Chicago on a Budget: Three Days of Fun!

Discover the Windy City's wonders with your loved ones - Chicago: The Perfect Family Friendly Adventure!

19 July 2023

A family friendly trip to Chicago, United States offers an exciting blend of entertainment and education for all ages. Explore the iconic Navy Pier with thrilling rides, beautiful gardens, and stunning lake views. Immerse yourself in the city's rich history by visiting unique museums like the Shedd Aquarium, Field Museum, and the interactive Chicago Children's Museum.

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Travel plan

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Day 1

Exploring the Windy City

  • Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Lou Mitchell's, a Chicago institution that's been dishing out pancakes since 1923.
  • Take a thrilling architectural boat tour on the Chicago River to see the city's stunning skyline up close.
  • Channel your inner Ferris Bueller at the Art Institute of Chicago, where you can get lost in a world of masterpieces.
  • Let the kids run wild at Millennium Park, home to the iconic Cloud Gate sculpture, affectionately known as "The Bean."
  • Indulge in deep-dish pizza heaven at Giordano's, where cheesiness is an art form.
Day 2

Culture, Comedy, and Cuatro Tacos

  • Dive into Mexican culture at the National Museum of Mexican Art in Pilsen, filled with vibrant artwork and engaging exhibits.
  • Catch a hilarious improv show at The Second City, where comedy legends like Tina Fey and Bill Murray got their start.
  • Refuel with street tacos at Antique Taco, where the flavors are as colorful as the decor.
  • Stroll along Navy Pier and take a spin on the Ferris wheel for breathtaking views of Lake Michigan.
  • Unleash your inner detective at The Escape Game Chicago, where you'll solve puzzles and crack codes to make your escape.
Day 3

From Blues to Brews

  • Immerse yourself in the sounds of Chicago's blues heritage at Buddy Guy's Legends, where live music shakes your soul.
  • Indulge in a Chicago-style hot dog at Portillo's, topped with all the fixings (including a dill pickle spear!).
  • Explore the wonders of the Shedd Aquarium, home to playful dolphins, mesmerizing jellyfish, and adorable penguins.
  • Satisfy your sweet tooth with a visit to The Doughnut Vault, where the line might be long, but the pillowy pastries are worth the wait.
  • Wind down the evening with a craft beer at Revolution Brewing, sampling local brews that have won hearts (and taste buds).

Length of stay

1 day 2 days 3 days 4 days 5 days

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Chicago by plane is to fly into O'Hare International Airport or Midway International Airport, both of which are served by major airlines from most major cities in the world. You can check prices and schedules on websites like Expedia or Kayak.

Car

The best way to get to Chicago by car is to take one of the major highways, such as I-90 or I-94, which both run through the city. However, be aware of traffic congestion during peak travel times.

Train

The best way to get to Chicago by train is to take an Amtrak train, which connects the city to other major cities in the United States, such as New York, Washington D.C., and Los Angeles. The main train station in Chicago is Union Station.

Boat

The best way to get to Chicago by boat is to take a ferry from Navy Pier to locations such as Michigan City or St. Joseph. However, this mode of transportation is not as common as the others and may have limited availability depending on the season.

Bus

The best way to get to Chicago by bus is to take a Greyhound bus, which connects the city to most major cities in the United States. The main bus station in Chicago is the Greyhound Station.

Destination

Chicago

Welcome to the Windy City, where the people are friendly, the pizza is deep, and the weather is unpredictable enough to keep things interesting. Just make sure to hold onto your hats (and your deep dish) while you're here.

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Number of days

1 2 3 4 5

Type of trip

Standard trip Budget Family Friendly Romantic Stag do

More travel plans

Chicago on a Budget: 3-Day Adventure Guide

Chicago is a vibrant and exciting city that can be enjoyed on a limited budget. Visitors can take in panoramic views from the top of Willis Tower, explore the diverse neighborhoods of Lakeview and Wicker Park, and visit the free-admission museums such as the Art Institute of Chicago. To save on accommodation costs, travelers can opt for budget-friendly hostels or seek out affordable Airbnb rentals.

Chicago Adventure: Cultural Foodie Fun

A trip to Chicago, known as the "Windy City," is a perfect choice for culture-seekers and foodies alike. Filled with architectural gems, world-renowned museums, and diverse neighborhoods, there's no shortage of things to explore. Don't leave without trying Chicago-style deep-dish pizza and taking a stroll along the picturesque Lake Michigan shoreline.

2-day Chicago Adventure: Art, Food, and Culture!

A trip to Chicago as a tourist would include exploring famous landmarks such as the Willis Tower and Navy Pier. One would enjoy visiting cultural attractions like the Art Institute of Chicago and the Museum of Science and Industry. Lastly, experiencing the city’s unique food scene, including deep-dish pizza and Chicago-style hot dogs, would be a must.

Discover Chicago: A Family-Friendly Adventure on a Budget

A family-friendly trip to Chicago offers a perfect blend of fun and educational activities. Explore the interactive exhibits at the renowned Field Museum, embark on a scenic boat tour along the Chicago River, and get a stunning, panoramic view of the city from the Skydeck Chicago. Don't forget to indulge in some deep-dish pizza and visit the beloved Lincoln Park Zoo during your visit!