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7-Day Budget-Friendly Chicago Itinerary Itinerary
Last updated: 2024 Jun 14City Highlights and River Cruises
Morning
Start your Chicago adventure with a hearty breakfast at Lou Malnati's Pizzeria, known for its famous deep-dish pizza. Afterward, take a stroll along the iconic Chicago Riverwalk to admire the city's architecture and make your way to the Chicago River for a 1.5-hour guided architecture cruise.
Afternoon
For lunch, head to Big Star for some delicious and affordable tacos. Afterward, continue your river exploration with a shorter, family-friendly 45-minute architecture cruise on the Chicago River. Spend the rest of your afternoon at the vibrant Navy Pier, enjoying the various attractions and lake views.
Evening
Dine at The Signature Room at the 95th for a classy dinner with stunning city panoramas. Afterward, experience Chicago's skyline at night with a 360 Chicago Observation Deck Sip and View Ticket, which includes a beverage as you take in the views.
Bedtime
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4.72Chicago Riverwalk
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4.72Chicago Riverwalk
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4.61Chicago River
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4.61Chicago River
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Museum Day and Lakefront Dining
Morning
Enjoy breakfast at Lula Cafe, a cozy spot known for its pastries and coffee. Then, spend your morning exploring the exhibits at the Field Museum, immersing yourself in natural history and culture.
Afternoon
For lunch, head to The Purple Pig and indulge in some of the best Mediterranean-inspired dishes in the city. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through Grant Park and enjoy the open green space and iconic Buckingham Fountain.
Evening
Dine at Eataly Chicago, where you can explore a variety of Italian cuisines in a unique marketplace setting. After dinner, take a relaxing Lake Michigan Buffet Brunch, Lunch, or Dinner Cruise and enjoy the beautiful Chicago skyline from the water.
Bedtime
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4.56Field Museum
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4.56Field Museum
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4.70Grant Park
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4.70Grant Park
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Art and Shopping in the Windy City
Morning
Start your day with breakfast at Little Goat Diner, a casual spot with a menu full of comfort food. Then, head to the world-renowned Art Institute of Chicago with your fast-pass ticket to beat the lines and explore the impressive collection at your own pace.
Afternoon
Grab a quick bite at Xoco, known for its gourmet Mexican street food. Then, spend your afternoon shopping along The Magnificent Mile, where you'll find a wide range of stores and boutiques to suit any budget.
Evening
For dinner, enjoy the lively atmosphere and fantastic Italian cuisine at RPM Italian. Afterward, take a walk to Marina City to admire the unique architecture and end your night with a drink at the building's famous House of Blues venue.
Bedtime
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4.61Art Institute of Chicago
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4.61Art Institute of Chicago
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4.65The Magnificent Mile
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4.65The Magnificent Mile
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Cultural Delights and Scenic Views
Morning
Start with breakfast at Cafe Ba-Ba-Reeba!, a spot known for its Spanish-style small plates and lively ambiance. Then, take a morning stroll through the beautiful Lincoln Park & Zoo, enjoying the diverse animal exhibits and the tranquility of the park.
Afternoon
For lunch, head to Smoque BBQ and savor some of the best barbecue in Chicago. Afterward, visit the serene Alfred Caldwell Lily Pool within Lincoln Park, where you can relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
Evening
Dine at Gibsons Bar & Steakhouse, a classic Chicago steakhouse known for its prime cuts and bustling bar scene. End your day with a visit to the Wrigley Building and Wrigley Field area, soaking in the historic architecture and the lively spirit of the nearby sports stadium.
Bedtime
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4.29Lincoln Park & Zoo
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4.29Lincoln Park & Zoo
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4.74Alfred Caldwell Lily Pool
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4.74Alfred Caldwell Lily Pool
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Gastronomic Tour and Sky-High Thrills
Morning
Start with breakfast at Pequod's Pizza and try their famous caramelized crust style. Then, take a guided Chicago Favorite Foods Walking Tour to sample a variety of local dishes and learn about the city's culinary history.
Afternoon
For a quick bite, head to Portillo's Hot Dogs and enjoy a classic Chicago-style hot dog. Spend your afternoon at the Chicago 360 Chicago Observation Deck, taking in the breathtaking views of the city and Lake Michigan.
Evening
Dine at Girl & the Goat, an award-winning restaurant known for its creative, globally inspired dishes. After dinner, experience the thrill of stepping out onto The Ledge at Skydeck Chicago and see the city from a whole new perspective.
Bedtime
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4.82Chicago Favorite Foods Walking Tour
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4.82Chicago Favorite Foods Walking Tour
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4.17Chicago 360 Chicago Observation Deck
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4.17Chicago 360 Chicago Observation Deck
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Historic Tours and Evening Entertainment
Morning
Start your day with breakfast at Kuma's Corner, a rock music-themed burger bar known for its unique, high-quality burgers. Then, join a Chicago Gangsters and Ghosts Guided Walking Tour to explore the city's seedy past and hear about the infamous characters that once roamed the streets.
Afternoon
For lunch, head to Longman & Eagle, a Michelin-starred gastropub known for its innovative, locally sourced menu. Afterward, take a self-guided tour of the historic and opulent Tribune Tower, admiring the building's impressive architecture and the embedded fragments from famous world landmarks.
Evening
Dine at Millennium Park [1212] for a casual meal with a view of the park's iconic Cloud Gate sculpture. Then, enjoy an evening performance at the renowned Chicago Theatre, taking in the theater's stunning interior and the talent on stage.
Bedtime
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4.68Chicago Gangsters and Ghosts Guided Walking Tour
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4.68Chicago Gangsters and Ghosts Guided Walking Tour
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4.61Tribune Tower
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4.61Tribune Tower
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Final Day of Sights and Bites
Morning
Enjoy breakfast at , and then spend your morning at the serene Alfred Caldwell Lily Pool within Lincoln Park, where you can relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
Afternoon
Evening
Dine at , a classic Chicago steakhouse known for its prime cuts and bustling bar scene. End your day with a visit to the Wrigley Building and Wrigley Field area, soaking in the historic architecture and the lively spirit of the nearby sports stadium.
Bedtime
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4.74 Alfred Caldwell Lily Pool
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4.74Alfred Caldwell Lily Pool
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4.39Wrigley Building
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4.39Wrigley Building
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