Culture & History in Chicago

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Most recommended in Chicago Culture & History
Chicago Must-See In-App Audio Tour: Exploring Highlights & Hidden Gems
Chicago Must-See In-App Audio Tour: Exploring...

Whether you are a first-timer in the city or a history buff, this in-app audio tour will plunge you deep into the Chicago atmosphere and make you experience it like never before! You will start from Grant Park and walk through the must-see landmarks securing incredible stories. Marvel at the famous Willis Tower; feel the vibes of the railroad capital at the historic Union Station; relax in the shades of Millenium Park or take a selfie near Cloud Gate; admire the stunning Chicago Theatre; take in the views of the scenic Chicago Riverwalk, enjoy jazz in a cozy music club, and complete the tour at the vibrant Navy Pier. Along your way, you will hear about Chicago's turbulent history, from the Great Fire to mafia wars, and find out how it managed to become even stronger. Not only that — you will examine the cutting-edge architecture by world-famous architects, find one public work by the world's greatest artist, and witness the rich heritage of the 1893 World's Fair, which will make you feel how creative and innovative Chicago is today. The tour will guide you through the hidden gems that are often overlooked and will tell you little-known facts that even locals might not know. With this self-guided tour, you have the freedom to explore the city on your own schedule. Take your time and soak in the sights and sounds of this fantastic city. And with a detailed map, historic photos, and informative audio narration, you'll never miss a beat.

Urban Chicago: Walking Along the Iconic Historic Sites and Stunning Skyline
Urban Chicago: Walking Along the Iconic Histo...

Explore the great multicultural city with its outstanding architecture and picturesque riverfront at your own pace with this in-app audio tour. During this tour, you will discover different aspects of Chicago: its unique architecture with beautiful skyscrapers and bridges, rich history, and cultural characteristics. You'll start your tour at Michigan Avenue Bridge – the most well-known moveable bridge in Chicago, and one of the few double-deckers in the city. Then, while listening to incredible facts about groundbreaking events in Chicago, you'll walk to the Vietnam Veterans Memorial with its waterfall and a beautiful sculpture. On our way to Chicago Cultural Center, you will see the most remarkable buildings in Chicago. Take a selfie in Marina City – a complex of two cylindrical towers, known locally as the "corn cobs" due to their unique shape. Merchandise Mart will amaze you with its Art Deco architecture that reflects the optimism of the 1920s. Then, stop by the impressive Reliance Building securing the city's rich history. Finally, marvel at the largest Tiffany-stained glass dome in the world at the Chicago Cultural Center. This tour is all about architectural details, fascinating stories, and the heritage of one of the finest cities of America.

Chicago Graceland Cemetery In-App Audio Tour: Oasis of Art and Architecture
Chicago Graceland Cemetery In-App Audio Tour:...

This in-app audio tour will take you to the Graceland Cemetery, a treasury of Chicago history, art, architecture, and a resting place of many famous Chicagoans: industrialists, businessmen, and artists. The cemetery boasts monuments designed by the greatest sculptors and architects of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. You will see Martin L. Ryerson’s tomb, which combines two Egyptian styles: the pyramid and the mastaba, and other sculptures and tombs that can easily be considered architectural marvels. Also, you will learn about the achievements of the prominent people in the history of Chicago who are buried there: William LeBaron Jenney, who designed the world’s first true skyscraper in Chicago; Louis Sullivan, who is often called the “prophet of modern architecture”; Daniel Burnham, the most influential architect and urban planner in Chicago history; Philip Armour who earned Chicago’s reputation as “Hog Butcher of the World,” and many others. Despite being a cemetery, it not only serves a utilitarian purpose but represents beautiful and well-thought landscaping with a parklike atmosphere making it a haven in the city. Come and spend some time here while respectfully wandering among graves and listening to the stories about people who contributed to Chicago's grandeur.

Millennium Park in Chicago: Exploring Top Attractions With Their Starchitects
Millennium Park in Chicago: Exploring Top Att...

Millennium Park in downtown Chicago is a collection of bold architecture, public art, and landscape design hosting numerous free events for locals and visitors. This self-guided audio tour will walk you around it, and the creators themselves will be your guides. You will start at the sleek Exelon Pavilions to catch up with the green LEED program and its intricacies and learn how these green buildings benefit the city. Don't miss seeing the Harris Theater, which is 30 feet below Lake Michigan's waterline, designed by the same local firm HBRA Inc. Back on the surface, you will get tongue-tied by the swooping shapes of the open-air Jay Pritzker Pavilion, a concert venue with a one-of-a-kind audio reverb system. Next, you will enjoy a panorama of Chicago's famous Michigan Avenue architecture from the snake-like BP Bridge, the starchitect Frank Gehry's other creation. From there, you will come to explore the tranquil Lurie Garden that replicates the ecosystem of a midwestern prairie amidst the urban noise of Chicago. At Wrigley Square, you will admire the Greek peristyle-shaped Millennium Monument in honor of the benefactors who made the construction of the park possible. Finally, you will learn what the Crown Fountain, a celebrated public artist Jaume Plensa's brainchild beloved by Chicago kids, has to do with stadium scoreboards. Join the tour to experience Millennium Park's visual amenities and get inspired by creative design ideas!

Museum of Science and Industry Ticket and In-App Audio Tour
Museum of Science and Industry Ticket and In-...

This in-app audio tour gives the highlights of one of the largest science museums in the world that brings pure delight to children and grown-ups. Opened as part of the 1933's Century of Progress Fair in a building from the 1893 Columbian Exposition, the museum has always been the place where generations came to see the future of science and industry. The tour brings you to the future straightaway, "taking you on a ride" on the super-futuristic Pioneer Zephyr Train and telling you about the future of energy. You will also be able to get enchanted by the unique Coleen Moore's Fairy Castle. On Level 2, you'll be taken to the swirling world of science by witnessing the real-size tornado and burning fire in motion (it's safe!) and learn about other natural phenomena such as tsunami and avalanche. Then, you will explore the impressive collection of trains, automobiles, and planes and "dive" into the history of the famous U-505 Submarine. After witnessing ground-breaking discoveries and record-breakers in history, delve back into yourself with the You! Experience where the human body is explored from the first cell. Choose to visit the Genetics Gallery to discover the secrets of genetics and see how real chicken babies hatch. Note! This tour is not affiliated with the MSI but is provided by an independent creator. WeGoTrip is not re-selling tickets but is giving its customers assistance in ticket purchasing at no charge.

Field Museum of Natural History Ticket & In-App Audio Tour
Field Museum of Natural History Ticket & In-A...

Explore one of Chicago's most popular museums guided by your own in-app audio tour! Established in 1894, the Field Museum of Natural History holds over 35 world-renowned natural exhibitions. It's a great place to visit for all ages! This self-guided tour will take you through the museum's highlights and must-sees at your own pace. Start your journey by saying "hi" to Máximo the Titanosaur, the largest dinosaur ever discovered, and to the magnificent African elephants. Learn about giants like polar bears and dangerous man-eaters like Tsavo lions through finely elaborated dioramas, as you stroll along the Nature Walk. Then, you will get inside the Ancient Egyptian tomb and see 4,000-year-old mummies and sarcophagi that secure incredible history! On the Upper Level, you will marvel at sparkling gemstones and mysterious meteorites. Follow the steps of evolution, from bacteria to humans, at Evolving Planet exhibit. Another iconic giant will give you a "smile" here – SUE the T.rex, one of the world’s most perilous predators. Note! This tour is not affiliated with the FMNH but is provided by an independent creator. WeGoTrip is not re-selling tickets but is giving its customers assistance in ticket purchasing at no charge.

Art Institute of Chicago Ticket & In-App Audio Tour: From Ancient Works to Modern Art Masterpieces
Art Institute of Chicago Ticket & In-App Audi...

Explore the world's most remarkable art pieces at the Art Institute of Chicago with your personal self-guided audio tour. The Art Institute of Chicago, opened in 1879 and housed in a magnificent Beaux-Arts building on Michigan Avenue, serves as a school and museum for the fine arts. It hosts masterpieces by famous artists like Vincent Van Gogh, Edward Hopper, Pablo Picasso, and many others. The tour will start on the 1st floor by exploring the art of different cultures — China, Japan, India, and Africa. Here, you will discover a few pieces dating back to the Neolithic period. You will also see the artworks of Ancient Rome and Greece, the cornerstone of Western civilization. Stop by and admire the statue of the Aphrodite of Knidos, the first monumental female nude in classical sculpture. On the 2nd floor, you will be introduced to Modern American Art and European Decorative Arts and invited to the greatest collection of Impressionist artwork in the world while being guided through must-see paintings. The tour ends on the 3rd floor with a significant exhibition of Modern Art and the most renowned objects to explore. Don't miss the outdoor Bluhm Family Terrace to enjoy the stunning Chicago skyline while appreciating and living through your new art experience. Note! This tour is not affiliated with the AIC but is provided by an independent creator. WeGoTrip is not re-selling tickets but is giving its customers assistance in ticket purchasing at no charge.

Museum of Science and Industry In-App Audio Tour (Without a Ticket)
Museum of Science and Industry In-App Audio T...

This in-app audio tour gives the highlights of one of the largest science museums in the world that brings pure delight to children and grown-ups. Opened as part of the 1933's Century of Progress Fair in a building from the 1893 Columbian Exposition, the museum has always been the place where generations came to see the future of science and industry. The tour brings you to the future straightaway, "taking you on a ride" on the super-futuristic Pioneer Zephyr Train and telling you about the future of energy. You will also be able to get enchanted by the unique Coleen Moore's Fairy Castle. On Level 2, you'll be taken to the swirling world of science by witnessing the real-size tornado and burning fire in motion (it's safe!) and learn about other natural phenomena such as tsunami and avalanche. Then, you will explore the impressive collection of trains, automobiles, and planes and "dive" into the history of the famous U-505 Submarine. After witnessing ground-breaking discoveries and record-breakers in history, delve back into yourself with the You! Experience where the human body is explored from the first cell. Choose to visit the Genetics Gallery to discover the secrets of genetics and see how real chicken babies hatch. NOTE! This tour DOES NOT include an entrance ticket! Buy it at www.msichicago.org This tour is not affiliated with the MSI but is provided by an independent creator.

Art Institute of Chicago In-App Audio Tour (Without a Ticket)
Art Institute of Chicago In-App Audio Tour (W...

Explore the world's most remarkable art pieces at the Art Institute of Chicago with your personal self-guided audio tour. NOTE! This tour DOES NOT include a ticket! Buy it at www.artic.edu The Art Institute of Chicago, opened in 1879 and housed in a magnificent Beaux-Arts building on Michigan Avenue, serves as a school and museum for the fine arts. It hosts masterpieces by famous artists like Vincent Van Gogh, Edward Hopper, Pablo Picasso, and many others. The tour will start on the 1st floor by exploring the art of different cultures — China, Japan, India, and Africa. Here, you will discover a few pieces dating back to the Neolithic period. You will also see the artworks of Ancient Rome and Greece, the cornerstone of Western civilization. Stop by and admire the statue of the Aphrodite of Knidos, the first monumental female nude in classical sculpture. On the 2nd floor, you will be introduced to Modern American Art and European Decorative Arts and invited to the greatest collection of Impressionist artwork in the world while being guided through must-see paintings. The tour ends on the 3rd floor with a significant exhibition of Modern Art and the most renowned objects to explore. Don't miss the outdoor Bluhm Family Terrace to enjoy the stunning Chicago skyline while appreciating and living through your new art experience. This tour is not affiliated with the AIC but is provided by an independent creator.

Field Museum of Natural History In-App Audio Tour (Without a Ticket)
Field Museum of Natural History In-App Audio ...

Explore one of Chicago's most popular museums guided by your own in-app audio tour! Established in 1894, the Field Museum of Natural History holds over 35 world-renowned natural exhibitions. It's a great place to visit for all ages! This self-guided tour will take you through the museum's highlights and must-sees at your own pace. Start your journey by saying "hi" to Máximo the Titanosaur, the largest dinosaur ever discovered, and to the magnificent African elephants. Learn about giants like polar bears and dangerous man-eaters like Tsavo lions through finely elaborated dioramas, as you stroll along the Nature Walk. Then, you will get inside the Ancient Egyptian tomb and see 4,000-year-old mummies and sarcophagi that secure incredible history! On the Upper Level, you will marvel at sparkling gemstones and mysterious meteorites. Follow the steps of evolution, from bacteria to humans, at Evolving Planet exhibit. Another iconic giant will give you a "smile" here – SUE the T.rex, one of the world’s most perilous predators. NOTE! This tour DOES NOT include a ticket! Buy it at www.fieldmuseum.org This tour is not affiliated with the FMNH but is provided by an independent creator.

Reviews about activities in Chicago

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javier
August 2022
5
Museum of Science and Industry Ticket and In-App Audio Tour
A must if you have kids The Lego exhibit was outstanding My kids also enjoyed the flight simulator on the second floor. The area around global warming was also very good . I highly recommend the movie

FAQ

The best Culture & History in Chicago encompasses landmarks such as the Field Museum of Natural History, the Art Institute of Chicago, and the Museum of Science and Industry. Immerse in the city's past with the Chicago Must-See In-App Audio Tour and experience the architectural splendor on the Urban Chicago tour.
Beyond Culture & History, visitors can enjoy Chicago's renowned deep-dish pizza, take an architecture river cruise, catch a show at The Second City comedy club, or attend a sports event. Nature enthusiasts might love the Lincoln Park Zoo and the Chicago Botanic Garden.
The length of time spent exploring Culture & History in Chicago varies by tour. A comprehensive museum tour may take several hours, while a city audio tour typically lasts 1-2 hours, allowing ample time to appreciate the sights and immerse oneself in the narratives provided.
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