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One Day in Chicago – The Perfect Itinerary

What to do if you only have one day in Chicago? See my best tips and spots for your perfect day.

Top 12 Main Attractions Of Chicago

To help you know what to expect when you visit Chicago for the first time, here is a little overview of some of the main sights.

1. Millennium Park
Public park in Chicago with art displays.

2. Cloud Gate
Bean-shaped mirror sculpture by British artist Anish Kapoor.

3. Navy Pier
Lake Michigan pier with rides, stores and restaurants.

4. Willis Tower
The tallest building in the city of Chicago.

5. Art Institute of Chicago
Art museum founded in 1866.

6. Field Museum of Natural History
Natural History Museum opened in 1893.

7. Skydeck Chicago
Observation deck at Willis Tower.

8. Chicago Riverwalk
Pedestrian promenade along the Chicago River.

9. Lakefront Trail
18.5 miles of shared-use trail on the western shore of Lake Michigan.

10. Lincoln Park Zoo
Small, free zoo (but donations are welcome).

11. Shedd Aquarium
One of the oldest museum aquarium facilities in the world, built in 1929 .

12. The Chicago Theatre
Theater on the north side of downtown Chicago.

One Day Itinerary For Chicago

Morning

Start Your Day With A Good Breakfast

Here are some good breakfast options:

The Chicago Riverwalk

The Chicago Riverwalk was definitely my personal highlight. I loved the atmosphere and the and the view of the impressive architecture.You can walk the walk, but also take a boat tour which additionally provides interesting stories about the historic buildings.

Visit Millenium Park

Another Chicago highlight is the Millenium Park. You’ve probably already heard about it, and if not I’m sure you’ve seen pictures of the Cloud Gate (the silver bean). Another spot worth seeing is the Crown Fountain. Perfect picture spot!

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Afternoon

Italian Beef Sandwich Or Chicago Hotdog

Pick up a traditional Italian beef sandwich or Chicago hot dog for lunch at one of these spots:

Afternoon Activity Option 1: Go Shopping

One thing you can do perfectly in Chicago is go shopping! The Magnificent Mile is not magnificent without a reason. It is the main business district of Chicago. While you are there, take a look at the Historic Water Tower, the only iconic architecture that survived the Chicago fire.

Afternoon Activity Option 2: Visit A Museum

Another thing that is not lacking in Chicago is museums. Visit the Art Institute of Chicago, Field Museum of Natural History, Museum of Science and Industry, or the Chicago Cultural Center.

Are you more of an animal lover? Chicago has something for you as well. You can visit the Shedd Aquarium or Lincoln Park Zoo.

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Evening

Get A Slice Of The Famous Deep Dish Pizza

Probably the most famous thing you can eat in Chicago, the Deep Dish Pizza. Here are some fabulous restaurants to try it:

 

Evening Activity Option 1: Enjoy The View

You can enjoy the view over the city at 360 Chicago or Skydeck Chicago. I hope you are not afraid of heights!


360chicago.com

theskydeck.com

Evening Activity Option 2: Visit Navy Pier

Enjoy the atmosphere, activities, food, drinks, and more at Navy Pier.

Evening Activity Option 3: Go To An Event

Attend one of the many events in Chicago. Laugh your head off at Second City, enjoy the night at the Green Mill jazz club or visit the Chicago Theatre.
 

secondcity.com

greenmilljazz.com

msg.com The Chicago Theatre

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