Fun Things to Do in Downtown Chicago

A trip to Chicago would not be complete without at least a little shopping. The Magnificent Mile which makes up north Michigan Avenue is a shopper's paradise. The area is filled with both free-standing stores and malls offering extra variety to the experience. Everything from small boutiques to large department stores can be found here. As you walk the streets and enjoy the sales, don't miss the opportunity to also take in a little bit of history. Towering over the avenue still resides the Old Water Tower which is one of the only remaining structures that withstood the Great Chicago Fire.

An attraction with a rich history, Navy Pier® has become a family-oriented, must-see spot when visiting Chicago. You can enjoy the fair-like atmosphere and take a ride up in the Ferris Wheel, visit the interactive Chicago Children's Museum or enjoy the beautiful gardens after browsing local shops. The area is host to many events and shows, including the Chicago Flower & Garden Show. In the summer, activities pick up and you can enjoy a drink in the beer garden, hear live music and check out the fireworks on Wednesday and Saturday nights.

There are few better ways to spend an evening in Chicago than on a dinner cruise. Accessible via Navy Pier®, you have a choice of ships and menu plans to choose from, and while lunch and brunch cruises are available, nothing can compare to an elegant dinner cruise on the Odyssey. Make your reservations ahead of time and you can enjoy an upscale three-course meal in a romantically decorated dining room, then spend the night dancing or up on the deck taking in the amazing, nighttime view of the Chicago skyline.

The ocean waters come to life at Shedd Aquarium. You can visit the Wild Reef and enjoy the spectacular, yet somewhat unnerving, view of sharks, or walk through the Waters of the World exhibit which features 90 aquatic habitats from around the globe. In addition to its exhibits, the aquarium is active in the local community through the offering of summer workshops for teen mentor programs and teacher field experience. Whatever you do, be sure not to miss a performance at the Oceanarium stage. If the stunts performed by sea life and trainer don't amaze you, the view of Lake Michigan in the background surely will.