If you're looking for that next great urban vacation destination, then Chicago has you covered. A vacation in Chicago can see trying any number of different things, and there is no shortage of great attractions to enjoy during your visit. Taking in the magnificent skyline is reason enough to visit, and if you like to shop, the word magnificent is something that you will want to keep in mind: Chic shops abound on the Magnificent Mile, which is Chicago's top shopping strip, and you can find plenty of other interesting stores spread throughout the city. Whether you're dropping in just for a weekend or planning a longer escape, Chicago vacations can more than meet your needs when it comes to things to do.

Chicago is very much a city that is defined by its different neighborhoods, and checking out the variety during Chicago vacations is recommended. No trip to Chicago would be complete without some time spent in the Loop, which is the central downtown neighborhood, as there is quite a lot to take in here. You can admire the Willis Tower (formerly the Sears Tower) from the street, then head up to the tower's Skydeck for a look down on the city. Head over to Daley Plaza, and you can check out the unnamed Picasso sculpture that has become one of the city's main symbols. Shopping on State Street can easily fill a few hours when visiting the Loop, and consider wandering over to Grant Park if you need a break from the hustle and bustle.

Those who are visiting the North Side will want to make it a point to stop in Old Town, Lincoln Park, Lakeview, and Wrigleyville, as they figure among the top Chicago neighborhoods. On the northwest side, you'll do well to visit Bucktown and Wicker Park, as well as the Ukrainian Village, which has started to make a name for itself in recent years. Heading over to the West Side of Chicago, the neighborhoods of Pilsen and Little Italy stand out among the others, and on the South Side, you might start your adventures in either Chinatown or Hyde Park. All of these neighborhoods have their own unique shops, bars, and restaurants, so you might end up spending more time in them than you anticipated, which can be a good way to create unique and memorable vacations to Chicago.

Chicago Map

Chicago is also a city of parks, and Grant Park is one of the best. It is here where big time Chicago festivals such as the Taste of Chicago and the Chicago Blues Festival take place, though you don't have to visit during a special event to enjoy the park. Other great city parks worth visiting on vacations to Chicago include Lincoln Park and Millennium Park. Further down on the South Side, Jackson Park also begs a visit, thanks in large part to the Museum of Science and Industry and the park's 18-hole golf course. Golf is popular in Chicago, by the way, so bringing your clubs along on vacations to Chicago is always a good idea.

Chicago sits right on Lake Michigan, which lies on the city's eastern edge, and in the summer time, the Chicago beaches welcome locals and tourists alike who are looking to beat the heat. Summer is also the main season of festivals in Chicago, and it's one of the best times to visit. Spring and fall are also good seasons for Chicago vacations, especially if you like baseball and can't fit a game into your summer itinerary. There are two major league teams in Chicago, and going to see the Cubs or the White Sox play is among the top things to do for sports enthusiasts.

Because Chicago is home to so many good restaurants and attractions, staying on top of your budget might be a little difficult, especially when you also consider all the fantastic shopping opportunities that this city has to offer. Budget vacations aren't impossible, however, as there are plenty of affordable eateries spread out about town, and you don't have to empty your wallet to have a fun shopping adventure. When cheap Chicago vacations are what you have in mind, visiting during the winter is a good idea. You might also check out the available Chicago vacation packages, which can save you both money and planning time. You might also consider buying a City Pass or a Go Chicago Card, as these special cards offer discounts on admission to some of the top Chicago attractions.

Chicago is a great place to visit with friends or with that special someone, and it is also a wonderful location for a family getaway. On a family vacation in Chicago, you won't run out of things to do, as most of the top attractions are ideal for all ages. Finding fun things for kids to do in Chicago is just as easy as finding fun activities for the adults, and chances are good that you will run out of time before you get around to all the attractions on your list. But if that happens, it just means that you'll have another vacation in Chicago to look forward to.