Chicago Itinerary 4 Days

4 Days in Chicago: Long Weekend Trip Ideas

One of the largest cities in the US, Chicago sits on the Lake Michigan in Illinois. Its intrepid architecture has fascinated travelers from all around the world for many years now. Apart from the many relaxing green spaces, the city also has adequate dining options, thanks to its many world-class restaurants.

Then there are zoos, gardens, observation decks, museums, and shopping places which make this city a stereotypical tourist destination. With 4 days in Chicago, you will have enough time to hit all the right spots. It may get overwhelming to plan a trip to such a vast city when you have limited time. So, read on to create the perfect Chicago itinerary for 4 days.

How to see Chicago in 4 days?

Chicago Itinerary Day 1

Start your day 1 of a long weekend in Chicago by exploring the downtown area. With the best of the Chicago attractions and sights packed in this district, downtown Chicago will have many touristy places, along with the best of shopping and dining options. Start off by first visiting the Shedd Aquarium. Later visit the Buckingham Fountain, which is set amidst a beautifully manicured garden.

By noontime, visit the Skydeck Chicago to enjoy a bird’s eye view of this lake city. For lunch, take a subway and whiz past to the Chinatown. After lunch visits the Field Museum of Natural History and takes your time to explore the many aspects of this beautiful exhibition. Visit the DuSable Bridge to enjoy the Chicago Architecture Foundation’s river cruise in the evening.

As the day comes to an end, visit the Navy Pier for a relaxing night.

Chicago Itinerary Day 2

On day 2, head to the Hyde Park to explore the neighborhood, along with its many beautiful sights. The University of Chicago is located here. After having spent some time at the university gardens, visit places like the Oriental Institute, DuSable Museum, Museum of Science and Industry Chicago, Smart Museum of Art, and the Robie House. Take your time at each of the place, before making way to one of the bookstores here.

In the late afternoon, visit the Jackson Park. With its lush trees and elegant residences, this park offers a good break from the day full of exploration.

Chicago Itinerary Day 3

Reserve this day to reconnect with nature - head to the Lincoln Park. Apart from its many nightlife, dining and entertainment options, this neighborhood has the Lincoln Park Zoo. Spend the morning at the zoo, where you can come face-to-face with many lions, primates, and reptile species.

After a hearty meal, spend your afternoon at the Lincoln Park Conservatory and the Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum. Previously called the John Hancock Centre, 875 North Michigan Avenue is one of the tallest buildings in the city.

Visit 360° Chicago on the 94th floor of this building, and with a cocktail in your hand, what better way to call it a day?

Chicago Itinerary Day 4

Head out of the city and drive to the Grand Rapids. Spend the morning exploring the many parts of the city before heading to the Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park. Grand Rapids is known for the many breweries that are dotted along the outskirts of the city.

Do not forget to enjoy a nice meal in the Downtown Grand Rapids.

The Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park is a 132-acre haven of the world’s best flora and fauna. Some of the highlights of this park are Woodland Shade Garden, Japanese Garden, Carnivorous Plant House, Seasonal Display Greenhouse, Victorian Garden, and Arid Garden among many others.