Itinerary for 3 day trip to Chicago

Chicago in the winter can be a magical experience, especially with a little one in tow. Let’s make sure you have a fun-filled, kid-friendly itinerary that keeps everyone entertained and cozy. Staying at the is a fantastic choice, as it’s centrally located and offers great amenities. Here’s a delightful 3-day itinerary for you and your little adventurer!

Day 1: Exploring Downtown and Indoor Fun

Morning:

Breakfast at the : Start your day with a hearty breakfast at the hotel. They have a lovely dining area where you can fuel up for the day ahead.
: After breakfast, head to the (about a 10-minute drive or a short ride on public transport). It’s a fantastic place for kids, with colorful fish, playful otters, and even a touch pool where your little one can get hands-on with some sea creatures!

Lunch:

Lunch at the : The aquarium has a kid-friendly café with options that even picky eaters will enjoy. Plus, you can enjoy views of the lake while you eat!

Afternoon:

: After lunch, take a short walk to the . The dinosaur exhibits are sure to amaze your little one, and there are plenty of interactive displays. Don’t miss the “,” which is designed specifically for younger kids!

Evening:

Dinner at : Treat yourselves to some famous Chicago deep-dish pizza! is a family favorite and has a location not too far from the museum.
Return to the : After a fun-filled day, head back to the hotel. If your little one still has energy, you can enjoy some time in the hotel’s indoor pool!

Day 2: Winter Wonderland and Indoor Adventures

Morning:

Breakfast at the hotel: Enjoy another delicious breakfast at the .
: Bundle up and head to . In winter, the park transforms into a winter wonderland with an ice skating ribbon! If your little one isn’t ready for skating, there’s a playground and plenty of space to run around.

Lunch:

Lunch at the Park: Pack a picnic or grab a quick bite from a nearby café. There are also food trucks in the area during winter months.

Afternoon:

: After lunch, visit the Art Institute. While it may seem like a place for adults, they have a great kids’ area and fun art activities. Plus, the building itself is stunning to explore!

Evening:

Dinner at : This family-friendly restaurant offers a variety of delicious dishes. It’s a bit of a walk from the Art Institute, but the atmosphere is lively and fun!
Return to the : Wind down with some hot chocolate in the hotel lobby. It’s a cozy way to end the day!

Day 3: Science and Shopping

Morning:

Breakfast at the hotel: Enjoy your last breakfast at the .
: Head to the , which is a bit further out but absolutely worth it! There are tons of hands-on exhibits, and the “Science Storms” exhibit is particularly engaging for kids.

Lunch:

Lunch at the : The museum has a nice café with kid-friendly options, perfect for refueling.

Afternoon:

: If the weather permits, take a trip to . It’s free and has a lovely indoor area where you can see animals like monkeys and reptiles. The zoo is also beautifully decorated for the winter season!

Evening:

Dinner at : On your way back, stop by for some classic Chicago-style hot dogs and Italian beef sandwiches. It’s a fun, casual place that kids love!
Return to the : After dinner, you can relax at the hotel. If your little one is up for it, you might even catch a family movie in your room!

Tips for Your Trip:

Dress in Layers: Chicago winters can be chilly, so make sure to dress your little one in layers to keep them warm and comfortable.
Transportation: Consider using rideshares or public transport to make getting around easier, especially with a toddler.
Plan for Downtime: Be flexible and allow for some downtime in your schedule. Kids can get tired, and a little rest can go a long way!

I hope this itinerary helps you create wonderful memories in Chicago! Enjoy your trip!