4-Day Hotel Travel Itinerary

• Day 1: Exploring Downtown - Marvel at the towering skyscrapers as you stroll down the bustling streets of downtown. Don't forget to check out the Willis Tower, the third tallest building in the world, and the Art Institute of Chicago, home to a vast collection of art. Take a break and indulge in some deep-dish pizza at Gino's East.
• Day 2: Relaxing by Lake Michigan - Spend a day by the beach on Chicago's famous Lake Michigan. Take a dip in the refreshing water, catch some rays, or rent a bike and ride along the scenic Lakefront Trail. For a fun evening out, check out Navy Pier for some entertainment and dining options.
• Day 3: Immersing in Culture - Dive deep into the city's vibrant culture on this day. Start at Museum Campus, where you can visit three of the city's top museums: the Field Museum, the Shedd Aquarium, and the Adler Planetarium. Then, head to the Lincoln Park Zoo, a free attraction featuring exotic animals from around the world.
• Day 4: Exploring Local Neighborhoods - On the final day of your trip, venture into some of the city's unique neighborhoods. Start with a visit to Wicker Park, a trendy area full of boutiques and cafes. Wander through the colourful Pilsen neighbourhood, known for its vibrant street art, and stop for some of the best mexican food in town. End the day with a visit to The Magnificent Mile, a bustling shopping district featuring high-end stores and designer boutiques.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Willis Tower (2-3 hours, $25)
• Art Institute of Chicago (2-4 hours, $25)
• Gino's East (1-2 hours, $20)
• Lakefront Trail (2-4 hours, free)
• Navy Pier (2-3 hours, $20+)
• Field Museum (2-3 hours, $25)
• Shedd Aquarium (2-3 hours, $40)
• Adler Planetarium (1-2 hours, $25)
• Lincoln Park Zoo (2-3 hours, free)
• Wicker Park (2-3 hours, free)
• Pilsen (1-2 hours, free)
• Mexican food (1-2 hours, $10+)
• The Magnificent Mile (2-4 hours, varies)
Total Estimated Costs: $190+

Transportation

Chicago has a vast public transportation system that includes buses, subway trains, and elevated trains, all of which accept the Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) pass, which costs $10 per day. Taxis and ride shares are also readily available, but can be more costly. A popular and scenic option for transportation is biking or walking, especially along the Lakefront Trail.

Useful Tips

If you have more time, consider visiting the Chicago Riverwalk, a picturesque trail along the iconic Chicago River, or taking a riverboat architecture tour. For those with less time, consider skipping the more expensive attractions, such as the Shedd Aquarium, to save money. Additionally, be mindful of the weather, as Chicago can be very cold in the winter and very hot in the summer. Dress accordingly and plan indoor activities if necessary.