Cheap Flights to Chicago – Explore the City on a Budget
Chicago is among the best cities in the USA. Crowned with the international reputation of being a 20th-century art and architecture center, Chicago invites you to its spectacular attractions. This culturally rich and vibrant destination is also known as the Windy City.
Over the years it has earned much more to its fame. No wonder, tourists are teeming from all over the world to marvel at its hotspots. From museums to skyscrapers, Chicago surprises you with its host of attractions.
So, are you ready for a trip of a lifetime? Here are the best attractions that await your visit in Chicago. Are you excited but having budget woes? Not anymore. Book cheap flight tickets to Chicago and enjoy an affordable trip. And what’s more, tips to find cheap flights to Chicago are also mentioned. Scroll down for hotspots and tips.
Top 8 Places to Visit in Chicago
The beautiful city that Chicago is, attracts you to its wonderful places to have gala time. Attractions here are topped with a generous dollop of fun and times to treasure. Most of the attractions are open everyday and offer free entry! What else could you wish for when enjoying a vacation?
Here is a countdown of the most loved attractions of Chicago.
8. Museum Campus
The Museum Campus houses three world-class museums, namely the Field Museum, the Shedd Aquarium, and the Adler Planetarium. Marvel at natural history, marine life, and astronomy existing together here.
Timings – 6 AM to 11 PM
Entry Fee –
- Field Museum – $18 to $29
- Shedd Aquarium – $19.95 (approx.)
- Adler Planetarium –
- 3 to 11 years old – $8.00
- Adults – $19.00
7. Lincoln Park Zoo
Situated in Lincoln Park, locals and tourists equally love this zoo. It houses a wide variety of animals and offers educational programs and events throughout the year. Relive your childhood memories here.
Timings – 7 AM to 4:30 PM
Entry Fee – Free
6. Chicago Riverwalk
This scenic promenade along the Chicago River offers a visual treat, outdoor dining choices, and entertainment options. The Riverwalk is a great place for a leisurely stroll or to enjoy a boat tour along the river. And after sunset, marvel at the illuminated city reflecting in the river.
Timings – 6 AM to 11 PM
Entry Fee – Free
5. The Magnificent Mile
Stretching along Michigan Avenue, the Magnificent Mile is a premier shopping destination with upscale boutiques, department stores, restaurants, and luxury hotels. It is also home to iconic landmarks like the Chicago Water Tower and the John Hancock Center.
Timings – Open 24 hours
Entry Fee – Free
4. Willis Tower Skydeck
Formerly known as the Sears Tower, the Willis Tower is one of Chicago’s most iconic skyscrapers. Visitors can reach the Skydeck on the 103rd floor in an elevator, while admiring the breathtaking panoramic views of the city.
Timings – 9 AM to 9:30 PM
Entry Fee for Visitors –
- 12 years old and above – $30.00 to $44.00
- 3 to 11 years old – $22.00 to $36.00
- Under 3 years old – Free
3. Art Institute of Chicago
Celebrated for its vast collection of artworks along with the famous works such as American Gothic by Grant Wood and The Bedroom by Vincent van Gogh, the Art Institute of Chicago sends a warm invitation to art lovers from across the continents.
Timings –
- Monday – 11 AM to 5 PM
- Tuesday–Wednesday – Closed
- Thursday – 11 AM to 8 PM
- Friday–Sunday – 11 AM to 5 PM
Entry Fee – Free for kids and members. For others, check the table below –
Visitor Types | Fast Pass | Chicago Residents | Illinois Residents | General Admission |
Teenagaers ( 14 to 17 years) | $34 | Free | $21 | $26 |
Students | $14 | |||
Adults | $40 | $20 | $27 | $32 |
Senior Citizens (65+ years) |
Source: https://www.artic.edu/visit
2. Navy Pier
Located on the shores of Lake Michigan, Navy Pier offers breathtaking views of the city skyline. It has a Giant Ferris Wheel, shops, restaurants, and a beer garden, among various entertainment options. Listen to live music or attend a classic play at the renowned Chicago Shakespeare Theatre.
Timings –
- Sunday to Thursday – 11 AM to 9 PM
- Friday and Saturday – 11 AM to 10 PM
Entry Fee – You can visit Navy Pier for free. However, attractions within Navy Pier have their own tickets. Check for their specific prices.
1. Millennium Park
This is Chicago’s iconic park that houses the famous Cloud Gate sculpture. It also features beautiful gardens, sculptures, and hosts various concerts and events throughout the year. The place exudes cheerful weekend vibes. Fascinating sculptures and contemporary installations throughout this 25-acre park will amaze you.
Timings – 6 AM to 11 PM
Entry Fee – Free
Please note
Ticket prices are subject to change.
Chicago is not just about these attractions. The city also has a tempting food scene, lively theaters, and sports venues. To add, its vibrant neighborhoods such as Little Italy, Wicker Park, and Chinatown also keep you on your toes.
Now that you have taken a quick virtual tour of the city, let’s see how to fly to Chicago at cheap flight fares.
How to Find Cheap Flights to Chicago?
To find cheap flights to Chicago, you can follow the tips mentioned below –
Use flight search engines
Use trustworthy search engines to find the best flight fares. These platforms compare prices across multiple airlines and provide you with a list of available flights to Chicago.
Be flexible with your travel dates
Having flexible travel dates help you get varied prices as per your travel plans. Consider flying on weekdays or during off-peak seasons to find cheaper fares.
Set up price alerts
With shortlisted travel dates, you can set up price alerts on flight search engines. When Chicago flight ticket prices drop, you get notifications and can book tickets at the lowest fares possible.
Consider nearby airports
Chicago has multiple airports such as O’Hare International Airport (ORD) and Midway International Airport (MDW). Check for cheaper flights to Chicago to nearby airports.
Look for budget airlines
Some budget airlines might offer lower fares to Chicago. Be sure to check the websites of such airlines that often have competitive prices.
Book in advance
As the departure date approaches, flight fares increase. So, book your tickets in advance to get cheaper fares.
Check for airline promotions and deals
Look out for airline flash sales, discounts, promotions, or special deals. Follow the social media channels of the chosen budget airlines or sign up for their newsletters to stay updated on what they are offering for flights to Chicago.
In Conclusion
Ready to have a great time during your Chicago trip? And why not? With a plethora of tourist hotspots, cultural attractions, shopping choices, and vibrant artworks, the city casts a spell that you can’t escape.
So, gear up to explore its myriad attractions, dotted all over generously that will surely bowl you over. Which one are you visiting first?
