No kid (or grown-up) can ever get bored in Chicago.
There’s too much fun to be had. Like conquering your fear of heights at the top of a skyscraper. Or playing with a beluga. Or meeting a gigantosaurus. Or riding a submarine. There’s so much to do in the city of big adventures.
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Day 1:
Chicago
See the sights
Chicago is a fantastic city the whole family will enjoy. There’s something for everyone and so many ways to spend the day. Start out by setting the scene and taking in the full scale of the city on a one-of-a-kindarchitecture boat tour. If you want some exercise, take in the architectural sights with akayak touror a stroll along theChicago Riverwalk.
Once you’ve worked up an appetite, dig into some classic Chicago fare. The hard decision? Deep dish pizza or hot dogs. Lou Malnati’sand Portillo’sare both must-visit establishments during your time in the city. So our best recommendation is don’t choose — try them both!
Now that everyone’s refueled, burn off some energy with a stroll north on the Magnificent Mile. There’s fascinating architecture and a vast array of shopping for all tastes. For a coffee stop that the kids (and adults) will enjoy, head to the 5-story Starbucks Reserve Chicago Roastery. Also on the way is local favorite and Illinois Made maker Garrett Popcorn, the perfect snack to sustain the walk. Now, time to head up! Way up. 360 Chicagowill give you a whole new perspective on the Chicago skyline. For those wanting a thrill, visitors can also TILT out over the city. If that’s not a big enough dose of high-flying fun, Skydeck Chicagooffers incredible views extending to four states. Once you’ve worked up an appetite again, Beatrixis a great option with multiple Chicago locations.
There’s still so much to explore! Stroll through Millenium Parkand Maggie Daley Parkto make the most of some of the best open spaces in the city.
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Day 3:
Chicago
Head to the zoo
If you’d like to get out of downtown for a while, explore some of the city’s neighborhoods, like Lincoln Park. Here you'll find one of the oldest, free zoos in America! After you’ve finished at Lincoln Park Zoo, RJ Gruntsis a great option for lunch -- or try the historic Chicago Pizza and Oven Grinder, a pizza experience like no other. For dessert, grab a donut from Do-Rite Donuts, or visit the cupcake ATM at Sprinkles Cupcakes. Finish up your time in the city with an afternoon at the Art Institute of Chicago, and when you’re there, don’t miss the Thorne Miniature Rooms.
Have more time? Take a quick trip 30 minutes outside the city to the Oak Park area, a place where there is so much for the family to see and do. If you didn't make it to Lincoln Park Zoo, Brookfield Zoo is another fantastic option for a dose of wildlife action. Sail through the trees at nearby Go Ape Adventures and discover all kinds of family-friendly restaurants and shops.
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Family Field Trip to Chicago
Family Field Trip to Chicago
Family Fun
3 Days 45 Miles
Chicago
see why Chicago's a favorite for every generation
No kid (or grown-up) can ever get bored in Chicago.
There’s too much fun to be had. Like conquering your fear of heights at the top of a skyscraper. Or playing with a beluga. Or meeting a gigantosaurus. Or riding a submarine. There’s so much to do in the city of big adventures.
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Chicago is the perfect destination for a family-friendly road trip, especially in the summertime. That’s when the city comes to life with one-of-a-kind adventures for all ages, from outdoor rock... Read more about A Family-Friendly Summer Road Trip to Chicago