With Chicago being just two short hours away we typically just go up for a day and venture back home before dinner. Chicago is filled with so many museums, parks, events and different varieties of food that are sure to impress each member of the family. I've been to Chicago plenty of times, but staying in Chicago for 3 days really gave me the chance to explore this beautiful city and get the scoop for you! If you are planning on visiting Chicago for just the day or a night or two here are 7 Tips for your next trip to Chicago!
The author was hosted by Sheraton Grand Chicago Riverwalk, Blue Man Group, and Chicago CityPASS® to facilitate writing this article. All thoughts and opinions expressed are their own.
1. Take the Amtrack- Driving to Chicago is easy and all interstate but once your in the city, it can become very stressful. Worried about city traffic, not knowing where you are going, or parking? The train takes all this stress away. We have an Amtrack Station right here in Lincoln, IL and in less than 3 hours you'll arrive right at Union Station.
2. Purchase a CityPASS®- Save money and visit 5 of the best attractions Chicago has to offer! This pass includes admission to the Shedd Aquarium & Skydeck Chicago PLUS 3 more attractions of your choice including:
- Field Museum
- Art Institute of Chicago
- Museum of Science and Industry
- 360 CHICAGO Observation Deck
- Alder Planetarium
- Shoreline Sightseeing Architecture River Tour
No need for the pressure of planning and waiting in lines for tickets. The CityPASS® makes all of this much easier with their My CityPASS™ app. With this app you can make reservations and plan your visit to each attraction. You’ll find all of the information you need to reserve your times, plus attraction details such as hours and location, special offers, maps and more.
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Architecture Tour of the Chicago River |
3. Chicago Lakefront Trail- Chicago runs right along Lake Michigan, and if your looking for a great way to sneak in exercise for the entire family this is your spot! This paved path runs 19 miles along the shore of Lake Michigan, going right through downtown Chicago and passing many cultural and tourist attractions throughout the city. It's a great path to walk or ride a bike to the Shedd Aquarium or the Planetarium as they are located on this trail.
4. Navy Pier- This iconic location is one I'm sure you have heard about before. Navy Pier has a little something for each member in the family. There are plenty of restaurants to choose from, along with adult beverage carts located all along the Pier to grab a drink and enjoy the view. Navy Pier is home of the Centennial Wheel that gives you the opportunity to view the city/Lake Michigan 200ft up! There are many different cruises, boat rides, and tours offered along Navy Pier as well.
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5. Blue Man Group- This 90 minute show is a joyful experience for audiences of all ages. There are 3 men covered in BLUE (I mean it, even their eyelids) who create art, play unique instruments, and engage with the audience all throughout the show. Each performance is unique. and audiences never experience the same show twice.
6. Go to the Beach- A beach in the city? What could make a trip better? Chicago is home to several beaches along Lake Michigan. I had an opportunity to visit Ohio Street Beach. This place gives you happy vibes. The sound of the waves and feeling the sand really changes your mood. The view includes Lake Michigan and the Chicago Skyline views.
 Goodies provided by Grand Sheraton Chicago Riverwalk |
7. STAY- If you decide to stay a night or two in the city I highly recommend Sheraton Grand Chicago Riverwalk. This hotel is centrally located right along the Riverwalk. There are restaurants & a Starbucks located inside the hotel. Each attraction is about a 15 minute bike ride or 5-10 minute drive.
Chicago is a really large city, and sometimes I get intimidated by such a big city with so many people. The great thing about a city so large is you are guaranteed to find something that interests you. Chicago can be a great trip for the entire family, couples trip, or even going solo. Visit Chicago year round and see why this windy city gets more than 48 million visitors a year!
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