The Navy Pier is a classic Chicago landmark that offers fun for the whole family. With various attractions including the Chicago Children's Museum, the Chicago Shakespeare Theater, and the Chicago Architecture Center, this is a great place to kick off your vacation in Chicago.
A must-visit location in Chicago, the Millennium Park is a perfect spot to enjoy the city's greenery and architecture. The centerpiece of the park is “The Bean” sculpture, which is a perfect place for taking pictures with the family. The park also offers free outdoor concerts and movies during the summer.
Located in Grant Park, the Shedd Aquarium is a fun and educational experience for both kids and adults. With over 32,000 animals and 1,500 species, the aquarium features a variety of exhibits and shows, including a live aquatic presentation with dolphins, beluga whales and sea lions.
The Field Museum is a great destination for kids and adults alike. Featuring over 40 million specimens, including Sue, the largest T-Rex in the world, this museum is sure to be a hit. There are a variety of exhibits, from Ancient Egypt to the Pacific Islands, to learn about and explore.
The Lincoln Park Zoo is one of the oldest zoos in North America, dating back to 1868. This zoo is dedicated to animal care, research, and conservation. With free admission, the zoo features various animals such as African lions, Bactrian camels and penguins.
A perfect destination for kids especially, the Museum of Science and Industry provides interactive and educational experiences for the whole family. With over 400,000 square feet of exhibits, this museum offers an opportunity to learn about everything from space exploration to transportation.
Wrap up your trip in Chicago with a visit to the Art Institute of Chicago. With over 300,000 works of art from around the world, including contemporary pieces and classics, the Art Institute is a great destination for all ages. The museum also offers family-friendly tours and interactive activities.
Chicago has an extensive public transportation system. You can buy a Ventra card, which is a reusable and reloadable card for both buses and trains. A 7-day pass is available for only $33, allowing unlimited rides for buses and trains.
If you have more time, you can add an extra day to explore Chicago’s beaches along Lake Michigan or take a stroll around different Chicago neighborhoods such as Wicker Park, Bucktown, and Logan Square. If you have less time, you can skip visiting The Art Institute and/or Museum of Science and Industry.
Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD) is the primary airport for Chicago located approximately 17 miles northwest of downtown. You can get to downtown via the Blue Line train or by a taxi for approximately $40-$50 depending on traffic. Midway airport (MDW), also a popular airport in Chicago, is about 11 miles southwest of downtown. You can get to downtown via the Orange Line train or a taxi for approximately $30-$40 depending on traffic.