AFTERNOON 3 DAYS IN CHICAGO Get ready for a whirlwind introduction to Chicago. Our 72-hour itinerary, with a different theme for each day, is a bucket-list tour of some of the city’s must-see sights and activities. Take The Chicago Theatre Marquee Tour to learn about the landmark theatre’s history, and peek into typically off-limits areas like the performers’ dressing rooms. Or join the Lyric Opera of Chicago Backstage Tour and explore the orchestra pit and backstage areas of this art deco gem. Lovers of great writing will learn about their favorite authors at the American Writers Museum . See how their words have influenced culture and get tips on what to add to your reading list. Check the museum’s calendar to find out which authors will be featured during your Chicago visit. Also visit the Museum of Contemporary Art , which celebrates artists from the 1920s to the present. Artist guides lead private tours through your choice of galleries and exhibitions. Talks and dialogue sessions are part of the regular museum programming. DAY 1 CULTURE & PERFORMING ARTS Start your day at the internationally acclaimed Art Institute of Chicago . The museum’s impressive collection includes the world’s largest number of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist works outside of the Louvre. Explore the Modern Wing, and take time to view centuries-old paintings, sculptures, and decorative objects from around the globe. A few blocks north on Michigan Avenue, step inside the ornate Chicago Cultural Center . Take a free private group tour (advance booking is required) and learn the story behind the world’s largest Tiffany stained-glass dome. Also view Chicago-themed exhibits in the galleries and attend free concerts. Across the street is Millennium Park . Take a picture of your group reflected in the shiny Cloud Gate sculpture (affectionately called “The Bean”) and walk along paths that wind through the all-seasons Lurie Garden . Splash around in the multimedia Crown Fountain . And catch a concert at the architecturally stunning Jay Pritzker Pavilion . Stop and soak in the panoramic views at one of Chicago’s two observatories. At Skydeck Chicago in the Loop’s Willis Tower, discover the interactive museum on the lower level that features exhibits on all things Chicago, from history to food and architecture. Then, take the high-speed elevator up to the 103rd floor and step out onto The Ledge for a dizzying view of the city from a glass-floored balcony. Or head to 360 CHICAGO and try the thrilling TILT on the 94th floor of the former John Hancock Center, which literally tilts visitors over the edge of the observation deck 1,000 feet above The Magnificent Mile. Scan here to explore more group itineraries. 4 choosechicago.com/tools TODD ROSENBERG PHOTOGRAPHY MORNING Chicago Symphony Orchestra Catch a Broadway In Chicago performance at one of Chicago’s historic downtown theatres. Broadway In Chicago presents some of the hottest touring musicals and plays in the country. Classical music fans will relish the opportunity to see a Chicago Symphony Orchestra performance at Symphony Center. Famous guest artists frequently grace the stage with the orchestra, known as one of the greatest in the world. See classical and contemporary ballets performed by the Joffrey Ballet at the Lyric Opera House. The Joffrey is recognized as one of the world’s premier dance companies. For a night of laughs, attend an improv comedy performance at The Second City . Catch tomorrow’s comedy superstars at this Old Town institution. Head to the Uptown neighborhood to see an intimate show presented by the Black Ensemble Theater . The theatre company is renowned for its excellent musicals that pay tribute to African American luminaries. Based at Northeastern Illinois University in Albany Park, Ensemble Español Spanish Dance Theater company performs flamenco, folkloric, and classical dance. EVENING
Chicago Travel Professionals Guide 2023: Page 4
