A Relaxing Four Days in Chicago

• Day 1: Millennium Park and The Art Institute of Chicago
  10 minutes (0.7 miles) from Willis Tower

  Start your trip by visiting the most famous attraction of Chicago, The Bean in Millennium Park. Take some amazing pictures, relax by Crown Fountain, and roam around the Lurie Garden. Head next to The Art Institute of Chicago, which showcases amazing art collections including that of Pablo Picasso and Chuck Close.

• Day 2: Chicago Riverwalk and Navy Pier
  20 minutes (1.3 miles) from Lincoln Park Zoo

  Relax along the Chicago Riverwalk, surrounded by nature, art installations, and numerous bars and restaurants. The river provides a calm atmosphere where you can take a stroll or just sit back and watch. After that, head to Navy Pier, one of the popular destinations of Chicago. You can take a ride on the Ferris wheel, shop, dine, and have fun before ending a perfect day.

• Day 3: Garfield Park Conservatory and Magnificent Mile
  20 minutes (4.7 miles) from Chicago Riverwalk

  Start your day by visiting Garfield Park Conservatory, the largest indoor conservatory in the world. Relax and enjoy the beautiful plants here. You can also take part in the many programs they offer. Next, head to the Magnificent Mile and do some shopping. You'll find amazing shops and restaurants in this location.

• Day 4: Chicago Botanic Garden and Lincoln Park Zoo
  20 minutes (14.6 miles) from Magnificent Mile

  Visit the Chicago Botanic Garden and enjoy nature at its best. The garden showcases different landscapes, with 27 gardens and four natural areas spread across 385 acres. Relax, have a picnic, and enjoy this mesmerizing destination. End your day at the Lincoln Park Zoo, one of the oldest zoos in the country. You can see animals from all over the world here.

Time and Costs Estimates

• The Bean (1 hour, free)
• The Art Institute of Chicago (2-3 hours, $25-35 admission fee)
• Chicago Riverwalk (1-2 hours, free)
• Navy Pier (2-3 hours, varies based on activities)
• Garfield Park Conservatory (1-2 hours, free)
• Magnificent Mile (2-3 hours, varies based on shopping)
• Chicago Botanic Garden (2-3 hours, free admission, $25 parking fee)
• Lincoln Park Zoo (2-3 hours, free)
• Total Estimated Costs: $25-60 (prices not inclusive of meals and transportation)

Transportation

Chicago has an excellent public transportation system, including buses and trains. You can purchase single-ride tickets, unlimited ride passes, or even use mobile ticketing for added convenience. Additionally, taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are widely available. Estimated cost of single-ride fares is $2-3, while an unlimited ride pass for one day costs $10.

Useful Tips

If you have more time, consider taking a Chicago River Architecture boat tour, visiting Willis Tower Skydeck observation deck, or attending a live performance at the Chicago Theatre. If you have less time, consider skipping the Magnificent Mile and focusing on other relaxing destinations like the Chicago Botanic Garden, Lincoln Park Zoo, and Garfield Park Conservatory.

Airports

Chicago has two major airports: O'Hare International Airport (ORD) and Midway International Airport (MDW). O'Hare is located 17 miles northwest of downtown, while Midway is located 11 miles southwest. Both airports offer numerous transportation options to the city center including taxis, ride-sharing services, and public transportation.