Every big city has its own unique personality – New York is vivid with energy, culture and bustling city streets; Los Angeles is a place to see and be seen, basking in the shade of palm trees and home to big dreamers; San Francisco hums with the creativity of artists and poets, streetcars and the intersecting voices of dialects from around the world. Chicago’s personality has some of the same elements as those other famous cities but it shines all on its own and beckons over 55 million visitors each year. If you are looking for a destination that will blow you away, look no further than the Windy City.

Looking for some Chicago experiences that will have you wanting to return? We can help with that. Even better, we’ll help you find where to park in Chicago so you can focus on your epic visit and leave the worry and stress behind.

Must-Do’s in Chicago & Where to Park

Millennium Park

You’ve probably seen it in shows and movies – a gigantic, lima bean-shaped sculpture made of shiny metal that reflects the buildings, trees, people and weather all around it. Although the actual title is “Cloud Gate”, the sculpture is affectionately called “The Bean” for obvious reasons. It is 66 feet long, 42 feet high, 33 feet wide and weighs 100 tons. Plus it makes for an ideal selfie backdrop. #meandthebean This is just one of many sculptures and other art installations in Millennium Park, where you can also experience free cultural programs, concerts, and seasonal events. With your ParkMobile app, you’ll be able to find where to park in Chicago close to this cultural hub – there’s a parking lot located at 25 North Michigan Ave., right at Millenium Park.

360 Chicago Observation Deck

What better way to see an entire city than from 1,000 feet up? From the 360 Chicago Observation Deck in John Hancock Center, you’ll be able to see the city skyline, lakefront shoreline, and four different states at once! For the more adventurous types (in other words, those without fear of heights) there’s even a platform that tilts visitors over the edge of the building. Are your palms sweating yet? After all that excitement, you just might need a cocktail in BAR 94, where you can also learn about the Windy City using interactive touch screens located throughout the bar. We’ll make it easy to find where to park in Chicago – the Westin Garage is located just across the street on E. Delaware Place (you can even reserve your spot ahead of time).

The Magnificent Mile

This tourist is attraction is, well, magnificent. And it’s about a mile long. Surprised? We didn’t think so. The Magnificent Mile is a 13-block stretch of hotels, shops, restaurants and entertainment hotspots from the banks of the Chicago River to Oak Street. Wear some comfortable walking shoes, come hungry and bring your savings because this is a location that literally has everything you could possibly want to buy, taste or experience. Get this: there are 460 stores, 60 hotels, 275 restaurants and more entertainment possibilities than you can handle (word to the wise – prioritize). One great thing about using ParkMobile in the Windy City is that you can find Zone Parking wherever you go, so no matter where you decide to stash your ride along the Magnificent Mile, simply open your app and you’ll find where to park in Chicago.

House of Blues Chicago

If you read our blog on Hanging Out at Boston’s House of Blues, you’ll know that the original House of Blues was in Cambridge, MA but that one of the founders was none other than Dan Aykroyd, aka Elwood Blues from the famous Blues Brothers movie which took place in Chicago. That might seem a little round-about, but the connection between Chicago and the heart of blues music is direct and solid. There is even a specific musical genre called Chicago Blues, which started in the 30s and 40s and includes artist legends such as Muddy Waters and Buddy Guy. The House of Blues Chicago showcases artistic talents across the entertainment spectrum, as part of its commitment to celebrating the diversity and brotherhood of world culture.

Check out these artists gracing the House of Blues stage in January, and count on us for parking right at the venue (no need to search endlessly for where to park in Chicago) –

  • Ripe National Tour: Jan. 18
  • Black Pumas: Jan. 25
  • The Adicts: Jan. 29
  • Earthgang: Jan. 31

Soldier Field

During football season, Soldier Field is home to the Chicago Bears but other times of the year there are concerts and other events that make this venue one not to miss, no matter when you visit. Care to watch mind-bending acrobatics and daredevil stunts that will have you holding onto your seat and holding your breath? Check out Cirque du Soleil: Alegria, happening in June. Watch as seemingly impossible strength and grace weave together with powerfully beautiful music to tell a story of striving for a better and brighter tomorrow. Count on us to know where to park in Chicago ahead of time – right at the venue! Keep the magical feeling alive long after the show and maybe even listen to the Cirque du  Soleil soundtrack in your car as you make your way home. #wowfactor

McCormick Place

If you’re in town for a trade show or convention, there’s a good chance it’s happening at McCormick Place – a sprawling complex comprised of four interconnected buildings, carrying the title of the largest convention center in North America<. Whether you’re a volleyball enthusiast, White Sox enthusiast, auto enthusiast, gymnastics enthusiast or you’re a member of the Chicago Dental Society, you’ll find events happening at McCormick Place during January and February. This gigantic venue is conveniently located next to the Chicago River and within easy walking distance of riverside parks, as well as various eateries and other amenities. You can stash your ride right on-site, so you won’t need to wonder where to park in Chicago. During your event, take advantage of break times to explore the surrounding area without having to worry about moving your car.

Whatever brings you to the Windy City is sure to bring you back, as you’ll find so many things to love and even more to see than you can fit into one visit. Remember to count on ParkMobile for all your parking needs while you’re there so your memories of Chicago will be happy and stress-free.