Ultimate Family-Friendly Road and Rail Trip Itinerary

Day 1: Fun Family Adventure

Springfield, USA

8:30AM

Breakfast at Charlie Parker's Diner

Kickstart your day with a hearty breakfast at Charlie Parker's Diner, renowned for its delicious pancakes and omelets that are sure to satisfy the whole family.
Drive from your hotel to the diner, located around 10 minutes from downtown Springfield.
USD 50, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum

Immerse yourselves in the history of the United States at the Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum, featuring interactive exhibits that appeal to kids and adults alike.
It's a quick 5-minute drive from the diner, and parking is available at the museum.
USD 28, 2 hours

11:30AM

Explore the Illinois State Museum

Head over to the Illinois State Museum, where kids can enjoy hands-on exhibits showcasing natural history and art.
Only a 5-minute drive from the Lincoln Museum.
USD 0, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Farmhouse Springfield

Enjoy farm-to-table meals at Farmhouse Springfield, where you can find kid-friendly options such as burgers and craft macaroni & cheese.
A 10-minute drive from the museum.
USD 70, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit Lincoln Home National Historic Site

Explore the Lincoln Home, a National Historic Site, where families can enjoy a guided tour of this historic house.
Just a short drive (5 minutes) from the restaurant, there is suitable parking nearby.
USD 0, 1 hour

3:00PM

Depart Springfield for Chicago

Take a leisurely drive to the Springfield Amtrak station, where you will catch a train to Chicago.
Allow 20 minutes to reach the station from Lincoln Home.
USD 150, 1 hour (plus train ride)

4:00PM

Train ride to Chicago

Enjoy a comfortable train ride to Chicago, taking in scenic views along the way.
Find your seats on the train and relax.
USD 100, 3 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Giordano's

Indulge in Chicago's famous deep-dish pizza at Giordano's, a treat that families can enjoy together.
After arriving at Chicago Union Station, it's a short walk to the nearest Giordano's.
USD 80, 1.5 hours

8:30PM

Evening walk at Millennium Park

Finish your day with a leisurely evening stroll through Millennium Park, where kids can run around and families can take photos by the iconic Cloud Gate sculpture.
A pleasant 15-minute walk from Giordano's.
USD 0, 1 hour
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