Chicago

Day Trips

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

day 1
Exploring Chicago's Icons
morning
:

Start your day at Millennium Park and take a photo with the Cloud Gate sculpture. Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the surrounding gardens.

afternoon
:

Visit the Art Institute of Chicago to admire world-class artwork. Grab lunch at a nearby café and explore the Museum Campus afterward.

evening
:

Dine at a rooftop restaurant with views of the skyline. Wrap up your evening with a night walk along the Chicago Riverwalk.

day 2
City of Neighborhoods
morning
:

Explore the vibrant streets of Lincoln Park, starting with the beautiful Lincoln Park Zoo. Enjoy breakfast at a local diner.

afternoon
:

Head to Wicker Park for boutique shopping and street art. Don’t miss trying a famous deep-dish pizza for lunch.

evening
:

Experience the nightlife in Logan Square, where you'll find a mix of bars and live music venues. Sample local craft beers to unwind.

day 3
Architecture and History
morning
:

Take an architecture cruise on the Chicago River to view iconic buildings. Learn about the city’s architectural history from an expert guide.

afternoon
:

Visit the Chicago History Museum to delve deeper into the city's past. Enjoy lunch at a café in Old Town.

evening
:

Head to the Willis Tower Skydeck for stunning views at sunset. Have dinner at a nearby steakhouse for a classic Chicago experience.

day 4
Nature and Relaxation
morning
:

Start with a refreshing walk or bike ride along the Lakefront Trail. Stop by the Chicago Botanic Garden for some tranquility.

afternoon
:

Explore the parks along the lake and have a picnic lunch. Visit the nearby beaches to soak up the sun.

evening
:

Join a sunset yoga session at the beach. Wind down with a soothing walk along the shoreline.

day 5
Cultural Delights
morning
:

Visit the Museum of Science and Industry for interactive exhibits. Spend your morning exploring its fascinating displays.

afternoon
:

Head to the Field Museum to learn about natural history. Enjoy lunch at their café, and don't forget to check out Sue, the T. rex!

evening
:

Catch a show at the Chicago Shakespeare Theater on Navy Pier. Grab dinner at a restaurant with a view of the water.

day 6
Sports and Teams
morning
:

Start your day at the United Center, home to the Bulls and Blackhawks. Take a stadium tour to learn about the teams’ legacies.

afternoon
:

Visit the Chicago Sports Museum to engage with interactive exhibits. Have lunch at a sports-themed restaurant nearby.

evening
:

Attend a Chicago Cubs game at Wrigley Field, feeling the city's spirit. Enjoy hot dogs and beer while cheering for the home team.

day 7
Shopping and Dining
morning
:

Explore the Magnificent Mile, a haven for shoppers. Start your day with breakfast at a nearby café.

afternoon
:

Continue shopping at various boutiques and high-end stores. Enjoy lunch at a stylish eatery along the Mile.

evening
:

Indulge in a culinary experience at a gourmet restaurant downtown. Check out a nearby bar for post-dinner drinks.

day 8
Festivals and Fairs
morning
:

Depending on the season, start your day by visiting a local farmer’s market. Enjoy fresh produce and artisanal goods.

afternoon
:

Attend local festivals and street fairs, sampling food trucks and live music. Engage with local artisans and crafters.

evening
:

Finish off the day with outdoor live performances. Enjoy the vibrant community atmosphere as night falls.

day 9
Family Fun Adventures
morning
:

Kick off the day at Navy Pier, enjoying the rides and the Chicago Children's Museum. It’s perfect for kids of all ages!

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch at the pier and catch a show or ride the Ferris wheel. Spend the afternoon at the Shedd Aquarium discovering marine life.

evening
:

Take in a family-friendly show at the Chicago Magic Lounge. Wrap up with dessert at a nearby ice cream shop.

day 10
Foodie Adventure
morning
:

Begin with a breakfast food tour, sampling various local favorites. Visit a donut shop for a sweet kickstart.

afternoon
:

Take a cooking class to learn how to make traditional Chicago dishes. Enjoy your culinary creations for lunch.

evening
:

Embark on a dessert tour, trying iconic Chicago sweets. End the night at a speakeasy-style bar for some unique cocktails.

Discover Chicago

Read more in our Chicago 2024 Travel Guide.

Chicago Travel Guide