Chicago’s Loop is the bustling downtown area of the city, named for the elevated train tracks that encircle the district. It is bursting with iconic architecture but the district has more than just tall buildings! There are several amazing parks to go walk around, plenty of art to take in and dozens of theater shows to see. This might just be one of the most attraction-heavy neighborhoods with its variety of paid and free experiences!
Transportation in the Loop
The Loop is the center of it all and is the public transportation hub! Navigating the Loop is easy thanks to its excellent public transportation system. The Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) provides convenient access via buses and the “L” train, with several stations located throughout the area. Additionally, rideshare services and taxis are readily available for those preferring private transportation.
Metra & South Shore Line Services in the Loop
You can catch the Metra Electric in the Loop at these 3 stations, Millenium Station, Van Buren Street, and Museum Campus/11 Street. The Metra Electric goes all the way to University Park.
Metra’s Rock Island can be taken via the La Salle Station. This service goes to Joliet and stops in Tinley Park.
South Shore Line stops at Millennium, Van Buren, and Museum Campus/11 Street. The South Shore Line goes to South Bend Indiana. Please note that this service is not a Metra train and does not use the Ventra app for tickets. However, it has its own app, or you can purchase a ticket at their vending machines or with an agent.
The Loop “L” stations
Please note that not all Loop stations are assessable.
You can get to the major “L” lines from the Loop, Red, Blue, Pink, Purple, Orange, Brown and Green from the Loop.
CTA Buses in the Loop
Throughout the Loop, you will find that you can take several bus routes including, 1, 22, and many more.
By Car
The area also offers plenty of parking. However, it’s paid and not free. There are several parking garages and lots around the area. I recommend using Spot Hero and trying to get a parking space before you go. We usually can find parking for $15- $20. Just beware of the time frame of your spot, especially if you are event parking for a theater show. It’s never fun to run out after a lovely show and hustle to the car trying to beat the time.
Shopping in the Loop
Shop Columbia is an art gallery featuring pieces from students, staff, and alumni. Here you can find one-of-a-kind pieces including cards, artwork, pins, and much more.
Visit Gothic Target. Sure it is just a Target that happens to be trending. Here’s why it’s made it on this list though. Finding a ‘free’ bathroom in the Loop can be tricky. I recommend using this spot as a place to get out of the weather, use the restroom, and pick up a candy bar or Gatorade to power up for the rest of the day! It also opens at 8 am most days, when other restaurants and stores may be closed.
Macy’s on State Street is such an iconic store! It has so much history (it was a Marshall’s Field) and has beautiful architecture. During the holiday season, it also features window displays and a beautiful tree in its restaurant, the Walnut Room.
If you’re looking for art supplies check out Blik. This art store has craft supplies and art tools along with unique gifts.
Activities
Loop Museums
Play ‘games’ with several hands-on exhibits all while learning about your noggin at Mindworks The Science of Thinking. This space not only has exhibits but it also is a working lab! The center gives opportunities for visitors to participate in research studies.
Take in the beautiful architecture of the city inside the Chicago Cultural Center. It is a perfect spot to take a moment to relax during a busy Loop Day! Lay under the glass dome for that perfect photo or find a bench and look at all the small details of the building.
Feel as if you are in “Ferris Bullers Day Off” at the Art Institute of Chicago. It is a great indoor activity for non-ideal weather days. I recommend checking out the Thorne Room miniature in the lower level! Tickets for non-residents are $32, Illinois residents $27, and Chicago residents $20. Be on the lookout for Illinois-free days throughout the year as well! I recommend making this the day’s highlight. I have spent up to 3 hours wandering around, and even then, I left feeling like I didn’t see everything!
Theaters in the Loop
Catch a Broadway in Chicago show at one of the historic theaters downtown, the CIBC, James M. Nederlander Theatre, or the Cadillac Palace Theatre. Make sure to go early for time to marvel at the beautiful architecture! Most theaters start letting people in about an hour before the show’s start time. For ticket deals make sure to check out Hot Tix! Prices vary depending on the performance and time. I recommend going during a weeknight (Tuesday/Wednesday) sitting upstairs on the balcony and looking for discounts on Hot Tix. By doing this I have snagged up tickets for about $30!
Parks & Outdoor Activities
Be on the lookout for the street art all around the Loop. One of my favorites is the Moose Bubblegum Bubble located at 33 E. Congress, Chicago, Il 60605 (South Wall.)
Snag one of the most iconic Chicago photos with a picture at Cloud Gate, the ‘Bean,’ in Millennium Park. During the summer splash around at Crown Fountain, the structures with the faces!
From Millennium Park, go past Jay Pritzker Pavilion and take the big shiny bridge to Maggie Daley Park. Depending on the season, this park offers mini golf, skating, and climbing. The multiple playground areas are conveniently marked for their suitable age group.
Take a picture at Buckingham Fountain in Grant Park. From this area of the park, I would suggest taking a stroll down the Lake Front. It’s right there!
Get swept up in the feet of Agora on the southwest side of Grant Park. Take a breather and watch some tricks at the Skateboard Park nearby a little north of the sculptures.
Show off your skateboard tricks at Grant Skate Park. This skate park offers ramps and obstacles for all skill levels.
Dining, Treats & Drinks in the Loop
If you are seeking endless options in one place, try Revival Food Hall. This space offers several vendors, open at varying times, breakfast, lunch, and dinner so it’s always a new adventure. It’s perfect if you’re traveling with a crew who can never decide on where to go. I recommend the $10 BBQ Ranch sandwich from Bianca’s Burger. Read more about my adventure at Revival Food Hall here.
This (now a) chain will remain a Chicago classic to me. After all, was it even a Chicago day if you didn’t have a Chicago Mix while riding the Metra home? Although I might be a bit biased, Garret Popcorn Shop today remains to be my favorite popcorn. I recommend The Chicago Mix (Cheese & Carmel popcorn.)
Cheers to the weekend with a flight of Mimosas at Sweet Water Tavern and Grille. Their brunch menu includes items under $15 including a Cinnamon Roll and Lemon Blueberry Pancakes. The flight is $24 but worth the splurge with fun flavors like the Bellini, Tropical, and Sangria. This menu is only offered on the weekends from opening to 3 pm. This Tavern and Grille is within walking distance from the Mag Mile and the Loop!
Elephant and Castle is a mini-chain that offers a great happy hour. From 3 pm- 6 pm, Monday-Friday, the happy hour menu offers $6 sharables including fried pickles and mini-sausage rolls, and a selection of wine and beer for $5.
Walkability
The loop is super pedestrian-friendly. Honestly you never even need to click a button to gain access to a walk light. It is all automatic. It is also a busy area with many pedestrians, so it feels like you are constantly crossing as a group.
Know Before You Go
This area is a happening place. I always suggest double-checking to see if any events are happening in the area, as road closures can affect transportation, especially buses! Events like The Thanksgiving Day Parade, Halloween Parade, and even off-the-beaten-path events like filming for TV/movies may reroute your day. It might also get so busy that you might want to try to avoid certain areas, or on the flip side, you might find an event you are interested in.
Speaking of events, be on the lookout for seasonal pop-ups like the Kristkindle Market and Farmers Markets.
