How to Experience Chicago with Go City

There’s a lot to see in Chicago, and I quickly realised that no two experiences show you quite the same side of the city. One minute, you’re looking out over Lake Michigan from an observation deck; the next, you’re cruising along the Chicago River, getting a completely different view of the city’s architecture. Add in the museums and the energy of Navy Pier, and fitting everything into one trip can get a little overwhelming.

That’s where the Go City Chicago Pass came in handy. Instead of booking each attraction separately, I could keep several of Chicago’s highlights together in one digital pass. The real trick is choosing the right attractions—and the right type of pass—for how you actually want to explore the city.
 

See Chicago from Above

Seeing Chicago from above is one of the best ways to get a feel for just how impressive the city really is. Skydeck Chicago takes you up Willis Tower for sweeping views across the skyline, while 360 CHICAGO gives you a completely different perspective from 875 North Michigan Avenue. From up there, you can take in Lake Michigan, Chicago’s distinctive urban layout, and just how far the city seems to stretch in every direction.

Discover the City’s Architecture from the River

Chicago is famous for its architecture, but there’s something about seeing it from the river that makes you appreciate the city in a completely different way. The Shoreline Architecture River Cruise takes you past some of Chicago’s most iconic buildings while sharing the stories behind their history, design, and how the skyline has evolved over time. And honestly, looking up at the city from the water just hits differently from walking between the same buildings downtown. If you’re visiting Chicago for the first time, this is one experience I’d definitely make room for.
 

Explore Chicago’s World-Class Museums

Chicago is home to some of the most renowned museums in the United States, with plenty to explore no matter what you’re interested in. At the Field Museum, you can journey through natural history, ancient civilizations, and science, while the Griffin Museum of Science and Industry takes a more interactive approach with hands-on exhibits and immersive experiences. For something completely different, the Adler Planetarium turns your attention to space, with exhibitions exploring astronomy and the universe beyond.
 

Choose the Pass That Matches Your Trip

The Go City Chicago Explorer Pass is a great option if you already have a few must-see attractions in mind. Simply choose how many attractions you want to visit, then pick from the experiences included with the pass. Once activated, you’ll have 30 days to use it, giving you plenty of flexibility to explore Chicago at your own pace.

If you’re planning to pack more sightseeing into your trip, the Go City Chicago All-Inclusive Pass might be the better fit. You choose the number of consecutive days you need, then visit as many included attractions as your itinerary allows during that time. It works especially well if you have a busy schedule and want to make the most of each day.

Whichever pass you choose, it’s worth checking opening hours and reservation requirements before you head out. Some experiences need to be booked in advance, and schedules can change depending on the date or season. A little planning beforehand can save you from having to reshuffle your itinerary later.
 

How Go City Works

To make planning a little easier, I’ve put together a quick-reference visual guide covering everything from choosing the right Go City pass and planning your itinerary to accessing your digital pass and visiting participating attractions. Save the infographic below so you can easily refer back to it while planning your trip or exploring Chicago.