There are many cultural items from Chicago that have been taken outside of the Windy City. How about Chicago style Pizza or hot dogs? What about Chicago style jazz and blues? Among so many Chicago styled things, you can't help but wonder what is real authentic Chicago style? Don't be mistaken by frauds who claim to offer the best of Chicago, let Executive Coach of Chicago take you, your group and or sightseeing tour to the best of the best of Chicago.
Chicago is an amazing city, to learn, live and have a GREAT time - No matter what the purpose for your visit is, we can help you get what you need out of it.
This is why we have compiled a list a few amazing things to do and see while in Chicago.
(in no particular order...)
Baseball- America's past time! How could you not be interested in going to one of America's longest standing ball parks? Wrigley field is the second oldest operating baseball park in the world and has been standing since 1914. The crowd and excitement bring to life one of Chicago's greatest pieces of history and culture. Even folks that are not fans of baseball will find themselves caught up in the action and pride of being a Cubs' fan. Cubs' games are good for all ages and people; so visit the Cubs website to see if they're playing while you're in town and look for group ticket sales starting as low as $8.00, discounts and special days for the games.
The Magnificent Mile is the ultimate shopping destination for both Chicago residents and visitors. The Mile Long stretch of Michigan Avenue is home to over 460 stores and boutiques, 200 amazing restaurants, and plenty of places to stay. Trying to hit up every store in 1 day (shopping for a straight 24 hours) would only allow you just over 3 minutes to shop in each store and that is without stopping to rest or eat for lunch. Instead, grab a map of the Magnificent Mile and plan out your day by picking out the stores, restaurants and places you would like to see and then either walk, take a taxi, charter or boat throughout the stretch. Your time can easily be maximized at the magnificent mile with some simple planning and preparation.
The Shedd Aquarium is the perfect opportunity to take advantage of learning and having fun. With seven different exhibits displaying real aquatic wildlife from all over the world, this profound establishment is sure to capture the attention of anyone. Starting back in the 1920's, this aquarium has grown from a simple display to a preservation of worldwide aquatic life. They display hundreds of different kinds of animals including penguins, dolphins, whales, sharks, and even anacondas crocodiles and piranhas. Complete this adventure with live dolphin shows and a polar play zone, this opportunity is one that shouldn't be overlooked while planning your trip to Chicago.
Roller coasters, food, games, shows, shopping and swimming? Need we say more? This park is not just for the youthful adventure seeker but also for families with younger children. Six Flags Great America has almost 60 rides for all ages and thrill ranges; from mild children's rides to extreme thrill seeking roller coasters. The entertainment at this theme park is also fantastic. Every summer they host new concerts, shows and parades with countless opportunities to get friends and families involved with the shows. Check with the Six Flags website to see what kind of discounts they can offer for single or group rates during the time you will be there.
Formerly known as the Chicago Historical Society, this establishment is filled with artifacts that are sacred to the history of Chicago, Illinois and the United States. One of the most esteemed presidents in the History of the country, Abraham Lincoln, is held in high regards at the museum with his own exhibit about the coming of his decision to free slaves as well as real artifacts such as his death bed. The Chicago History Museum is also filled with amazing art, interactive exhibits. If you're going there with a group, they have made it very easy to schedule a guided tour in which you can have your group be led through every exhibit and have riveting discussions and explanation that may not have happened otherwise. You'll surely be surprised at the quality of the exhibits from the moment you walk in the door of the Chicago History Museum.
The Hancock Observatory is the best 360 degree view of Chicago around. This skyscraping birds eye view of the Windy City gives you the ultimate opportunity to view the entire city from above with this visit. The observatory tools for visitors to use are interactive and innovative with a free guided multimedia tour, a skywalk that takes you 94 stories above the Magnificent Mile, a sound scope which zooms in on what you're looking at to capture the sounds of that area and an in-depth history wall. You and your group can make an entire day out of the Hancock Observatory and come home with "daring pictures" of everyone on the edge of the building, pictures of your groups' faces going up the elevators and souvenirs. Make sure to visit their website and arrange for your group to come and see the Hancock Observatory.
As a part of the massive Chicago Park District, Millennium Park is one of the main highlights of the district. Known for its breathtaking gardens, art and architecture, Millennium Park also hosts tons of activities, festivals and concerts throughout the year. Based on what time of year you are coming to Chicago there will be something amazing for you and your group to do. It has also proven to be a great place to stop and relax for a little while to have some lunch or debrief your group. It's a refreshing and relaxing thing to stop and take some time to walk through the 24.5 acres of Millennium Park. It's a highly recommended to see if there is anything going on during your time here in Chicago.
Located just off the shore of Lake Michigan, Navy Pier will be the location in which you can see fireworks at night from all over the city. The attractions, celebrations and festivals have been going on at Navy Pier for over ten years and every year they seem to be getting a little bit better. If you don't walk up during fireworks, the first thing that you will see is the giant Ferris wheel which goes up 150 feet in the air. The Navy Pier has over 50 acres of shopping, dining, entertainment and unpredictable adventure like guided Segue tours. Festivals and exhibits go year round at the fairly new Navy Pier and there will always be something incredible to discover for you and your group.
In 1974, being the tallest building in the world, the Willis Tower stands at a gaping 1451 feet in the air. The Skydeck observation allows visitors to view up to 50 miles from that point which stands 1353 feet in the air. The Skydeck experience comes complete with interactive kiosks, high powered telescopes, kid friendly views and is internationally friendly too. Ask about guided tours at the Willis Tower Skydeck to get more out of the experience than the quick facts of a brochure. Going this high in the air is an adventure all in itself, as assuredly as safe as this tour is, some folks may not do well with the height of the building, so be sure to accommodate for all of your group members that may be sensitive to heights.
