Chicago Landmarks

Explore Navy Pier, Millennium Park & River Walk

Explore Chicago's most famous attractions and landmarks to see what makes Chicago such an iconic and historic city. Take in breathtaking skyline views from the Skydeck at Willis Tower or the John Hancock Building's 360 Chicago, spend the day at the Art Institute of Chicago, or catch a cool lake breeze on the carnivalesque Navy Pier. Whether you're stopping by Millennium Park for your requisite selfie in front of the Bean or seeing a show at the legendary Chicago Theatre, Kinzie Hotel will put you front and center for Chicago's most important historic landmarks.

The Bean at Millennium Park near Kinzie Hotel in the evening

Millennium Park

Home to the photogenic Cloud Gate (which locals lovingly refer to as "the Bean"), the Crown Fountain (that weird fountain with the giant faces), and the Lurie Garden, Millennium Park is an essential Chicago destination for tourists and locals alike. During the summer, the park also hosts free concerts and movies at the scenic and spacious Jay Pritzker Pavilion.

Once the cold rolls in, you can rent some skates and glide across the McCormick Tribune Ice Rink under the glow of the enchanting city lights.

201 E Randolph Street | A Twelve Minute Walk from Kinzie Hotel | $5.00 - $7.00 Uber Ride

Splendid Buckingham Fountain near Kinzie Hotel at night

Buckingham Fountain

Few places say summertime in Chicago quite like Buckingham Fountain. Located in the center of Grant Park, the historic, French-inspired fountain sprays water 150 feet into the air and features dazzling lights every hour. Whether you're in town for Lollapalooza or just taking a stroll through Grant Park, don't miss the opportunity to take in breathtaking skyline views under the cool mist of Chicago's most iconic fountain.

Fountain selfies are always encouraged.

301 S Columbus Drive | A Half Hour Walk from Kinzie Hotel | $4.00 - $6.00 Uber Ride

Low angle view of Chicago Theatre Signage near Kinzie Hotel

The Chicago Theatre

There's an undeniable magic that emanates from the warm glow of the Chicago Theatre's iconic marquee. Located in the heart of the city at State and Lake, the energy and architecture of the beautiful, baroque-inspired theatre create a truly singular atmosphere for concerts and comedy shows.

Take a look at the Chicago Theatre's upcoming events calendar and experience the venue's stately charm during your next visit to Chicago.

175 N State Street | A Seven Minute Walk from Kinzie Hotel | $4.00 - $5.00 Uber Ride

Long shot of the Field Museum near Kinzie Hotel

The Museum Campus

Located on the lakefront trail between Grant Park and McCormick Place, Chicago's Museum Campus is home to some of the city's most acclaimed museums and picturesque green space.
After a day of museum exploration, take a stroll through the Museum Campus and enjoy breathtaking views of the majestic Lake Michigan, gaze upon the Field Museum's iconic pillars and stairs, and see Soldier Field's legendary colonnade.

On a sunny, summer afternoon, slate some time to sit out on the lawn of the Adler Planetarium and unwind as the Lake Michigan waves crash below.

Roosevelt Road and Columbus Drive | A Forty Minute Walk from Kinzie Hotel | $7.00 - $9.00 Uber Ride

Lion statue outside at Chicago Art Institute near Kinzie Hotel

The Art Institute of Chicago

Ranked by TripAdvisor as the second best museum in the world, the Art Institute of Chicago is home to some of history's most recognizable, inspiring, innovative, and impressive works of art. The museum features more than 300,000 pieces from every corner of the world, from ancient Egypt to the modern day.

During your visit, you'll find masterpieces from Van Gogh, Monet Georges Seurat, Georgia O'Keeffe, Rembrandt, Picasso, Andy Warhol, Salvador Dali, and many, many more.
If you've purchased a Chicago CityPASS, you'll have fast pass entry to the museum.

111 S Michigan Avenue | A Twenty Minute Walk from Kinzie Hotel | $6.00 - $8.00 Uber Ride

Aerial view of the Chicago Coastline near Kinzie Hotel

Skydeck Chicago

See Chicago from the 103rd floor when you head up to the Skydeck in the world-famous Willis (aka Sears) Tower. Step out onto the Skydeck's fully-enclosed glass ledge, look out onto four different states, and bask in a truly one-of-a-kind view of the Chicago Skyline from 1,353 feet. While you're up there, gaze out the north window, find the Merchandise Mart, scan to the right, and see if you can spot Kinzie Hotel from the largest building in the Western Hemisphere!

Don't forget: if you've bought a Chicago CityPASS, you'll have fast pass admission to the Skydeck. If you still need to buy a CityPASS for your trip, check out our Explore Chicago Package to have your CityPASS awaiting you upon your arrival to Kinzie Hotel.

233 S Wacker Drive | A Twenty Minute Walk from Kinzie Hotel | $6.00 - $8.00 Uber Ride

View of the famous Navy Pier near Kinzie Hotel

Navy Pier

Take a ride on the world-famous Centennial Wheel, see a play at the Shakespeare Theatre, or set sail on Lake Michigan when you visit Chicago's historic Navy Pier. The perfect place for day of family fun, the 3,300 foot long pier's carnivalesque atmosphere, botanical Crystal Gardens, and summer fireworks displays on Wednesdays and Saturdays make Navy Pier a must-visit if you're traveling with kids.

During the spring, summer, and fall, Navy Pier also hosts live music at the Miller Lite Beer Garden, where you can relax, sip beer and wine, and take in panoramic views of the vast Lake Michigan.

600 E Grand Avenue | A Twenty Five Minute Walk from Kinzie Hotel | $11.00 - $13.00 Uber Ride

City Gallery in the Historic Water Tower near Kinzie Hotel

Chicago Water Tower

Don't miss the chance to check out one of Chicago's most historic monuments during your Magnificent Mile adventure. Located on North Michigan Avenue, the iconic Chicago Water Tower earned legendary status in 1871 when it survived the infamous Chicago Fire. Since then, the Chicago Water Tower has been recognized as unmistakable landmark in the Mag Mile shopping district.

If you're in the area, take a look at its amazing castle like architecture and step inside to check out works from local artists in the City Gallery in the Historic Water Tower.

806 N Michigan Avenue | A Fifteen Minute Walk from Kinzie Hotel | $5.00 - $7.00 Uber Ride