Family-Friendly 6-Day Chicago Adventure Itinerary with Kids and Adults

Day 1: City Landmarks

Chicago, Illinois on July 6, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Wildberry Pancakes and Cafe

Enjoy a delicious breakfast with a variety of pancakes and kid-friendly options to fuel the day. Highly rated with quick service.
USD20 per person approx., 1h

10:00am

Millennium Park Visit

Explore the iconic Cloud Gate (The Bean), Crown Fountain, and Lurie Garden. A perfect spot for kids to run and adults to relax and take photos.
Free, 2h

12:15pm

Lunch at Giordano's

Famous for Chicago deep-dish pizza, great for sharing among the group including kids.
USD25 per person approx., 1h15m

1:45pm

Chicago Architecture River Cruise

A classic 90-minute cruise showcasing Chicago’s architectural marvels along the Chicago River. Suitable and engaging for all ages.
USD45 per adult, USD30 per child, 1h30m

4:00pm

Explore Maggie Daley Park

Fun playgrounds and mini-golf for the kids, plus scenic views of the city for adults.
Free (mini-golf approx. USD12), 1h30m

6:00pm

Dinner at Quartino Ristorante

Family-style Italian dining that’s casual and welcoming with dishes to suit all ages.
USD30 per person approx., 1h30m
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Day 2: Museum Campus

Chicago, Illinois on July 7, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Hotel or nearby cafe

Quick and convenient breakfast to start the museum day energized.
USD15 per person approx., 45m

9:00am

Field Museum of Natural History

Explore dinosaur fossils, ancient artifacts, and interactive exhibits, perfect for kids learning about history and science.
USD26 per adult, USD19 per child (3-11), under 3 free, 3h

12:30pm

Lunch at Field Bistro inside the museum

Convenient dining option offering variety of kid-friendly meals and quick bites.
USD15 per person approx., 1h

1:45pm

Shedd Aquarium

Discover an incredible variety of marine life with engaging touch tanks and shows, excellent for kids and adults.
USD40 per adult, USD30 per child, 2h

4:00pm

Adler Planetarium

Explore interactive space exhibits, sky shows, and panoramic views of Lake Michigan and skyline.
USD20 per adult, USD12 per child, 1h30m

6:00pm

Dinner at Riva Crabhouse on Navy Pier

Casual seafood dining with waterfront views, good atmosphere for families.
USD35 per person approx., 1h30m
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Day 3: Zoo and Nature

Chicago, Illinois on July 8, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Lou Mitchell's

Iconic breakfast spot known for hearty meals and kid-friendly menu items.
USD20 per person approx., 1h

10:00am

Lincoln Park Zoo

Free admission zoo with a wide variety of animals, ideal for kids to explore and enjoy animal encounters.
Free, 2h

12:30pm

Lunch at Cafe Brauer

Charming historic restaurant near the zoo offering casual American meals in garden setting.
USD25 per person approx., 1h

2:00pm

Lincoln Park Conservatory

Explore lush indoor gardens showcasing diverse plants in a beautiful greenhouse setting. Free entry.
Free, 1h

3:30pm

Lakefront bike ride or walk

Enjoy the scenic Lake Michigan shoreline with bike rentals available. A fun active option for the afternoon.
USD20 per bike rental, 2h

6:00pm

Dinner at Pequod's Pizza

Highly recommended for Chicago-style deep dish pizza with a cozy family atmosphere.
USD25 per person approx., 1h30m
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Day 4: Navy Pier & Riverwalk

Chicago, Illinois on July 9, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Beatrix Navy Pier

A bright spot with fresh and healthy breakfast options perfect for families getting ready for the day.
USD20 per person approx., 1h

9:30am

Navy Pier Exploration

Visit the iconic landmark with rides like the Centennial Wheel, children's museum, and boat tours. Open daily from 10am.
Centennial Wheel USD18 per adult, USD12 per child, 3h

12:30pm

Lunch at Foodlife on Navy Pier

Variety of casual dining options catering to different tastes in a quick-service format.
USD15 per person approx., 1h

2:00pm

Chicago Riverwalk stroll

Scenic walk along the Chicago River with spots to rest and grab drinks or ice cream. Great for relaxing after Navy Pier fun.
Free, 2h

5:00pm

Architectural Photo Cruise or Kayak

Optional afternoon cruise focusing on architecture or kayak rentals for active families (check availability).
USD40 per cruise, kayak rental USD35 per hour, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Giordano's Navy Pier

Try Chicago's classic deep-dish again in this famous family-friendly location by the water.
USD25 per person approx., 1h30m
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Day 5: Art & Shopping

Chicago, Illinois on July 10, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Yolk

Known for creative breakfast dishes, great variety for kids and adults alike.
USD20 per person approx., 1h

9:30am

The Art Institute of Chicago

World-class art museum with Kid-friendly interactive exhibits and family tours. Open 10am to 5pm.
USD25 per adult, free under 14 with adult, 3h

1:00pm

Lunch at The Gage

A classic Chicago gastropub with a comfortable vibe and kid’s menu available.
USD30 per person approx., 1h

2:30pm

Shopping on Michigan Avenue

Explore flagship stores and kid-friendly shops including the LEGO Store and American Girl Place in the Magnificent Mile shopping district.
Free to browse, 2h

5:00pm

Relax at Maggie Daley Park or nearby

Wind down with playgrounds or mini-golf revisited if desired.
Free / Mini-golf USD12, 1h

6:30pm

Dinner at Wildfire

Steakhouse featuring diverse menu including kid options, perfect for a hearty family dinner.
USD35 per person approx., 1h30m
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Day 6: Sports & Outdoors

Chicago, Illinois on July 11, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Hotel or corner cafe

Simple breakfast before an active day outdoors.
USD15 per person approx., 45m

9:00am

Wrigley Field Tour

Take a guided tour of the historic home of the Chicago Cubs, exciting for sports fans and kids interested in baseball.
USD25 per adult, USD15 per child 6-14, 1h

10:30am

Kayaking or Paddleboarding on Lake Michigan

Rent kayaks or paddleboards at Montrose Harbor for a fun water activity close to the city beach. Rentals start at 11am, plan accordingly.
USD40-50 per hour, 2h

1:00pm

Lunch at Chicago’s Lakefront Grill

Casual dining with lakeside views and fresh menu options suitable for families.
USD25 per person approx., 1h

2:30pm

Free time or visit Navy Pier Carousel if missed

Last chance for kids to enjoy a ride or pick up souvenirs before departure.
USD5-10, 1h

4:00pm

Head back to hotel and pack

Prepare for departure or evening rest after an action-packed trip.
Free, Flexible
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