7-Day Family Friendly Nature and Cultural Immersion Train Trip: December 2024

Day 1: Arrive in Chicago

Chicago, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Lou Mitchell's

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at this iconic diner known for its homemade donuts and classic American breakfast plates.
Located in the Loop, easily accessible by public transport.
USD15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Exploration of the Art Institute of Chicago

Spend the morning discovering the vast collections of this world-renowned museum, featuring Impressionist and Post-Impressionist masterpieces.
A 15-minute walk from the breakfast spot.
USD25, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Chicago Diner

Indulge in tasty vegetarian fare at this charming diner that has been a local favorite since the 1980s.
Take the CTA bus or a 20-minute walk.
USD20, 1 hour

1:30PM

Explore Millennium Park

Visit this famous urban park, taking family photos with the Cloud Gate sculpture and enjoying the surrounding gardens.
A short 15-minute walk from lunch.
Free, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Head to the Museum of Science and Industry

Join a journey through innovation at the largest science museum in the Western Hemisphere.
Take a train (the Metra) from downtown to the museum.
USD28, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Giordano's

Enjoy a classic Chicago deep-dish pizza at this popular pizzeria, perfect for the family after a day of exploration.
Take a bus or train back to the city center.
USD40, 1.5 hours

7:30PM

Rest and reflect at Lincoln Park Conservatory

End your day in this serene spot, where you can bask in the beauty of diverse plant life under glass.
A quick bus ride will take you to the conservatory.
Free, 1 hour
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Day 2: Milwaukee Day Trip

Milwaukee, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Honeypot

Enjoy a scrumptious breakfast known for its local pastries and warm atmosphere.
Take a morning Amtrak train from Chicago to Milwaukee.
USD15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Milwaukee Art Museum

Marvel at more than 30,000 works of art housed in an architectural masterpiece by Santiago Calatrava.
A short walk from the breakfast spot.
USD19, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Milwaukee Public Market

Sample local delicacies from different vendors in this bustling market, perfect for family exploration.
A 15-minute walk away.
USD20, 1 hour

1:30PM

Explore Discovery World

Dive into interactive exhibits focusing on science, technology, and the environment—an educational experience for the entire family.
A quick 15-minute walk from lunch.
USD17, 2 hours

3:30PM

Walk along the Milwaukee Riverwalk

Stroll along the picturesque riverwalk, enjoying public art and scenic views, a perfect downtime for the family.
A short 10-minute walk from Discovery World.
Free, 1 hour

5:00PM

Dinner at Safe House

Dine like a spy in this quirky themed restaurant that’s famous for its secret entrance and delicious food.
A 10-minute walk from the Riverwalk.
USD30, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Madison Adventure

Madison, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Marigold Kitchen

Enjoy farm-to-table offerings at this cozy spot known for its fresh ingredients.
Take a train from Milwaukee to Madison, about a 1-hour journey.
USD12, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Wisconsin State Capitol

Take a guided tour of the beautiful state capitol building and learn about Wisconsin's history and government.
A 10-minute walk from breakfast.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Explore the University of Wisconsin-Madison Campus

Wander the grounds of this prestigious university, known for its historic buildings and beautiful lakeside views.
A short walk from the capitol.
Free, 1.5 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at The Old Fashioned

Savor traditional Wisconsin fare in this rustic eatery, perfect for family meals.
A 15-minute walk from the campus.
USD25, 1 hour

2:00PM

Enjoy the Henry Vilas Zoo

Visit this free admission zoo that is home to over 650 animals, ideal for an educational family outing.
A 10-minute bus ride.
Free, 2 hours

4:30PM

Dinner at Dotty Dumpling's Dowry

Indulge in a family-friendly atmosphere with burgers and shakes at this casual dining spot.
A quick 15-minute bus ride back to downtown.
USD30, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: La Crosse Charm

La Crosse, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Breakfast Club

Relish in a welcoming atmosphere with hearty breakfast options that kids will love.
Take a scenic Amtrak train from Madison to La Crosse, about a 1.5-hour trip.
USD12, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Riverside Park

Stroll through this scenic park along the Mississippi River, where kids can enjoy views and outdoor activities.
A short walk from breakfast.
Free, 1 hour

10:30AM

Explore the La Crosse Historical Society

Learn about local history at this engaging museum displaying artifacts and exhibits.
A 15-minute walk from Riverside Park.
USD5, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at The Pearl Ice Cream Parlor

Treat the family to delicious sandwiches and their famous homemade ice cream.
A short walk from the museum.
USD20, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit Grandad Bluff

Take a trip to this iconic overlook for stunning views of La Crosse and the surrounding river valley.
Rent a bike or take a short drive.
Free, 2 hours

4:00PM

Dinner at The Waterfront Restaurant

Enjoy a sunset dinner on the patio with picturesque views and a menu featuring regional flavors.
Drive or bus back to downtown.
USD35, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Minneapolis Magic

Minneapolis, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Scandinavian Bakery

Start your day with fresh pastries and traditional breakfasts at this charming bakery.
Travel by Amtrak train from La Crosse to Minneapolis, about a 2-hour journey.
USD12, 1 hour

9:30AM

Explore the Walker Art Center

Enjoy modern artwork and family-friendly installations at this renowned contemporary art museum.
A 10-minute bus ride from breakfast.
USD15, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at the Midtown Global Market

Sample dishes from diverse cultures at this vibrant market, perfect for adventurous taste buds.
Take the bus just a few stops away.
USD20, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Visit Minnehaha Park

Enjoy the natural beauty of Minnehaha Falls and take a walk along the scenic trails.
A short bus ride from lunch.
Free, 2 hours

4:00PM

Dinner at Matt's Bar

Experience the famous Jucy Lucy burger in a family-friendly setting at this classic Minneapolis establishment.
A 15-minute bus ride.
USD30, 1.5 hours
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Day 6: St. Paul Excursion

St. Paul, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Buttered Tin

Start the day with homestyle breakfast and delicious pastries at this downtown favorite.
Take the light rail from Minneapolis to St. Paul, about a 30-minute ride.
USD10, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Science Museum of Minnesota

Engage in interactive exhibits that make science fun and accessible for kids and families.
A 10-minute walk from breakfast.
USD18, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Happy Gnome

Enjoy a locally sourced menu with a wide selection of sandwiches, perfect for the family.
A short 10-minute walk from the museum.
USD25, 1 hour

1:30PM

Explore the Minnesota State Capitol

Take a guided tour of the stunning capitol building and learn more about its history.
Just a 15-minute walk away.
Free, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit the Historic Summit Avenue

Take a leisurely walk down this historic street, showcasing beautiful Victorian mansions.
A 20-minute walk from the capitol.
Free, 1 hour

4:30PM

Dinner at Café Mutton

Wrap up your day with a delightful dinner chosen from a seasonal farm-to-table menu.
A quick bus ride back to downtown.
USD35, 1.5 hours
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Day 7: Return to Chicago

Chicago, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Wildberry Pancakes and Cafe

Revel in a family breakfast with over-the-top pancake options that are great for kids.
Take the train back to Chicago from St. Paul, about a 5-hour journey.
USD15, 1 hour

12:00PM

Visit Lincoln Park Zoo

Spend the afternoon at this beautiful and free zoo that houses a variety of animals and features lovely gardens.
Access from public transport after arriving in Chicago.
Free, 2 hours

2:30PM

Lunch at Al's Beef

Savor a famous Italian beef sandwich or hot dog at this Chicago staple, perfect for a quick meal on the go.
A short walk from the zoo.
USD15, 1 hour

4:00PM

Spend time at Maggie Daley Park

Let the kids enjoy the playground and skating in winter at this nearby urban park.
Take a 15-minute walk from lunch.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Portillo's

Conclude your trip with a delicious Chicago-style hot dog or beef sandwich at this iconic eatery.
A quick walk from the park.
USD25, 1 hour
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