Explore Chicago: A Virtual and Accessible Tour

Photo by Sawyer Bengtson on Unsplash

Highlights

• Wander through the iconic Millennium Park and venture at the Cloud Gate.

• Explore the diverse exhibits at the Art Institute of Chicago.

• Dive into the mystery of The Devil in the White City, set in 1893 Chicago.

• Experience a virtual concert at the Chicago Symphony Orchestra.

• Create a delicious deep-dish pizza, perfect for food lovers.

  
  

This week, we’re heading to the heart of the Midwest- Chicago, Illinois. Famous for its striking architecture, world-class museums, and diverse cuisine, Chicago has something to offer for everyone. If you’re ready to explore this vibrant city with us virtually, keep reading!

We are trying to make sure the content we suggest is accessible in different ways. Although it can be difficult to find websites that are fully accessible, we review many to offer you the ones that are the most accessible. As always, if you find barriers or have suggestions, please reach out to us at info@bluetrunk.org and let us know so that we can improve!

Visit the Museums and Sites

Chicago is full of iconic landmarks and cultural sites. Let’s start with one of the most famous: Millennium Park, home to the Cloud Gate also known as “The Bean”- a giant mirrored sculpture that reflects the city skyline in mesmerizing ways. The park also features the Crown Fountain, a video art installation that combines public interaction with digital art, and the stunning Jay Pritzker Pavilion, designed by renowned architect Frank Gehry. The park is fully accessible, and you can take a virtual tour on the city’s website to explore its many features. Here is a walking tour of the park on Youtube with subtitles. The park is fully accessible and offers a virtual tour on the City of Chicago’s website. 

Another must-visit is the Art Institute of Chicago, home to a collection of artwork, including Grant Wood’s American Gothic. The museum offers a virtual tour on its website, featuring captions and audio descriptions for an inclusive experience. The Art Institute’s online resources also include detailed guides and rich visuals to bring the exhibits to life.Their virtual museum experience allows you to explore galleries filled with impressionist, modern, and contemporary works.

Navy Pier is a waterfront destination filled with shops, restaurants, and attractions. Take a virtual stroll along the pier or watch this video showcasing its beauty. Stretching along the Lake Michigan shoreline, this lively area is filled with attractions, shops, and lakefront views. Don't miss the Centennial Wheel, which offers incredible views of the city and is wheelchair accessible.

For history lovers, the Chicago History Museum is a treasure trove of exhibits highlighting the city's rich past, from the Great Fire of 1871 to its role in shaping the Civil Rights Movement. Their website offers virtual exhibits with accessible features, including audio guides and transcripts.

Looking for breathtaking views? Willis Tower Skydeck provides a panoramic look at the Chicago skyline. Once the tallest building in the world, the tower offers jaw-dropping views of the Chicago skyline. The virtual Skydeck tour lets you step onto the famous glass-floor Ledge (virtually, of course!) for a thrilling experience, minus the anxiety if you have a fear of heights. It’s a unique way to take in the city from above.

Tune in to Shows and Movies About Chicago

Chicago has been the backdrop for numerous films and TV shows. A classic example is the musical Chicago, which highlights the city’s jazz-age culture, which is monumental in Chicago’s history. The movie is available on streaming platforms, including for free on Tubi, many of which offer subtitles and audio descriptions.

Looking for a thrilling film set in Chicago? The Fugitive, starring Harrison Ford and Tommy Lee Jones, is a gripping crime drama that doubles as a cinematic tour of the city. From the famous St. Patrick’s Day parade to scenes filmed in Chicago’s historic train stations, this movie captures the city’s intensity and energy. The film is widely available on platforms like Fubo and Apple TV, many of which offer captions and audio descriptions, making it accessible for a broader audience.

Get Lost in Books About Chicago

Books set in Chicago often capture the city’s unique spirit. A great starting point is The Devil in the White City by Erik Larson, which blends history and mystery in a gripping tale set during the 1893 World’s Fair. This book is available in Kindle, audiobook, and print formats.

For a deeper dive into Chicago’s history, try Chicago: City on the Make by Nelson Algren. This poetic work offers a gritty yet heartfelt portrayal of the city’s soul and those that are impoverished. You can find it on Good Reads or Audible.

Another good read is, The House on Mango Street by Sandra Cisneros captures the experiences of a young Latina girl growing up in Chicago, and pushing boundaries in her neighborhood. This book is available in accessible formats, including audiobook and a free PDF version.

Bring Chicago to Your Kitchen

Chicago’s culinary scene is legendary, and we’ve got a few recipes you can try at home to bring a taste of the city to your kitchen.

First up is the iconic Deep-Dish Pizza. With its thick, buttery crust and layers of cheese and tomato sauce, this dish is a must-try. In 1943, Ike Sewell and Ric Riccardo combined their passion for business and Italian cuisine to create a whole new kind of pizza. They opened Pizzeria Uno in Chicago, where they introduced the world to their now-famous invention.

This hearty, thick-crusted dish quickly became a local favorite and a lasting symbol of the city’s bold culinary spirit. Minimalist Baker offers a vegan and gluten-free version that captures the essence of this Chicago staple.

For a classic snack, try Garrett’s Popcorn Mix, a blend of caramel and cheddar popcorn that’s sweet, savory, and totally addictive. Founded in1949 by Gladys Otto Garrett, who created the CaramelCrisp recipe in her family kitchen. You can find recipes online to recreate this treat at home.

Looking for a hearty dish? Chicago-Style Hot Dogs are loaded with mustard, onions, relish, tomato wedges, a pickle spear, and sport peppers. Skip the ketchup to keep it authentic! The kosher-style, pork-free all-beef frank is said to have originated with Fluky’s in 1929, where it was sold for just a nickel from carts along Maxwell Street during the Great Depression. But the roots of the Chicago dog go back even further, two Austro-Hungarian immigrants first introduced their Vienna Beef franks at the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition in Chicago. To replicate this at home a gluten-free and vegan recipe can be found at the Minimalist Baker.

And for dessert, don’t miss Eli’s Cheesecake. This Chicago specialty is rich, creamy, and perfect for a sweet ending to your meal. You can find a gluten-free recipe here to make it at home or order directly from Eli’s online store.

Chicago offers endless opportunities for exploration, whether you’re visiting in person or virtually. From its world-renowned museums to its iconic food, this city has something for everyone. Let us know what you discover on your journey, and don’t forget to share your favorite spots with us at info@bluetrunk.org!