3 day itinerary for Chicago

Itinerary

Chicago is such a vibrant city with a ton of family-friendly activities. Here’s a fun-filled 3-day itinerary that balances sightseeing, culture, and some delicious food. Let’s dive in!

## Day 1: Exploring Downtown and the Lakefront

Morning:

• Breakfast at Lou Mitchell's: Start your day with a hearty breakfast at this iconic diner. Their pancakes and coffee are a must-try!
• Millennium Park: After breakfast, head over to Millennium Park. Don’t miss the famous Cloud Gate (aka "The Bean") for a family photo op! The park often has free events, so check the schedule.

Midday:

• Art Institute of Chicago: Just a short walk away, this world-class museum is perfect for families. The Thorne Miniature Rooms are always a hit with kids, and there are plenty of interactive exhibits.
• Lunch at Giordano's: You can’t visit Chicago without trying deep-dish pizza! Giordano's is a family favorite, and their stuffed pizza is legendary.

Afternoon:

• Navy Pier: After lunch, head to Navy Pier. There’s so much to do here! You can ride the Ferris wheel, visit the Chicago Children’s Museum, or just enjoy the views of Lake Michigan.

Evening:

• Dinner at Portillo's: Grab a casual dinner at Portillo's for some Chicago-style hot dogs and Italian beef sandwiches. The kids will love the chocolate cake shake!
• Evening Stroll: If you have the energy, take a stroll along the lakefront. The views of the skyline at sunset are breathtaking!

## Day 2: Museums and Neighborhoods

Morning:

• Breakfast at Wildberry Pancakes and Cafe: Fuel up with some delicious pancakes or omelets. The kids will love the creative options!
• Field Museum: Spend the morning exploring the Field Museum. The dinosaur exhibits are always a hit, and there are plenty of interactive displays for the kids.

Midday:

• Lunch at The Field Museum Café: Grab a quick bite at the museum café before heading out.
• Shedd Aquarium: Just a short walk away, the Shedd Aquarium is another fantastic stop. The aquatic shows and the Amazon Rainforest exhibit are sure to captivate the whole family.

Afternoon:

• Explore the Museum Campus: If time allows, take a stroll around the Museum Campus. The views of the city from here are stunning, and there are often outdoor activities happening.

Evening:

• Dinner in Chinatown: Head to Chinatown for dinner. Try some dim sum at MingHin Cuisine or a family-style meal at Joy Yee Noodle.
• Chinatown Adventure: After dinner, explore the vibrant streets of Chinatown. Check out the shops and maybe grab some bubble tea for dessert!

## Day 3: Neighborhoods and Fun

Morning:

• Breakfast at The Bongo Room: Start your day with a delicious breakfast at this trendy spot known for its creative dishes.
• Lincoln Park Zoo: Spend the morning at Lincoln Park Zoo, which is free and perfect for families. The zoo is home to a variety of animals and has a lovely park surrounding it.

Midday:

• Lunch at Café Brauer: Enjoy lunch at this charming café located within the zoo. The views of the pond are lovely!
• Lincoln Park Conservatory: After lunch, take a stroll through the Lincoln Park Conservatory. The beautiful plants and flowers are a treat for the senses.

Afternoon:

• Wrigley Field Tour: If your family enjoys baseball, consider taking a tour of Wrigley Field. It’s a fun way to learn about the history of the Cubs and the stadium itself.
• Explore the Neighborhood: Spend some time exploring the surrounding Wrigleyville area. There are plenty of shops and parks to enjoy.

Evening:

• Dinner at The Chicago Diner: End your trip with a meal at The Chicago Diner, famous for its vegetarian options and classic diner fare. The kids will love the milkshakes!
• Final Stroll: If you have time, take a leisurely walk along the Chicago Riverwalk to soak in the city one last time.

And there you have it! A fun, family-friendly itinerary that captures the essence of Chicago. Make sure to check the weather and any special events happening during your visit. Enjoy your trip! 🌆✨