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3-Day Chicago Itinerary with Whole Food Plant-Based and Gluten-Free Dining Including a Michelin-Recommended Experience

Viewed by 156 travelers

Day 1: Iconic Downtown Exploration

Chicago, USA on October 1, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Handlebar

Enjoy a 100% vegetarian, mostly plant-based cafe with many gluten-free and vegan options available, opening at 8am downtown. Their wholesome bowls and tofu scrambles are popular.
USD18, 1h0m

9:30am

Millennium Park

Explore the iconic outdoor park with the famous Cloud Gate sculpture ('The Bean') and lovely gardens. Open from 6am to 11pm, free entry.
Free, 1h30m

11:30am

The Art Institute of Chicago

Discover world-class art collections, open from 10:30am to 5pm. The rich galleries offer a cultural feast and a break from the bustling city streets.
USD25, 2h0m

1:30pm

Lunch at Althea

Dine at this Michelin-starred vegan and gluten-free friendly restaurant by Matthew Kenney in the Saks Fifth Avenue building, offering innovative plant-based dishes with elegant presentation. Open for lunch from 11:30am to 3pm.
USD45, 1h0m

3:00pm

Chicago Riverwalk Stroll

Leisurely walk along the scenic Riverwalk with beautiful city views. Accessible any time, no cost.
Free, 1h0m

6:30pm

Dinner at Native Foods Café

Enjoy wholesome, hearty whole food plant-based and gluten-free meals such as grain bowls and salads, in a relaxed environment open until 8:30pm.
USD30, 1h30m

Day 2: Museum Campus & Navy Pier

Chicago, USA on October 2, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Beatrix

This bright café offers wholesome gluten-free and plant-based options including smoothies and avocado toast, open from 7am near Museum Campus.
USD22, 1h0m

9:30am

Field Museum of Natural History

Explore natural history treasures including dinosaurs, open from 9am to 5pm.
USD26, 2h30m

12:15pm

Shedd Aquarium

Discover marine life exhibits at this popular aquarium. Open from 9am to 5pm.
USD39, 2h0m

2:30pm

Lunch at The Chicago Diner

Experience a legendary vegetarian and vegan diner known for gluten-free options and hearty plant-based comfort food. Open until 9pm daily, with a casual friendly vibe.
USD25, 1h0m

3:30pm

Navy Pier Exploration and Centennial Wheel Ride

Explore the iconic Navy Pier and enjoy panoramic views on the Centennial Wheel, open from 10am to 10pm with the wheel running until dusk.
USD18, 1h30m

6:00pm

Dinner at Beatrix

Return for dinner with a focus on healthy, fresh plant-based options featuring gluten-free choices available, open until 9pm.
USD35, 1h30m

Day 3: Lincoln Park & Shopping

Chicago, USA on October 3, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Urban Vegan

Enjoy hearty, gluten-free and plant-based breakfast choices focused on whole foods. A cozy local spot with exceptional smoothies and bowls, open at 8am.
USD20, 1h0m

9:30am

Lincoln Park Zoo and Conservatory

Enjoy a free visit to this beautiful zoo and conservatory open from 10am to 5pm with diverse plants and animal exhibits in a calm neighborhood setting.
Free, 2h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Karyn’s Cooked

Savor plant-based, gluten-free dishes crafted with whole foods at this neighborhood favorite, open from 11am to 3pm.
USD28, 1h0m

1:30pm

Magnificent Mile Shopping

Explore the world-famous shopping district with accessible stores open until 8pm on weekdays.
Variable, 3h0m

5:00pm

Visit the Chicago Water Tower

See this historic landmark, an iconic symbol of Chicago’s resilience. Accessible outside all day at no cost.
Free, 0h30m

6:00pm

Dinner at Althea

Dine one last time at Matthew Kenney’s Michelin-starred plant-based restaurant for an elegant and flavorful gluten-free experience, open until 10pm.
USD50, 1h30m
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