Chicago, one of America’s largest cities, sits less than five miles south of Northwestern’s Evanston Campus. On any day, students can venture from the campus and escape to the massive metropolis full of myriad museums, tourist attractions, parks, shops and restaurants. Students can discover and digest a city rich in culture and history. Accessible by El, Chicago offers plenty of sites to see and festivities to experience.

Sears Tower Skydeck

At 1,353 ft. high, the Sears Tower offers spectacular views not only of downtown but also parts of Wisconsin, Indiana and Michigan. The best time to go is after 4 p.m. when the Skydeck is least crowded.

233 S. Wacker Dr.
312-875-9696
Red line to Belmont, brown line to Quincy and Wells; walk one block west.

Navy Pier

Situated on Lake Michigan, Navy Pier was constructed in 1916 and once used as a shipping port. Now it attracts people to its numerous shops, restaurants, an IMAX Theater and more. The Ferris Wheel, one of Navy Pier’s defining features, gives great views of the city. Visitors also can see “The Taming of the Shrew” in Chicago Shakespeare’s Courtyard Theater, play miniature golf with friends or stroll in the Crystal Gardens, a garden built within a glass atrium.

600 East Grand Ave.
312-595-PIER
Red Line to Chicago; take the 66 bus going east or the free trolley to Navy Pier.

The Art Institute

One of Chicago’s most famous museums, the Art Institute displays the work of world-renowned painters, sculptors, photographers and other artists. Recent and upcoming exhibitions include Intimate Encounters: Paul Gauguin and the South Pacific (Sept. 6–Jan. 11), Dreaming in Pictures: The Photography of Lewis Carroll (Oct. 11–Jan. 11) and Manet and the Sea (Oct. 20–Jan. 19). Go on Tuesdays for free admission.

111 South Michigan Ave.
312-443-3600
Red Line to Jackson; walk a half block north to Adams walk one block east to Michigan Avenue.

Architecture Boat Tours

On a sunny day, 90-minute boat tours on the Chicago River offer a relaxing respite and interesting facts about the architecture and development of Chicago’s buildings. Tourists can see more than 100 skyscrapers during the rides, which run until Oct. 31.

312-527-1977
Red line to Chicago; take the 66 bus going east to Illinois and McClurg.