Chicago's 6 Coolest Destinations With Sporty Appeal And Gameday Vibes

Chicago is one of the sports meccas of America. From the Bulls to the Cubs and the Blackhawks, the city has not only been home to some epic teams but also legendary household names. Cue Michael Jordan, Scottie Pippen, Frank Thomas, and Walter Payton. Beyond the superstars who dominated the field, court, and ice, the Windy City's sports culture wouldn't be what it is without the fans. So, of course, there are tons of places that celebrate games, commemorate wins, and get you one step closer to feeling like you know the players.

We picked six of the coolest destinations in the Midwestern metropolis where travelers can find its competitive appeal and gameday vibes. Professional stadiums, museums, and even steakhouses capture different sides of the city's fandom that put a Chi-Town spin on the world of athletics. Be a spectator, throw on your tennis shoes, and dine the way major athletes do. This list proves that the city is much more than its deep-dish pizza and historical landmarks; it's a place where sports enthusiasts can get in on the action and explore the stories behind some of the biggest names in the leagues. 

Wrigley Field has to top our list. The historic ballpark has been a Chicago staple for more than a century, serving as the longtime home of the Cubs and, once upon a time, the Bears. Today, catching a Cubs game is as much a Chicago experience as it is a sporting event. There's nothing like walking up to the iconic red marquee, grabbing a Chicago-style hot dog, and joining thousands of fans in the stands. Even outside of gameday, the ballpark remains one of the city's most recognizable attractions — just be sure to wear the proper jersey so you don't get booed!

Chicago just so happens to be Guy Fieri's favorite Midwestern city to film in, and it's because of its unique culinary scene. Even athletes have a stake in the game — quite literally. Michael Jordan opened his own steakhouse, where guests will find the sports experience through fine dining. The restaurant features a powdered stencil of MJ's famous Jumpman silhouette atop martinis, and an extra-large booth at Table 23 reserved for the man himself when he's in town. Here, basketball fans can eat like a legendary athlete does.

The ultimate fan experience, beyond dining like an athlete or actually seeing a game, is immersing yourself in the history of Chicago's teams. The Chicago Sports Museum brings together memorabilia from basketball, hockey, baseball, and other sporting traditions, with exhibits featuring jerseys, cleats, and even Addison Russell's Game 6 grand slam ball from the 2016 World Series. Visitors can stop in when there isn't a game on the schedule to explore the city's iconic sports legacies. For travelers who want to understand why the city's fandom runs so deep, this is where the history comes to life.

When you're done being a spectator and are ready to get on the turf, enter the Topgolf Swing Suite. It features golf simulator bays, interactive hitting bays, and food and beverage service. You don't have to be a seasoned golfer to enjoy the experience, either. The technology lets visitors play virtual versions of golf courses and games while staying indoors. It's a chance to trade the stadium seats for a little friendly competition, whether you're looking to test your swing or challenge your co-workers to a game.

Hoopers can unite at Swish House. Here, you can get gameday energy while getting schooled by professional coaches like WNBA player Linnae Harper, who helps ballers step up their game. Learn from the pros and train like them through the organization's workout classes. If you want to improve your fitness, work on your skills, or sharpen your on-court strategy, visiting here is a no-brainer. Swish House has five locations within the Chicago area, and it offers an active way to experience Chicago's basketball culture beyond the stands.

XS Tennis offers a chance to get on the court and experience another side of Chicago's sports culture beyond its more prominent professional teams. The Chicago tennis club provides lessons, clinics, and court time for players looking to improve their game, whether they're picking up a racket for the first time or already have a competitive streak. With opportunities to train, play, and connect with other tennis fans, it's an easy way to make your Chicago sports experience more immersive.

These six destinations give visitors a way to play, a way to watch, or a way to feel like they're part of Chicago's legendary sports culture.