When asking yourself about something to do near me in Chicago with a group of friends or family, consider
Chicago CityPASS
Why Chicago CityPASS is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Chicago CityPASS offers an exceptional way for visitors and locals alike to experience Chicago’s most iconic attractions with convenience and significant savings. This ticket package grants access to five premier sights, including the breathtaking Shedd Aquarium, where guests can explore diverse aquatic life such as whales, stingrays, and exotic fish, and learn about vital conservation efforts. The highlight includes a visit to the Skydeck Chicago atop the Willis Tower, providing mesmerizing views of the city's skyline from 103 floors up on a glass ledge that extends out from the building, offering a unique aerial perspective. Additionally, the 360 CHICAGO Observation Deck offers 360-degree views of the city’s lakefront and skyline from 1,030 feet above, with the thrilling TILT attraction adding an adrenaline rush to the visit. Beyond these, the pass also allows entry to cultural treasures like the Field Museum, which houses 40 million artifacts telling 4.6 billion years of history, and the Art Institute of Chicago, famous for its world-class art collections including pieces by Van Gogh and other impressionists. Visitors appreciate the flexibility to visit attractions in any order, over a 9-day window, and the convenience of mobile ticket delivery simplifies planning and reduces wait times. Chicago CityPASS thus transforms sightseeing into an easily manageable, affordable, and enriching experience, making it an ideal option for group outings, friends, or family explorations.
Here's what people think of Chicago CityPASS
As of recent, Chicago CityPASS holds a 4.5-star rating based on 679 reviews.
User reviews of Chicago CityPASS consistently highlight the excellent value and convenience it provides. Reviewers appreciate the substantial savings—up to 49% off regular ticket prices—to five top attractions, making it an economical choice for exploring the city's highlights. Many users praise the flexibility of the pass that allows visiting multiple renowned sites, including Shedd Aquarium, Skydeck Chicago, and the Art Institute of Chicago, at their own pace within a generous 9-day period. The mobile ticket delivery and integrated reservation system are commended for streamlining visit planning and reducing wait times, with some users noting they could even make last-minute adjustments smoothly through the app. Positive feedback often emphasizes how CityPASS enhances the overall travel experience by simplifying access to major attractions and reducing the stress of buying individual tickets. Conversely, some negative reviews focus on the need for advanced reservations to secure entry times for popular spots—particularly the Skydeck Chicago—which can be challenging if travel plans are tight or if bookings are delayed. A few visitors mention occasional full booking issues at certain attractions, which limited their ability to use the pass fully during their visit. Despite these concerns, the general consensus is that Chicago CityPASS delivers excellent value and convenience, making it a highly recommended choice for anyone seeking to efficiently experience Chicago’s must-see destinations.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Dusty Foust
Very disappointed with the customer service of city pass. I visited Chicago with my family and we thought that using city pass would be a good savings for everything we wanted to do. I purchased nine tickets and the next day we were to utilize them. That morning, one of the adults woke up sick so he could not go. I contacted city pass and they told me that would be completely fine and we could take care of it after the fact. Therefore, we went along our day and used eight of the nine passes. The next day I contacted them again to request a refund and was told that it would not be granted because we used his pass. Even though we clearly did not. I was then told about some loophole separation of tickets that I should’ve done beforehand with separating the passes. Despite not being told this before. Either way, and long story short, they would not grant a refund for the one out of nine passes I purchased. Obviously, this made it not a good deal or experience for my family, and we will never use them again.
Amanda
Good value! We did the "pick 3" which was perfect since we were short on time with our visit. The traditional pass allows you to pick 5 places, which I'd suggest for those visiting for a longer time.
Melissa Crady
Second time using CityPass Chicago. I would definitely not recommend CityPass during Spring Break; they way OVERSOLD IT. We purchased the 5 Attraction Pass and could only use three of the five things we wanted to do because all the time slots were taken. Some of the attractions said there was no reservation needed, like the Planetarium, then when we arrived everything was already BOOKED and we were haggled by the museum staff when we mentioned we had not used all five passes, and no I don't care that you opened things up so that guests could get around using the two mandatory ones... it was still oversold and too late. CityPass really needs to get it together and make better updates to their system. NOT a good Value this time around and frustrating.
Sri B.
Would definitely suggest the pass for anyone visiting Chicago, especially if you are going to stay for 5 days or more. Wish they have more options to let us go to a place again. Chicago has great many places and this pass gives you the opportunity to visit upto 5 of them for less than half the price of visiting them individually.
Alicea Powell
It’s probably a good deal if you visit 5, and depending on what sites you go to. We were only able to get to 3 and a few of the options were closed on our second day. That’s my bad for not researching more. However, the CityPass website lists higher prices for the full price ticket than what is accurate, inflating the savings. I also sent a request to customer service to see if they could refund the difference between the C3 and City Pass since we only used 3 tickets and were unable to visit one of the museums we had selected from the options and was told no. For such a large company I find it poor customer service to not work to help customers feel good about what they received. Would not use again and would not suggest to anyone.
How to reach Chicago CityPASS
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Why Chicago CityPASS may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Chicago CityPASS with your friends?
Gathering a group of friends or family for a memorable outing is always exciting, and Chicago CityPASS offers the ideal gateway to experience the best of Chicago’s top attractions while fostering connection and fun. The CityPASS is not just a ticket; it’s a smart, all-in-one solution that simplifies planning by bundling access to some of the city’s most iconic sites at a significant discount. Imagine exploring majestic aquariums filled with fascinating marine life, soaring above the city skyline on legendary observation decks, or immersing yourselves in world-class museums and cultural landmarks—all with one easy purchase. Chicago CityPASS gives you the flexibility to choose your itinerary over nine days at your own pace, which means you and your group can customize your adventures without the stress of rushing or missing out. This convenience combined with up to 49% savings on admission creates a seamless, cost-effective experience that’s tailor-made for groups who want to maximize quality time together. Whether you want to bask in panoramic city views or dive into the rich history and vibrant culture, rallying at Chicago CityPASS taps into varied interests, making it a perfect social hub for friends and families eager to explore and create lasting memories.
What activities and attractions does Chicago CityPASS include for group meetups?
Chicago CityPASS provides access to five must-see attractions in Chicago, combining iconic landmarks and thrilling experiences that cater to diverse preferences within any group. Start your journey underwater at the Shedd Aquarium, where you can explore a vibrant aquatic world teeming with whales, stingrays, alligators, and exotic fish. This immersive adventure offers interactive exhibits and seasonal animal spotlights, making it a hit for both adults and children fascinated by marine life. Next, experience the awe of Chicago’s skyline with a visit to Skydeck Chicago, located on the 103rd floor of the Willis Tower. Here, groups can step out onto the thrilling Glass Ledge and peer 1,353 feet above the city streets, sharing unforgettable panoramic views. The experience heightens with the optional TILT—an exhilarating inclined ride that adds an adrenaline rush to your city sightseeing. For a different perspective, the 360 CHICAGO Observation Deck atop the John Hancock Center offers a 360-degree view of the city and Lake Michigan, with the addition of CloudBar providing a social atmosphere perfect for a group toast or relaxing break.
Why is Chicago CityPASS perfect for group meetups?
Chicago CityPASS stands out as an ideal option for hosting meetups because it balances flexibility, variety, and value, all of which are critical for group enjoyment. The pass allows you to visit attractions in any order over a nine-day span, giving groups the freedom to organize outings around everyone's schedules. This eliminates the pressure of coordinating a single day for all activities and accommodates differing interests, pace, and energy levels. Moreover, the ticket includes skip-the-line benefits at most attractions, so groups spend less time waiting and more time bonding over shared experiences. Each member of the group can choose from optional attractions such as the Shoreline Sightseeing Architecture River Tour, offering a picturesque cruise with fascinating stories about Chicago's historic buildings, or cultural institutions like the Field Museum and the Art Institute of Chicago, which provide enriching experiences through vast collections of nature, history, and art. This diversity means that in one trip, your group can engage in educational, thrilling, and relaxing activities, ensuring there is truly something for everyone. The pass’s mobile and paperless ticket delivery also simplifies entry logistics for larger gatherings, making meetups smoother and more enjoyable.
What are the top attractions included in the Chicago CityPASS?
The core Chicago CityPASS includes guaranteed access to the Shedd Aquarium and Skydeck Chicago as key highlights, plus the flexibility to select three additional attractions from a diverse list that caters to a wide range of tastes and interests. Visitors can opt for the Shoreline Sightseeing Architecture River Tour, renowned for its expert narratives of Chicago's architectural heritage while cruising along the Chicago River, making it both a scenic and educational group outing. The Field Museum offers a deep dive into natural history, with exhibitions featuring dinosaur skeletons and ancient artifacts—ideal for inquisitive minds. The 360 CHICAGO Observation Deck delivers breathtaking cityscape views and a social lounge environment perfect for lively group conversations. For science enthusiasts, the Griffin Museum of Science and Industry combines permanent exhibits with immersive experiences like a giant dome theater or motion simulator rides. Art lovers will appreciate the Art Institute of Chicago, which showcases masterpieces from across the centuries and continents. Finally, the Adler Planetarium offers a cosmic journey through its interactive exhibits and sky shows, inspiring wonder and dialogue among friends interested in the universe. These options ensure your group can tailor your itinerary to suit everyone from thrill-seekers to history buffs.
How does Chicago CityPASS enhance convenience and savings for groups?
One of the standout features of Chicago CityPASS is its ability to transform a complicated multi-attraction visit into a streamlined, wallet-friendly adventure—especially valuable for groups that want to maximize enjoyment while minimizing expense and hassle. The pass offers up to 49% savings compared to buying tickets individually, with adult passes priced at $142 and children (ages 3-11) at $112. This affordability makes premium Chicago attractions more accessible to families and friend groups alike. Additionally, the mobile ticketing system delivers all admissions directly to your smartphone, eliminating the need for physical tickets and reducing the risk of lost passes—a particularly practical feature for groups who want to stay organized on the go. Reservation flexibility up to nine days allows groups to plan visits based on weather, energy levels, or interests without rushing to see everything in a single day. Furthermore, the CityPASS includes expedited entry and skip-the-ticket-line privileges at most locations, saving valuable time usually lost to waiting in queues, which can be frustrating with large groups. This combination of cost savings, time efficiency, and flexible scheduling creates the perfect blend for hassle-free group outings.
What makes Chicago CityPASS a family-friendly and educational experience?
Chicago CityPASS stands out as an exceptional choice for families eager to blend fun with learning in a way that appeals to all ages. The included attractions offer engaging, hands-on experiences and natural wonders that inspire curiosity and discovery. The Shedd Aquarium invites children and adults alike to explore diverse ecosystems, interact with marine animals during seasonal presentations, and learn about ocean conservation. The Field Museum's dinosaur exhibits and cultural treasures ignite imaginations and provide a tactile way to connect with history and science. The Adler Planetarium captivates visitors with immersive space shows and exhibits about the cosmos, ideal for sparking interest in astronomy among young learners. Even the architecture river tours double as educational adventures, revealing stories about the city's iconic buildings and the visionaries behind them. With so many intellectually stimulating options, the CityPASS ensures children remain engaged and entertained, while adults gain enriching cultural experiences. These educational experiences are seamlessly entertaining, making the CityPASS a standout for families wanting both a fun day out and meaningful memories.
How can the surrounding environment and amenities enhance your meetup experience?
The areas around Chicago CityPASS attractions are vibrant, easily accessible, and packed with amenities that complement your group outing. Many attractions are nestled in or near Chicago’s bustling downtown, close to public transit and parking facilities, simplifying logistics for groups arriving from various locations. After a rewarding museum visit or high-altitude observation, nearby restaurants, cafes, and bars provide perfect spots for socializing, enjoying refreshments, and reflecting on the day’s activities. For example, the 360 CHICAGO Observation Deck features CloudBar, a stylish venue where groups can unwind with drinks while soaking in spectacular views. The proximity of these attractions to waterfront parks, gardens, and iconic city landmarks also enables extended group activities like picnics, photography outings, or tranquil strolls along Lake Michigan. This blend of urban convenience and scenic beauty enhances the overall meetup experience, providing plenty of opportunities to engage, celebrate, and make lasting memories together beyond the main attractions themselves.
In summary, Chicago CityPASS is an exceptional option for groups seeking a flexible, value-packed, and enriching destination with plenty of activities suitable for all ages and interests. Its combination of iconic skyline experiences, fascinating museums, immersive aquatic exhibits, and scenic river tours create a diverse itinerary perfect for families or friends eager to rally, explore, and enjoy Chicago’s best in a relaxed and accessible way.