Everything to Do in Chicago While You’re in Town for a Baseball Game

mmag0213
Jan 12
3 min read

You come to Chicago for a baseball game—but you stay for everything else. The crack of the bat at the stadium is just the beginning. Step outside the ballpark and you’ll find world-class food, iconic landmarks, lakefront views, museums, and neighborhoods that feel alive from morning to night. Whether you have one extra afternoon or a full weekend, this guide covers everything worth seeing and doing in Chicago while you’re in town for a game.

Start With Chicago’s Must-Try Foods

No baseball weekend in Chicago is complete without eating your way through the city.

Deep Dish Pizza

Chicago-style deep dish is thick, cheesy, and filling—perfect for sharing before or after a game. It’s not fast food; it’s an experience. Plan extra time and bring your appetite.

Italian Beef Sandwiches

Thin-sliced beef soaked in seasoned gravy, piled onto a crusty roll, and topped with sweet peppers or spicy giardiniera. Messy? Yes. Worth it? Absolutely.

Chicago Hot Dogs

Skip the ketchup and go all in: mustard, relish, onions, tomatoes, pickles, peppers, and celery salt on a poppy seed bun. It’s a classic for a reason.

Iconic Sights You Can’t Miss

Millennium Park & “The Bean”

Start downtown at Millennium Park, home to Cloud Gate—better known as “The Bean.” It’s one of the most photographed spots in the city and a great place to stretch your legs between activities.

Chicago Riverwalk

Walk along the river, grab a drink, and admire the architecture. This area connects easily to boat tours and downtown attractions.

Magnificent Mile

Shop, stroll, or just take in the energy along Magnificent Mile. Even if shopping isn’t your thing, the architecture and people-watching are worth it.

See the City From Above

Skydeck at Willis Tower

Step onto the glass ledge at Willis Tower Skydeck and look straight down. It’s thrilling, a little scary, and completely unforgettable.

360 Chicago at the John Hancock Center

At 360 Chicago, you’ll get sweeping lake and city views—especially beautiful at sunset.

Museums for Every Interest

Chicago’s museums are world-class, and even one visit adds depth to your trip.

Art Institute of Chicago – Famous works, beautiful galleries, and a great stop near Millennium Park
Field Museum – Dinosaurs, ancient cultures, and hands-on exhibits
Shedd Aquarium – Ideal for families and animal lovers
Museum of Science and Industry – Interactive, fascinating, and easy to spend hours inside

Navy Pier & Lake Michigan

Navy Pier

At Navy Pier, you’ll find lake views, shops, food, and plenty of space to relax. It’s a great reset after a busy day.

Lake Michigan & the Lakefront Trail

Walk, bike, or just sit by the water along Lake Michigan. The lakefront offers a calm contrast to the city’s fast pace and is especially refreshing during summer baseball season.

Take a Chicago Architecture Boat Tour

If you do only one non-baseball activity, make it a river boat tour. Floating through the city while learning the stories behind the buildings is one of the best ways to understand Chicago—and it gives your feet a break after walking all day.

Live Music & Outdoor Events

Concerts in Millennium Park

During warmer months, Millennium Park hosts free concerts and performances. It’s an easy way to experience Chicago culture without needing tickets or reservations.

Sample “Between Games” Day Plan

Time	Activity
Morning	Deep dish or Italian beef
Late Morning	Millennium Park & The Bean
Afternoon	Museum or boat tour
Evening	Lakefront walk or Navy Pier

Planning Tip for Baseball Travelers

Chicago is easy to navigate, but fitting everything in can feel overwhelming—especially around game times. For baseball-centered trips that also highlight the best of the city, www.getvacationhigh.com helps travelers turn packed wish lists into realistic, enjoyable plans.

Final Thought

Chicago delivers far more than a great baseball atmosphere. It’s food, skyline views, museums, water, music, and neighborhoods that all come together in one unforgettable trip.

When you think back on your Chicago baseball weekend, what do you want to remember most—the game itself, or everything you discovered around it?