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10-Day Family-Friendly Itinerary for Chicago

Viewed by 299 travelers

Day 1: Arrival and Enthrall

Chicago, USA

9:00AM

Breakfast at Lou Mitchell's

Start your day with classic pancakes and hearty omelets at Lou Mitchell's, a beloved Chicago diner with a quirky charm.
Located near Union Station, it's a convenient first stop.
USD20, 1 hour

10:30AM

Explore Millennium Park

Stroll through Millennium Park, marveling at the iconic Cloud Gate sculpture, and let the kids splash in the Crown Fountain.
It's a short walk from Lou Mitchell's.
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Playground

Enjoy kid-friendly gourmet grilled cheese and fresh soup at The Playground, just a short walk away.
Navigate through the park to reach this local eatery.
USD30, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit the Art Institute of Chicago

Delve into the world of art with your family at the Art Institute, where kids can engage with interactive exhibits.
A quick 10-minute walk from lunch.
USD50 (family rate), 3 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Giordano's

Savor a classic deep-dish pizza at Giordano's, a must-try for every Chicago visitor.
A quick taxi ride will get your family there in 15 minutes.
USD60, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Aquatic Adventures

Chicago, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Bongo Room

Indulge in decadent breakfast dishes like brioche French toast topped with Oreo crumbs.
A short walk or ride from the hotel.
USD40, 1 hour

9:30AM

Shedd Aquarium

Explore the wonders of marine life at Shedd Aquarium, where kids can enjoy touch pools and engaging exhibits.
Take the bus from your hotel directly to the aquarium.
USD80 (family rate), 3 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Rainforest Cafe

Experience dining within a jungle at the Rainforest Cafe, complete with animated animals and magical ambiance.
It's close to the aquarium.
USD50, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Adler Planetarium

Unravel the mysteries of the universe at Adler Planetarium, famous for its interactive exhibits tailored for children.
Just a short walk from Rainforest Cafe.
USD70 (family rate), 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Portillo's

Dig into Chicago-style hot dogs and Italian beef sandwiches at this iconic eatery.
Take a short taxi ride to get there.
USD45, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Cultural Exploration

Chicago, USA

8:30AM

Breakfast at Beatrix

Enjoy a wholesome breakfast with plenty of healthy options at Beatrix, known for its delicious pastry selection.
Located near your hotel; easy access.
USD35, 1 hour

10:00AM

Field Museum of Natural History

Visit the Field Museum where the dinosaur exhibits and the Ancient Egyptian mummies will amaze both kids and adults alike.
Take the bus from your breakfast location.
USD70 (family rate), 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Field Bistro

Enjoy a delicious lunch within the museum, providing a convenient option before more exploration.
Right within the Field Museum.
USD40, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit the Museum of Science and Industry

Experience hands-on science exhibits that are ideal for families navigating their way through innovation.
A short train ride away.
USD70 (family rate), 3 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Social Table

Savor global cuisine with fresh ingredients at The Social Table, where meals are designed to be shared.
Take a short taxi ride.
USD80, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Outdoor Fun

Chicago, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Toast

Kickstart your day with delightful egg dishes and some of the best pancakes in town at Toast.
Close to the hotel; a nice easy walk.
USD30, 1 hour

9:30AM

Lincoln Park Zoo

Spend your morning at the Lincoln Park Zoo, one of the oldest zoos in the United States with free admission.
A short bus ride will take you there.
Free, 2.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Café Zola

Enjoy fresh salads and sandwiches at Café Zola, a family-friendly spot nearby the zoo.
Just a short walk from the zoo.
USD40, 1 hour

1:30PM

Explore North Avenue Beach

Spend a leisurely afternoon at North Avenue Beach, letting the kids play in the sand while you relax.
A short bus ride to the beach.
Free, 2.5 hours

4:00PM

Visit Lincoln Park Conservatory

Walk through stunning displays of tropical plants and flowers at this serene conservatory.
It's a short walk from the beach.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at The Cheesecake Factory

Indulge in a wide variety of family-friendly meals, topped off with a slice of their signature cheesecake.
Take a bus or drive to the restaurant.
USD60, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Shopping and Sightseeing

Chicago, USA

8:30AM

Breakfast at Wildberry Pancakes and Cafe

Try their luscious wildberry pancakes to fuel your day of shopping.
Located near your hotel.
USD35, 1 hour

10:00AM

Shop on Magnificent Mile

Take a stroll down Magnificent Mile, browsing the shops and taking in the vibrant atmosphere.
A quick walk from breakfast.
Cost varies, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Eataly

Enjoy an array of Italian food options at Eataly, offering everything from pizza to gelato.
Located right off Magnificent Mile.
USD50, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Visit Navy Pier

Head to Navy Pier for fun rides, games, and beautiful views of Lake Michigan.
You can take a convenient bus or short walk there.
Cost varies, 3 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Bubba Gump Shrimp Co.

Enjoy a fun dining experience with family-friendly seafood at Bubba Gump Shrimp Co., themed after the movie.
A short walk from Navy Pier.
USD70, 1.5 hours
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Day 6: Historical Journeys

Chicago, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Yolk

Savor breakfast classics like omelets and smoothies at Yolk, a family favorite.
Located conveniently for your morning outing.
USD30, 1 hour

9:30AM

Chicago History Museum

Immerse your family in Chicago's rich history with engaging exhibits and interactive displays.
A short bus ride will take you to the museum.
USD50 (family rate), 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Firenze Ristorante

Taste authentic Italian dishes at Firenze Ristorante, known for its warm environment and delicious food.
It's just a short ride from the museum.
USD60, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

The Chicago Riverwalk

All ages will love walking along the Chicago Riverwalk, taking in the beautiful architecture and vibrant scenery.
A short taxi ride will get you there.
Free, 2 hours

3:30PM

Visit the Chicago Tribune Tower

Explore the iconic Tribune Tower, where the kids can experience firsthand the feel of this historic building.
Continuing on the Riverwalk will lead you straight there.
Free, 1 hour

5:30PM

Dinner at The Melting Pot

Enjoy a unique fondue dining experience as everyone can create their own meals together.
Get a taxi or ride-share to reach the venue.
USD100, 2 hours
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Day 7: Art and Culture

Chicago, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Acre

Start with organic offerings at Acre for a fresh and wholesome morning meal.
Located near your hotel, making it convenient.
USD35, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Museum of Contemporary Art

Immerse yourselves in edgy and thought-provoking art at the Museum of Contemporary Art.
A taxi will take you directly there.
USD40 (family rate), 2 hours

11:30AM

Visit the Chicago Children's Museum

This museum is filled with interactive exhibits specifically designed for younger families.
A short walk from the previous location.
USD40 (family rate), 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Pierogi Heaven

Experience authentic Polish cuisine with delicious pierogies and more at Pierogi Heaven.
It's a short bus ride away.
USD45, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore the Chicago Botanical Garden

Wander through beautiful landscapes and engage the kids in discovering plant life.
A taxi or bus will get you there smoothly.
Free, 2.5 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Chicago Pizza and Oven Grinder

Wrap up your day with some of the best pizza pot pies the city has to offer.
Ride-share will be needed to get to this spot.
USD55, 1.5 hours
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Day 8: Family Favorites

Chicago, USA

8:30AM

Breakfast at The Original Pancake House

Enjoy a scrumptious breakfast with a variety of pancakes and bacon options.
Located conveniently for an early meal.
USD30, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit LEGOLAND Discovery Center

Let the family unleash their creativity at LEGOLAND, packed with interactive attractions.
A short drive will get to the attraction.
USD70 (family rate), 2.5 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Portillo's

Return to Portillo's for more of that Chicago-style fare you all loved.
Take the same route back.
USD45, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit the Science and Industry Museum

Get hands-on with scientific exhibits that will wow the kids and spark their imaginations.
A quick bus ride will get you there.
USD70 (family rate), 3 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Carmine's Restaurant

Delight in family-style Italian dishes, making it a great choice for sharing amongst family members.
Take a taxi or bus to the iconic venue.
USD80, 2 hours
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Day 9: Nature and Views

Chicago, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Over Easy Cafe

Enjoy a delectable breakfast with a vast menu sure to satisfy everyone's taste.
Close to your lodging for an easy morning.
USD30, 1 hour

9:30AM

The Chicago Botanic Garden

Take a scenic trip to the Botanic Garden and embark on a family nature quest.
A short train ride or taxi will get you there.
Free, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at The Garden View Cafe

Savor a light meal with a beautiful view of the gardens at The Garden View Cafe.
Just inside the garden complex.
USD40, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit the Shedd Aquarium's Special Exhibit

Return to Shedd to experience a new special exhibit that is certain to entertain the whole family.
A taxi ride will take you back.
USD80 (family rate), 2.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at RPM Italian

Wrap up the day with an authentic Italian meal at RPM Italian, famed for its delicious pasta.
A quick taxi ride will take you there.
USD100, 1.5 hours
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Day 10: Farewell Chicago

Chicago, USA

8:30AM

Breakfast at Sunny Side Up

Relish a delightful breakfast in this cozy cafe known for its friendly service.
A pleasant walk from your lodging.
USD30, 1 hour

10:00AM

Last-Minute Shopping at State Street

Take time to pick up souvenirs from shops along State Street, celebrating your time in the city.
A bus ride can take you to the heart of downtown.
Cost varies, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Windy City Diner

Savor some final bites of classic American diner fare with your family.
Located close to your shopping destination.
USD40, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit Willis Tower Skydeck

Wrap up your Chicago adventure with breathtaking views from the Skydeck, a perfect photo opportunity.
Take the 'L' train to get there quickly.
USD80 (family rate), 2 hours

4:00PM

Departure

Reflect on your incredible journey in Chicago as you head off to your next destination.
Uber or taxi to the airport.
USD40 (approximate), 1 hour
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