4-Day Fun-Filled Guide to Chicago, USA

Explore the Windy City and discover its diverse culture, iconic architecture, and world-class cuisine.

03 May 2023

Chicago is a vibrant city full of diverse neighborhoods, impressive architecture, and a world-renowned food scene. Visitors can take in breathtaking views of the skyline from the Willis Tower Skydeck, stroll along the Lakefront Trail, and explore world-class museums and galleries. With something for everyone, a trip to Chicago is not to be missed.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Welcome to the Windy City!

  • Check in to the swanky Warwick Allerton Hotel, located right on Chicago's famous Magnificent Mile.
  • Satisfy your hunger pangs with deep-dish pizza at Giordano's, a Chicago institution since 1974.
  • Walk off those calories by strolling along the lakefront at Navy Pier, where you can catch a ferris wheel or a fireworks show.
  • Get your culture fix at the Art Institute of Chicago, home to some of the most iconic masterpieces in the world.
  • Finish off the night with a drink at The Signature Room, a bar on the 95th floor of the John Hancock Center that offers panoramic views of the city.
Day 2

Explore Chicago's neighborhoods

  • Start the day off with some coffee and breakfast at Intelligentsia, a hip coffee joint that helped kick off Chicago's third wave coffee scene.
  • Head to Wicker Park and wander through its vintage shops, street murals, and food carts.
  • Grab a sandwich from defunct deli-inspired sandwich joint, Lucky's during lunch.
  • Hop on the CTA and head to Chinatown for a dumpling crawl and some unbeatable bubble tea.
  • End the night at the Green Mill, a historic jazz venue that used to be a speakeasy during Prohibition.
Day 3

Skyscrapers and Shopping

  • Kick off the day with brunch at Cindy's rooftop restaurant, where you'll have a stunning view of Lake Michigan and the city skyline.
  • Take a boat tour down the Chicago River, where you'll learn about the city's history and see some impressive feats of architecture.
  • Check out the shops along State Street, where you'll find everything from bargain stores to high-end retailers.
  • Have a bite to eat at the Chicago French Market, where you can choose from a wide range of delicious food stalls.
  • Take a trip up to the 103rd floor of the Willis Tower and step out onto The Ledge, a section of the skydeck that extends out from the building.
Day 4

Dive into Chicago's culinary scene

  • Start the day with breakfast at Ann Sather, a Swedish restaurant known for their cinnamon rolls.
  • Walk off your meal by checking out the street art in Pilsen, a neighborhood known for its Mexican culture.
  • Grab a hot dog from The Weiner's Circle, a hotspot known for its rowdy late-night crowd.
  • Get some popcorn from Garrett Popcorn Shops and hit the benches at Millennium Park.
  • End the trip on a sweet note with a cupcake from Molly's Cupcakes. Don't miss the sprinkles bar!

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

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.

Two-Day Windy City Romance Guide

Chicago offers a perfect backdrop for a romantic trip with its picturesque skyline and waterfront views. The city’s rich history, lively culture, and delicious food make it an ideal destination for couples who want to experience the ultimate romantic getaway. Take a stroll on the stunning Lakefront Trail, grab some deep-dish pizza, and catch a show at one of its renowned theaters for an unforgettable romantic trip.

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!

Chicago in 4 days: Romance, Art, and Adventure

A romantic trip to Chicago begins with a stroll along the picturesque Riverwalk, taking in the stunning views of the city’s skyline. Embark on a journey to the top of the Willis Tower to marvel at the spectacular panorama or catch a show at the iconic Chicago Theatre. Relax with a glass of wine or craft cocktail in one of the city’s rooftop bars, or indulge in a romantic dinner at one of its many acclaimed restaurants.