text:
.. toctree::

The following links describe a set of basic PCL tutorials. Please note that
their source codes may already be provided as part of the PCL regular releases,
so check there before you start copy & pasting the code. The list of tutorials
below is automatically generated from reST files located in our git repository.

.. note::

  Before you start reading, please make sure that you go through the higher-level overview documentation at http://www.pointclouds.org/documentation/, under **Getting Started**. Thank you.

As always, we would be happy to hear your comments and receive your
contributions on any tutorial.

Table of contents
-----------------

  * :ref:`basic_usage`
  * :ref:`advanced_usage`
  * :ref:`applications_tutorial`
  * :ref:`features_tutorial`
  * :ref:`filtering_tutorial`
  * :ref:`i_o`
  * :ref:`keypoints_tutorial`
  * :ref:`kdtree_tutorial`
  * :ref:`octree_tutorial`
  * :ref:`range_images`
  * :ref:`recognition_tutorial`
  * :ref:`registration_tutorial`
  * :ref:`sample_consensus`
  * :ref:`segmentation_tutorial`
  * :ref:`surface_tutorial`
  * :ref:`visualization_tutorial`
  * :ref:`gpu`

.. _basic_usage:

Basic Usage
-----------

  * :ref:`walkthrough`

     ======  ======
     |mi_0|  Title: **PCL Functionality Walkthrough**

             Author: *Razvan G. Mihalyi*

             Compatibility: > PCL 1.6

             Takes the reader through all of the PCL modules and offers basic explanations on their functionalities.
     ======  ======

     .. |mi_0| image:: images/pcl_logo.png
               :height: 75px

  * :ref:`basic_structures`

     ======  ======
     |mi_1|  Title: **Getting Started / Basic Structures**

             Author: *Radu B. Rusu*

             Compatibility: > PCL 1.0

             Presents the basic data structures in PCL and discusses their usage with a simple code example.
     ======  ======

     .. |mi_1| image:: images/pcl_logo.png
               :height: 75px

  * :ref:`using_pcl_pcl_config`

     ======  ======
     |mi_2|  Title: **Using PCL in your own project**

             Author: *Nizar Sallem*

             Compatibility: > PCL 1.0

             In this tutorial, we will learn how to link your own project to PCL using cmake.
     ======  ======

     .. |mi_2| image:: images/pcl_logo.png
               :height: 75px

  * :ref:`compiling_pcl_posix`

     =======  ======
     |mi_11|  Title: **Compiling PCL from source on POSIX compliant systems**

              Author: *Victor Lamoine*

              Compatibility: > PCL 1.0

              In this tutorial, we will explain how to compile PCL from sources on POSIX/Unix systems.
     =======  ======

     .. |mi_11| image:: images/pcl_logo.png
               :height: 120px

  * :ref:`building_pcl`

     ======  ======
     |mi_3|  Title: **Explaining PCL's cmake options**

             Author: *Nizar Sallem*

             Compatibility: > PCL 1.0

             In this tutorial, we will explain the basic PCL cmake options, and ways to tweak them to fit your project.
     ======  ======

     .. |mi_3| image:: images/pcl_ccmake.png
               :height: 100px

  * :ref:`compiling_pcl_dependencies_windows`

     ======  ======
     |mi_4|  Title: **Compiling PCL's dependencies from source on Windows**

             Authors: *Alessio Placitelli* and *Mourad Boufarguine*

             Compatibility: > PCL 1.0

             In this tutorial, we will explain how to compile PCL's 3rd party dependencies from source on Microsoft Windows.
     ======  ======

     .. |mi_4| image:: images/windows_logo.png
               :height: 100px

  * :ref:`compiling_pcl_windows`

     ======  ======
     |mi_5|  Title: **Compiling PCL on Windows**

             Author: *Mourad Boufarguine*

             Compatibility: > PCL 1.0

             In this tutorial, we will explain how to compile PCL on Microsoft Windows.
     ======  ======

     .. |mi_5| image:: images/windows_logo.png
               :height: 100px

  * :ref:`compiling_pcl_macosx`

     ======  ======
     |mi_6|  Title: **Compiling PCL and its dependencies from MacPorts and source on Mac OS X**

             Author: *Justin Rosen*

             Compatibility: > PCL 1.0

             This tutorial explains how to build the Point Cloud Library **from MacPorts and source** on Mac OS X platforms.
     ======  ======

     .. |mi_6| image:: images/macosx_logo.png
               :height: 100px

  * :ref:`installing_homebrew`

     ======  ======
     |mi_7|  Title: **Installing on Mac OS X using Homebrew**

             Author: *Geoffrey Biggs*

             Compatibility: > PCL 1.2

             This tutorial explains how to install the Point Cloud Library on Mac OS X using Homebrew. Both direct installation and compiling PCL from source are explained.
     ======  ======

     .. |mi_7| image:: images/macosx_logo.png
               :height: 100px

  * :ref:`using_pcl_with_eclipse`

     ======  ======
     |mi_8|  Title: **Using Eclipse as your PCL editor**

             Author: *Koen Buys*

             Compatibility: PCL git master

             This tutorial shows you how to get your PCL as a project in Eclipse.
     ======  ======

     .. |mi_8| image:: images/pcl_with_eclipse/eclipse.png
               :height: 100px

  * :ref:`generate_local_doc`

     =======  ======
     |mi_11|  Title: **Generate a local documentation for PCL**

              Author: *Victor Lamoine*

              Compatibility: PCL > 1.0

              This tutorial shows you how to generate and use a local documentation for PCL.
     =======  ======

     .. |mi_11| image:: images/pcl_logo.png
               :height: 75px

  * :ref:`matrix_transform`

     =======  ======
     |mi_10|  Title: **Using matrixes to transform a point cloud**

              Author: *Victor Lamoine*

              Compatibility: > PCL 1.5

              This tutorial shows you how to transform a point cloud using a matrix.
     =======  ======

     .. |mi_10| image:: images/matrix_transform/cube.png
               :height: 120px

.. _advanced_usage:

Advanced Usage
--------------

  * :ref:`adding_custom_ptype`

     ======  ======
     |au_1|  Title: **Adding your own custom PointT point type**

             Author: *Radu B. Rusu*

             Compatibility: > PCL 0.9, < PCL 2.0

             This document explains what templated point types are in PCL, why do they exist, and how to create and use your own `PointT` point type.
     ======  ======

     .. |au_1| image:: images/pcl_logo.png
               :height: 75px

  * :ref:`writing_new_classes`

     ======  ======
     |au_2|  Title: **Writing a new PCL class**

             Author: *Radu B. Rusu, Luca Penasa*

             Compatibility: > PCL 0.9, < PCL 2.0

             This short guide is to serve as both a HowTo and a FAQ for writing new PCL classes, either from scratch, or by adapting old code.
     ======  ======

     .. |au_2| image:: images/pcl_logo.png
               :height: 75px

.. _features_tutorial:

Features
--------

  * :ref:`how_3d_features_work`

     ======  ======
     |fe_1|  Title: **How 3D features work**

             Author: *Radu B. Rusu*

             Compatibility: > PCL 1.0

             This document presents a basic introduction to the 3D feature estimation methodologies in PCL.
     ======  ======

     .. |fe_1| image:: images/good_features_small.jpg
               :height: 100px

  * :ref:`normal_estimation`

     ======  ======
     |fe_2|  Title: **Estimating Surface Normals in a PointCloud**

             Author: *Radu B. Rusu*

             Compatibility: > PCL 1.0

             This tutorial discusses the theoretical and implementation details of the surface normal estimation module in PCL.
     ======  ======

     .. |fe_2| image:: images/normal_estimation.png
               :height: 100px

  * :ref:`normal_estimation_using_integral_images`

     ======  ======
     |fe_3|  Title: **Normal Estimation Using Integral Images**

             Author: *Stefan Holzer*

             Compatibility: > PCL 1.0

             In this tutorial we will learn how to compute normals for an organized point cloud using integral images.
     ======  ======

     .. |fe_3| image:: images/normal_estimation_ii.png
               :height: 100px

  * :ref:`pfh_estimation`

     ======  ======
     |fe_4|  Title: **Point Feature Histograms (PFH) descriptors**

             Author: *Radu B. Rusu*

             Compatibility: > PCL 1.0

             This tutorial introduces a family of 3D feature descriptors called PFH (Point Feature Histograms) and discusses their implementation details from PCL's perspective.
     ======  ======

     .. |fe_4| image:: images/pfh_estimation.png
               :height: 100px

  * :ref:`fpfh_estimation`

     ======  ======
     |fe_5|  Title: **Fast Point Feature Histograms (FPFH) descriptors**

             Author: *Radu B. Rusu*

             Compatibility: > PCL 1.3

             This tutorial introduces the FPFH (Fast Point Feature Histograms) 3D descriptor and discusses their implementation details from PCL's perspective.
     ======  ======

     .. |fe_5| image:: images/fpfh_estimation.jpg
               :height: 100px

  * :ref:`vfh_estimation`

     ======  ======
     |fe_6|  Title: **Estimating VFH signatures for a set of points**

             Author: *Radu B. Rusu*

             Compatibility: > PCL 0.8

             This document describes the Viewpoint Feature Histogram (VFH) descriptor, a novel representation for point clusters for the problem of Cluster (e.g., Object) Recognition and 6DOF Pose Estimation.
     ======  ======

     .. |fe_6| image:: images/vfh_estimation.png
               :height: 100px

  * :ref:`narf_feature_extraction`

     ======  ======
     |fe_7|  Title: **How to extract NARF features from a range image**

             Author: *Bastian Steder*

             Compatibility: > 1.3

             In this tutorial, we will learn how to extract NARF features from a range image.
     ======  ======

     .. |fe_7| image:: images/narf_keypoint_extraction.png
               :height: 100px

  * :ref:`moment_of_inertia`

     ======  ======
     |fe_8|  Title: **Moment of inertia and eccentricity based descriptors**

             Author: *Sergey Ushakov*

             Compatibility: > PCL 1.7

             In this tutorial we will learn how to compute moment of inertia and eccentricity of the cloud. In addition to this we will learn how to extract AABB and OBB.
     ======  ======

     .. |fe_8| image:: images/moment_of_inertia.png
               :height: 100px

  * :ref:`rops_feature`

     ======  ======
     |fe_9|  Title: **RoPs (Rotational Projection Statistics) feature**

             Author: *Sergey Ushakov*

             Compatibility: > PCL 1.7

             In this tutorial we will learn how to compute RoPS feature.
     ======  ======

     .. |fe_9| image:: images/rops_feature.png
               :height: 100px

.. _filtering_tutorial:

Filtering
---------

  * :ref:`passthrough`

     ======  ======
     |fi_1|  Title: **Filtering a PointCloud using a PassThrough filter**

             Author: *Radu B. Rusu*

             Compatibility: > PCL 1.0

             In this tutorial, we will learn how to remove points whose values fall inside/outside a user given interval along a specified dimension.
     ======  ======

     .. |fi_1| image:: images/passthrough.png
               :height: 100px

  * :ref:`voxelgrid`

     ======  ======
     |fi_2|  Title: **Downsampling a PointCloud using a VoxelGrid filter**

             Author: *Radu B. Rusu*

             Compatibility: > PCL 1.0

             In this tutorial, we will learn how to downsample (i.e., reduce the number of points) a Point Cloud.
     ======  ======

     .. |fi_2| image:: images/voxel_grid.jpg
               :height: 100px

  * :ref:`statistical_outlier_removal`

     ======  ======
     |fi_3|  Title: **Removing sparse outliers using StatisticalOutlierRemoval**

             Author: *Radu B. Rusu*

             Compatibility: > PCL 1.0

             In this tutorial, we will learn how to remove sparse outliers from noisy data, using StatisticalRemoval.
     ======  ======

     .. |fi_3| image:: images/statistical_removal.jpg
               :height: 100px

  * :ref:`project_inliers`

     ======  ======
     |fi_4|  Title: **Projecting points using a parametric model**

             Author: *Radu B. Rusu*

             Compatibility: > PCL 1.0

             In this tutorial, we will learn how to project points to a parametric model (i.e., plane).
     ======  ======

     .. |fi_4| image:: images/project_inliers.png
               :height: 100px

  * :ref:`extract_indices`

     ======  ======
     |fi_5|  Title: **Extracting indices from a PointCloud**

             Author: *Radu B. Rusu*

             Compatibility: > PCL 1.0

             In this tutorial, we will learn how to extract a set of indices given by a segmentation algorithm.
     ======  ======

     .. |fi_5| image:: images/extract_indices.jpg
               :height: 100px

  * :ref:`remove_outliers`

     ======  ======
     |fi_6|  Title: **Removing outliers using a Conditional or RadiusOutlier removal**

             Author: *Gabe O'Leary*

             Compatibility: > PCL 1.0

             In this tutorial, we will learn how to remove outliers from noisy data, using ConditionalRemoval, RadiusOutlierRemoval.
     ======  ======

     .. |fi_6| image:: images/radius_outlier.png
               :height: 100px

.. _i_o:

I/O
---

  * :ref:`pcd_file_format`

     ======  ======
     |i_o0|  Title: **The PCD (Point Cloud Data) file format**

             Author: *Radu B. Rusu*

             Compatibility: > PCL 0.9

             This document describes the PCD file format, and the way it is used inside PCL.
     ======  ======

     .. |i_o0| image:: images/PCD_icon.png
               :height: 100px

  * :ref:`reading_pcd`

     ======  ======
     |i_o1|  Title: **Reading Point Cloud data from PCD files**

             Author: *Radu B. Rusu*

             Compatibility: > PCL 1.0

             In this tutorial, we will learn how to read a Point Cloud from a PCD file.
     ======  ======

     .. |i_o1| image:: images/read_pcd.jpg
               :height: 100px

  * :ref:`writing_pcd`

     ======  ======
     |i_o2|  Title: **Writing Point Cloud data to PCD files**

             Author: *Radu B. Rusu*

             Compatibility: > PCL 1.0

             In this tutorial, we will learn how to write a Point Cloud to a PCD file.
     ======  ======

     .. |i_o2| image:: images/write_pcd.jpg
               :height: 100px

  * :ref:`concatenate_clouds`

     ======  ======
     |i_o3|  Title: **Concatenate the fields or points of two Point Clouds**

             Author: *Gabe O'Leary / Radu B. Rusu*

             Compatibility: > PCL 1.0

             In this tutorial, we will learn how to concatenate both the fields and the point data of two Point Clouds.  When concatenating fields, one PointClouds contains only *XYZ* data, and the other contains *Surface Normal* information.
     ======  ======

     .. |i_o3| image:: images/concatenate_fields.jpg
               :height: 100px

  * :ref:`openni_grabber`

     ======  ======
     |i_o4|  Title: **Grabbing Point Clouds from an OpenNI camera**

             Author: *Nico Blodow*

             Compatibility: > PCL 1.0

             In this tutorial, we will learn how to acquire point cloud data from an OpenNI camera.
     ======  ======

     .. |i_o4| image:: images/openni_grabber.png
               :height: 100px

  * :ref:`hdl_grabber`

     ======  ======
     |i_o5|  Title: **Grabbing Point Clouds from a Velodyne High Definition LiDAR (HDL)**

             Author: *Keven Ring*

             Compatibility: >= PCL 1.7

             In this tutorial, we will learn how to acquire point cloud data from a Velodyne HDL.
     ======  ======

     .. |i_o5| image:: images/hdl_grabber.png
               :height: 100px

  * :ref:`dinast_grabber`

     ======  ======
     |i_o6|  Title: **Grabbing Point Clouds from Dinast Cameras**

             Author: *Marco A. Gutierrez*

             Compatibility: >= PCL 1.7

             In this tutorial, we will learn how to acquire point cloud data from a Dinast camera.
     ======  ======

     .. |i_o6| image:: images/dinast_cyclopes.png
               :height: 100px

  * :ref:`ensenso_cameras`

     ======  ======
     |i_o7|  Title: **Grabbing point clouds from Ensenso cameras**

             Author: *Victor Lamoine*

             Compatibility: >= PCL 1.8.0

             In this tutorial, we will learn how to acquire point cloud data from an IDS-Imaging Ensenso camera.
     ======  ======

     .. |i_o7| image:: images/ensenso/ids.png
               :height: 165px

  * :ref:`david_sdk`

     ======  ======
     |i_o8|  Title: **Grabbing point clouds / meshes from davidSDK scanners**

             Author: *Victor Lamoine*

             Compatibility: >= PCL 1.8.0

             In this tutorial, we will learn how to acquire point cloud or mesh data from a davidSDK scanner.
     ======  ======

     .. |i_o8| image:: images/davidsdk/david.png
               :height: 70px

.. _keypoints_tutorial:

Keypoints
---------

  * :ref:`narf_keypoint_extraction`

     ======  ======
     |kp_1|  Title: **How to extract NARF keypoints from a range image**

             Author: *Bastian Steder*

             Compatibility: > 1.3

             In this tutorial, we will learn how to extract NARF keypoints from a range image.
     ======  ======

     .. |kp_1| image:: images/narf_keypoint_extraction.png
               :height: 100px

.. _kdtree_tutorial:

KdTree
------

  * :ref:`kdtree_search`

     ======  ======
     |kd_1|  Title: **KdTree Search**

             Author: *Gabe O'Leary*

             Compatibility: > PCL 1.0

             In this tutorial, we will learn how to search using the nearest neighbor method for k-d trees
     ======  ======

     .. |kd_1| image:: images/kdtree_search.png
               :height: 100px

.. _octree_tutorial:

Octree
------

  * :ref:`octree_compression`

     ======  ======
     |oc_1|  Title: **Point cloud compression**

             Author: *Julius Kammerl*

             Compatibility: > PCL 1.0

             In this tutorial, we will learn how to compress a single point cloud and streams of point clouds.
     ======  ======

     .. |oc_1| image:: images/compression_tutorial.png
               :height: 100px

  * :ref:`octree_search`

     ======  ======
     |oc_2|  Title: **Octrees for spatial partitioning and neighbor search**

             Author: *Julius Kammerl*

             Compatibility: > PCL 1.0

             In this tutorial, we will learn how to use octrees for spatial partitioning and nearest neighbor search.
     ======  ======

     .. |oc_2| image:: images/octree_img.png
               :height: 100px

  * :ref:`octree_change_detection`

     ======  ======
     |oc_3|  Title: **Spatial change detection on unorganized point cloud data**

             Author: *Julius Kammerl*

             Compatibility: > PCL 1.0

             In this tutorial, we will learn how to use octrees for detecting spatial changes within point clouds.
     ======  ======

     .. |oc_3| image:: images/changedetectionThumb.png
               :height: 100px

.. _range_images:

Range Images
------------

  * :ref:`range_image_creation`

     ======  ======
     |ri_1|  Title: **Creating Range Images from Point Clouds**

             Author: *Bastian Steder*

             Compatibility: > PCL 1.0

             This tutorial demonstrates how to create a range image from a point cloud and a given sensor position.
     ======  ======

     .. |ri_1| image:: images/range_image_visualization.png
               :height: 100px

  * :ref:`range_image_border_extraction`

     ======  ======
     |ri_2|  Title: **Extracting borders from Range Images**

             Author: *Bastian Steder*

             Compatibility: > PCL 1.3

             This tutorial demonstrates how to extract borders (traversals from foreground to background) from a range image.
     ======  ======

     .. |ri_2| image:: images/range_image_border_points.png
               :height: 100px

.. _recognition_tutorial:

Recognition
-----------

  * :ref:`correspondence_grouping`

     ======  ======
     |rc_1|  Title: **The PCL Recognition API**

             Author: *Tommaso Cavallari, Federico Tombari*

             Compatibility: > PCL 1.6

             This tutorial aims at explaining how to perform 3D Object Recognition based on the pcl_recognition module.
     ======  ======

     .. |rc_1| image:: images/correspondence_grouping/correspondence_grouping.jpg
               :height: 100px

  * :ref:`implicit_shape_model`

     ======  ======
     |rc_2|  Title: **Implicit Shape Model**

             Author: *Sergey Ushakov*

             Compatibility: > PCL 1.7

             In this tutorial we will learn how the Implicit Shape Model algorithm works and how to use it for finding objects centers.
     ======  ======

     .. |rc_2| image:: images/implicit_shape_model.png
               :height: 100px

  * :ref:`global_hypothesis_verification`

     ======  ======
     |rc_3|  Title: **Hypothesis Verification for 3D Object Recognition**

             Author: *Daniele De Gregorio, Federico Tombari*

             Compatibility: > PCL 1.7

             This tutorial aims at explaining how to do 3D object recognition in clutter by verifying model hypotheses in cluttered and  heavily occluded 3D scenes.
     ======  ======

     .. |rc_3| image:: images/global_hypothesis_verification/multiple.png
               :height: 100px

.. _registration_tutorial:

Registration
------------

  * :ref:`registration_api`

     ======  ======
     |re_1|  Title: **The PCL Registration API**

             Author: *Dirk Holz, Radu B. Rusu, Jochen Sprickerhof*

             Compatibility: > PCL 1.5

             In this document, we describe the point cloud registration API and its modules: the estimation and rejection of point correspondences, and the estimation of rigid transformations.
     ======  ======

     .. |re_1| image:: images/registration/registration_api.png
               :height: 100px

  * :ref:`iterative_closest_point`

     ======  ======
     |re_2|  Title: **How to use iterative closest point algorithm**

             Author: *Gabe O'Leary*

             Compatibility: > PCL 1.0

             This tutorial gives an example of how to use the iterative closest point algorithm to see if one PointCloud is just a rigid transformation of another PointCloud.
     ======  ======

     .. |re_2| image:: images/iterative_closest_point.gif
               :height: 100px

  * :ref:`pairwise_incremental_registration`

     ======  ======
     |re_3|  Title: **How to incrementally register pairs of clouds**

             Author: *Raphael Favier*

             Compatibility: > PCL 1.4

             This document demonstrates using the Iterative Closest Point algorithm in order to incrementally register a series of point clouds two by two.
     ======  ======

     .. |re_3| image:: images/iterative_closest_point.gif
               :height: 100px

  * :ref:`interactive_icp`

     ======  ======
     |re_7|  Title: **Interactive ICP**

             Author: *Victor Lamoine*

             Compatibility: > PCL 1.5

             This tutorial will teach you how to build an interactive ICP program
     ======  ======

     .. |re_7| image:: images/interactive_icp/monkey.png
               :height: 120px

  * :ref:`normal_distributions_transform`

     ======  ======
     |re_4|  Title: **How to use the Normal Distributions Transform algorithm**

             Author: *Brian Okorn*

             Compatibility: > PCL 1.6

             This document demonstrates using the Normal Distributions Transform algorithm to register two large point clouds.
     ======  ======

     .. |re_4| image:: images/normal_distributions_transform.gif
               :height: 100px

  * :ref:`in_hand_scanner`

     ======  ======
     |re_5|  Title: **How to use the In-hand scanner for small objects**

             Author: *Martin Saelzle*

             Compatibility: >= PCL 1.7

             This document shows how to use the In-hand scanner applications to obtain colored models of small objects with RGB-D cameras.
     ======  ======

     .. |re_5| image:: images/ihs_lion_model.png
               :height: 100px

  * :ref:`alignment_prerejective`

     ======  ======
     |re_6|  Title: **Robust pose estimation of rigid objects**

             Author: *Anders Glent Buch*

             Compatibility: >= PCL 1.7

             In this tutorial, we show how to find the alignment pose of a rigid object in a scene with clutter and occlusions.

     ======  ======

     .. |re_6| image:: images/alignment_prerejective_1.png
               :height: 100px

.. _sample_consensus:

Sample Consensus
----------------

  * :ref:`random_sample_consensus`

     ======  ======
     |sc_1|  Title: **How to use Random Sample Consensus model**

             Author: *Gabe O'Leary*

             Compatibility: > PCL 1.0

             In this tutorial we learn how to use a RandomSampleConsensus with a plane model to obtain the cloud fitting to this model.
     ======  ======

     .. |sc_1| image:: images/ransac_outliers_plane.png
               :height: 100px

.. _segmentation_tutorial:

Segmentation
------------

  * :ref:`planar_segmentation`

     ======  ======
     |se_1|  Title: **Plane model segmentation**

             Author: *Radu B. Rusu*

             Compatibility: > PCL 1.3

             In this tutorial, we will learn how to segment arbitrary plane models from a given point cloud dataset.
     ======  ======

     .. |se_1| image:: images/planar_segmentation.jpg
               :height: 100px

  * :ref:`cylinder_segmentation`

     ======  ======
     |se_2|  Title: **Cylinder model segmentation**

             Author: *Radu B. Rusu*

             Compatibility: > PCL 1.3

             In this tutorial, we will learn how to segment arbitrary cylindrical models from a given point cloud dataset.
     ======  ======

     .. |se_2| image:: images/cylinder_segmentation.jpg
               :height: 100px

  * :ref:`cluster_extraction`

     ======  ======
     |se_3|  Title: **Euclidean Cluster Extraction**

             Author: *Serkan Tuerker*

             Compatibility: > PCL 1.3

             In this tutorial we will learn how to extract Euclidean clusters with the ``pcl::EuclideanClusterExtraction`` class.
     ======  ======

     .. |se_3| image:: images/cluster_extraction.jpg
               :height: 100px

  * :ref:`region_growing_segmentation`

     ======  ======
     |se_4|  Title: **Region Growing Segmentation**

             Author: *Sergey Ushakov*

             Compatibility: >= PCL 1.7

             In this tutorial we will learn how to use region growing segmentation algorithm.
     ======  ======

     .. |se_4| image:: images/region_growing_segmentation.jpg
               :height: 100px

  * :ref:`region_growing_rgb_segmentation`

     ======  ======
     |se_5|  Title: **Color-based Region Growing Segmentation**

             Author: *Sergey Ushakov*

             Compatibility: >= PCL 1.7

             In this tutorial we will learn how to use color-based region growing segmentation algorithm.
     ======  ======

     .. |se_5| image:: images/region_growing_rgb_segmentation.jpg
               :height: 100px

  * :ref:`min_cut_segmentation`

     ======  ======
     |se_6|  Title: **Min-Cut Based Segmentation**

             Author: *Sergey Ushakov*

             Compatibility: >= PCL 1.7

             In this tutorial we will learn how to use min-cut based segmentation algorithm.
     ======  ======

     .. |se_6| image:: images/min_cut_segmentation.jpg
               :height: 100px

  * :ref:`conditional_euclidean_clustering`

     ======  ======
     |se_7|  Title: **Conditional Euclidean Clustering**

             Author: *Frits Florentinus*

             Compatibility: >= PCL 1.7

             This tutorial describes how to use the Conditional Euclidean Clustering class in PCL:
             A segmentation algorithm that clusters points based on Euclidean distance and a user-customizable condition that needs to hold.
     ======  ======

     .. |se_7| image:: images/conditional_euclidean_clustering.jpg
               :height: 100px

  * :ref:`don_segmentation`

     ======  ======
     |se_8|  Title: **Difference of Normals Based Segmentation**

             Author: *Yani Ioannou*

             Compatibility: >= PCL 1.7

             In this tutorial we will learn how to use the difference of normals feature for segmentation.
     ======  ======

     .. |se_8| image:: images/don_segmentation.png
               :height: 100px

  * :ref:`supervoxel_clustering`

     ======  ======
     |se_9|  Title: **Supervoxel Clustering**

             Author: *Jeremie Papon*

             Compatibility: >= PCL 1.7

             In this tutorial, we show to break a pointcloud into the mid-level supervoxel representation.
     ======  ======

     .. |se_9| image:: images/supervoxel_clustering_small.png
               :height: 100px

  * :ref:`progressive_morphological_filtering`

     =======  ======
     |se_10|  Title: **Progressive Morphological Filtering**

              Author: *Brad Chambers*

              Compatibility: >= PCL 1.8

              In this tutorial, we show how to segment a point cloud into ground and non-ground returns.
     =======  ======

     .. |se_10| image:: images/progressive_morphological_filter.png
               :height: 100px

  * :ref:`model_outlier_removal`

     =======  ======
     |se_11|  Title: **Model outlier removal**

              Author: *Timo Häckel*

              Compatibility: >= PCL 1.7.2

              This tutorial describes how to extract points from a point cloud using SAC models
     =======  ======

     .. |se_11| image:: images/pcl_logo.png
               :height: 75px

.. _surface_tutorial:

Surface
-------

  * :ref:`moving_least_squares`

     ======  ======
     |su_1|  Title: **Smoothing and normal estimation based on polynomial reconstruction**

             Author: *Zoltan-Csaba Marton, Alexandru E. Ichim*

             Compatibility: > PCL 1.6

             In this tutorial, we will learn how to construct and run a Moving Least Squares (MLS) algorithm to obtain smoothed XYZ coordinates and normals.
     ======  ======

     .. |su_1| image:: images/resampling.jpg
               :height: 100px

  * :ref:`hull_2d`

     ======  ======
     |su_2|  Title: **Construct a concave or convex hull polygon for a plane model**

             Author: *Gabe O'Leary, Radu B. Rusu*

             Compatibility: > PCL 1.0

             In this tutorial we will learn how to calculate a simple 2D concave or convex hull polygon for a set of points supported by a plane.
     ======  ======

     .. |su_2| image:: images/convex_hull_2d.jpg
               :height: 100px

  * :ref:`greedy_triangulation`

     ======  ======
     |su_3|  Title: **Fast triangulation of unordered point clouds**

             Author: *Zoltan-Csaba Marton*

             Compatibility: > PCL 1.0

             In this tutorial we will learn how to run a greedy triangulation algorithm on a PointCloud with normals to obtain a triangle mesh based on projections of the local neighborhood.
     ======  ======

     .. |su_3| image:: images/greedy_triangulation.png
               :height: 100px

  * :ref:`bspline_fitting`

     ======  ======
     |su_4|  Title: **Fitting trimmed B-splines to unordered point clouds**

             Author: *Thomas Mörwald*

             Compatibility: > PCL 1.7

             In this tutorial we will learn how to reconstruct a smooth surface from an unordered point-cloud by fitting trimmed B-splines.
     ======  ======

     .. |su_4| image:: images/bspline_bunny.png
               :height: 100px

.. _visualization_tutorial:

Visualization
-------------

  * :ref:`cloud_viewer`

     ======  ======
     |vi_1|  Title: **Visualizing Point Clouds**

             Author: *Ethan Rublee*

             Compatibility: > PCL 1.0

             This tutorial demonstrates how to use the pcl visualization tools.
     ======  ======

     .. |vi_1| image:: images/cloud_viewer.jpg
               :height: 100px

  * :ref:`range_image_visualization`

     ======  ======
     |vi_2|  Title: **Visualizing Range Images**

             Author: *Bastian Steder*

             Compatibility: > PCL 1.3

             This tutorial demonstrates how to use the pcl visualization tools for range images.
     ======  ======

     .. |vi_2| image:: images/range_image_visualization.png
               :height: 100px

  * :ref:`pcl_visualizer`

     ======  ======
     |vi_3|  Title: **PCLVisualizer**

             Author: *Geoffrey Biggs*

             Compatibility: > PCL 1.3

             This tutorial demonstrates how to use the PCLVisualizer class for powerful visualisation of point clouds and related data.
     ======  ======

     .. |vi_3| image:: images/pcl_visualizer_viewports.png
               :height: 100px

  * :ref:`pcl_plotter`

     ======  ======
     |vi_4|  Title: **PCLPlotter**

             Author: *Kripasindhu Sarkar*

             Compatibility: > PCL 1.7

             This tutorial demonstrates how to use the PCLPlotter class for powerful visualisation of plots, charts and histograms of raw data and explicit functions.
     ======  ======

     .. |vi_4| image:: images/pcl_plotter_comprational.png
               :height: 100px

  * :ref:`visualization`

     ======  ======
     |vi_5|  Title: **PCL Visualization overview**

             Author: *Radu B. Rusu*

             Compatibility: >= PCL 1.0

             This tutorial will give an overview on the usage of the PCL visualization tools.
     ======  ======

     .. |vi_5| image:: images/visualization_small.png
               :height: 120px

  * :ref:`qt_visualizer`

     ======  ======
     |vi_6|  Title: **Create a PCL visualizer in Qt with cmake**

             Author: *Victor Lamoine*

             Compatibility: > PCL 1.5

             This tutorial shows you how to create a PCL visualizer within a Qt application.
     ======  ======

     .. |vi_6| image:: images/qt_visualizer/qt.png
               :height: 128px

  * :ref:`qt_colorize_cloud`

     ======  ======
     |vi_7|  Title: **Create a PCL visualizer in Qt to colorize clouds**

              Author: *Victor Lamoine*

              Compatibility: > PCL 1.5

              This tutorial shows you how to color point clouds within a Qt application.
     ======  ======

     .. |vi_7| image:: images/qt_visualizer/qt.png
               :height: 128px

.. _applications_tutorial:

Applications
------------

  * :ref:`template_alignment`

     ======  ======
     |ap_1|  Title: **Aligning object templates to a point cloud**

             Author: *Michael Dixon*

             Compatibility: > PCL 1.3

             This tutorial gives an example of how some of the tools covered in the previous tutorials can be combined to solve a higher level problem --- aligning a previously captured model of an object to some newly captured data.
     ======  ======

     .. |ap_1| image:: images/template_alignment_1.jpg
               :height: 100px

  * :ref:`vfh_recognition`

     ======  ======
     |ap_2|  Title: **Cluster Recognition and 6DOF Pose Estimation using VFH descriptors**

             Author: *Radu B. Rusu*

             Compatibility: > PCL 0.8

             In this tutorial we show how the Viewpoint Feature Histogram (VFH) descriptor can be used to recognize similar clusters in terms of their geometry.
     ======  ======

     .. |ap_2| image:: images/vfh_recognition.jpg
               :height: 100px

  * :ref:`mobile_streaming`

     ======  ======
     |ap_3|  Title: **Point Cloud Streaming to Mobile Devices with Real-time Visualization**

             Author: *Pat Marion*

             Compatibility: > PCL 1.3

             This tutorial describes how to send point cloud data over the network from a desktop server to a client running on a mobile device.
     ======  ======

     .. |ap_3| image:: images/mobile_streaming_1.jpg
               :height: 100px

  * :ref:`ground_based_rgbd_people_detection`

     ======  ======
     |ap_5|  Title: **Detecting people on a ground plane with RGB-D data**

             Author: *Matteo Munaro*

             Compatibility: >= PCL 1.7

             This tutorial presents a method for detecting people on a ground plane with RGB-D data.
     ======  ======

     .. |ap_5| image:: images/ground_based_rgbd_people_detection/Index_photo.jpg
               :height: 120px

.. _gpu:

GPU
---

  * :ref:`gpu_install`

     ======  ======
     |gp_1|  Title: **GPU Installation**

             Author: *Koen Buys*

             Compatibility: PCL git master

             This tutorial explains how to configure PCL to use with a Nvidia GPU
     ======  ======

     .. |gp_1| image:: images/PCD_icon.png
               :height: 100px

  * :ref:`using_kinfu_large_scale`

     ======  ======
     |ap_4|  Title: **Using Kinfu Large Scale to generate a textured mesh**

             Author: *Francisco Heredia and Raphael Favier*

             Compatibility: PCL git master

             This tutorial demonstrates how to use KinFu Large Scale to produce a mesh from a room, and apply texture information in post-processing for a more appealing visual result.
     ======  ======

     .. |ap_4| image:: images/using_kinfu_large_scale.jpg
               :height: 100px

  * :ref:`gpu_people`

     ======  ======
     |gp_2|  Title: **People Detection**

             Author: *Koen Buys*

             Compatibility: PCL git master

             This tutorial presents a method for people and pose detection.
     ======  ======

     .. |gp_2| image:: images/gpu/people/c2_100.jpg
               :height: 100px

 ..
  * :ref:`normal_estimation_integral_images`
    Surface normal estimation
  * Range Image
    * :ref:`range_image_visualization`
      How to visualize a range image
    * :ref:`range_image_creation`
      How to create a range image from a point cloud
    * :ref:`range_image_border_extraction`
      How to extract borders from range images
    * :ref:`narf_keypoint`
      How to extract NARF keypoints from a range image
    * :ref:`narf_descriptor`
      How to extract NARF descriptors from points in a range images
    * :ref:`octree_search`
      Octrees for spatial partitioning and neighbor search.


text:
Tiniest Particles Shrink Before Exploding When Hit With SLAC's X-ray Laser
This surprising finding has potentially broad implications, from X-ray imaging of single particles to fusion research.
Researchers assumed that tiny objects would instantly blow up when hit by extremely intense light from the world's most powerful X-ray laser at the Department of Energy's SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory. But to their astonishment, these nanoparticles initially shrank instead – a finding that provides a glimpse of the unusual world of superheated nanomaterials that could eventually also help scientists further develop X-ray techniques for taking atomic images of individual molecules.
The experiments took place at the Linac Coherent Light Source (LCLS) X-ray laser, a DOE Office of Science User Facility. Its pulses are so bright that they can be used to turn solids into highly ionized gases, or plasmas, that blow up within a fraction of a second. Fortunately, for many samples researchers can take the data they need before the damage sets in – an approach that has been used to reveal never-before-seen details of a variety of samples relevant to chemistry, materials science, biology and energy research.
The ultimate limits of this approach are, however, not well understood. One of the key visions for X-ray laser science is to image individual, one-of-a-kind particles with single X-ray pulses. To do so in a quantitative manner, researchers need to understand precisely how each molecule responds to the intense X-ray light. The new study, published today in Science Advances, provides an unexpected insight into this aspect.
"So far, all models have assumed that a very small system would immediately explode when we pump a lot of energy into it with the X-ray laser," says former LCLS researcher Christoph Bostedt, who is now at Argonne National Laboratory and Northwestern University. "But our experiments showed otherwise."
Fig1Ascreenshot2-cropped.jpg
Experimental setup at LCLS used to determine that nanometer-sized particles first shrink before exploding after being hit with very intense X-rays. The researchers exposed tiny xenon clusters (injected from top left) to two consecutive X-ray pulses (green and red wavelets coming in from bottom left). The first pulse rapidly heats the cluster, while the second pulse probes how its structure changes over a period of 80 quadrillionths of a second. The structural changes are tracked with an X-ray detector (right). (SLAC National Accelerator Laboratory)
At LCLS, Bostedt and his fellow researchers exposed minuscule clusters of xenon atoms to two consecutive X-ray pulses. The clusters, which were merely three millionths of an inch across, were heated by the first pulse for 10 quadrillionths of a second, or 10 femtoseconds. The second pulse then probed the clusters' atomic structures over the next 80 femtoseconds.
"The unique nature of the LCLS X-ray pulse allowed us to create a freeze-frame movie of the response, with a resolution of about a tenth of the width of a single xenon atom," says LCLS and Stanford University graduate student Ken Ferguson, who led the data analysis. The researchers believe that the effect is a result of how electrons, which were initially localized around individual xenon atoms, redistribute over the entire cluster after the first X-ray pulse.
"This phenomenon had never been observed before, nor had it been predicted by any of the existing theories," he says. "We expect it to have implications for many ultrafast X-ray laser experiments, especially those geared toward single-particle imaging with very intense X-ray pulses."
The research could benefit studies in other areas as well, such as investigations of warm dense matter – a state of matter between a solid and a plasma that exists in the cores of certain planets and is also important in the pursuit of nuclear fusion with high-power lasers.
Other institutions involved in the study were Technical University of Berlin, Germany; Tohoku University, Japan; National Science Foundation BioXFEL Science and Technology Center, Buffalo; and Kyoto University, Japan.
Citation: K. R. Ferguson et al., Science Advances, 29 January 2016 (10.1126/sciadv.1500837).
Matter in Extreme ConditionsX-ray ScienceX-ray ImagingX-ray Scattering/DiffractionLightsourcesLinac Coherent Light Source (LCLS)LCLS Coherent X-ray Imaging (CXI)

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


Welcome to this wonderful, updated and spacious town home, quietly tucked away in Island View Condos. This lovely residence features an open floor plan with corner brick fireplace, formal diving room and beautifully updated granite kitchen and bathrooms. The living room boasts gleaming hardwood floors and gets plentiful natural light. The formal dining room features tile floors and a large slider which leads out to a private deck. Make your way to the second floor to find two generously-sized bedrooms with ample walk-in closet spaces. The finished walk-out lower level features new floors, laundry room and bonus family room which could also be used as a home office! This home's incredibly convenient location makes is just minutes to shopping, parks, schools and highways. A commuters dream location... just two minutes from i95! Welcome to your next home!


San Javier articles can be searched using the boxes below or via the top navigation bar.
The municipality is one of the youngest in the Murcia Region, but contains one of the most important subaquatic archaeological sites in Spain, the Phoenician Bajo de la Campana shipwreck, which has lain beneath the waters of the municipality for more than 2500 years.
Today, tourism is one of the principal activities in San Javier, with hotels, bars and restaurants, property management, rentals and sales professionals all servicing the tourism and leisure sectors.
Warm thermal winds and shallow waters create ideal conditions for watersports, and San Javier offers excellent opportunities for both beginners and improvers who enjoy sailing, windsurfing, kitesurfing and diving from the many specialist centres within San Javier.
Agriculture is also an important element of the local economy and in the outlying pedanías such as El Mirador and Grajuela, a wide range of both greenhouse and salad crops are cultivated.
An established ex-pat community has grown up within San Javier, in areas such as Roda, taking advantage of the warm climate and busy cultural offering, which includes the San Javier Jazz Festival, the Carnival in Santiago de la Ribera and the many events run by social support groups and charities within the ex-pat community, as well as a full programme of events and activities within the municipality.
San Javier also has a rich cultural tradition with the annual Romería of San Blas in February, the marine Romería of the Virgen del Carmen in July and boasts one of the largest nativity Beléns in Spain during the Christmas celebrations, when even the Three Kings arrive in San Javier by boat.


text:
Search by tag: sam
Review: 'You've Reached Sam' delivers an emotional YA debut
"You've Reached Sam" by Dustin Thao follows high school senior Julie as she deals with the death of her boyfriend, Sam
Laurence Fishburne, Sam Rockwell, Darren Criss eye Broadway
CULTURA 08 Oct, 2021
A revival of David Mamet's "American Buffalo" with Laurence Fishburne, Sam Rockwell and Darren Criss was in rehearsal wh...
Review: Sam Williams charts his own path among famed family
CULTURA 20 Aug, 2021
Singer-songwriter Sam Williams' debut album "Glasshouse Children," is heading out this week, and the comparisons to his...
Country star Sam Hunt pleads guilty to drinking and driving
Country singer Sam Hunt has pleaded guilty to drinking and driving in Tennessee
'Outlander' star Sam Heughan speaks out against online abuse
CULTURA 17 Apr, 2020
"Outlander" star Sam Heughan spoke out on social media about what he calls "six years of constant bullying, harassment,...
To share or not to share, that is the question for Sam Hunt
Sam Hunt's sophomore album opens and closes with two of the most personal songs he's ever written
Q&A: Sam Mendes on making '1917' in one long take
CULTURA 21 Dec, 2019
The new film by Sam Mendes is more compact than the James Bond films he's done
Director Sam Mendes on making '1917' in one long take
After the juggling act of two Bond films, with their cadre of characters and armory of gadgets, Sam Mendes had something...
AP's top songs of 2019: Jhene Aiko, Sam Smith, Normani
Jhene Aiko's "Triggered (freestyle)" has been named song of the year by The Associated Press' Music Editor Mes...


This on-line cyber-museum strives to display as much information and as many illustrations of telegraph instruments, microphones, old radios, and old scientific and psychological instrumentation as possible.
An on-line cyber-museum has a number of advantages over traditional museums. The primary advantage is that it can be visited at any time from anywhere in the world without the need to travel.
Most traditional museums can only display a very small fraction of their general holdings due to limited availability of display space. An on-line cyber-museum such as this can display all of the items in its collections as well as those of other collectors since storage space is inexpensive and virtually unlimited.
This museum is set up in a no-frills format for serious collectors who already know something about telegraph instruments and who want to be able to see quite detailed photographs of them. Brief descriptions of each item are keyed to as many photographs as it has been possible to digitize. The photographs are separated from the text and saved in the ***.GIF format. This technique allows the illustrations to be downloaded with ease by most internet browsers. All material is copyrighted and you must obtain permission via the email address given below for any use of the text or illustrations unless it is for your own personal use.
The photographs are digitized in high enough resolution to allow downloading of images that are suitable for use in research, for saving as files, and even for printing. This, unfortunately, means that the photographs may take a considerable time to download. To make this unfortunate necessity a bit more tolerable, the size of each photograph is given in kilobytes as a rough indication of how long it will take to download the file.
As time permits, descriptions will be lengthened, and new illustrations will be added.


text:
Tag Archives: Iran
Iran announces retaliatory sanctions on dozens of EU, UK individuals, entities
January 26, 2023 Middle East, Featured, Worldwide 0 1
Iran on Wednesday announced sanctions against 34 individuals and entities from the European Union and the United Kingdom, days after Brussels and London imposed a fresh round of sanctions targeting Iranian officials and organizations. The ministry said the individuals and entities were designated because of "supporting terrorism and terrorist groups, …
Europe will 'pay dearly' for its 'visceral' moves over anti-IRGC vote, Iran FM warns
Iran's foreign minister has censured the European Parliament's "visceral" vote calling for the designation of the Islamic Revolution Guards Corps (IRGC) as a terror group, warning that such conduct would be "costly" for Europe. Hossein Amir-Abdollahian said the correct path for Europe would be rather to concentrate on diplomacy, constructive …
Iraqi PM underlines historic ties with Iran
January 11, 2023 Middle East, Featured, Iraq, Worldwide 0 58
Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia' al-Sudani has called for the expansion of ties with Iran after the Iranian Foreign Ministry summoned the country's ambassador to Tehran to protest the use of the name for the Arab Gulf at a regional football competition. Sudani described the Baghdad-Tehran relations as deep-rooted and …
January 10, 2023 Featured, Opinion 0 53
In 1960, a controversial French satirical magazine 'Hara-Kiri' was launched by Georges Bernier and Francois Cavanna, subtitled 'journal bête et méchant', which literally translated into 'stupid and nasty journal'. It was clearly no hyperbole. The monthly magazine, which relied on trademark crackbrained satire, was so insanely outlandish that it was …
Iraq | borders guards start deploying at the borders with Turkiye and Iran
December 27, 2022 Featured, Iraq 0 138
On Tuesday, the spokesperson for the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, Maj. Gen. Yahya Rasool revealed that the border guards continued deploying at the borders with Turkiye and Iran in the Kurdistan Region within the fault line. Rasool said in a press conference that the security forces have begun to …
Iran expresses readiness to provide technical help for Iraq to protect the borders
November 28, 2022 Middle East, Iraq, Worldwide 0 135
The Iranian Ministry of Foreign Affairs welcomed the Iraqi official decision to deploy border guards between Iraq and Iran. On Monday, the spokesperson of the Iranian Foreign Ministry, Nasser Kanaani revealed details about the visit of the Iraqi PM, Muhammad S. Al-Sudani to Tehran, which is his third trip abroad …
Al-Sudani receives Iran's ambassador to Iraq; invited to visit Iran
November 26, 2022 Featured, Iraq 0 162
Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi has invited Iraq's new Prime Minister Mohammad Shia al-Sudani to visit Tehran. According to an official readout by his office, al-Sudani received Iran's ambassador to Iraq, Mohammad Kadhim Al Sadiq, in Baghdad this morning, Saturday. The diplomat conveyed Raisi's invitation and discussed with al-Sudani the bilateral …
'Strategic mistake': Iran strongly condemns UNHRC resolution
November 25, 2022 Middle East, Featured, Worldwide 0 84
Iran's Foreign Ministry has vehemently condemned the meeting and resolution of the United Nations Human Rights Council, noting that "multifaceted political goals" are behind these anti-Iranian measures. In a statement late on Thursday, the ministry blasted the measure of a few Western countries in "imposing" an anti-Iranian resolution to the …
Iran not to let terrorists threaten its security: FM
October 27, 2022 Middle East, Featured, Worldwide 0 139
Iran Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian has condemned the terrorist attack in Shiraz, declaring that Iran will not allow terrorists to undermine its security. In an Instagram post, Amir-Adbollhian strongly condemned the deadly terrorist attack in the Shah Cheragh shrine in Shiraz in the southwest Iranian province of Fars last night. …
At least 15 dead as gunmen open fire at worshippers in Iran's Shiraz: State media
October 26, 2022 Middle East, Worldwide 0 143
At least 15 people died and a dozen others were injured, after three gunmen opened fire at worshippers in a Shia pilgrimage site in Iran's city of Shiraz, state media reported on Wednesday, describing the incident as a "terrorist attack." The incident took place in the Shahcheragh shrine in Shiraz …
Iran sanctions several EU institutions, individuals for supporting terrorism
Iran has announced tit-for-tat sanctions against institutions and individuals in the European Union (EU) due to their deliberate actions in support of terrorism and terrorist groups. In a statement released on Wednesday, Iran's Foreign Ministry once again strongly rejected and condemned the EU's October 17 sanctions targeting Iranian individuals and …
Iran's supreme leader blames U.S., Israel for violent riots
October 3, 2022 Middle East, Featured, Worldwide 0 127
Leader of the Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei has severely censured the unrest that erupted in some parts of Iran following the death of a young woman, stating that the deadly riots were orchestrated in advance by the United States and the Israeli regime. Ayatollah Khamenei, the Commander-in-Chief of …
Europeans adopt 'wrong' stance at 'inappropriate' time in Vienna talks: Iran
September 12, 2022 Middle East, Featured, Worldwide 0 167
Iran has slammed as "wrong" and "ill-considered" the joint statement issued by Germany, France, and the United Kingdom on the revival of the 2015 nuclear deal, officially known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA). Speaking at a weekly presser on Monday, Iran's Foreign Ministry spokesman Nasser Kan'ani said …
Iran reopens main border crossings to Iraq, flights restored
August 30, 2022 Middle East, Iraq, Worldwide 0 226
Iranian Interior Ministry says border crossings to Iraq have been reopened hours after they were closed because of an eruption of violence in the country's capital Baghdad. Authorities said on Tuesday that four main border crossings to Iraq had been reopened to travelers. Later statements said two of the crossings, …
Iran to launch mass military drone drills
August 23, 2022 Middle East, Worldwide 0 196
Iran will stage large-scale drone drills across the country with the participation of different units of the Army, says a senior Iranian Army commander. Deputy Chief of the Iranian Army for Coordination Rear Admiral Habibollah Sayyari made the announcement on Tuesday, saying the massive exercises will kick off on August …
Borrell: Iran response to EU proposal on JCPOA revival 'reasonable'
August 22, 2022 Middle East, Featured, Worldwide 0 147
European Union foreign policy chief, Josep Borrell, says Iran's answer to the bloc's proposal on the revival of the 2015 nuclear deal, officially known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), was "reasonable." "There was a proposal from me as coordinator of the negotiations… and a response from Iran …
UAE says will send ambassador to Iran in coming days
The United Arab Emirates ambassador to Iran, Saif Mohammed Al Zaabi, will resume his duties in Tehran in the coming days in an effort to further boost mutual relations, the UAE's Foreign Ministry says. The decision was made "in line with UAE efforts to strengthen relations with Iran and as …
Iran calls on US to implement prisoner swap deal, free Iranian prisoners
August 17, 2022 Middle East, US & Canada, Featured, Worldwide 0 149
Iran has expressed its readiness for swift implementation of a prisoner swap deal with the US while urging Washington to free Iranians imprisoned in the US without tying the issue with irrelevant issues.
US says studying Iran's response to EU proposed text
The United States Department of States has said that it has received Iran's response to the EU proposal on the nuclear deal, and it is studying it.
Iran will offer its final conclusion on EU's plan to revive JCPOA by Monday midnight – FM
Iran's Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian says by Monday midnight, the country will provide the European Union's coordinator in the talks on the 2015 deal, known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), with its final conclusion on the bloc's plan for revival of the deal. "We have not offered …


text:
Save your favorites. Quickly access bookings. Find tickets & tours worldwide.
a Tripadvisor company
Chicago All Destinations
Language & Country
Art & Culture Classes
All Art & Culture Classes
All Arts & Design
Art Tours
Costume Dress Up Experiences
Historical Tours
Crime Tours
Movie Tours
Street Art Tour
TV Tours
Shows & Performances
All Shows & Performances
Dinner and Show Tickets
Active & Outdoor Classes
All Active & Outdoor Classes
Food & Drink Classes
All Food & Drink Classes
All Coffee & Tea
Coffee Cruises
All Desserts & Sweets
Donut Walking Tour
All Dining Experiences
All Food Tours
All Wine, Beer & Spirits
All Extreme Sports
All Fun & Games
All In the Air
Nature and Wildlife Tours
All Nature and Wildlife Tours
All On the Ground
Scavenger Hunts
All On the Water
Jet Boat Rentals
Kayaking Tours
Sightseeing Cruises
Speed Boat Rentals
Water Equipment Rentals
Seasonal & Special Occasions
All Seasonal & Special Occasions
All Weddings & Celebrations
All Tickets & Passes
All Amusement Parks
All Attractions & Museums
Packages & Special Events
All Packages & Special Events
Tours, Sightseeing & Cruises
All Tours, Sightseeing & Cruises
All Cruises & Sailing
All How to Get Around
Car Tours
Limousine Tours
Luxury Car Tours
All Sightseeing Tours
Hop on Hop Off Buses
Observation Decks
All Tours by Duration
Travel & Transportation Services
All Travel & Transportation Services
Airport & Hotel Transfers
Transportation Rentals
Skydeck Chicago at Willis Tower (Sears Tower) Tours & Tickets
Chicago River Tours & Tickets
Lincoln Park & Zoo Tours & Tickets
Millennium Park Tours & Tickets
Field Museum Tours & Tickets
Shedd Aquarium Tours & Tickets
Lake Michigan Tours & Tickets
House-of-Blues Tours & Tickets
Wrigley-Field Tours & Tickets
Chicago-Cultural-Center Tours & Tickets
Museum-of-Science-and-Industry Tours & Tickets
The-Magnificent-Mile Tours & Tickets
Soldier-Field Tours & Tickets
Art-Institute-of-Chicago Tours & Tickets
Chicago-Botanic-Garden Tours & Tickets
All Recommendations
Things to Do in Chicago This Summer
Things to Do in Chicago this Winter
Ways to Beat the Crowds in Chicago
Chicago Pizza Tours: Where to Find the Best Slice
Don't-Miss Dishes in Chicago
How to Get Off the Beaten Path in Chicago
Romantic Things to Do in Chicago
USA Tours
Niagara Falls & Around
Questions? (888) 651-9785(888) 651-9785
Chicago Travelers Recommend
| All Chicago Tours
How to Spend 2 Days in Chicago
26 Tours and Activities
Whether spending a weekend in the Windy City or planning a midweek adventure, you have plenty of time to discover Chicago's highlights in two days. From world-class museums and world-ranking skyscrapers to the city's delectable dining scene, here's how to make the most of your 2-day stay.
Day 1: The Loop and Beyond
Morning: Set right along the waterfront, Chicago's Museum Campus (home to the Field Museum of Natural History, the Adler Planetarium, the Shedd Aquarium, and more) is the perfect place to immerse yourself in the Windy City's cultural side.
Afternoon: The Loop, Chicago's downtown business district, is home to a heavy concentration of landmarks. The neighborhood is ideal terrain for walking tours—explore on foot and stumble across highlights ranging from Millennium Park and the Willis Tower (formerly the Sears Tower) to public sculptures by Pablo Picasso and Alexander Calder.
Night: Head up to the top of the Willis Tower, where you can enjoy a multicourse meal while taking in views of Chicago lit up after dark. Alternatively, a dinner cruise along Lake Michigan combines gourmet dishes with splendid skyline views.
Day 2: Sand and Surf, Snacks and Sightseeing
Morning: On Chicago's 26-mile (42-kilometer) shoreline, admire what might look to be the ocean—a stretch of Lake Michigan often called the "Third Coast." When the sun's out, follow Chicagoans to the lake's sandy beaches, from North Avenue Beach to Oak Street Beach. Alternatively, enjoy waterside attractions of a different kind at Navy Pier.
Afternoon: Complete this day with a food tour of Chicago's vibrant culinary culture. Seek out hot dogs and Italian beef sandwiches, and save extra room for deep-dish pizza. A number of renowned, decades-old pizza joints can be found right in the Loop, from Lou Malnati's and Giordano's to Gino's East.
Night: When the sun is setting, embark on a helicopter tour and get rewarded with a unique, aerial perspective of the city. Spot Chicago's most distinctive skyscrapers, discover its different neighborhoods from the air, and see the lights come on as evening descends.
Chicago makes up for its blustery winters with summer sunshine and high temperatures. Whether you choose to spend a day in the city's parks, lounge on one of Lake Michigan's beaches, or retreat to the air-conditioned calm of a museum when the afternoon sun feels particularly strong, here's how to spend summer in the Windy City.
Go for a cruise along the Chicago River, and admire the city's famous skyscrapers from the water's edge.
Couple a sightseeing excursion to Millennium Park with a night of music at the Chicago Jazz Festival.
Enjoy unparalleled fireworks views when you celebrate the Fourth of July aboard an all-night party yacht.
Head to Grant Park, and come hungry: The Taste of Chicago Festival is one of the city's most popular summer events.
Retreat to the Art Institute of Chicago for a cultural immersion when the thermostat soars (or when summer thunderstorms roll in).
Enjoy a celestial show at the Adler Planetarium —and go stargazing at its companion Doane Observatory.
Sun yourself on one of Lake Michigan's sandy beaches, such as North Avenue Beach or Oak Street Beach.
Combine a fresh-air stroll with the opportunity to chow down during a food-themed, neighborhood walking tour.
Commune with aquatic life during an excursion to the delightful Shedd Aquarium.
Indulge in an urban oasis when you visit the blossoms at the Chicago Botanic Garden.
Chicago River and Lake Michigan Cruises
Chicago may be 1,000 miles from the ocean, but the city is still best seen aboard a boat. From the Chicago River to nearby Lake Michigan, visitors are spoiled for choice when it comes to touring the city from the water. See below for your options.
Chicago River Cruises
Learn the history of Chicago's skyscrapers on a Chicago River cruise, some of which focus specifically on the city's towering architecture. See Sears Tower and the Wrigley Building while enjoying a casual architecture cruise, and hear how the flow of the river was reversed—a feat of modern engineering.
Sailing and Speedboat Rides on Lake Michigan
Lake Michigan is so big that its total area is larger than that of nine different US states, meaning you'll feel like you're cruising the open ocean on a sightseeing lake tour. Take a speedboat tour, dine on an evening buffet cruise, or enjoy a private sunset sail to see where the Chicago skyline rises up from the water and faces the deep blue horizon.
Combo Tours
If you can't decide between the river and lake, choose a Chicago combo tour that includes both experiences. You'll enjoy a casual cruise of the river and then race down Chicago's coastline on a speedboat ride.
Things to Do in Chicago with Kids
Chicago is blessed with world-class museums, extraordinary skyscrapers, beautiful beaches, and fabulous restaurants—and happily, it's easy to take advantage of its highlights with the kids in tow. From river cruises and Segway adventures to pizza-themed food tours, here's how to plan a family-friendly day out in the Windy City.
Get a bird's-eye perspective on the Windy City when you ascend to one of its skyscraper observation platforms: the Willis Tower's Skydeck and 360 Chicago Observation Deck both offer unbelievable views.
Exploring by boat is the perfect way to make sightseeing exciting for younger visitors. Wend your way along the Chicago River, or even head out on Lake Michigan.
Chicago is a dream city for museum lovers—and cultural highlights like the Field Museum of Natural History, Adler Planetarium, and Art Institute of Chicago are fun to explore with the whole family.
If you've got older kids in tow, enjoy a speedy way of discovering Chicago's major landmarks when you zip around town by Segway or by bike.
Given that Chicago's culinary specialties include pizza and hot dogs, a wide-ranging tasting tour is sure to please kids and adults alike.
Chicago Architecture Guide
Chicago is famous for its architecture, especially its towering skyscrapers, and you can see it all on an architecture tour. Because building design evolved as the city grew, there's plenty to learn about the storied history—here's where to start.
Willis Tower — once the tallest building in the world
Formerly known as the Sears Tower, this downtown skyscraper stands 108 stories high, making it the second tallest building in the US. The 103rd-floor Skydeck offers spectacular views, and a step out onto the Ledge lets you look straight down to the street below. Make it a stop on a hop-on hop-off bus tour or book VIP access for breakfast, lunch, or dinner at the Skydeck. It's also visible from most river and downtown walking tours.
John Hancock Center — offering the best views of Lake Michigan
The fourth-tallest building in the city, the John Hancock Center features a 94th-floor observatory and a 95th-floor restaurant, as well as the best views of Lake Michigan in the city. Don't miss TILT—an enclosed glass platform that tilts guests out over Michigan Avenue from the 94th floor. Stop off at the center during a bus tour or see it from above on a helicopter tour of the city.
Marina City — Chicago's "corn cob towers"
Shaped like two corn cobs standing tall along the Chicago River, the Marina City towers were once the tallest residential buildings in the world. Today, they're home to a mix of commercial and residential uses, including a hotel, bowling alley, several restaurants, and the House of Blues concert hall. View Marina City from an architecture boat cruise or a kayaking tour on the Chicago River.
Tribune Tower — neo-Gothic design on Michigan Avenue
Overlooking the Chicago River, the Tribune Tower features dozens of stones and bricks from historically significant sites all over the world, including fragments from the Berlin Wall, the Parthenon, the Great Wall of China, and Angkor Wat. View the tower on an architecture boat cruise or a walking tour of historic skyscrapers.
Wrigley Building — lighting up the Magnificent Mile
Across the street from Tribune Tower, the Wrigley Building was the first major office building north of the Chicago River. Check it out from the river below or by joining a walking tour of historic skyscrapers.
Chicago Cultural Center — stunning stained-glass domes
The Italian Renaissance-inspired interior of the Chicago Cultural Center (which formerly hosted the city's central library) features gorgeous stained-glass domes, colorful mosaic floors, and walls made of green, white, and pink marble. Take a walking tour of the Loop focused on interior architecture or Tiffany glass.
From skyscrapers to museums to vibrant neighborhoods to public parks, Chicago has something for everyone, and three days is more than enough time to explore its highlights. Travel by bus, bike, or on foot; linger in the bustling Loop; or head out of town on a day trip. Here's how to plan your 3-day Windy City itinerary.
Day 1: Chicago's Top Attractions
Explore Chicago's most popular landmarks, many of which are concentrated in the Loop neighborhood, including Millenium Park and the Willis Tower Skydeck. Bus and bicycle tours of the area make it possible to see more in less time, while a hop-on hop-off bus itinerary offers a seamless overview of the city (plus the chance to disembark where and when you wish). Alternatively, combine your Loop adventures with a trip to another part of town. Catch an afternoon Cubs game at Wrigley Field on the North Side, or head to the South Side to explore Chinatown.
Day 2: Museums, Architecture, and Other Historical Highlights
Learn about Chicago's past on an architecture tour—hop aboard a riverboat and cruise all three branches of the Chicago River, spotting highlights such as the Tribute Tower and the Merchandise Mart as you go, or head off on an intimate walking tour to view landmarks firsthand. Then, delve into Chicago's esteemed museums, including the Field Museum of Natural History, Museum of Science and Industry, and the Art Institute of Chicago.
Day 3: Chicago Area Day Trip
Frank Lloyd Wright, a longtime Chicago resident and one of the 20th century's most celebrated architects, designed a number of buildings in the Chicago area. Discover some of his best-known works on a day trip to the Frank Lloyd Wright Home and Studio in Oak Park, a village located just beyond Chicago's western edge. Here you'll discover where the architect lived and worked for the first two decades of his career, and where he developed his signature Prairie School style. Oak Park's other architectural gems include the Frank Lloyd Wright Historic District, Unity Temple, and the Arthur B. Heurtley House.
Don't Miss These Must-Do Activities in Chicago
Poet Carl Sandburg famously described Chicago as "the City of the Big Shoulders," and it's true that this city has extraordinary breadth. Home to record-breaking skyscrapers and enviable lakefront views, world-class museums and dynamite restaurants, a buzzing downtown and historical neighborhoods packed with charm, Chicago is an utterly unique study in contrasts. Whether you wish to admire its architecture from the water's edge, ascend to the top of one of the Western Hemisphere's highest buildings, learn about the city's sordid Prohibition dealings, or admire priceless canvases, this Midwestern powerhouse serves up a dazzling range of entertainment and sightseeing possibilities, no matter your interests. To help you narrow down the options, browse this collection of must-do activities—and get ready to make the most of your Windy City excursion.
How to Get Around in Chicago
You don't need a car to get around Chicago, thanks to a world-class public transit system, compact neighborhoods, and an easy-to-navigate grid layout in the downtown Loop area. Whether you're keen to explore on foot, by train, or even via the city's waterways, here are your options for making your way around the Windy City.
Ride the "L" Train
Chicago claims the second-largest public transit network in the US, made up of buses and the city's signature elevated rail lines, plus underground and street-level trains. You can buy single-ride tickets directly from bus drivers or via vending machines at rail stations. If you're planning to ride frequently, save with a 1- or 3-day unlimited pass.
Hop On and Hop Off
If taking public transit seems daunting but you still want the flexibility to explore at your own pace, a hop-on-hop-off-bus tour is a user-friendly option. Multiple routes and dozens of stops can get you almost anywhere you want to go in Chicago, and you can learn about passing sights along the way through narration.
Catch a Water Taxi or Cruise
With many attractions along the Lake Michigan shoreline and the snaking Chicago River, Chicago can also be explored by water. Catch an affordable water taxi for a fun way to get between landmarks such as the Magnificent Mile, Chicago Riverwalk, and Chinatown. Architecture cruises are a popular way to learn about the city's signature structures, while Lake Michigan cruises offer a new vantage point on the Chicago skyline, often with included dinner and drinks.
Chicago is defined by its neighborhoods, so soak up local character on a stroll through walkable "villages" such as Wrigleyville, Hyde Park, Andersonville, Wicker Park, and River North. Walking tours can help you discover ethnic eateries, architectural gems, gangster history, and more.
Bike or Roll on a Segway
To cover more ground and fit in multiple neighborhoods, rent a bike or Segway and explore the city on two wheels. Guided tours can show you the best sightseeing routes, from the Lake Michigan shoreline to Loop landmarks or small-batch breweries.
Architecture Cruises in Chicago
Chicago's skyline ranks among the most impressive on the planet, thanks to its magnificent skyscrapers representing numerous architectural styles. One of the best ways to experience the sights and sounds of the "Windy City" is while floating down the Chicago River. Here's what you need to know to make a voyage yourself.
Take an architecture river cruise to learn why Chicago's skyline is so impressive.
Float past more than 40 notable buildings, including the John Hancock Building, Aon Center, Wrigley Building, and Willis Tower.
See the illuminated waterfront, including the Buckingham Fountain, on a night cruise of the Chicago River and Lake Michigan.
Combine a river cruise with a trolley city tour, minibus sightseeing tour, helicopter ride, or early access to the Willis Tower Skydeck.
Chicago sightseeing cruises are offered aboard speedboats and double-decker riverboats.
Things to Do in Chicago This Fall
Fall is a wonderful time to visit Chicago. Crisp breezes and golden leaves lend the Windy City a romantic, autumnal ambiance, but it's still warm enough to enjoy open-air bus tours, cruises along Lake Michigan and the Chicago River, and engaging walking tours. Here's what to do during your fall visit to the Windy City.
Explore the city by boat, and catch glimpses of its most striking buildings, on an architecture river cruise.
Admire stunning city views from the lofty heights of the 360 Chicago Observation Deck.
Discover a true Chicago icon when you visit the world-famous Willis Tower.
Visit Al Capone's former haunts (and learn about the city's sordid past) on an alternative history tour.
See where the Cubs made World Series history on a walking tour of Wrigleyville.
Sip acclaimed Illinois wines aboard a Lake Michigan boat tour.
Use a Chicago Explorer Pass to craft your own sightseeing itinerary (and visit the city's top museums and attractions).
Make the most of your time in the Windy City on a h op-on hop-off bus tour.
Get to know Chicago's spooky side during a Halloween-themed bike tour.
Step back in time to the Roaring Twenties at a speakeasy-themed dinner show.
How to Spend 1 Day in Chicago
If you only have one day to see Chicago, don't worry. That's more than enough time to get acquainted with the Windy City's ineffable style, lofty skyline, and numerous cultural attractions. From architecture cruises along the Chicago River to skyscraper observation decks, here are some suggestions for the perfect sightseeing day in Chicago.
Morning: Chicago's Green Spaces
Start your day by looking beyond Chicago's urban jungle of skyscrapers. The city has plenty of vibrant green spaces to be seen by bike or Segway tour. Millennium Park, within the larger Grant Park, has become one of the city's most popular attractions since it opened in 2004. Stretching across 25 acres (10 hectares), the park's highlights range from the verdant Lurie Garden to the playful Crown Fountain and Anish Kapoor's reflective Cloud Gate sculpture, commonly known as "The Bean."
Afternoon: Architectural Sights
From the soaring spires of the Willis Tower and the John Hancock Center to the famous Marina City buildings and the landmarks along Magnificent Mile, Chicago is an architecture lover's city. One of the best ways to take in the sights is on a cruise along the Chicago River. Find a seat on the deck, and crane your neck upward as your tour guide shares stories about how the city's skyline came to be. Alternatively, a walking tour lets you get intimate with the landmarks, head into building lobbies to admire interior architecture, and delve into their history.
Evening: Aerial Views
Chicago is a skyscraper city—until One World Trade Center debuted in New York City in 2013, the Willis Tower (formerly known as Sears Tower) was the tallest building in the Western Hemisphere. In addition to being a Chicago landmark, the building offers some of the best views of the cityscape and Lake Michigan beyond. Book Skydeck admission tickets to take an elevator 100 floors above the city and admire a panoramic perspective of Chicago after dark. If that isn't sufficiently lofty, evening helicopter tours also provide an excellent aerial vantage point for night sightseeing.
Mafia and Prohibition Tours in Chicago
9 Tours and Activities
The Prohibition Era was a colorful time in the "The Windy City" with mobs and gangs running rampant—everyone from Al Capone to John Dillinger—and plenty of speakeasies where the liquor flowed. Here are the options to learn more about the era on a gangster tour of the city.
Mafia and Prohibition History in Chicago
See the spots once ruled by liquor, jazz, and the mafia on a Prohibition history tour. Visit relevant sites such as the Holy Name Cathedral, Biograph Theatre, Clark Street Bridge, and the site of the St. Valentine's Day Massacre in 1929. Private tours include a Chicago nightlife option and a Chicago blues and Jazz Age history option.
Speakeasy & Cocktail Tours
Another way to experience the city's Prohibition era is to visit the pubs and bars that defied the 10-year alcohol ban. Speakeasy bars across the Old Town district, Wicker Park, and the Chicago Loop come to life on cocktail-themed tours.
Crime and Gangsters Tours
Learn about the Chicago crime of the past and take a trip back in time to the 1920s, '30s, and '40s on a crime and gangster tour. Hear stories about the iconic murders and crime scenes from this infamous time in the city's history. Explore Chicago's North Side, Lincoln Park, Gold Coast, Magnificent Mile, and other neighborhoods that are part of the city's gangster past.
Things to Do in Chicago This Spring
Spring in Chicago brings a gentle thawing of the winter snows, newly balmy temperatures, and more excuses than ever to go exploring. From bike tours to hop-on hop-off bus journeys, Lake Michigan cruises to foodie-frequented walking tours, here's what to do during your springtime visit to the Windy City.
Admire Chicago's ineffable skyline from the water's edge during a Lake Michigan sightseeing cruise.
Take in stunning city views with a glass of prosecco in hand atop the 360 Chicago Observation Deck.
Zip through Chicago's neighborhoods and enjoy the fresh spring breeze on a Windy City bike tour.
Pair local nibbles with a springtime stroll during a culinary walking tour of the Loop.
Dine and dance with abandon while taking a sunset cruise.
Score a seat on the top deck during a hop-on hop-off Chicago bus tour.
Plan your own cultural itinerary and explore Chicago's many museums.
Fuel up with an indulgent visit to a Chicago-style pizzeria(or several).
See the neon-lit cityscape during a nighttime helicopter tour.
Trade the urban bustle for a day in southwest Michigan's burgeoning wine region.
Sightseeing on a Budget in Chicago
Chicago's friendly neighborhood feel and proud industrial roots make it a welcoming city for travelers on a budget. With abundant museums, casual eateries, and public parks connected by an efficient public transit system, it's easy to experience the best of Chicago cuisine and culture without breaking the bank. Here's how.
Explore More with a Sightseeing Pass
Save big on Chicago's top attractions with a sightseeing pass such as the Go Chicago Explorer Pass or Chicago CityPass. Customize a pass with your choice of attractions such as the Shedd Aquarium, Skydeck Chicago, Museum of Science and Industry, and Adler Planetarium, and enjoy discounts of up to 40 percent on admission.
Get Around on a Hop-On-Hop-Off-Bus Tour
Avoid the expense of car rental by utilizing Chicago's excellent public transit network or booking a hop-on-hop-off-bus tour. These affordable and user-friendly tours combine narrated sightseeing with the flexibility to design your own itinerary, with stops at dozens of Chicago's must-see landmarks. Bonus: The buses are heated during Chicago's famously frigid winters.
Visit Top Chicago Museums
Chicago's world-class museums are a great way to get cultured on the cheap. From creative collections at the Art Institute of Chicago to science-focused exhibits at the Field Museum and Adler Planetarium, there's something for everyone. Check local event listings for museum free days to save even more.
Find Budget-Friendly Bites
Happily for budget travelers, most of Chicago's signature dishes are heavy on taste but light on the wallet. Look for abundant street fare and casual eats such as deep-dish pizza, loaded Chicago hotdogs, and popcorn. Chicago food tours can show you how to find the most authentic snacks and bars in the city, often for less than the price of a single fine-dining meal.
Food is a big deal in Chicago, but if there's one dish most associated with the "Windy City," it's Chicago-style pizza. This gooey, cheesy, deep-dish pizza, characterized by its thick cornmeal crust, was invented by Pizzeria Uno in 1943. Here's how to try it.
Cross two items off your Chicago to-do list with a sky-high meal at Skydeck, the observation deck at the top of the Willis Tower. Tuck into a Chicago-style pizza while taking in the evening views of the city below. While deep-dish pizza is the city's most popular style, the pizza scene is more diverse than that. Explore the food culture on a pizza-centric bus tour, with stops to sample slices ranging from deep-dish to thin crust.
Neighborhood Food Walking Tours
Each Chicago neighborhood has its own distinct personality (and usually a few pizza joints). One of the best ways to experience the food scene is to hit the pavement on a culinary walking tour in neighborhoods such as Old Town, Gold Coast, River North, Wicker Park, Bucktown, Naperville, Lincoln Square, or West Loop. Dive deep into the city's Italian heritage with samples of pizza and Italian beef on an Italian food tour, or take your stomach on a walking tour of Chicago's other famous foods, such as Chicago dogs, Italian beef sandwiches, popcorn, and chocolate.
Don't let the rain stop you from making the most of your time in Chicago—many of the Windy City's must-see sights are actually indoors, so there's no need to hole up in your hotel room. Here are a few ideas for rainy days in Chicago.
See the gray skies from a new point of view on the glass-enclosed balcony at the Willis Tower's 103rd-floor Skydeck.
Bring the kids (or your inner child) to the LEGOLAND Discovery Center.
Stay out of the rain at one of the city's myriad museums, such as the Field Museum of Natural History, the John G Shedd Aquarium, or the Chicago Children's Museum.
The famous Chicago Pedway, a network of underground tunnels and overhead bridges, runs throughout the downtown area, making it easy for both locals and visitors to avoid the elements and get around without ever stepping foot outside.
See the city's sights and architecture at street level without getting wet on a hop on, hop off bus tour or a guided sightseeing experience by bus.
Come nightfall, catch some live music at the House of Blues or a show at the Briar Street Theater to stay dry.
The Windy City may be famous for its snowfall, but don't let that dissuade you from visiting. Chicago transforms into a winter wonderland during the cold months. Explore its holiday light displays, visit its festive markets, and enjoy cozy stints in the city's museums and speakeasies. Here's how to plan the perfect winter getaway to Chicago.
Pair a visit to the sky-high Willis Tower Skydeck with a Chicago-style pizza meal.
Visit some of the Windy City's coziest and most atmospheric speakeasies during a Prohibition-themed tour.
When the weather is frightful, enjoy an indoor day at the Field Museum of Natural History, Art Institute of Chicago, or Adler Planetarium.
Visit Christmas markets, skating rinks, and other seasonal attractions during a holiday stroll and food tour.
View the Windy City from the sky during a ride in a helicopter that's been decorated with holiday lights.
Discover the city's holiday light displays by trolley, private vehicle, or Segway.
Plan a New Year's Eve to remember by booking a luxury dinner cruise on Lake Michigan.
Local Experiences in Chicago
The Windy City is a destination of icons—famous foods, sports teams, architectural wonders, and historic blues bars. It's a multifaceted metropolis with a lot going on, both on and off the tourist path. Here are a few ways to experience Chicago like a local.
Hit the waters of Lake Michigan during a private sailing excursion along Chicago's stunning lakefront.
Explore Chicago's top-notch craft beer scene with a ride on the Brewery Barrel Bus.
Grab a paddle and go kayaking at twilight to watch the fireworks over Navy Pier.
Skip the line at one of Chicago's top museums, including the Art Institute of Chicago, Alder Planetarium, Museum of Science and Industry, or Field Museum.
Indulge in a favorite Chicago pastime—retail therapy—with a shop and spa tour along the Magnificent Mile.
Rent a bike and hit the pavement for a self-guided tour of Chicago's vibrant and diverse neighborhoods.
Top Nightlife Experiences in Chicago
Home to everything from bars and craft breweries to comedy clubs and critically-acclaimed restaurants, the Windy City has a lot to offer after the sun sets. Here are a few of the best ways to spend an evening in Chicago.
Prohibition-Themed Excursions
Chicago's insalubrious past has since become part of the Windy City's allure; 1920s and '30s-themed tours typically introduce you to former residents such as Al Capone and visit some historic speakeasies. Book an evening excursion to discover local history and enjoy classic cocktails in flapper fashion.
Craft Beer Crawls
The existence of dozens of breweries show that Chicago takes its beer seriously. Explore some of the city's pioneering breweries and destination-worthy bars on a bar crawl or freewheeling beer tour, and leave the logistics (and driving) to your guide.
The Windy City is packed with theaters and performance venues, all of which offer after-dark entertainment. If you're visiting with kids, take in a blockbuster musical at the Loop's historical theaters. Or, if you're into late-night laughs, Chicago has a surfeit of comedy clubs, including the renowned Second City.
Combine sightseeing with dinner on an evening cruise of the Windy City's waterways. Whether you sail on the Chicago River or head to the waters of Lake Michigan for glittering skyline views, you'll enjoy gourmet eats, delectable wine pairings, and incomparable scenery.
Chicago is a city with style and verve, and its beautiful parks, picturesque waterways, and vertiginous heights all make the perfect backdrop to a romantic excursion. From 2-passenger helicopter flights to Lake Michigan cruises and after-dark speakeasy visits, here's how to enjoy a special trip to Chicago with your significant other.
Cruise Lake Michigan at Sunset
Lake Michigan is almost oceanic in scope, and a night out on the water is a classic Chicago experience. Book an early evening tour to watch the sun descend over the iconic Chicago skyline, and enjoy a romantic moment out on the deck. Alternatively, a dinner cruise—complete with gourmet dishes and flutes of sparkling wine—is the perfect way to toast a special occasion.
Enjoy a Couple's Photo Shoot in Millennium Park
Visit one of the Windy City's most in-demand sightseeing destinations—and enjoy a special way to record your memories for posterity—when you book a couple's photo shoot. Explore the greenery and public artworks of Millennium Park, admire the perspective on the Loop's gleaming skyscrapers, and see the famous Cloud Gate sculpture by Anish Kapoor—better known as "The Bean." Your very own photographer will be present to show you the sights and capture your romantic moments.
Sip Cocktails in the City's Speakeasies
During its Prohibition-era heyday, Chicago was filled with speakeasies (not to mention infamous gangsters the likes of Al Capone). Today, that legacy lives on in the city's plethora of top-notch cocktail haunts (which, today, are thankfully free of bathtub gin). Book a speakeasy tour for a dose of history and to discover a number of cozy, candlelit drinking dens with your significant other.
Book a Private Helicopter Tour
Few views of Chicago can compare with the ones afforded by a helicopter—and taking to the air on a freewheeling journey above the skyscrapers is one of the city's most popular romantic experiences. Book a private flight for a particularly intimate experience, and enjoy an indulgent accompaniment in the form of Champagne and chocolates.
Unique Food Experiences in Chicago
Chicago is a food-lover's dream, as there's no shortage of great dining experiences to satisfy any palate. From Chicago-style hot dogs and deep-dish pizza to diverse cuisine from around the world, here are a few ways to make the most of your visit.
Pizza Tours
It should come as no surprise that you'll have plenty of options to choose from when it comes to pizza in Chicago. Walking and bus tours highlight the city's unique take on deep-dish, coal-fired, and other styles, and you can even take a cooking class to learn how to make Chicago's most popular dish yourself.
Dining at the Skydeck
Enjoy VIP after-hours access to the Skydeck at the Willis Tower, one of the tallest buildings in the Western Hemisphere. Dine on a three-course meal featuring Chicago-style deep-dish pizza with your choice of toppings while taking in incredible views of the city from the 103rd floor. Breakfast and lunch options are also available, with each experience lasting about two hours.
Cruise Lake Michigan on a luxury yacht while enjoying a gourmet three-course meal and amazing views of the Chicago skyline. Departing from Navy Pier, cruises last about three hours. On summer Wednesdays and Saturdays, upgrades are available to include the fireworks show over Navy Pier.
There's no better way to get to know the unique ethnic flavors of Chicago's neighborhoods than a food walking tour. Sample Vietnamese cuisine in Argyle, Scandinavian in Andersonville, or Polish in West Town. Learn about Chicago history over pizza in the Gold Coast, German fare downtown, or a Chicago-style hot dog in Wrigleyville.
The Windy City offers plenty of cultural, recreational, and culinary attractions, but destinations beyond the city limits let you explore the best of the region too. From national parks and destination-worthy wine regions to nearby cities, here are some of the most enticing day trips from Chicago.
Naperville – about 28 miles (45 kilometers) away
Head just outside Chicago city limits and venture to charming Naperville. The Chicago suburb, home to roughly 150,000 people, is a city in its own right. Trains link the two destinations, and full-day tours make getting there simple. Upon arrival, browse the shops and restaurants in Naperville's downtown and stroll along the Riverwalk. For an unconventional way to explore the area, try a smartphone scavenger hunt game featuring Naperville's key attractions.
Indiana Dunes National Park – about 49 miles (79 kilometers) away
Though Indiana Dunes National Park is only a quick drive around Lake Michigan's southernmost shore from Chicago, the park feels a world away with its beachy ambiance and Saharan sand dunes. Enjoy a day at the beach; explore the titular dunes, marshes, and forests; and even discover (and taste) the highlights of the Duneland Wine Country on a full-day tour.
Milwaukee – about 83 miles (134 kilometers) away
Book a day trip to Milwaukee, Wisconsin, and head across state lines to discover another thriving city. As the historic home of the Miller Brewing Company, Pabst Brewing Company, and a slew of modern craft breweries, Milwaukee is renowned for its long-running beer scene. The cosmopolitan city also boasts the impressive Milwaukee Art Museum, soaring Milwaukee City Hall, and other attractions. A one-day tour is enough time to discover the highlights.
Southwest Michigan – about 90 miles (145 kilometers) away
Discover the thriving Great Lakes wine region, and sip in style on a full-day excursion from Chicago to scenic southwest Michigan. The Lake Michigan Wine Trail features dozens of banner wineries. Rieslings, pinot gris, and Rhone varietals are some of what's planted on Michigan's slopes, and you can find a selection of fruit wines and brandies, too. Head out on a full-day tour—and leave the driving to your guide.
Indianapolis – about 185 miles (298 kilometers) away
Indiana's thriving state capital, Indianapolis offers one more incentive to travel across state lines. The accessible city is a popular choice for visitors of all ages as it's home to the famous Speedway, which hosts the Indianapolis 500, as well as museums and other cultural stops. Take part in a scavenger hunt game for a fun-filled sightseeing option, go on a guided walk of the Indy Beer Mile, or follow a local guide to the tasty eateries of Massachusetts Avenue.
Food Lover's Guide to Chicago
Chicago has long been a cultural melting pot, one where different culinary influences all bring something of their own to the table. With such a strong food scene, it can be hard to know where in the Windy City to start. From deep-dish pizza to Chicago dogs, here are our picks for can't-miss food experiences.
Must-Try Dishes
It's easy to detect the strong Italian influence on Chicago's culinary scene; after all, some of the city's most iconic dishes reflect this tradition. Don't miss deep-dish pizza, known for its buttery crust, bright tomato sauce, and generous sprinkling of mozzarella. Sandwich lovers should sample an Italian beef : a roll topped with thinly sliced roast beef and sweet or hot peppers, then dipped in its own cooking liquids. And Chicago's sizable Mexican community has made tacos a must-eat as well.
With two pro baseball teams in town, the prevalence of Vienna hot dogs should come as no surprise, but unlike in New York City, Chicagoans load up their hot dogs with mustard, peppers, pickles, relish, tomatoes, and celery salt—but no ketchup. If you head to a stadium, sample Chicago mix popcorn, made with a combination of caramel- and cheese-coated kernels.
Must-Do Experiences
Eat your way through the Chicago food scene—pizza, Chicago-style hot dogs, local chocolate, and craft beer—on a guided walking tour of some of the city's best restaurants.
Treat yourself to an unforgettable meal on the Willis Tower Skydeck, which rises 1,353 feet (412 meters) above Chicago.
Enjoy a sunset dinner cruise aboard a luxury yacht on Lake Michigan—the city's iconic skyline makes for a wonderful backdrop.
Cycle your way through neighborhoods like Wrigleyville, Old Town, Lakeview, and Lincoln Park while stopping to fuel up at local culinary haunts.
More Tours in Chicago
Top Chicago Attractions
Things to do near Chicago
About Viator
Viator blog
fil_get Download_on_the_App_Store_Badge_US-UK_RGB_blk_4SVG_092917
Based on our booking data and information from the provider from the past 30 days, this experience is likely to sell out through Viator.
This experience is showcased by Viator and has met our quality standards. The operator whose product is featured here may pay Viator more.