Chicago has so much to offer that there are chances that you might fall short of time. These are few of the places to visit and things to do that you absolutely cannot miss:

Chicago Cultural Center:Chicago Cultural Center, originally a public library, was completed in 1897 and is known for its stained glass domes. It is a platform for free art showcases and provides the venue for hundreds of cultural programs and exhibitions presented annually by the Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs.

ESPN Zone:ESPN Zone is a sports, entertainment and dining venue that features the Sports Arena and Screening Room. Many interactive sports take place at the zone, such as MoCap Golf, MoCap Boxing, Hoops Hysteria and NHL 2 Night. ESPN Zone is also home to a restaurant, studio store and an apparel and merchandise store.

Chicago Air and Water Show:It is one of the largest and oldest air and water exhibitions in the country. Attended by more than 2 million people annually, the Chicago Air and Water Show is amongst the world`s largest spectator events. It is celebrated each year on August 14th and 15th along the North Avenue Beach waterfront.

Millennium Park:It is one of the world`s most magnificent millennium projects that has provided Chicago with a prominent place in the world map. This parkland in Grant Park is open daily for the public.

Lincoln Park Zoo:Opened in 1886, it is the oldest zoological park in the country. It attracts close to 3 million travelers each year who are treated with a fun and educational wildlife experience. The Lincoln Park Zoo is best known for its SBC Endangered Species Carousel ride, the LPZOO Express train ride, swan boat rides and a 4-D Virtual Safari simulator tour.

All major accommodation options and hotel establishments are concentrated in certain areas of Chicago. Choose the one that best suits you from the below:

The Loop:An area known for its towering skyscrapers, the Loop is flocked by travelers for its theatres, universities and restaurants. Stay in the heart of the city at the historic Palmer House Hilton or the W Chicago City Center. Theatre enthusiasts would find the best options to be Hotel Allegro or Hotel Burnham.

The Gold Coast:Residence of the elite and the sophisticated, Gold Coast cannot be missed if you prefer the seclusion of a high life. The brown and red buildings here reminds one of the 1940s era. Omni Ambassador East Hotel is a world class accommodation and the foremost one that comes to mind when you talk of Gold Coast.

North Michigan Avenue:A primary tourist and shopping destination in Chicago, North Michigan Avenue is the most sought after place for accommodation due to its proximity to the city`s attractions. The area is home to world class theatres, entertainment ventures, as well as themed eateries and restaurants for families. The hotels here, such as Lenox Suites, Chicago Marriott Downtown Magnificent Mile and Hilton Garden Inn, are luxurious yet moderately priced. Amongst the most renowned and expensive hotels in the area includes the Four Seasons Hotel.

A valid passport is required by all nationals visiting United States of America.

Visa is not required by nationals of Britain, Canada, Australia and all EU countries. However, nationals of Bulgaria, Greece, Romania, Cyprus and Poland do require a visa as they`re not included in the visa waiver program.

Summer or fall is the best time to visit Chicago. This is the time when all outdoor activities can be enjoyed to the hilt. The weather is at its best from September to November and since the kids are back to school even the major attractions are less crowded.

Chicago lies on a continental land mass, making it hot in summers and cold in winters. April to May is the spring time when the temperature is moderate and pleasant. June to September are the hottest months with sunny and humid days. December to February is the winter season. Be ready to experience harsh winds, rain and even snowfall during this time.

Currency:Currency used in Chicago is US Dollar. ATMs and bureau de change can be easily found throughout the city. Debit cards and credit cards are widely accepted. Travelers` checks are mostly accepted everywhere.

Language:English is the primary language of United States. The other languages that are commonly spoken and understood in Chicago include Spanish and other Indo European and Asian languages.