhibitions and programs or get out and explore the city through guided tours and events. Founded in 1856, the Chicago History Museum shares Chicago's stories, serving as a hub of scholarship and learning, inspiration and civic engagement. If you live in Chicago or visit here and are curious about the city's past, present and future, the museum should be your first stop. See more..
    
30. 4.5 Holy Name Cathedral (1.112 reviews)
    - Spectacular Catholic Church
    Saturday: 7:30 AM - 9:00 PM Architectural Buildings • Religious Sites
    
    
    Whenever we are in Chicago on a Sunday, we always attend the 10:30am mass. Feels like attending a mass in a church in Europe. Not sure what is going on with the protestors in front of the Cathedral, they have been there every time there is a mass. They don’t harass or bother anyone, but it’s a bit strange. See more..
    
31. 4.5 Medieval Times (1.003 reviews)
    - Family dinner
    Dinner Theaters
    
    
    Really great time! Food was good, staff was friendly, show was great. Lasted about 2 hours. My 8 year old loved it, my 3 month old slept surprisingly , definitely difficult to have a baby that young there as strollers have to stay away from where you sit. Wouldn’t really recommend buying the “knighting” it’s $27 for basically a picture kneeling with the Queen lol.. overall fun! See more..
    
32. 4.5 Morton Arboretum (980 reviews)
    - Lovely drive through groves of trees plus scupture
    Saturday: 7:00 AM - 7:00 PM Parks • Gardens
    
    
    Only 25 miles west of Chicago, there's something for everyone in all four seasons at The Morton Arboretum. Whether you seek a quiet hike in the woods or an active family day out, The Morton Arboretum offers a wide variety of fun activities, events, tours, and classes for all ages and interests. Here you'll find an oasis of 16 miles of hiking trails and nine miles of paved roads, perfect for hiking, running, biking or just exploring. From a guided tour on an open-air tram to the award-winning Children's Garden and Maze Garden, to seasonal exhibits and lunch in The Ginkgo Restaurant overlooking Meadow Lake, the Arboretum is a unique place to explore, discover, escape, and connect with trees and nature. See more..
    
33. 4.5 Old State Capitol State Historic Site (904 reviews)
    - Surprise inside tour.
    Saturday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Historic Sites • Government Buildings
    
    
    Painstakingly rebuilt after being disassembled in the 1960s, this Greek Revival masterpiece saw Lincoln serve as a lawyer and legislator. In 1858, Lincoln delivered his landmark "House Divided" speech in the Capitol's Representatives Hall. See more..
    
34. 4.0 Harrah's Joliet Casino (875 reviews)
    - Smaller than I thought
    Saturday: 12:00 AM - 11:59 PM Casinos
    
    
    In the heart of historic downtown Joliet, Harrah's Casino offers food and fun in the Chicagoland area! We have all your favorite Slot Machines and Table Games in an exciting yet relaxing atmosphere! See more..
    
35. 4.5 Lincoln Park (866 reviews)
    - Another great park
    Saturday: 6:00 AM - 11:00 PM Parks
    
    
    Home to the Lincoln Park Zoo, this popular park is also located in a neighborhood called Lincoln Park. See more..
    
36. 4.5 Frank Lloyd Wright's Robie House (848 reviews) from $27.00
    - Excellent and informative guided tour
    Saturday: 9:30 AM - 4:00 PM Historic Sites • Architectural Buildings
    
    
    In accordance with CDC recommendations, the Frank Lloyd Wright Trust requests that both vaccinated and unvaccinated persons wear a face mask indoors at all Trust sites. (8/3/21) The Frederick C. Robie House on the University of Chicago campus is considered one of the most important buildings in the history of American architecture. This Prairie style masterpiece is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site on the 20th Century Architecture of Frank Lloyd Wright List. Discover the residence Wright described as “a cornerstone of modern architecture” on guided tours that take in both the exterior and interior of the building. Inspired by the expansive landscape of the Midwest prairie, Wright’s Robie House is the most famous of the architect’s groundbreaking Prairie houses. Public tours are available Thursday - Monday. The museum is closed Tuesday and Wednesday. Visit flwright.org to learn more. See more..
    
37. 4.5 Garfield Park Conservatory (847 reviews)
    - Loved this place
    Saturday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Historic Sites • Gardens
    
    
    The Garfield Park Conservatory in Chicago, Illinois is one of the largest and most stunning conservatories in the world, and it’s free. We change lives through the power of nature. Often referred to as landscape art under glass, the Garfield Park Conservatory occupies approximately 12 acres inside and out, and includes cold frames and propagating where thousands of plants are grown each year for displays in City parks and spaces. See more..
    
38. 4.0 Fashion Outlets of Chicago (840 reviews)
    - A must visit in Chicago! Shopped till I dropped :)
    Saturday: 10:00 AM - 9:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Speciality & Gift Shops • Department Stores • Factory Outlets • Shopping Malls
    
    
    Arrived in Chicago and decided to spend a day to do some shopping. This outlet has EVERYTHING! Spent around five hours and bought my clothes for the year. My favourite outlets here that I recommend visiting are the Tommy Hilfiger, Coach, Burberry, Saks off Fifth and the Gucci Outlet. See more..
    
39. 4.5 Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site (816 reviews)
    - Surprisingly well made museum. Can walk up gigantic mound!
    Saturday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Historic Sites
    
    
    A sophisticated Native American society of about 20,000 people that operated via a sun calendar and disappeared by 1400. See more..
    
40. 4.5 The Chicago Theatre (800 reviews)
    - Gorgeous venue
    Spent 2-3 hours Theaters
    
    
    Chicago's breath-taking National Landmark Theatre hosts concerts, comedians, theatrical productions and special events every year. The 3,600 seat auditorium is seven stories high, and the vertical "C-H-I-C-A-G-O," sign is one of the few such signs in existence today. A symbol of State Street and Chicago, the marquee is a landmark in itself, as is the Wurlitzer pipe organ. Patrons can also go behind-the-scenes on their educational venue tour, which runs a few times a week. See more..
    
41. 4.5 Riverwalk (799 reviews)
    - Beautiful!
    Historic Walking Areas
    
    
    Such an enjoyable day. The river walk is beautiful with many attractions, murals, statues, Christmas decor along the way. The bell tower was under construction so we will have to make another stop next time we are in the area. See more..
    
42. 4.5 Illinois State Capitol (687 reviews)
    - Impressive Building
    Saturday: 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM Government Buildings
    
    
    Historic Greek Revival building that serves as Illinois' State Capitol and was the site of many cases tried by Abraham Lincoln. See more..
    
43. 4.5 Bengtson's Pumpkin Farm (667 reviews)
    - Lots of fun
    Saturday: 9:00 AM - 7:30 PM Spent More than 3 hours Cultural Events
    
    
    Bengtson Pumpkin Farm is the premier fall festival and Pumpkin Patch in the Chicago land area. Established in 1980 the Bengtson family was selling their pumpkin crop to the public from the family farm. Over the past 40 years the farm has come to include one of a kind attractions that have families returning year after year. Our farm has food options that are most easily described as award winning, not your typical festival food. Unlike many other farms and festivals these days Bengtson's admission includes unlimited access to all the rides and activities. One low price for an entire day of fun. There are many options when it comes to pumpkin patches, but Bengtson's is the only choice. Our farm is the highest rated and most reviewed farm you will find. The all new Tractor Town Adventure Ride, all paved walkways so even the newest members of the family can enjoy the farm from the stroller. Bengtson's Pumpkin Farm is an experience like no other. See more..
    
44. 4.5 Superman Statue (662 reviews)
    - If in Metropolis, a Must See!
    Monuments & Statues
    
    
    Great statue with plenty of free parking on the nearby streets. Several shops nearby have the Superman theme going. Visit the Lois Lane statue a few blocks away too! The nearby museum even has an old car and a phone booth for photos. See more..
    
45. 4.5 Woodfield Mall (643 reviews)
    - Awesome and Full of History!!!
    Saturday: 10:00 AM - 9:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Shopping Malls
    
    
    Surround yourself with fashion, food, and fun with the most distinctive collection of shopping, dining and entertainment. Woodfield has the finest collection of department stores and specialty shops in the Great Lakes region including Nordstrom, Macy's, Lord & Taylor, jcpenney, Sears and nearly 300 stores and restaurants. See more..
    
46. 4.5 Galena Trolley Tours (594 reviews)
    - A Great Way to Learn About the Ciry
    Saturday: 9:30 AM - 5:00 PM Trams • Bus Tours
    
    
    My husband and I spent 4 days in Galena. The trolley ride was the first thing on our agenda. We heard about the history of Galena as well as discovering the layout of the town The driver was knowledgeable and shared his knowledge with us. I would recommend this ride, the cost of the ride was a good value for what we received...it was also easily accessible, with parking close. We did go on the first ride of the day...that might have helped with parking spots. We thoroughly enjoyed our ride See more..
    
47. 4.5 John Deere Pavilion (573 reviews)
    - Spectacular Displays!
    Saturday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Factory Tours
    
    
    Colorful, bright, hands-on displays of John Deere tractors are delightfully arranged throughout the museum! The pavilion itself has fabulous wrought iron sculptures in the ceiling. The combine in the middle of the pavilion is ginormous...the friendly staff said the cost is 1.1 million! Visitors can sit in the cabs of the different tractors. There's plenty of educational interactive exhibits. People of all ages were enjoying the whole experience. I highly recommend this activity to all! And it's free. (Across from the Pavilion is a John Deere store...what fun but NOT free! ) See more..
    
48. 4.5 Oriental Institute Museum (559 reviews)
    - Superb Collection
    Saturday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Speciality Museums
    
    
    The Oriental Institute of the University of Chicago is a leading research center for the ancient Middle East. The museum houses some 350,000 artifacts—around 5,000 of which are on display—excavated mainly by OI archaeologists. Founded in 1919, at a time when the Middle East was called the Orient, the OI has pioneered innovative excavations and comprehensive dictionary projects that chronicle ancient civilizations. The Oriental Institute Museum aims to understand, reveal, and protect ancient Middle Eastern civilizations. See more..
    
49. 4.0 Chicago Premium Outlets (552 reviews)
    - Pretty good, but very busy. Too many people.
    Saturday: 10:00 AM - 9:00 PM Factory Outlets
    
    
    Chicago Premium Outlets is more than just a great collection of the finest designer labels and brands, it's Chicagoland's newest shopping destination. Include a shopping stop during your next trip to Chicago. Located just 40 miles west of Chicago, it's a bargain hunter's haven.Daily transportation is available from downtown Chicago's Union Station to Aurora via the Metra Rail. Take the Pace bus or a taxi shuttle to the center. Commissionable transportation is available via Chicago Trolley, Gray Line of Chicago and Windy City Limousine. See more..
    
50. 4.5 Matthiessen State Park (509 reviews)
    - This is not Starved Rock lie...
    State Parks
    
    
    This is the place to go! Starved Rock is absolutely wonderful, but when you get away from the crowds, and do a quick 2-3 mile hike up and down, this is it. Cannot recommend it enough and has half the crowds of Starved Rock. But, be aware, the hikes here start with going down like 80 steps. Then the real good hikes go further down.... It's awesome if you can do it. They have full bathroom faciliies here for people with young kids, and a neat reproduction of cabin the original owner of the land, I believe, created as a mock up for their grandkids. You can go inside it before descending the stairs and it's unique, along side the 100 person pavilion next to it. Make sure you see the waterfall on the north side of the park from both up above and down below. See more..