7 Days Exploring Chicago and Yellowstone Itinerary

Begin your day with a visit to Art Institute of Chicago, home to an extensive collection of artworks from around the world. This museum is renowned for its Impressionist and Post-Impressionist paintings.

After exploring the museum, take a walk along Chicago Riverwalk. This scenic walkway offers beautiful views of the city's architecture and is lined with cafes and shops. Stop for lunch at Portillo's Hot Dogs to try their famous Chicago-style hot dogs.

Spend your evening at House of Blues, where you can enjoy live music in an intimate setting. For dinner, head to Girl & the Goat, one of Chicago's most celebrated restaurants known for its innovative dishes.

Start your day with a visit to Field Museum, one of the largest natural history museums in the world. Explore exhibits that range from ancient civilizations to modern-day science.

Next, visit Adler Planetarium for an out-of-this-world experience. The planetarium offers fascinating exhibits about space exploration and astronomy. For lunch, dine at Frontera Grill, which serves delicious Mexican cuisine crafted by celebrity chef Rick Bayless.

In the evening, take in some comedy at Second City, where many famous comedians got their start. Enjoy dinner at Au Cheval, renowned for its mouthwatering burgers.

Kick off your day with a tour of historic Wrigley Field. Even if you're not a baseball fan, this iconic stadium offers fascinating insights into Chicago's sports culture.

Afterward, explore the vibrant neighborhood around Wrigleyville before heading to lunch at Joe's Seafood, Prime Steak & Stone Crab, known for its exceptional seafood dishes.

Conclude your day with a visit to the stunning observation deck at 360 Chicago Observation Deck (Formerly John Hancock Observatory). Enjoy panoramic views of Lake Michigan and the city skyline as you unwind from your day's adventures.

Begin your journey to Yellowstone National Park. Depending on your mode of travel, you may need to allocate the entire morning for transit. Upon arrival, settle into your accommodation and get ready for an afternoon of exploration.

Start your Yellowstone adventure with a visit to the iconic Old Faithful geyser. This natural wonder erupts approximately every 90 minutes, providing a spectacular display of geothermal activity. Afterward, explore the nearby Upper Geyser Basin, home to many other fascinating geothermal features.

For dinner, head to The Lake House, which offers stunning views of Yellowstone Lake and a menu featuring local ingredients. Enjoy a relaxing evening by the lake as you soak in the natural beauty of the park.

Start your day early with a wildlife safari in Lamar Valley, often referred to as 'America's Serengeti.' This area is known for its abundant wildlife, including bison, elk, wolves, and bears. A guided tour can enhance your experience by providing insights into the animals' behaviors and habitats.

After your safari, visit the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone. Hike along the North Rim Trail for breathtaking views of the canyon and its impressive waterfalls, including Lower Falls and Upper Falls. For lunch, pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the scenic overlooks.

Sky Bistro is an excellent choice for dinner with its elevated dining experience offering panoramic views and delicious cuisine inspired by local flavors.

Spend your final morning exploring more of Yellowstone's unique geothermal features. Visit Norris Geyser Basin, one of the hottest and most dynamic areas in the park. The basin is home to Steamboat Geyser, which holds the record for the world's tallest active geyser.

Head over to Mammoth Hot Springs in the afternoon. These terraces are formed from limestone deposits and offer a striking contrast to other geothermal areas in Yellowstone. Take some time to walk around Fort Yellowstone and learn about its history as an early military outpost.

Conclude your trip with dinner at The Bison Restaurant, where you can savor hearty dishes made from locally sourced ingredients while reflecting on your incredible journey through nature's wonders.