Make this trip your own
Create your own free, personalized itinerary in seconds — then sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version

Family-Friendly 7-Day Chicago Itinerary

Viewed by 77 travelers
Saturday, May 25: Exploring Navy Pier

Start your trip by visiting Navy Pier, a popular tourist spot in Chicago. In the morning, take a leisurely walk along the pier, enjoying the stunning views of Lake Michigan. Head to the Chicago Children's Museum in the afternoon, where your family can engage in interactive exhibits. In the evening, watch a spectacular fireworks show at Navy Pier.

  • Navy Pier: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - Full Day
  • Chicago Children's Museum: Estimated cost - $14.95 per person, Time spent - 2-3 hours
  • Fireworks Show: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 30 minutes
Sunday, May 26: Exploring Millennium Park

Start your day at Millennium Park, a beautiful urban park located in downtown Chicago. In the morning, take a stroll through the park and admire the famous Cloud Gate sculpture, also known as "The Bean." In the afternoon, enjoy a picnic and let your kids cool off at the Crown Fountain. In the evening, catch a free outdoor concert at the Jay Pritzker Pavilion.

  • Cloud Gate: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
  • Crown Fountain: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
  • Jay Pritzker Pavilion Concert: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours
Monday, May 27: Field Museum and Shedd Aquarium

On this day, visit the Field Museum, a natural history museum that offers fascinating exhibits for all ages. In the morning, explore the museum's extensive collection, including Sue, the largest and most complete Tyrannosaurus Rex skeleton. In the afternoon, head to the nearby Shedd Aquarium, where your family can marvel at a variety of marine life. End the day with a stroll along the Lakefront Trail.

  • Field Museum: Estimated cost - $26 per adult, $19 per child, Time spent - 3-4 hours
  • Shedd Aquarium: Estimated cost - $39.95 per adult, $29.95 per child, Time spent - 3-4 hours
  • Lakefront Trail: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Tuesday, May 28: Explore Chicago's Museums

Immerse yourself in Chicago's vibrant arts and culture scene by visiting some of the city's renowned museums. In the morning, head to the Art Institute of Chicago, where you can admire a vast collection of artworks. In the afternoon, visit the Museum of Science and Industry, offering interactive exhibits and educational experiences. In the evening, enjoy a relaxing walk along the Chicago Riverwalk.

  • Art Institute of Chicago: Estimated cost - $25 per adult, $19 per child, Time spent - 3-4 hours
  • Museum of Science and Industry: Estimated cost - $21.95 per adult, $12.95 per child, Time spent - 3-4 hours
  • Chicago Riverwalk: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Wednesday, May 29: Lincoln Park Zoo and Lincoln Park Conservatory

Spend the day exploring Lincoln Park, one of Chicago's largest parks. Start by visiting the Lincoln Park Zoo in the morning, which is home to a wide variety of animals. In the afternoon, stroll through the Lincoln Park Conservatory, where you can admire beautiful plants and flowers. End the day with a picnic in the park.

  • Lincoln Park Zoo: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours
  • Lincoln Park Conservatory: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Thursday, May 30: Explore the Museum Campus

Explore the Museum Campus, a cultural hub located on the shore of Lake Michigan. In the morning, visit the Adler Planetarium, where you can learn about astronomy and enjoy breathtaking sky shows. In the afternoon, head to the nearby Field Museum of Natural History to discover ancient artifacts and exhibits. Wrap up the day with a relaxing walk along Lake Michigan.

  • Adler Planetarium: Estimated cost - $34.95 per adult, $29.95 per child, Time spent - 2-3 hours
  • Field Museum of Natural History: Estimated cost - $26 per adult, $19 per child, Time spent - 3-4 hours
  • Lake Michigan: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Friday, May 31: Exploring Chicago's Neighborhoods

Dedicate this day to exploring Chicago's diverse neighborhoods. In the morning, visit the colorful and vibrant neighborhood of Pilsen, known for its street art and Mexican cuisine. In the afternoon, head to the family-friendly Lincoln Square and enjoy boutique shopping, restaurants, and a visit to the DANK Haus German American Cultural Center. In the evening, experience the lively atmosphere of Wrigleyville and catch a Chicago Cubs baseball game at Wrigley Field.

  • Pilsen: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours
  • Lincoln Square: Estimated cost - Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours
  • Wrigleyville (Wrigley Field): Estimated cost - Varies based on tickets, Time spent - 2-4 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For off-the-beaten-path experiences and places favored by locals, consider the following options:

  • The 606 - a converted elevated railway, now a park and trail for biking, walking, and running.
  • Garfield Park Conservatory - an enchanting indoor botanical garden with beautiful plant displays.
  • Maggie Daley Park - an expansive park with unique playgrounds, climbing walls, and a mini-golf course.

For hotel and flight prices, check this KAYAK link.

0
Like this trip? Make your own version.
A free, personalized itinerary in seconds — sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version