The Best Things to See and Do in Streeterville, Chicago
Home to Chicago’s Magnificent Mile and the iconic Navy Pier, the Streeterville neighborhood is a must-visit during your trip to Chicago. With some of the tallest buildings in the United States, some great art museums and many one-of-a-kind experiences, here’s our guide to the best things to see and do in the Windy City’s Streeterville neighborhood.
1. Navy Pier
Navy Pier
Channel your inner child and explore Chicago’s 50-acre playground. One of Chicago’s best-known tourist attractions, Navy Pier receives over eight million visitors each year and is home to various shops, restaurants, and activities. Take a ride on the 150-foot Ferris wheel and catch one of the best views of the Chicago skyline, play a round of mini golf, or watch a movie on Chicago’s largest movie screen at the IMAX Theater. If you’re visiting during the summer, make sure to catch the fireworks show every Wednesday and Saturday night.
Navy Pier, 600 E Grand Ave., Chicago, IL, USA +1 (312) 595-7437
2. Museum of Contemporary Art
Museum
3. Oak Street Beach
Oak Street Beach
Spend your day playing in the sun at Oak Street Beach or take a stroll here after dinner and enjoy watching the sunset behind the skyline. Either way, you will be sure to enjoy this small escape from the city where you can dig your toes into the sand. Don’t forget to take a dip in Lake Michigan while you’re there!
Oak Street Beach, 1000 N Lake Shore Dr., Chicago, IL, USA +1 (773) 363-2225
4. Chicago Children’s Museum
Museum
5. Magnificent Mile
Magnificent Mile
On this 13-block stretch of North Michigan Avenue, you’ll find everything you’re looking for. From the Wrigley Building to the John Hancock Center and the Chicago Water Tower, some of the tallest buildings in the United States are situated along the western boundary of Streeterville. In addition, delicious restaurants, five-star hotels, and Chicago’s largest shopping district make this stretch well worth a wander.
Magnificent Mile, 625 North Michigan Avenue, Suite 401, Chicago, IL, USA
6. Afternoon Tea at the Drake Hotel
Hotel
7. Shakespeare Theater
School, Theater
Shakespeare Theater
Home to the Regional Theater Tony Award, three Laurence Olivier Awards, and 70 Joseph Jefferson Awards, the Shakespeare Theater is an educational, cultural, and engaging experience for everyone. With classics like Othello and Twelfth Night, the Shakespeare Theater reinvents Shakespeare’s original works and puts a fresh urban spin on them. From original beats to Hindi translations to high school slams, you surely won’t be disappointed by this one-of-a-kind Shakespeare experience.
Shakespeare Theater, 800 E Grand Ave., Chicago, IL, USA +1 (312) 595-5600
8. Chicago
Building
360 Chicago
For the best views of Chicago, go 94 floors up in the John Hancock building and visit 360 Chicago’s Observation Deck. Look out on the city from all 360 degrees and use the space’s interactive touch screens to learn about the history, architecture, scenery, and culture that is right in front of you. While you’re up there, be sure to experience the thrill of leaning over the Chicago skyline at a whole new angle as part of the one-of-a-kind Tilt. Arrive first thing in the morning for the shortest lines and fewest crowds.
360 Chicago, 875 N Michigan Ave., Chicago, IL, USA (312) 654-2892
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