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2-Day College Adventure: Exploring Urban Treasures and Nature Wonders

Viewed by 65 travelers

Day 1: City Exploration

Chicago, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Lou Mitchell's

Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at Lou Mitchell's, a classic diner famous for its pancakes and coffee that will fuel you for the day's adventures.
Walk or take a short Uber ride from your accommodation to Lou Mitchell's.
USD20, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Art Institute of Chicago

Explore one of the oldest and largest art museums in the United States, where you can admire masterpieces by artists such as Van Gogh and Grant Wood.
Take a short bus ride or a 15-minute walk to the museum.
USD25, 2.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Portillo's

Grab a quick and delicious Chicago-style hot dog or Italian beef sandwich at Portillo's to experience the city's culinary delight.
Walk or take public transport for about 10 minutes to Portillo's.
USD15, 1 hour

1:30PM

Explore Millennium Park

Stroll through Millennium Park, taking in the sights of the famous Cloud Gate sculpture and the beautiful Lurie Garden.
Walk from Portillo's, it’s just a 15-minute walk.
Free, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit the Shedd Aquarium

Dive into the underwater world at the Shedd Aquarium, where you'll marvel at a vast array of marine life and engaging exhibits.
Take a bus or a quick Uber ride to the Shedd Aquarium.
USD40, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at The Signature Room

Enjoy a fantastic dinner at The Signature Room at the 95th in the John Hancock Center, offering stunning skyline views of Chicago.
Uber or walk for about 20 minutes to the restaurant.
USD70, 2 hours

7:30PM

Skyline River Cruise

Cap off your first day with a scenic skyline river cruise, soaking in the beauty of the city's famous architecture bathed in sunset colors.
Head to the river cruise boarding area, typically a short walk from The Signature Room.
USD50, 1 hour
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Day 2: Nature Escape

Starved Rock State Park, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at the Hotel

Enjoy a convenient breakfast at your hotel before hitting the road for an outdoor adventure.
Head to the dining area in your hotel.
USD15, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Starved Rock State Park

Take a scenic drive to Starved Rock State Park, famous for its canyons, waterfalls, and breathtaking views.
Drive about 1.5 hours from your hotel to the park.
Free (public park), 1.5 hours

10:30AM

Hiking at Starved Rock

Go for a refreshing hike on one of the park's many trails, where you can discover scenic spots and maybe catch a glimpse of local wildlife.
Follow the trail maps available at the visitor center for various routes.
Free, 2.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Lodge

Refuel with a lunch at The Lodge restaurant located within the park, offering lovely views and local flavors.
Head back to the lodge after your hike.
USD25, 1 hour

2:00PM

Continue Hiking and Exploring

Continue your exploration of the park with more trails or head to one of the beautiful lookout points.
Change trails or leisurely walk towards lookout points.
Free, 3 hours

5:00PM

Drive Back and Dinner at Giordano's

Wrap up your college adventure with a comforting pizza dinner at Giordano's, renowned for its delicious deep-dish pizza.
Drive about 1.5 hours back to Chicago to Giordano's.
USD50, 1.5 hours

7:30PM

Final Stroll Through Navy Pier

Conclude your trip with an evening stroll through Navy Pier, enjoying the lively atmosphere and possibly catching a glimpse of the fireworks.
Just a short drive or public transport ride to Navy Pier.
Free, 1 hour
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