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
Sophie Watts
US Travel Writer
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.
Travel plan
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- 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.
- 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.
- 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
Type of trip
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.