Chicago on a Budget: 3-Day Adventure Guide

Discover Chicago's hidden gems without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

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.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Arriving in the Windy City

  • Check into the Freehand Chicago hostel – a budget-friendly spot with cozy bunk beds and communal spaces for meeting fellow travelers.
  • Head to Millennium Park to snap a selfie with the famous "Bean" sculpture and take in the stunning Chicago skyline.
  • Walk along the Chicago Riverwalk and stop for a drink or two at one of the many waterfront bars and restaurants.
  • Grab a deep-dish pizza (a Chicago must-do) at Lou Malnati's in River North.
  • End the night with a rooftop drink at Cindy's, overlooking Millennium Park.
Day 2

Chicago Culture and Cuisine

  • Start the day at the Art Institute of Chicago – home to famous works of art like Grant Wood's "American Gothic" and Edward Hopper's "Nighthawks."
  • Have a classic Chicago-style hot dog for lunch at Portillo's.
  • Walk off your lunch with a stroll through Lincoln Park Zoo – a free, family-friendly attraction with exotic animals from around the world.
  • Take a water taxi to Chinatown for dinner at one of the many authentic Chinese restaurants.
  • End the night with a comedy show at The Second City – a legendary institution that has launched the careers of many famous comedians.
Day 3

Lakeshore Adventures

  • Rent a DivvyBike and take a ride along Lake Michigan's beautiful shoreline.
  • Visit Navy Pier – a historic site with rides, attractions, and stunning views of the Chicago skyline.
  • Check out the Chicago Architecture Foundation River Cruise – a 90-minute tour of the city's impressive skyscrapers and buildings.
  • Have dinner at the famous Billy Goat Tavern, known for its famous "Cheezborger, Cheezborger" skit on Saturday Night Live.
  • End the night with drinks at The Violet Hour – a trendy speakeasy with creative cocktails and upscale ambiance.
  • Chicago may be known for its cold winters, but in the summer months, it's a vibrant city full of culture, cuisine and adventure. From world-famous museums and attractions to deep-dish pizza and river cruises, there's something for everyone. Don't let a limited budget stop you from experiencing the best of the Windy City – book your trip today.

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.

More travel plans

The Ultimate 3-Day Chicago Adventure

Chicago boasts an impressive skyline and rich cultural diversity that attracts visitors from all over the world. Iconic landmarks such as the Willis Tower and Millennium Park provide excellent photo opportunities, while a stroll along the Magnificent Mile offers an extensive array of shopping, dining, and entertainment options. For a taste of Chicago's famous cuisine, deep-dish pizza and Chicago-style hot dogs are a must-try.

Discovering Chicago's Windy Wonders on a Budget

Visiting Chicago on a limited budget is possible and rewarding. Explore iconic attractions like Millennium Park and the Magnificent Mile, while also taking advantage of free events hosted throughout the city. Save money on accommodations by booking a hostel or budget-friendly hotel, and take advantage of the city's excellent public transportation system to get around easily.

Chicago in Four Days: A Budget Adventure.

Chicago is a vibrant and culturally-rich city located on the shores of Lake Michigan. For a budget-friendly trip, be sure to take advantage of free attractions such as the Lincoln Park Zoo and Millennium Park. Chicago is also known for its world-class cuisine, so be sure to sample the iconic deep-dish pizza and other cheap eats.

Chicago in a Day: Romance and Adventure

A romantic trip to Chicago, United States offers a perfect blend of scenic beauty and metropolitan charm. Take a romantic stroll by the lakefront or catch breathtaking views from the Willis Tower. Experience culinary delights at the famous eateries, and don't miss out on the city's vibrant arts and culture scene.