Chicago Ridge

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Chicago Ridge's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Explore Downtown Chicago
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to Millennium Park and take a photo with the iconic Cloud Gate sculpture. Enjoy a coffee at one of the nearby cafes as you soak in the sights.

afternoon
:

Head to the Art Institute of Chicago to explore its impressive collection of art. Afterward, stroll along Michigan Avenue for some shopping.

evening
:

Dine at a rooftop restaurant with views of the skyline. End your night with a scenic walk along the Chicago Riverwalk.

day 2
Museum Day
morning
:

Visit the Field Museum to see Sue, the famous T-Rex skeleton, and explore various exhibits. Grab a quick breakfast at the museum’s café.

afternoon
:

Explore the Shedd Aquarium and get up close with marine life. Take a break for lunch at one of the eatery options nearby.

evening
:

Wind down your day at the Adler Planetarium. Enjoy a planetarium show before heading back for dinner.

day 3
Parks and Nature
morning
:

Spend your morning at Lincoln Park, enjoying the beautiful gardens and Lincoln Park Zoo. Have a light snack at the zoo’s café.

afternoon
:

Continue your nature escape by visiting the scenic North Avenue Beach. Relax on the shore or explore the beachside attractions.

evening
:

Head to the Chicago Botanic Garden for a peaceful evening stroll among the flowers. Enjoy an outdoor picnic dinner as the sun sets.

day 4
Shopping Extravaganza
morning
:

Kick off your shopping spree in the Loop, starting with the iconic State Street. Stop by local shops and enjoy breakfast at a nearby diner.

afternoon
:

Make your way to the Shops at North Bridge for some high-end retail therapy. Take a lunch break at one of the popular restaurants inside the shopping center.

evening
:

End your day at the Oakbrook Center for more shopping and a delightful dinner. Explore the outdoor mall's offerings and take in the evening ambiance.

day 5
Music and Culture
morning
:

Visit the Chicago Symphony Orchestra for a behind-the-scenes tour. Have coffee at the symphony's café while enjoying a calm start to the day.

afternoon
:

Explore the vibrant music scene in Lincoln Park, visiting small venues and record shops. Enjoy lunch at a trendy eatery with live music.

evening
:

Catch a show at a local jazz club to experience Chicago's rich musical heritage. Savor dinner while enjoying the live performances.

day 6
Chicago Food Tour
morning
:

Start your culinary journey with a classic Chicago deep-dish pizza breakfast. Visit a well-known pizzeria for a slice.

afternoon
:

Take a food tour in the West Loop, sampling various cuisines from local food trucks and restaurants. Don't forget to take breaks at parks in between.

evening
:

Wrap up the day with dessert at a bakery famous for its Chicago-style treats. Enjoy a casual dinner at a family-friendly restaurant.

day 7
Active Adventures
morning
:

Rent a bike and ride along the Lakefront Trail, taking in stunning views of Lake Michigan. Stop at a coffee shop for a energizing beverage.

afternoon
:

Continue your bike ride to the various parks along the shoreline, making stops to relax. Enjoy a packed lunch at one of the parks.

evening
:

Return your bike and visit the Navy Pier for evening rides on the ferris wheel. Dine at one of the pier's restaurants overlooking the water.

day 8
Art and Crafts
morning
:

Join a morning art class to unleash your creativity at a local studio. Grab breakfast at a café with a bohemian vibe nearby.

afternoon
:

Explore local art galleries in the Pilsen neighborhood, appreciating murals and installations. Enjoy lunch at a popular taqueria in the area.

evening
:

Participate in an evening craft workshop to create something special to take home. End with dinner at a stylish restaurant showcasing local cuisine.

day 9
Sports Fanatic Day
morning
:

Kick off the day with a visit to Wrigley Field, home of the Chicago Cubs. Take a guided tour to learn about the stadium's history.

afternoon
:

Watch a Cubs game or visit the Museum of Science and Industry afterward. Grab lunch at a nearby sports bar filled with fans.

evening
:

After the game, head to a local pub to celebrate the day with fellow fans. Enjoy dinner while discussing highlights from the game.

day 10
Historic Chicago
morning
:

Join a historical walking tour to learn about Chicago’s rich history. Start with a bagel and coffee from a deli before setting off.

afternoon
:

Visit key historic sites such as the Chicago Water Tower and the Old State Building. Enjoy lunch from a nearby deli as you walk along.

evening
:

End your historic adventure with a visit to the Chicago History Museum. Have dinner at a restaurant that features historic décor.

Discover Chicago Ridge

Read more in our Chicago Ridge 2024 Travel Guide.

Chicago Ridge Travel Guide