There is lots to do and see in the Windy City, but preparing for travel as an older adult or someone with limited mobility requires a little planning ahead. Look no further! We have put together a list of some must-see Chicago destinations, perfect for seniors and those who want to see the sites without excessive walking. So, whether you or your loved one utilize a wheelchair, scooter, or other mobility aid or just need to keep walking to a minimum, here are some great Chicago attractions you won't want to miss!
As the tallest building in the Western Hemisphere, the Skydeck at Willis Tower features spectacular views spanning up to 4 states! If you're feeling especially adventurous, check out The Ledge, a wheelchair accessible glass balcony that extends four feet outside the tower's 103rd floor. It's a one-of-a-kind view of Chicago! Best of all, The Skydeck is a short elevator ride away and is completely accessible and ADA compliant.
Afternoon Tea at the Drake Hotel
Afternoon Tea at The Drake Hotel has been a tradition for nearly a century. In fact, Palm Court has hosted an array of distinguished guests over the years, including Princess Diana, Queen Elizabeth, and the Empress of Japan. Choose from an assortment of Palais de Thes, premium French tea and enjoy Finger Sandwiches, Festive Petit Fours, and English Scones & Mini Lemon Poppy Seed Loaf accompanied by preserves, lemon curd, and English Devon Cream. Sit back, relax, and enjoy!
Chicago Architecture Foundation River Cruise
Whether you are visiting Chicago for the first time or are a lifelong resident, there is so much to learn and see on this guided cruise. This 90 minute tour along the Chicago River will take you past some of Chicago's most beautiful and historic buildings, allowing you to see the city without ever leaving your seat! Guests also enjoy the climate controlled lower cabin, comfortably appointed restrooms, and full-service bar & snack bar on board.
Chicago's downtown theater district is the place to see a variety of musicals and shows direct from Broadway! Encompassing some of Chicago's most iconic theaters, including: the Oriental Theatre, the Cadillac Palace Theatre and the Auditorium Theatre, Broadway in Chicago is your source for the hottest tickets in town...including shows like Hamilton, Les Miserables, Wicked, An American in Paris, and many others.
No trip to Chicago is complete without indulging in Chicago-style pizza! And no one does deep dish like Lou Malnati's! Every Lou Malnati’s pizza is handmade from scratch using the finest and freshest ingredients. In fact, they still source their cheese from the same small dairy they've worked with for more than 40 years. One bite and you'll be hooked! Lou's has several locations throughout Chicago and the surrounding suburbs. Find one near you!
Chicago Trolley & Double Decker Tours
Chicago Trolley & Double Decker Hop On/Hop Off Tours make seeing the sites simple and convenient! Just 'hop on' at any of their 13 stops and 'hop off' at any local attractions that catch your eye. Stops vary depending on tour and can include everything from Water Tower, Navy Pier and the Magnificent Mile to Millennium Park, the Field Museum, Maggie Daley Park and more. Don't feel like hopping off? No problem! The full tour lasts a little over 2 hours. So bring your camera for some excellent photo ops! Trolleys are fully heated in winter, feature wheelchair lifts and are ADA compliant.
Explore our solar system and beyond at the Adler Planetarium! Unlike some of the other museums on Chicago's Museum Campus, the Planetarium doesn't require a lot of walking. In fact, many of the Adler's attractions can be seen on screen with one of their eye-catching shows. Catch the latest shows like Cosmic Wonder, Destination Solar System, and Welcome to the Universe, or check out their interactive exhibits.
Chicago is a wonderful travel destination at any age! All it takes is a little planning and preparation to create a successful vacation. While you're at it be sure to brush up on the latest travel guidelines and tips for traveling seniors.
Older adults and those with mobility challenges can find additional resources and helpful information on accessible destinations throughout Chicago and the surrounding suburbs here.
If you are an older adult or are traveling to the Chicago area with a senior loved one and need assistance during your trip, LifeStyle Options can help! With nearly 3 decades in business, we are pleased to offer private duty care, transportation and companionship services throughout Chicagoland.
