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Plan your trip to Chicago

Choose your trip length, interests, and pace to build a flexible Chicago itinerary. Add other destinations, compare experiences, and reserve time for travel between stops.

Plan my Chicago trip →

Explore more in Illinois.

When to consider visiting

May–June and September–October

Seasonal guidance is a starting point; check weather and dates for your chosen experiences.

Choosing a base

The Loop: Central location, walkable to major museums, theaters, and transit hubs. River North: Dense restaurant and nightlife options, close to the Magnificent Mile and galleries. Lincoln Park: Lakefront parks, family-friendly attractions, and quieter residential feel.

Experiences to explore

Browse these experiences as a starting point. The planner considers your interests, pace, and published schedules when building your days.

Chicago Architecture River Cruise

Chicago Architecture River Cruise

Experience the stunning beauty of Chicago on a captivating cruise along the historic Chicago River. This architectural tour takes you down the main branch of the river, up the nort…

Approx. 90 minutesView on Viator →
Chicago River 45-Minute Architecture Tour from Magnificent Mile

Chicago River 45-Minute Architecture Tour from Magnificent Mile

Experience Chicago's legendary architecture and the exceptional architects who created this ever-changing legacy for all to admire. This family-friendly introduction to the Windy C…

Approx. 45 minutesView on Viator →
Chicago Crime and Mob Bus Tour

Chicago Crime and Mob Bus Tour

Escape into Chicago's underworld on a crime and mob tour with stops on-and-off the luxury, climate-controlled bus. Explore historic crime scenes with great photo opportunities. Hea…

Approx. 120 minutesView on Viator →
Chicago Hop On Hop Off Open Top Bus Tour

Chicago Hop On Hop Off Open Top Bus Tour

Discover Chicago at your own pace with Big Bus. Travel aboard an open-top, double-decker bus and enjoy panoramic views of the city's most famous landmarks, including the Magnificen…

Approx. 120 minutesView on Viator →
Chicago Favorites Ultimate Food and Walking Tour

Chicago Favorites Ultimate Food and Walking Tour

The perfect Food Tour of Chicago for first timers or anyone eager to explore Chicago's famous foods & top attractions—all in one tour. Stroll the beautiful streets of downtown & ta…

Approx. 180 minutesView on Viator →
Skydeck - Willis Tower Admission

Skydeck - Willis Tower Admission

Gaze upon the city sights from the pinnacle of Chicago, the Skydeck. Located on the 103rd floor of Willis Tower, formerly Sears Tower -- the third-tallest building in the world -- …

Approx. 90 minutesView on Viator →

Make room for the trip you want

Start with the number of days you have, then choose an unhurried, balanced, or fuller pace. Review the suggested route before generating your daily plan. Transport allowances are estimates; confirm services and meeting points before booking.

Save your trip with or without an account, share a read-only link, or download a PDF with booking and map links.