North Chicago

Day Trips

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

day 1
Morning at the Beach
morning
:

Start your day at North Avenue Beach with a refreshing walk along the shore. Enjoy the scenic views and relax with a coffee from a nearby café.

afternoon
:

Visit the Lincoln Park Zoo, known for its beautiful landscapes and free admission. Spend time walking through the grounds and observing the animals.

evening
:

Head to a local restaurant for dinner, enjoying Chicago-style deep-dish pizza. Follow this with a stroll along the waterfront for stunning sunset views.

day 2
Nature and Culture
morning
:

Explore the picturesque paths of Lincoln Park. Take in the fresh air and visit the Conservatory to admire various plant species.

afternoon
:

Head to the Chicago History Museum to delve into the city's rich past. Engage with interactive exhibits that showcase significant moments in Chicago.

evening
:

Dine at a trendy eatery in the area, experiencing innovative local cuisine. Wind down with a visit to a local theater for a live performance.

day 3
Art Exploration
morning
:

Begin your day at the Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago. Explore the latest exhibitions and admire modern masterpieces.

afternoon
:

Stroll down Michigan Avenue for art and architecture appreciation. Stop by galleries and shops that reflect Chicago's vibrant creative scene.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a restaurant known for its artistic flair and ambiance. Consider visiting an art show or gallery opening afterward.

day 4
A Day in Nature
morning
:

Spend your morning hiking or cycling along the Lakefront Trail. The beautiful scenery provides ample chances for photos.

afternoon
:

Pack a picnic and relax at Montrose Beach, a quieter spot with lovely views. Take time to watch the sailboats on the lake.

evening
:

Unwind with a sunset view from the beach. Consider a casual dinner at a nearby seafood restaurant along the coast.

day 5
Tasting Tour
morning
:

Kick off your morning with a breakfast at a local diner famous for its hearty portions. Savor pancakes or a classic omelet.

afternoon
:

Join a food tour that includes stops at popular eateries and food trucks, sampling iconic Chicago dishes. Learn about the city's culinary history from your guide.

evening
:

End the day with a visit to a unique dessert spot for gourmet treats. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the area for an evening stroll.

day 6
Festive Fun
morning
:

Check the local calendar for morning festivals or farmers' markets. Enjoy fresh produce and handcrafted goods.

afternoon
:

Participate in festival activities or enjoy live music at an outdoor event. Taste local foods and shop for souvenirs.

evening
:

As the festival winds down, enjoy a casual dinner at a nearby pub. Immerse yourself in live entertainment or dancing to close out the night.

day 7
Architectural Adventure
morning
:

Start with a guided architecture boat tour along the Chicago River. Learn about the city's famous skyscrapers and their history.

afternoon
:

Visit the historic Chicago Water Tower, one of the few structures to survive the Great Chicago Fire. Explore nearby shopping streets for unique finds.

evening
:

Dine at a rooftop restaurant to savor a meal with a skyline view. Capture the twinkling city lights from above as the night unfolds.

day 8
Active Outing
morning
:

Rent a bike and explore the paths of Lincoln Park. Enjoy the greenery and stop at the scenic ponds along the way.

afternoon
:

Continue your adventure with a visit to the park's natural areas and gardens. Pack a light lunch to enjoy in a peaceful spot.

evening
:

Return your bike and grab a casual dinner from a nearby taco truck. Finish your day with a movie at a local independent cinema.

day 9
Nightlife Exploration
morning
:

Relax and have brunch at a cozy café to fuel up for the day. Enjoy a slow start with great coffee and pastries.

afternoon
:

Spend your afternoon exploring art installations in the neighborhood. Stop at galleries or pop-up exhibitions for unique experiences.

evening
:

As evening approaches, dive into the nightlife scene. Visit speakeasies or trendy bars for cocktails and live music.

day 10
Coastal Getaway
morning
:

Begin your day at Oak Street Beach. Enjoy a swim or relax with a book on the sand.

afternoon
:

Head to the nearby shops for some local shopping or grab lunch from a beachside café. Enjoy beach games or water activities.

evening
:

Wrap up with dinner at an upscale seafood restaurant by the beach. Take a leisurely walk along the shoreline as you watch the stars.

Discover North Chicago

Read more in our North Chicago 2024 Travel Guide.

North Chicago Travel Guide