traveldk.com

This elegant hotel became an instant glamor hot spot when it opened on New Year’s Eve in 1920. Marilyn Monroe was among the many stars who have graced it with their presence. High tea in the lobby café is a real treat.

When this sleek 100-story building was built in 1970, it was the world’s tallest. Exhilarating views of Chicago and beyond are afforded by the 94th-floor observatory and adjoining open-air area, the Skywalk.

Housing one of the city’s busiest shopping malls, this multi-use complex is one of the world’s tallest reinforced concrete buildings. Its 100-plus shops include branches of the Marshall Field’s and Lord & Taylor department stores.

Dwarfed by the surrounding skyscrapers, these structures are among the few that survived the Great Fire of 1871. The water tower now contains an art gallery, while the pumping station still functions and also houses a visitor center.

Eager girls and their loving moms swarm to this palace of little-girliness, which all kind of merchandise from the popular American Girl doll range. Try the store café (see The Café at American Girl Place) or attend the surprisingly acclaimed musical performances.

North America’s largest chocolate manufacturer offers a themed retail experience in its Chicago store. Old favorites such as Hershey’s Reese’s and Kit Kat are on sale alongside the latest new products.

A Chicago fixture since 1949, this beloved popcorn shop seduces mind-boggling numbers of people, who snake through its huge lines to get their bag of caramel, cheese, buttered or plain.

Built in 1929 as a luxury club for the all-male Shrine association, this amazing hotel (see InterContinental Chicago) reveals a range of flamboyant architectural styles in its public spaces. Take a self-guided tour to see the highlights, including the stunning swimming pool.

The result of a design competition organized by the Chicago Tribune newspaper, this Gothic tower is either adored or abhorred by locals. Either way, it’s a dramatic Mag Mile landmark (see Magnificent Mile).

The two towers of Wrigley headquarters add to Michigan Avenue’s exciting skyline. At night, colored lights illuminate them, as they have done since the building opened in 1921.