The much-anticipated TripAdvisor Travelers' Choice Awards 2024 have officially been announced, spanning a slew of categories and geographical regions.
We're proud, delighted and excited to share that our very own Art Institute of Chicago has, indeed, made one of the lists, ranking No. 18 on the top attractions across the United States survey. Woo-hoo!
Founded back in 1879, the destination is one of the oldest and biggest museums in all of the country, home to thousands of unique works of art and special exhibits.
"When in Chicago, you must visit The Art Institute," reads the TripAdvisor study. "Wander through the galleries, check out the special exhibits, and admire the sweeping skyline view. You might want to join an art class or community activity as well."
The outlet also (rightfully!) suggests spending time at the Thorne Miniature Rooms—tiny and intricate chambers on a 1:12 scale, basically the size of a shoe box—and Chagall's America Windows, which were completed just in time for the bicentennial of the United States and presented to the museum as a gift back in 1977. Both are major features of the Art Institute of Chicago.
In case you were wondering, New York City's Empire State Building topped the list of best attractions in the U.S., followed by the Iolani Palace in Hawaii, Central Park in New York and the John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park in the Florida Keys. The elegant Steson Mansion in Florida rounds out the top five.
A few local boat tours are also honored by TripAdvisor's awards: The Chicago Architecture Center River Cruise aboard Chicago's First Lady is No. 16 when it comes to top experiences in the U.S., while the Chicago Architecture River Cruise is No. 2 in sailing and day cruises in the U.S. and No. 5 in the same category worldwide.
This is all to say: Chicago absolutely rocks and we're oh-so-proud to call it our home.