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:
- Yolk – Marina City
eatyolk.com - Goddess and the Baker, Wabash
goddessandthebaker.com - Eggy’s Diner
eggysdiner.com - Wildberry Pancakes & Cafe
wildberrycafe.com
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:
- Al’s #1 Italian Beef
alsbeef.com - Portillo’s Hot Dogs
portillos.com - Luke’s Italian Beef
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:
- Pizzeria Uno
pizzeriaunodue.com - Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria
loumalnatis.com - Giordano’s
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!
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
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