5 Must-See Chicago Attractions for History Buffs

With more than 350 sites listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the Windy City provides history buffs with more than enough to explore. On your next Chicago vacation, don't miss these five historic attractions:

1. Chess Records

Rhythm and blues legends Chuck Berry, Muddy Waters, Etta James, and Bo Diddley recorded some of their biggest hits in this small building located at 2120 South Michigan Avenue. Creator of the sound that inspired the Rolling Stones, Tthe Beatles, and the Beach Boys, Chess Records deserves a spot on every tourist's list. Now home to producer Willie Dixon's Blues Heaven Foundation, the site offers guided tours for curious fans, but it's best to call ahead.

2. Wrigley Field

You don't have to be a Cubs fan to appreciate Wrigley Field's century-old history. Built in 1914, this landmark is Major League Baseball's second-oldest ballpark. The hand-operated scoreboard still towers over the field where Babe Ruth, Pete Rose, and other baseball legends set their records. Seasonal tours take you behind the scenes of the Chicago Cubs' historic home – a sight worth seeing for sports fans of any kind.

3. Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio

If you love modern architecture, don't miss a visit to renowned architect Frank Lloyd Wright's home and studio in Oak Park, a – a community adjacent to Chicago's West Side. While living here, Wright experimented with several concepts and ultimately created designs that redefined American architecture. After visiting his personal home, stroll through the Oak Park neighborhood to view dozens of Wright-designed homes.

4. Union Station

Union Station isn't a typical train station. Planned in 1925 by notable architect Daniel Burnham, the station's Great Hall appears in numerous films, including "The Untouchables,", "My Best Friend's Wedding," and "Flags of Our Fathers." The hall's 18 Corinthian columns, terra cotta walls, pink Tennessee marble floor, and breathtaking atrium ceiling serve as a gorgeous backdrop for hundreds of weddings and special events every year.

5. Pullman Historic District

Automobile magnate George M. Pullman designed this neighborhood in the late 1800s as a model town for his factory workers. Featuring more than 1,000 houses, a school,  hotel,  bank, and a church, the project was one of the first examples of a mass-produced, large-scale housing development. Visit Hotel Florence to see the original furniture and fixtures, and gaze in awe at the Pullman Factory Clock Tower.

Next time you’re in Chicago, be sure to check out these popular historic attractions and share photos of your favorites on Instagram. Don’t forget to tag and follow @hertz, and reserve your car rental with us today