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14-Day Family Adventure: Chicago to Austin

Viewed by 55 travelers

Day 1: Exploring the Windy City

Chicago, USA

9:00AM

Breakfast at Lou Mitchell's

Start your day with a famous breakfast at Lou Mitchell's, renowned for its pancakes and classic diner atmosphere.
Located in the Loop, it’s a short walk from major attractions.
USD 15, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit Millennium Park

Stroll through Millennium Park, where you can snap photos at the iconic 'Cloud Gate' sculpture.
Just a short 10-minute walk from Lou Mitchell's.
Free, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Giordano's

Relish the famous deep-dish pizza at Giordano's, a Chicago staple.
Walk or take a short bus ride to Giordano's in the Loop.
USD 20, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Shedd Aquarium

Get up close with fascinating marine life at the Shedd Aquarium, perfect for kids.
Take a bus or taxi to the aquarium.
USD 40, 2.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Portillo's

Enjoy a casual dinner at Portillo's, known for its Italian beef sandwiches.
A short ride using public transport will take you there.
USD 15, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Museums and Parks

Chicago, USA

8:30AM

Breakfast at Wildberry Pancakes & Cafe

Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Wildberry, famous for their berry pancakes.
10-minute ride from your hotel.
USD 15, 1 hour

10:00AM

Field Museum

Explore the wonders of the natural world at the Field Museum, home of 'Sue', the T-Rex skeleton.
Short walk or public transit to the museum.
USD 28, 3 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Café Brauer

Enjoy lunch in the tranquil setting at Café Brauer, surrounded by Lincoln Park.
A short ride from the Field Museum.
USD 20, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Lincoln Park Zoo

Visit the Lincoln Park Zoo, which is free and great for kids.
A quick walk from Café Brauer.
Free, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Mamma Mia!

Treat the family to a delicious meal at this Italian restaurant famous for its fresh pasta.
Ride-share or public transport back to downtown.
USD 25, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Art and History

Chicago, USA

9:00AM

Breakfast at The Bongo Room

Indulge in gourmet breakfast dishes at The Bongo Room, famous for its delectable French toast.
Short distance from your accommodation.
USD 20, 1 hour

10:30AM

Art Institute of Chicago

Explore the vast collections of art at the Art Institute, including the famous 'American Gothic'.
Short Uber ride to the museum.
USD 25, 2.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Shake Shack

Savor a casual lunch with tasty burgers and shakes that everyone will love.
A short ride to Shake Shack.
USD 15, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Navy Pier

Spend the afternoon at Navy Pier, where kids can enjoy rides and attractions.
Catch public transport to Navy Pier.
Varies, 3 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at The Cheesecake Factory

Wrap up the day with a lively dinner at The Cheesecake Factory, offering an extensive menu.
Conveniently located near Navy Pier.
USD 30, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Shopping and Fun

Chicago, USA

9:00AM

Breakfast at Beatrix

Start with a light breakfast at Beatrix, known for its healthy options and delicious coffee.
Located nearby your lodging.
USD 15, 1 hour

10:30AM

Explore Michigan Avenue

Enjoy shopping and sightseeing along the famous Magnificent Mile.
Availing public transport or a short walk.
Free, 2.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Capital Grille

Relish a fantastic lunch at The Capital Grille, known for their impeccable steaks.
Short walk from Michigan Avenue.
USD 35, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit the Museum of Science and Industry

Engage with interactive exhibits at the Museum of Science and Industry, perfect for kids.
A direct bus will take you right there.
USD 24, 3 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at The Girl & The Goat

Enjoy a farm-to-table dining experience at this award-winning restaurant.
Take a ride-share to the restaurant.
USD 40, 2 hours
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Day 5: Chicago Culture Day

Chicago, USA

8:30AM

Breakfast at Yolk

Fuel up with an energizing breakfast at Yolk, a favorite among locals.
Keep it simple with a short walk.
USD 15, 1 hour

10:00AM

Chicago Children's Museum

Visit the interactive Chicago Children's Museum on Navy Pier for engaging exhibits.
Head back to Navy Pier using public transport.
USD 19, 2.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Lou Malnati's

Head to Lou Malnati's for another round of Chicago's famous deep-dish pizza.
Easily accessible through rideshare.
USD 20, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit Adler Planetarium

Explore the universe at the Adler Planetarium, complete with a space exhibit perfect for families.
Take a taxi or ride-share to get there.
USD 20, 2.5 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at The Smoque BBQ

Indulge in some of the best BBQ in Chicago at Smoque BBQ.
Short ride from the planetarium.
USD 25, 1.5 hours
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Day 6: Travel to Austin

Chicago to Austin, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at your hotel

Enjoy a quick and nourishing breakfast at your hotel before checking out.
N/A
Included, 1 hour

9:00AM

Flight to Austin

Catch a morning flight from Chicago to Austin, gearing up for new adventures.
Direct flight takes about 3 hours.
USD 200, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Franklin Barbecue

Delight in the legendary barbecue at Franklin Barbecue, known for its long lines and mouthwatering brisket.
Approx. 10-minute drive from the airport.
USD 20, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Check into Hotel

Get settled into your hotel and refresh after your travels.
N/A
USD 150, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Zilker Park

Let the kids play at Zilker Park, enjoy the playground, and soak in the Texan sun.
A quick drive from your hotel.
Free, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Chuy's

Savor some authentic Tex-Mex at Chuy's, a family favorite in Austin.
Just a short drive from Zilker Park.
USD 25, 1.5 hours
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Day 7: Discover Austin

Austin, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Kerbey Lane Cafe

Start your day with delicious pancakes at the family-friendly Kerbey Lane Cafe.
Easily accessible by car.
USD 15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Texas State Capitol

Explore the historic Texas State Capitol building, known for its stunning architecture.
A short drive from the cafe.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Bullock Texas State History Museum

Discover Texas history through interactive exhibits at the Bullock Museum.
Just a short walk from the Capitol.
USD 13, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Home Slice Pizza

Get a slice of New York-style pizza at Home Slice, casual and kid-friendly.
A quick drive to South Congress.
USD 20, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit the Austin Nature & Science Center

Engage kids with outdoor exhibits and a dino pit at the Austin Nature & Science Center.
Take a 10-minute drive from lunch.
Free, 2.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Salt Lick BBQ

Enjoy authentic Texas BBQ with family-style dining at the world-famous Salt Lick BBQ.
45-minute drive outside of Austin.
USD 30, 2 hours
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Day 8: Outdoor Adventures

Austin, USA

7:30AM

Breakfast at Bouldin Creek Cafe

Enjoy a hearty breakfast with vegetarian options at Bouldin Creek Cafe.
Just a short car ride away.
USD 15, 1 hour

9:00AM

Lady Bird Lake

Spend the morning kayaking or paddleboarding on Lady Bird Lake, fun for the whole family.
Short drive from the cafe.
USD 20, 2.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Picnic

Grab a casual bite from one of the food trucks at The Picnic, offering diverse options.
Nearby on Barton Springs Rd.
USD 15, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Explore Zilker Botanical Garden

Enjoy beautiful plants and sculptures at the Zilker Botanical Garden.
5-minute drive from lunch.
USD 10, 2 hours

4:00PM

Visit Barton Springs Pool

Cool off in the natural spring-fed pool at Barton Springs, a true Austin experience.
A quick drive within Zilker Park.
USD 5, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at The Salt Lick BBQ

Savor dinner at The Salt Lick BBQ for another round of delicious Texas BBQ.
Famous for its smokehouse style and gorgeous sunset views.
USD 30, 2 hours
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Day 9: Austin Arts Exploration

Austin, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at 24 Diner

Start with a diner-style breakfast focusing on local ingredients at 24 Diner.
Short drive to the diner.
USD 15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Blanton Museum of Art

Explore diverse art collections, including contemporary and modern works at the Blanton Museum.
Easily accessible via public transport or short drive.
USD 12, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Grackle

Enjoy a casual lunch at The Grackle, known for its vibrant atmosphere and craft beer.
A quick drive from the museum.
USD 20, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Explore South Congress Avenue

Stroll through the eclectic shops and vibrant street art along South Congress Avenue.
Short ride or a leisurely walk.
Free, 3 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Matt's El Rancho

Experience classic Tex-Mex at Matt's El Rancho, famous for its queso.
A quick drive over to the restaurant.
USD 25, 1.5 hours
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Day 10: A Day of Fun

Austin, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Taco Sweets

Start your day with delightful breakfast tacos from Taco Sweets.
Short drive to the taco spot.
USD 10, 1 hour

9:30AM

Austin Aquarium

Explore the Austin Aquarium and enjoy hands-on activities like feeding sharks.
Short drive from breakfast.
USD 22, 2.5 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Mamacita's

Dig into delicious enchiladas and rice at Mamacita's, great for families.
A quick drive to the restaurant.
USD 20, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Play at Luminations at the Wildflower Center

Visit the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center for a magical light show and exhibits.
A short ride to the center.
USD 12, 3 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at The Domain

Explore various dining options at The Domain, a popular shopping district.
A drive over to The Domain.
USD 30, 2 hours
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Day 11: Family Outdoor Fun

Austin, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Gourdough's

Enjoy unique donut creations at Gourdough's for breakfast.
Around a 10-minute drive from your accommodation.
USD 10, 1 hour

9:30AM

Hike at Mount Bonnell

Embark on a short hike to Mount Bonnell for stunning views of Austin.
Less than 15 minutes by car from breakfast.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Diner

Dig into classic diner fare at The Diner, serving up hot meals for families.
A short drive from Mount Bonnell.
USD 15, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit Zilker Park

Enjoy the vast greenery and playgrounds at Zilker Park for more family fun.
Quick drive back to Zilker.
Free, 3 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Black's BBQ

Savor some of Texas' best BBQ at Black's BBQ, a local favorite.
Short ride from Zilker.
USD 25, 1.5 hours
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Day 12: Final Day in Austin

Austin, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Veracruz All Natural

Indulge in delightful breakfast tacos and smoothies at Veracruz All Natural.
Short drive from your hotel.
USD 15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Explore the Congress Avenue Bridge

Walk along the Congress Avenue Bridge and spot the famous bats at sunset.
A quick drive from breakfast.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at P. Terry's

Enjoy a quick and casual lunch at P. Terry's for some classic Austin burgers.
Less than 10 minutes from the bridge.
USD 15, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit the Texas State Cemetery

Learn about Texas history and visit the Texas State Cemetery, serene and educational.
Short drive from lunch.
Free, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Last-minute shopping at SoCo

Explore the shops along South Congress Avenue for souvenirs and unique finds.
A quick drive to SoCo.
Varies, 2 hours

6:00PM

Farewell Dinner at Texas Roadhouse

End your trip with a hearty meal at Texas Roadhouse, with fantastic kids’ options.
Short drive from SoCo.
USD 25, 2 hours
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Day 13: Departure

Austin, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at the hotel

Enjoy a final breakfast at your hotel to start the day right.
N/A
Included, 1 hour

9:00AM

Pack and Check-Out

Pack your bags, check out and get ready for your journey back home.
N/A
Free, 1.5 hours

10:30AM

Transport to Airport

Head to the airport for your departure flight.
Arrange airport transport via a taxi or rideshare.
USD 30, 1 hour
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Day 14: Travel Home

Austin, USA

Return

Flight home

Fly back home with wonderful memories from your Chicago to Austin adventure.
N/A
Varies, N/A
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