Chicago
4D3N: One of my favorite US cities and the home of Frank Lloyd Wright's studio! I must've visited Chicago every weekend during my summer internship in Wisconsin. Given the close proximity from the east coast, if you are looking for an idea this Summer, consider Chicago! I have created a 4-day 3-night itinerary for any first timer to Chicago, focusing on the highlights from all my fond memories of Chicago.
*Highly Recommended restaurants
Day 1
Noon Arrival
Navy Pier (grab some Chicago hotdog)
Hang out by Michigan Lake
Drinks @ Cindy's*
Chicago deep dish pizza @ Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria*
Day 2
Brunch @ Au Cheval* (long line, use Nowait app to get online)
Visit a museum or two:
Option 1 (Museum Campus):
The Field Museum (Jurassic Park exhibition), Shedd Aquarium & 12th Street Beach
Option 2: Museum of Science & Industry & Garden of the Phoenix
Grab a glass of wine & people watch @ City Winery Chicago at the Riverwalk
Dinner @ Girl & the Goat (reservation needed)
Day 3
Breakfast @ Cafe Vienna*
Lincoln Park Zoo (free; suggested duration 2hrs)
Picture @ Wrigley Field
John Hancock Center:
Lunch @ The Signature Room at the 95th or drinks @ 96th (best way to enjoy the view)
Walk down The Magnificent mile
Walk around The Loop
Dinner @ The Purple Pig* (reservation needed)
Day 4
Breakfast @ Cafecito
Walk around the neighborhood to see William Fricke House & William E. Martin House
Early dinner @ Kai Zan* (reservation needed)
Catch a play @ Windy City Playhouse (we saw Becky Shaw)
Other points of interest & food
Tips
It is safe to take the train from O'Hare Airport to downtown Chicago during rush hours. But please order Uber or Lyft if you arrive in the evening.
Looking for a gym? Stop by the Gold Coast Equinox, it was beautiful!
