There is so much to experience in Chicago, it's difficult to know where to begin. You may want to start with an overview of the city. First, see the expanse of the Chicagoland area from 1,000 feet above at the John Hancock Observatory or the Sears Tower Skydeck. At Navy Pier, Time Escape is a 3-D motion simulation experience allowing you to travel through Chicago's history, present and future. There are a variety of boat tours departing from Navy Pier and other city locations, as well as city bus tours, which point out significant landmarks and provide interesting information about Chicago and its history. See our tours section for more tour information and see our Navy Pier section for more exciting things to do while you're there. You can even take a Chauffeured Progressive Dining Tour.

The Museum Campus, near Soldier Field, is home to The Field Museum and the Adler Planetarium, two excellent museums. See our museums section for more information. Also located at Museum Campus is the Shedd Aquarium, which is the world's largest indoor aquarium with more than 8,000 aquatic animals representing more than 700 species from all parts of the world. You can take a water taxi between Museum Campus and Navy Pier.

Two of the finest zoos in the country are located in the Chicago area and both are highly recommended. First, on the city?s north side is Lincoln Park Zoo. This free zoo is open every day of the year. While it is one of the oldest zoos in the country, it is also one of the most modern. Brookfield Zoo, located in Brookfield, Illinois, just west of Chicago, is situated on 216 acres of beautifully landscaped grounds, featuring over 2,000 animals.

No matter what time of year you visit Chicago, there is bound to be special events that you won't want to miss. Many of the special events are held in the summer, but check our the Chicago Traveler to see all that Chicago is offering during your stay. Just a few annual favorites -- the Taste of Chicago, the Chicago Blues Festival, the Chicago Air & Water Show and Venetian Night.