4-Day Chicago Adventure in Late May: Iconic Sights, Lakeside Fun, and Culinary Delights

Day 1: Downtown & Iconic Views

Chicago, USA on May 28, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Wildberry Pancakes and Cafe

Start your day with their famous pancakes or scrambles, located just a short walk from Millennium Park. Opens at 7:30am.
USD15, 1h0m

9:30am

Millennium Park and Cloud Gate

Explore the famous Cloud Gate sculpture (The Bean) and the surrounding gardens. Great photo ops and strolls, open all day.
Free, 1h0m

10:45am

Art Institute of Chicago

Visit one of the oldest and largest art museums in the U.S., featuring Impressionist and American masterpieces. Opens at 10:30am.
USD25, 2h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at The Gage

Enjoy upscale American pub fare just opposite Millennium Park with an elegant ambiance. Open daily 11:30am–11:00pm.
USD25, 1h0m

2:30pm

360 Chicago Observation Deck

Experience 360-degree views of Chicago from the 94th floor of the John Hancock Building. Valid ticket time to be booked online.
USD30, 1h0m

4:00pm

Stroll along Navy Pier

Walk along this iconic lakeside pier, explore shops and gardens, and enjoy lake views. Open throughout the evening.
Free, rides extra, 1h30m

6:00pm

Dinner at Riva Crabhouse on Navy Pier

Dine lakeside with fresh seafood as the sun sets, a perfect end to the first day. Open until 10:00pm.
USD40, 1h30m
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Day 2: Museum Campus & Lakeshore

Chicago, USA on May 29, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Yolk

Savor a hearty breakfast with creatively crafted egg dishes, located downtown and opens at 7:00am.
USD18, 1h0m

9:45am

Shedd Aquarium

Explore aquatic life in a world-renowned indoor aquarium on Museum Campus. Opens at 9:00am.
USD40, 2h0m

12:00pm

Field Museum of Natural History

Discover exhibits on dinosaurs, ancient cultures, and natural wonders. Opens at 9:00am.
USD38, 2h0m

2:15pm

Lunch at Museum Campus Café

Light lunch conveniently located nearby with sandwiches and salads.
USD15, 1h0m

3:30pm

Adler Planetarium

Visit America's first planetarium for immersive space exhibits and shows. Opens at 12:00pm on weekdays.
USD35, 1h30m

5:15pm

Walk or bike along the Lakeshore Trail

Enjoy scenic views of Lake Michigan on the paved trail, perfect in late afternoon.
Free, 1h15m

7:00pm

Dinner at Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria

Indulge in classic Chicago deep-dish pizza at this local favorite. Open until 10:00pm.
USD30, 1h30m
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Day 3: Lincoln Park & Neighborhoods

Chicago, USA on May 30, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at The Bongo Room

Known for decadent pancakes and unique breakfast dishes, opens at 8:00am.
USD20, 1h0m

9:30am

Lincoln Park Zoo

Visit this free, family-friendly zoo with diverse animals and lovely gardens, open daily 10:00am–5:00pm.
Free, 1h30m

11:15am

Lincoln Park Conservatory

Explore beautiful plants and exotic flowers right next to the zoo. Open daily 9:00am–5:00pm.
Free, 45m

12:15pm

Lunch at Café Ba-Ba-Reeba!

Enjoy lively Spanish tapas in Lincoln Park neighborhood, opens from 11:30am.
USD30, 1h0m

1:30pm

Explore the Lincoln Park neighborhood

Experience charming streets, boutique shops, and local cafes.
Free, 1h30m

3:15pm

Chicago History Museum

Learn about the city’s history and culture, open 9:30am to 5:00pm.
USD19, 1h30m

5:00pm

Relax at Oak Street Beach

Enjoy the scenic beachside views near downtown in late afternoon.
Free, 45m

7:00pm

Dinner at Girl & The Goat

Popular restaurant offering inventive American small plates in trendy West Loop, reservations recommended. Open until 10:00pm.
USD45, 1h30m
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Day 4: West Loop & Departure

Chicago, USA on May 31, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Do-Rite Donuts & Chicken

Famous for delicious donuts and sandwiches, opens at 7:30am.
USD12, 45m

9:30am

Explore West Loop’s Fulton Market District

Stroll this trendy neighborhood with art galleries, shops, and colorful street art.
Free, 1h30m

11:15am

Chicago Riverwalk

Walk the scenic riverfront with cafes and public art, a pleasant urban experience.
Free, 1h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Au Cheval

Widely considered to serve one of the best burgers in Chicago, open daily 11:00am–11:00pm.
USD35, 1h0m

2:00pm

Shopping on The Magnificent Mile

Explore luxury stores and iconic retailers along Michigan Avenue.
Free, 1h30m

3:45pm

Final coffee at Intelligentsia Coffee

Enjoy specialty coffee before heading to your next destination. Opens 7:00am–6:00pm.
USD6, 30m
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