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Discover the Best of Chicago in 4 Days

Cynthia Adriano

Cynthia Adriano

13 Oct 2023

Embark on an unforgettable journey through the vibrant city of Chicago. Explore iconic landmarks like Cloud Gate, Millennium Park, and Museum Campus. Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage at Jackson Park, Grant Park, and Buckingham Fountain. Experience the artistic wonders at Chicago Cultural Center and Crown Fountain. Stroll along the scenic Riverwalk and admire the architectural marvels of DuSable Bridge. Marvel at the beauty of Lincoln Park Conservatory and Garfield Park Conservatory. Reach new heights at Skydeck Chicago and indulge in the excitement of Navy Pier. Get up close with fascinating wildlife at Lincoln Park Zoo. This comprehensive itinerary is designed to make your trip to Chicago truly memorable.

Trip to Chicago

Day 1
+

$0

·

$ 13

Cloud Gate
Huge outdoor sculpture shaped like a bean & allowing for views from its many mirrored sides.
8:00 AM - 9:00 AM
•
Free
2 - 3 min

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Directions

Millennium Park
24.5-acre green space with a video display, the reflective "Bean" sculpture & an outdoor theater.
9:30 AM - 11:30 AM
•
Free
10 - 12 min

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Directions

Museum Campus
57-acre grounds with the Adler Planetarium, Shedd Aquarium & Field Museum, plus dining & lake beach.
12:00 PM - 3:00 PM
•
Free
Day 2
+

$0

·

$ 25

Jackson (Andrew) Park
540-plus-acre city park featuring a beach, gardens & indoor/outdoor fitness facilities.
8:00 AM - 10:00 AM
•
Free
13 - 16 min

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Directions

Grant Park
312-acre centerpiece of Downtown housing some of the city's busiest attractions.
10:30 AM - 12:30 PM
•
Free
4 - 5 min

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Directions

Buckingham Fountain
Among the world’s largest, Grant Park’s 3-level rococo fountain (1927) offers light & water shows.
1:00 PM - 2:00 PM
•
Free
7 - 9 min

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Directions

Chicago Cultural Center
Free art & shows in an 1897 Beaux-Arts building with vaulted lobby, mosaics & 2 stained-glass domes.
2:30 PM - 3:30 PM
•
Free
Day 3
+

$0

·

$ 13

Crown Fountain
Public sculpture with 2 50-ft. LED towers & a reflecting pool, by Catalan artist Jaume Plensa.
8:00 AM - 9:00 AM
•
Free
11 - 16 min

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Directions

Riverwalk
Riverside pedestrian path featuring city views & dining, plus bridges, fishing piers & boat docks.
9:30 AM - 11:30 AM
•
Free
3 - 4 min

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Directions

DuSable Bridge
Long-standing drawbridge honoring a founder of Chicago & decorated with sculptures & plaques.
12:00 PM - 1:00 PM
•
Free
12 - 15 min

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Directions

Lincoln Park Conservatory
Thousands of exotic plants in an 1890 glass structure, plus outdoor gardens & fountains.
1:30 PM - 2:30 PM
•
Free
Day 4
+

$313

·

$ 38

Garfield Park Conservatory - Reservations Required
184-acre park with a swimming pool, fishing lagoon, athletic fields & tennis courts.
8:00 AM - 9:30 AM
•
Free
13 - 16 min

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Directions

Skydeck Chicago
103rd floor of the Willis Tower with clear observation boxes & views extending to four states.
10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
•
$156
12 - 15 min

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Directions

Navy Pier
Former Navy training center draws crowds with carnival rides, restaurants, shops & fireworks.
12:00 PM - 2:00 PM
•
$156
11 - 14 min

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Directions

Lincoln Park Zoo
Small, free zoo with lions, primates, reptiles, a children's area & an interactive farm exhibit.
2:30 PM - 4:30 PM
•
Free

Budget breakdown: $400 In total

Activities & Food:$313
Transport:$88