Welcome to Triploveria, Join us as we Exploring 6 Unique Experiences in Chicago, unveiling iconic landmarks, hidden gems, and diverse neighborhoods. From history to food and art, discover the Windy City’s dynamic charm in six extraordinary encounters. Dive into our blog for a virtual adventure through the bustling streets and architectural wonders that make Chicago a must-visit destination.
Lincoln Park Zoo
Nestled in the heart of Lincoln Park, just north of downtown Chicago, the expansive Lincoln Park Zoo spans 142,000 square meters, making it an ideal family day out. With over 1,000 animals, including monkeys, zebras, sea lions, bears, crocodiles, and hippos, the zoo provides an immersive experience in natural-looking habitats.
Established in 1868 with a pair of swans from New York’s Central Park, the zoo has expanded significantly since its inception. Home to a notorious bear cub known for nightly escapes, the zoo boasts diverse exhibits.
The Regenstein Centre for African Apes, the largest enclosure, houses chimpanzees, lowland gorillas, and other primates in almost 2700 square meters. The African enclosure features giraffes, wild dogs, crocodiles, hippos, and an indoor big cat display.
The Pritzker Family Children’s Zoo offers a kid-friendly experience with exhibits featuring owls, beavers, black bears, wolves, turtles, and ducks. The Farm-in-the-Zoo showcases farmyard animals, providing demonstrations on milking cows and insights into farm life. The Children’s Train offers a delightful ride for kids aged three to 12.
After exploring the zoo, enjoy a meal at Park Place Café for burgers and pasta, savor organic food at Wild Things café, or indulge in pizza and drinks at Pati at Café Brauer. Entrance to the zoo is free, and it remains open every day throughout the year.
Magnificent Mile
Wake up to a fantastic day ahead on Chicago’s Magnificent Mile, the heart of downtown bursting with life, shopping, delicious food, and history. We’ve got an exciting day planned for you, so let’s dive in!
Start your morning on the north side at Stan’s Donuts and Coffee (535 N Michigan Ave). Their freshly made donuts and breakfast treats, paired with a cup of their invigorating coffee, will surely get you in the right mood. While enjoying your treats, grab tickets for the day’s activities, including an architectural tour, a visit to the Art Institute of Chicago, a delightful meal at The Purple Pig, and stunning views of the Chicago skyline at 360 Chicago. Booking in advance ensures a smooth flow from one adventure to the next.
After your delightful morning, head to The Shops at North Shore Bridge for some fantastic Magnificent Mile shopping. With over 50 popular brands, you can explore to your heart’s content. Arriving around 10 AM allows you to beat the crowds and enjoy browsing through your favorite stores.
As the shopping spree builds your appetite, we’ll skip the mall dining options and head to Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria. Located on the ground floor of The Wrigley Building, Lou’s is famous for its deep-dish pizza. Whether you’re a deep-dish lover or prefer a thin crust, they’ve got you covered with mouthwatering options.
Embrace the flavors, soak in the vibrant atmosphere, and continue your adventure through the lively Magnificent Mile!
Millennium Park
Don’t miss out on Millennium Park when you’re in Chicago! This downtown gem by the lakefront is a hub of attractions, featuring the famous Cloud Gate statue, interactive fountains, peaceful gardens, and a mix of free events, public art, skating rinks, and green spaces. Experience the best of Millennium Park’s offerings.
Designed by Frank Gehry, the extraordinary bandshell stands tall at 120 feet, adorned with stainless steel ribbons and curving plates, providing a stunning setting for live performances. The pavilion boasts a top-notch sound system, giving you the feel of an indoor theater.
Whether you grab a seat or sprawl on the Great Lawn with a picnic, indulge in free events like the Summer Music Series, Summer Film Series, and lively festivals such as the Grant Park Music Festival, Chicago Gospel Music Festival, Chicago Blues Festival, and Chicago Jazz Festival. Dive into the vibrant cultural scene at Millennium Park.
Navy Pier
Navy Pier is undoubtedly one of Chicago’s coolest spots. Sticking out into Lake Michigan, it’s especially lively in the summer, treating visitors to fireworks, live music, theater shows, and daily boat rides. Even in the fall and winter, Navy Pier stays bustling with special events and activities for all ages and interests. Here’s a glimpse of the fun waiting for you at Navy Pier.
Centennial Wheel: Soaring almost 200 feet, the Centennial Wheel offers a spectacular Ferris wheel ride with comfy, climate-controlled cabins all year. It’s a Chicago icon, connecting to the city’s history from the 1893 World’s Fair. You can even book a special VIP ride in a glass-bottomed cabin.
Pier Park: Full of excitement, Pier Park boasts the amazing Centennial Wheel, the thrilling Pepsi Wave Swinger, a 1920s-inspired musical carousel, and other fun fair rides, all with stunning views of the skyline and waterfront.
Amazing Chicago’s Funhouse Maze: Dive into Chicago’s only self-paced, full-sensory maze experience at Amazing Chicago’s Funhouse Maze. Explore 4,000 square feet of tunnels, mazes, and games for a unique adventure.
Amazing Chicago’s Time Freak Game: Challenge yourself in this high-speed, all-ages game at Amazing Chicago’s Time Freak Game. Race against time to collect points and experience the thrill of this exciting game.
Chicago Riverwalk
Experience the Riverwalk’s enchanting ambiance as the sun sets, offering live music, riverside wine sipping, and starlit boat tours with shimmering lights on calm waters. It’s a perfect setting for a magical evening.
Dive into recreational delights on the Riverwalk – try Chicago River kayak tours from Urban Kayaks or opt for cruises with Wendella Sightseeing, Mercury, or Chicago’s First Lady Cruises to discover the city’s iconic architecture. Enjoy breathtaking views and dining on Odyssey’s glass-enclosed Chicago River dinner cruises. Additional boat options include Chicago Cycle Boats, eco-friendly Chicago Electric Boat Company, Island Party Hut tiki boats, and water taxis.
Explore The Jetty to understand the river’s canals and engineering marvels or cast a line from the fishing pier (don’t forget your fishing license). Bird watchers can spot mallards, gulls, rock pigeons, robins, starlings, and Peregrine falcons. Keep an eye on the calendar for bird walks and more.
Discover public art along the trail, with Art on theMART as a standout – the world’s largest video-projection art installation, showcasing curated video art Wednesdays through Sundays from March to December, 7:15 — 9:15 p.m.
navy pier ferris wheel
Enjoy the thrilling rides at Navy Pier, offering an array of exciting experiences:
Centennial Wheel:Soar nearly 200 feet, relishing jaw-dropping, 360-degree views of Chicago and Lake Michigan. Enclosed, climate-controlled capsules ensure comfort, operating year-round, weather permitting.
Carousel: Designed exclusively for Navy Pier, this carousel promises a delightful journey. Hop on a horse or hitch a ride with a frog for a whimsical trip!
Drop Tower: Thrill-seekers, brace yourselves! Experience a G-force launch followed by a heart-pounding free-fall toward the ground an adventure not for the faint-hearted.
Wave Swinger: Take flight on this exhilarating swing ride and enjoy the sensation of soaring through the air.
Light Tower: Revel in the highs and lows of this entertaining drop tower ride.
Tea Cups: A classic fairground delight, the Tea Cups promise a colorful and joyous experience for all! After your exciting rides, explore other attractions, check out the museums, dine at the pier’s restaurants, and grab a famous Chicago hot dog or souvenir. With its 50-acre lakeside wonderland, Navy Pier remains the top tourist and leisure destination in the Midwest, attracting millions of visitors annually.
university of chicago
Beyond the Bean: Exploring Chicago through the University of Chicago
Chicago boasts iconic landmarks like the Bean, but there’s a hidden gem waiting to be explored: the University of Chicago (UChicago). Step beyond the familiar and discover a world of history, culture, and unique experiences.
Robie House: Tour this UNESCO World Heritage Site, a masterpiece of Frank Lloyd Wright’s Prairie style architecture.
Bronzeville Walking Tour: Learn about Chicago’s rich African American heritage on a guided walk through this historic neighborhood.
Mandel Hall: Witness classical music performances in this renowned concert hall, known for its stunning architecture and acoustics.
Court Theatre: Catch a thought-provoking play showcasing innovative productions and diverse voices.
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