Efficient 3-Day Chicago Trip from Zurich

Day 1: Arrival and Downtown

Chicago, USA on August 21, 2025

7:00AM

Flight from Zurich to Chicago

Depart from Zurich Airport (ZRH) early morning with a direct or one-stop flight to Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD). The flight duration is approximately 8-9 hours.
Varies, 8h0m

10:00AM

Arrive in Chicago and travel to hotel

After customs, take a taxi or CTA Blue Line train to your downtown hotel to check in and refresh.
USD30, 1h0m

12:00PM

Lunch at Giordano's

Enjoy Chicago's famous deep-dish pizza at Giordano's in downtown Chicago, open from 11:00AM to 11:00PM daily.
USD25, 1h0m

1:30PM

Visit Millennium Park

Explore the iconic Cloud Gate sculpture and stroll through the gardens and fountains, open all day.
Free, 1h0m

3:00PM

Chicago Riverwalk

Walk along the Chicago Riverwalk experiencing city views, art, and waterfront dining on a relaxed urban stroll.
Free, 1h0m

5:00PM

Dinner at The Purple Pig

Enjoy Mediterranean-inspired small plates at The Purple Pig, open 4:30PM to 10:00PM.
USD40, 1h30m
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Day 2: Museum Campus & Lakefront

Chicago, USA on August 22, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Wildberry Pancakes and Cafe

Start your day with delicious pancakes and coffee at Wildberry Pancakes, open from 7:00AM.
USD20, 1h0m

9:30AM

Field Museum of Natural History

Explore detailed exhibits such as Sue the T. rex; museum is open 9:00AM to 5:00PM.
USD30, 2h0m

11:45AM

Shedd Aquarium

Visit one of the largest indoor aquariums with diverse aquatic species; open 9:00AM to 5:00PM.
USD40, 2h0m

2:00PM

Lunch at The Patio at Café Spiaggia

Enjoy an upscale Italian lunch overlooking Lake Michigan, open from 11:00AM to 3:00PM.
USD50, 1h30m

3:45PM

Adler Planetarium

Catch a show or explore space exhibits at the Adler Planetarium, open 12:00PM to 5:00PM on Fridays through Sundays; on this date (Thursday), verify hours or consider waterfront walks.
USD30, 1h30m

5:30PM

Leisurely walk at Lakefront Trail

Enjoy breathtaking views of Lake Michigan and the Chicago skyline in the early evening.
Free, 1h0m

7:00PM

Dinner at The Signature Room at the 95th

Dine with panoramic city views from the John Hancock Center; open until 10:00PM.
USD60, 1h30m
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Day 3: Local Neighborhoods & Departure

Chicago, USA on August 23, 2025

7:30AM

Breakfast at Intelligentsia Coffee

Enjoy specialty coffee and pastries at this iconic Chicago cafe, open from 7:00AM.
USD15, 1h0m

8:45AM

Explore Wicker Park

Spend the morning browsing boutique shops, street art, and local culture in this trendy neighborhood.
Free, 2h0m

11:00AM

Lunch at Big Star

Casual tacos with a great vibe in Wicker Park, open 11:00AM to 8:00PM.
USD25, 1h0m

12:30PM

Return to hotel and checkout

Head back to your hotel to collect luggage and check out.
Varies, 1h0m

2:00PM

Travel to O'Hare International Airport

Use taxi or CTA Blue Line to get to the airport for your return flight.
USD30, 1h0m

4:30PM

Flight from Chicago to Zurich

Depart Chicago O'Hare on your return flight to Zurich, approximately 8-9 hours travel time.
Varies, 8h0m
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