Best Things To Do In Chicago: Top Attractions and Activities

Millennium Park is a must-see destination in the heart of downtown Chicago, known for its stunning public art, beautiful gardens, and the iconic Cloud Gate sculpture (better known as “The Bean”). It’s also home to the Jay Pritzker Pavilion, which hosts outdoor concerts and events throughout the year. 

Swissôtel Chicago is located less than a mile away from the park, making it easy to explore this urban oasis whenever you wish.

The Art Institute of Chicago is one of the oldest and largest art museums in the U.S., with an extensive collection ranging from ancient to contemporary art. Highlights include iconic works like Grant Wood’s “American Gothic”, Georges Seurat’s “A Sunday on La Grande Jatte”, and a vast collection of Impressionist and American art. With exhibits constantly changing, there's always something new to discover. 

If you plan on visiting the museum, make sure to stay at Swissôtel Chicago, which is located only 1.2 miles away.

Navy Pier is a bustling hub of entertainment, dining, and attractions on the shores of Lake Michigan. It offers everything from a giant Ferris wheel with sweeping city views to boat tours, museums, and live performances. It’s a great spot for families, couples, and anyone looking to experience Chicago’s waterfront energy. 

Swissôtel Chicago is conveniently located just a few blocks away (1.2 miles, to be precise), making it easy to enjoy all that Navy Pier has to offer, day or night.

The Chicago Architecture Tour offers a unique way to see the city’s skyline, famous for its bold and innovative skyscrapers. As you cruise down the Chicago River, you’ll pass architectural landmarks like the Willis Tower, John Hancock Center, and the Aqua Tower, each with its distinct design. Expert guides share insights into the city’s history and architectural evolution. 

The Chicago River is a central feature of the city's design and history, offering scenic boat tours that provide a fresh perspective on the city’s stunning skyline. You can also enjoy peaceful riverside walks along the Chicago Riverwalk, where cafes, parks, and public art make for a relaxing stroll. 

The river is just steps away from Swissôtel Chicago, making it the perfect spot to start your exploration of the city.

For breathtaking views of Chicago and beyond, visit the Willis Tower Skydeck or 360 Chicago at the John Hancock Center. At the Skydeck, step out onto “The Ledge,” a glass-floored platform, and look straight down to the streets below. At 360 Chicago, the TILT experience lets you lean out over the city from 1,000 feet above. Both attractions offer a unique perspective of the city’s skyline. 

Swissôtel Chicago is located just under 2 miles from both attractions, but offers its own stunning vistas through large windows in every room.

No trip to Chicago is complete without sampling its world-famous deep dish pizza. Known for its thick, buttery crust, layers of cheese, and chunky tomato sauce, deep dish is a true Chicago original. Some of the city's most iconic pizzerias include Lou Malnati’s, Giordano’s, and Pequod’s, where you can dive into this hearty, flavorful dish.

Located at 323 E Wacker Dr, Swissôtel Chicago offers an unbeatable central location for exploring the city’s top attractions. With easy access to the Chicago Riverwalk, Millennium Park, the Art Institute, and Navy Pier, everything is within reach. Whether you're visiting for business or leisure, the hotel’s proximity to iconic landmarks, shopping and dining makes it an ideal base to experience the best of Chicago.

At Swissôtel Chicago, large floor-to-ceiling windows offer unobstructed views of both the Chicago River and Lake Michigan. These expansive windows allow natural light to flood the rooms, creating a bright and open atmosphere while providing a stunning backdrop of the city’s skyline and waterfront. 

In the spacious rooms of Swissôtel Chicago, modern design meets Alpine sophistication. With large windows offering views of Lake Michigan or the Chicago skyline, the rooms are equipped with ergonomic workspaces, high-speed WiFi, and deep beds for ultimate comfort, making them ideal for both business and leisure.

The suites take it a step further with expansive windows and views of Lake Michigan or the Magnificent Mile. Featuring separate lounges and indulgent bathrooms, they offer the perfect space for both work and relaxation.

From breakfast to dinner, Swissôtel Chicago offers an array of dining options to satisfy every palate. At The Palm, indulge in tender-aged prime beef, traditional Italian dishes, and generously-sized Nova Scotia lobsters. Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, it's the perfect place for any occasion.

For a more relaxed and contemporary atmosphere, Amuse offers specialty cocktails and a menu crafted by Executive Chef Brian Schoenbeck, catering to a variety of tastes.

If you prefer to dine in the comfort of your room, enjoy a range of delicious options from the full in-room dining menu. This is what makes Swissôtel Chicago the ideal choice for both events and casual meals.

Whether you're in town for business, leisure, or a special event, Swissôtel Chicago's modern amenities, spacious rooms, and personalized service make it the perfect base for exploring everything Chicago has to offer. 

Plus, with Accor's ALL loyalty program, you can enjoy exclusive benefits, earn points for every stay, and unlock even more rewards on your travels. Make your trip unforgettable by choosing Swissôtel Chicago as your home away from home.