Chicago

Chicago is a fantastic city for families, and even during the Chicago Marathon, there are plenty of fun and kid-friendly activities to enjoy. Here’s a lively 3-day itinerary that balances marathon excitement with family fun!

Day 1: Exploring Downtown and the Riverwalk

Morning:

• Breakfast at Lou Mitchell's: Start your day with a hearty breakfast at this iconic diner. The pancakes and the famous milk duds are a hit with kids!
• Chicago Riverwalk: After breakfast, take a stroll along the Riverwalk. The views are stunning, and there are often street performers and art installations to enjoy. Kids can even feed the ducks!

Afternoon:

• Chicago Children's Museum: Head over to Navy Pier and visit the Chicago Children's Museum. It’s packed with interactive exhibits that will keep your little ones entertained for hours.
• Lunch at Navy Pier: Grab a bite at one of the many family-friendly restaurants on the pier. Try Giordano's for some deep-dish pizza!

Evening:

• Ride the Centennial Wheel: After lunch, take a ride on the Centennial Wheel for breathtaking views of the city skyline. It’s a fun experience for the whole family!
• Dinner at Portillo's: End your day with a classic Chicago-style hot dog or Italian beef sandwich at Portillo's. The kids will love the casual atmosphere and tasty food.

Day 2: Marathon Day Fun

Morning:

• Breakfast at your hotel or a local café: Fuel up for the day ahead! If you’re near Grant Park, you might find some great local spots.
• Cheer on the Runners: Head to a family-friendly viewing spot along the marathon route. Grant Park is a great place to see the start and finish, and there are often activities for kids.

Afternoon:

• Picnic in Grant Park: Pack a picnic lunch or grab some takeout from a nearby restaurant. Enjoy your meal in the park while cheering on the runners. The atmosphere is electric!
• Visit the Art Institute of Chicago: After the marathon excitement, take a short walk to the Art Institute. They have a family room with activities for kids, and the museum is home to some incredible art.

Evening:

• Dinner at The Cheesecake Factory: Treat yourselves to dinner at The Cheesecake Factory, where the menu is extensive and there’s something for everyone. Don’t forget to save room for dessert!
• Evening Stroll at Millennium Park: After dinner, take a leisurely stroll through Millennium Park. The kids will love the Cloud Gate (the "Bean") and the Crown Fountain, where they can splash around.

Day 3: Museums and More

Morning:

• Breakfast at Wildberry Pancakes and Cafe: Start your day with a delicious breakfast. Their berry pancakes are a must-try!
• Field Museum: Spend the morning exploring the Field Museum. The dinosaur exhibits are always a hit with kids, and there are plenty of interactive displays.

Afternoon:

• Lunch at the Museum Café: Grab a quick lunch at the museum café before heading to your next adventure.
• Shedd Aquarium: After lunch, head over to the Shedd Aquarium. The aquatic exhibits are mesmerizing, and the kids will love the dolphin show!

Evening:

• Dinner at the Navy Pier: Head back to Navy Pier for dinner. You can choose from a variety of restaurants, and the views of the lake are beautiful at sunset.
• Fireworks at Navy Pier: If you’re there on a Wednesday or Saturday, stick around for the fireworks show! It’s a fantastic way to end your trip.

Tips:

• Transportation: Consider using public transportation or rideshares to navigate the city easily, especially during the marathon.
• Stay Hydrated: Make sure to keep water bottles handy, especially if you’re out cheering for the marathon runners!
• Plan for Crowds: The marathon will bring in a lot of people, so be prepared for some crowds, especially near the race route.

I hope this itinerary helps you have a fantastic time in Chicago! Enjoy the marathon and all the family fun! 🏙️🏃‍♂️🎉