7-day itinerary

The Perfect 7 Days in Chicago

A balanced 7-day plan for Chicago, built around its top-rated sights so each day flows without backtracking — plus a bite to eat along the way. Like it? Make it your own in a couple of taps.

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Day 1The Big Highlights

  1. Morning

    Chicago Cubs Team Store

    Stock up on authentic Chicago Cubs merchandise and wear your team pride all season long.

  2. Afternoon

    Garrett Popcorn Shops

    Legendary Chicago popcorn shop famous for its irresistible CaramelCrisp and CheeseCorn blend.

  3. Evening

    Chicago Water Tower

    One of the few structures to survive the Great Chicago Fire, this Gothic limestone tower is a city icon.

Where to eat: AlineaFine Dining — a well-loved local spot.

Day 2Sights & Experiences

  1. Morning

    Wilson

    Clothing shop offering apparel and fashion retail selections.

  2. Afternoon

    World of Whirlpool

    Appliance retail store showcasing kitchen and home appliances.

  3. Evening

    Cloud Gate

    Reflect yourself in Chicago's beloved giant mirrored bean, a dazzling landmark in Millennium Park.

Where to eat: Mon Ami GabiFrench — a well-loved local spot.

Day 3Culture & Icons

  1. Morning

    The Art Institute of Chicago

    Home to masterpieces from Seurat to Picasso, this iconic Chicago institution dazzles art lovers worldwide.

  2. Afternoon

    Begin Route 66

    Stand at the legendary birthplace of Route 66, where America's most iconic road trip adventure begins.

  3. Evening

    Clarence Buckingham Memorial Fountain

    One of the world's largest fountains, dazzling visitors with spectacular water displays in the heart of Grant Park.

Where to eat: Lou Mitchell's RestaurantAmerican — a well-loved local spot.

Day 4Sights & Experiences

  1. Morning

    Olmec Head

    A massive replica of an ancient Olmec head brings pre-Columbian wonder to Chicago's parks.

  2. Afternoon

    Sue the Dinosaur

    Marvel at Sue, the world's largest and most complete T. rex, roaring to life at the Field Museum.

  3. Evening

    Brachiosaurus Replica

    Marvel at a life-sized Brachiosaurus replica towering over Chicago's lakefront parkland.

Where to eat: Al's BeefSandwiches — a well-loved local spot.

Day 5Culture & Icons

  1. Morning

    Pillar of Fire

    A historic memorial in Chicago.

  2. Afternoon

    Chicago Union Station

    Marvel at the Beaux-Arts grandeur of Chicago's iconic train hub, a timeless crossroads of American travel.

  3. Evening

    Haymarket Memorial

    A powerful bronze sculpture honoring the 1886 labor martyrs who shaped workers' rights worldwide.

Where to eat: McDonald'sBurgers — a well-loved local spot.

Day 6Sights & Experiences

  1. Morning

    Chicago Blackhawks 75th Anniversary Sculpture

    Celebrate Blackhawks legend with this striking anniversary sculpture honoring one of hockey's most storied franchises.

  2. Afternoon

    Lincoln Park Zoo

    One of America's oldest free zoos, nestled beautifully along Lake Michigan in Lincoln Park.

  3. Evening

    Navy Pier

    Chicago's beloved pier dazzles with skyline views, Ferris wheel thrills, and vibrant waterfront entertainment.

Where to eat: The Wiener CircleHot Dog — a well-loved local spot.

Day 7Culture & Icons

  1. Morning

    S.R. Crown Hall

    Mies van der Rohe's glass-and-steel gem is a landmark of International Style architecture you must see.

  2. Afternoon

    Frederick C. Robie House

    Frank Lloyd Wright's groundbreaking 1910 home that defined modern American architecture with its sweeping horizontal lines.

  3. Evening

    U-505 Submarine

    Board a real German U-boat captured in WWII—the only one on display in the Western Hemisphere.

Where to eat: Manny’s Cafeteria and DelicatessenSandwiches — a well-loved local spot.

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Built from Chicago's top-rated attractions. Opening hours, prices, and whether a spot still delivers can change — double-check anything time-sensitive before you go.