Chicago 2 weeks

One of the busiest airports in the world, serving as a major gateway to Chicago and the Midwest. It offers numerous dining and shopping options.

• Consider purchasing a Ventra card for easy public transit access.

A famous stretch of Michigan Avenue known for its upscale boutiques, department stores, restaurants, and historic architecture.

• Look for architectural details on buildings like the Wrigley Building and Tribune Tower.
• Many shops offer tourist discounts with a valid ID.

An elegant American restaurant with a Ralph Lauren aesthetic, offering classic dishes and a sophisticated atmosphere.

• Reservations are highly recommended, especially on weekends.

Home to a world-class collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist paintings, as well as extensive holdings of American, European, and Asian art.

• Purchase tickets online in advance to save time.
• Don't miss the Thorne Miniature Rooms and the Modern Wing.

A vibrant urban park featuring iconic public art, including Cloud Gate ('The Bean'), Crown Fountain, and the Pritzker Pavilion.

• Take photos with Cloud Gate reflecting the city skyline.
• Check the schedule for free events at the Pritzker Pavilion.

A 90-minute narrated cruise offering unparalleled views of Chicago's renowned architecture from the Chicago River.

• Book tickets well in advance, as tours often sell out.
• Sit on the open-air upper deck for the best views (weather permitting).

A popular gastropub across from Millennium Park, offering elevated pub fare and a wide selection of craft beers.

• Known for its lively atmosphere and extensive beer list.

A natural history museum housing Sue the T. Rex, ancient Egyptian artifacts, and extensive exhibits on cultures and the natural world.

• Allocate sufficient time for the dinosaur halls and the Hall of Jades.

A world-class aquarium featuring a diverse range of aquatic life, from the Amazon to the Great Lakes, with immersive exhibits.

• Check the schedule for animal encounters and feeding times.
• Consider the 'All-Access' ticket for special exhibits.

America's first planetarium, offering sky shows, exhibits on space exploration, and stunning views of the Chicago skyline.

• The Sky Show tickets are separate and highly recommended.

A vibrant food hall in the Loop featuring diverse local eateries, offering everything from tacos to ramen.

Chicago's 'front yard,' home to Buckingham Fountain, beautiful gardens, and performance spaces.

• Buckingham Fountain is most impressive when its water shows are active (typically May-October).

A stunning architectural gem featuring the world's largest Tiffany glass dome and free art exhibitions and performances.

• Take a free guided tour to learn about the building's history and architecture.
• Check the schedule for free concerts and art events.

A beloved neighborhood spot in Lincoln Park known for its comfort food and friendly atmosphere.

• Famous for its breakfast and lunch dishes.

One of the oldest and last free zoos in the United States, located within Lincoln Park.

• The zoo is open year-round and offers a pleasant evening stroll.

A vibrant outdoor market offering fresh produce, artisanal foods, and local crafts (seasonal, typically May-October).

• Great place to sample local treats and pick up picnic supplies.

A highly acclaimed restaurant by Stephanie Izard, known for its inventive small plates and lively atmosphere.

• Reservations are essential and should be made months in advance.
• The menu is designed for sharing, so order a variety of dishes.

An indoor/outdoor market featuring antiques, vintage items, art, and artisanal goods.

• Open on Saturdays and Sundays, check hours of operation.

Famous for its incredibly rich and decadent burger, this diner-style restaurant is a Chicago institution.

• Expect a long wait, especially during peak hours. Go early or late.
• The burger is a must-try, but other diner classics are also excellent.

A vast museum with interactive exhibits covering science, technology, industry, and transportation, including a captured German U-boat.

• Allow ample time to explore; it's one of the largest science museums in the world.
• Don't miss the U-505 Submarine exhibit and the 'Genetics: Unlock the Code of Life' exhibit.

A large urban park adjacent to the Museum of Science and Industry, featuring the Japanese Garden and the Wooded Island.

A long-standing casual eatery near the University of Chicago, known for its pizzas, sandwiches, and relaxed atmosphere.

• A popular spot for students and locals alike.

A beautiful Victorian-era glass conservatory featuring a diverse collection of plants from around the world, including tropical, desert, and show gardens.

• Free to enter and a lovely escape, especially during colder months.

A popular city beach with a distinctive beach house, offering recreational activities and great views of the skyline.

• Rent bikes and cycle along the lakefront path.
• Enjoy people-watching and the lively atmosphere.

A historic neighborhood known for its Victorian architecture, charming streets, unique boutiques, and lively nightlife.

• Explore Wells Street for its theaters, comedy clubs, and restaurants.
• Admire the well-preserved historic buildings.

A popular bar and restaurant in Old Town with a wide selection of beers, pub food, and a lively atmosphere.

One of the largest commercial buildings in the world, housing design showrooms, retail stores, and the Wolf Point riverfront.

• Look for the iconic 'M' logo and the building's impressive Art Deco facade.
• Check for public access areas and design events.

A concentration of art galleries showcasing a wide range of contemporary and traditional art.

• Many galleries are free to enter and offer a chance to see local and international artists.
• Check gallery websites for specific opening hours and exhibitions.

A stylish Italian restaurant in River North known for its handmade pasta, pizzas, and vibrant atmosphere.

• Great for both lunch and dinner, with a good selection of wines.

A legendary jazz club in the Uptown neighborhood, famous for its Prohibition-era ambiance and live music.

• Check the schedule for live jazz performances; cover charges usually apply.
• Dress code is casual but smart.

A premier museum dedicated to the art and culture of Mexicans and Mexican Americans, featuring a significant permanent collection and rotating exhibitions.

• Admission is free, but donations are appreciated.
• Explore the vibrant neighborhood of Pilsen after your visit.

Explore the colorful street art and murals that adorn the buildings throughout the Pilsen neighborhood, reflecting its rich cultural heritage.

• Many murals are concentrated along 18th Street and surrounding blocks.
• Consider a self-guided walking tour or a guided option.

A no-frills, authentic Mexican eatery famous for its delicious and tender carnitas.

• Order by the pound or as a torta/taco filling.

A lively Tex-Mex restaurant with a fun, eclectic decor and a menu of classic favorites.

• Known for its creamy jalapeno soup and extensive margarita list.

Experience breathtaking panoramic views of Chicago and up to four states from the 103rd floor of Willis Tower, with the thrilling Ledge glass balconies.

• Purchase tickets online to avoid long queues.
• Visit on a clear day for the best visibility.
• Step out onto The Ledge for a unique perspective.

An underground network of tunnels and skybridges connecting buildings in the Loop, offering a climate-controlled way to navigate the city center.

• Great for exploring shops and cafes without braving the weather.
• Look for signs directing you to different buildings and transit lines.

A popular gastropub across from Millennium Park, offering elevated pub fare and a wide selection of craft beers.

• Known for its lively atmosphere and extensive beer list.

A stylish rooftop bar atop the Chicago Athletic Association Hotel, offering stunning views of Millennium Park and Lake Michigan, along with craft cocktails.

• Reservations are recommended, especially for prime seating.
• Dress code is smart casual.

A trendy neighborhood known for its independent boutiques, vintage shops, vibrant street art, and lively music scene.

• Explore Damen Avenue for unique shopping experiences.
• Look for the iconic 'Wicker Park' sign.

A popular taco and whiskey bar in Wicker Park with a lively patio and a menu of creative tacos and diverse whiskey selections.

• Great for a casual lunch or late-night bite.

Adjacent to Wicker Park, Bucktown offers a more residential feel with charming streets, local cafes, and art galleries.

• Stroll along Milwaukee Avenue and explore side streets.
• Discover independent art studios and boutiques.

An acclaimed cocktail lounge in Wicker Park known for its sophisticated ambiance, expertly crafted drinks, and intimate setting.

• Reservations are highly recommended.
• The entrance is unmarked; look for the purple neon sign.

A scenic paved path running along the shores of Lake Michigan, perfect for walking, running, and cycling.

• Rent bikes from a Divvy station or rental shop.
• Enjoy views of the lake and skyline from various points.

A popular entertainment hub featuring amusement rides, restaurants, shops, a Ferris wheel, and performance venues.

• Ride the Centennial Wheel for iconic city views.
• Check for seasonal events and fireworks displays.

An interactive museum with engaging exhibits designed for children, located on Navy Pier.

• Ideal for families with younger children.

A famous Chicago institution known for its deep-dish pizza.

• Be prepared for a wait, as deep-dish pizzas take time to bake.

A historic outdoor market known for its eclectic mix of vendors selling clothing, electronics, antiques, and street food.

• A great place for bargain hunting and experiencing local culture.
• Open on Sundays, check hours.

Renowned for its caramelized crust deep-dish pizza, offering a unique and delicious take on a Chicago classic.

• The caramelized crust is the signature, don't miss it.
• Can get very busy, especially on weekends.

A sprawling urban park offering green spaces, the Lincoln Park Zoo, the Lincoln Park Conservatory, and beautiful lakefront views.

Offers stunning 360-degree views of the city and Lake Michigan from the 94th floor, including the optional TILT experience.

• Consider the TILT experience for a thrilling outward-tilting view.
• Evening views are spectacular with the city lights.

A world-class museum with extensive collections of Impressionist, Post-Impressionist, and American art.

• A great way to spend a final morning revisiting favorite exhibits or seeing something new.

A vibrant food hall in the Loop featuring diverse local eateries, offering everything from tacos to ramen.

• A convenient spot for a final Chicago meal before heading to the airport.

Departure from Chicago.