Chicago in a Weekend - A Perfect 3 Day Chicago Itinerary

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High rise buildings and a Ferris wheel under a blue sky with clouds
Chicago is an incredible destination with lots of attractions and landmarks to see

Are you organizing a trip to the Windy City? If so, this 3 day Chicago itinerary will help you plan the perfect long weekend trip, allowing you to see all the city offers in only 72 hours.

When deciding what to do in Chicago in a weekend, you'll be spoiled for choice. The city boasts many attractions and famous landmarks, from trendy bars and restaurants to parks, museums, and much more. To discover all the things to do during a weekend in Chicago, keep reading!

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When visiting Chicago, book your accommodations and experiences before you go. See the short list of top suggestions below.

🏨 Top accommodations in Chicago

☂️ Top tours and experiences in Chicago

3 Days in Chicago Itinerary

Chicago 3-Day Itinerary Video

Check out our highlights video of the stops covered in this Chicago itinerary.

Chicago 3-Day Itinerary Map

A map of Chicago. Use the map to explore all the days and stops.

Chicago 3-Day Itinerary Map

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Exploring Chicago's Cultural Landmarks

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An urban park with greenery, a path, and skyscrapers in the background
Beautiful Millennium Park is one of the stops on your first day in Chicago

Your first day in Chicago will begin taking in panoramic views of the city from the Willis Tower Skydeck. Next, you can immerse yourself in Chicago culture and history at the Chicago Cultural Center before going to see the iconic Cloud Gate.

After walking around Millennium Park, you'll go out on the river on a Chicago architecture cruise. Once back on land, the next stop is the Art Institute of Chicago to view works from renowned artists. Your evening will be spent at the scenic Navy Pier, shopping, dining, and watching the fireworks.

A view of a city as seen from above with skyscrapers and water in the background
Enjoy incredible views of Chicago from the Willis Tower Skydeck

Willis Tower Skydeck

The Skydeck at Willis Tower is one of the most well-known observation decks in the United States. Sitting 1,353 feet above the ground on the 103rd floor, the Skydeck offers sensational views of downtown Chicago.

Making Willis Tower your first stop in the day increases the chances of getting incredible clear views. However, heading up shortly before sunset is highly recommended too. Purchasing a Willis Tower Skydeck ticket in advance will ensure you get to the observation deck without any hassle.

🏨 Nearest accommodations to Skydeck Chicago

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A trip to the Chicago Cultural Center must be on your Chicago in a weekend itinerary
Going to the Chicago Cultural Center must be on your Chicago in a weekend itinerary

Chicago Cultural Center

A visit to the Chicago Cultural Center is a great addition to your Chicago trip itinerary. This historic building, opened in 1897, features numerous cultural exhibits and performances. Exhibitions cover a range of fascinating topics, from art exhibits to those covering the history of Chicago.

If you have time to add a few more stops to your itinerary, consider going on a Chicago architecture walking tour. This informative tour will take you to the Chicago Cultural Center, the Chicago Board of Trading Building, and The Loop.

🏨 Stay in close proximity to Chicago Cultural Center

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A silver reflective bean-shaped structure with high-rise buildings behind it
Cloud Gate is one of Chicago's most iconic landmarks

Cloud Gate at Millennium Park

Cloud Gate is a renowned world landmark. When visiting Chicago, a trip to this attraction is a must.

The famous mirrored bean-shaped sculpture sits proudly in Chicago's Millennium Park in North Grant Park. The sculpture was designed by British artist Anish Kapoor and was his first outdoor artwork installed in the US.

Having viewed Cloud Gate and taken some photos, you can wander around Millennium Park. The pretty urban park is the perfect place to unwind. If you have kids with you, a trip to the playground in the adjacent Maggie Daley Park is also recommended.

🏨 Accommodations in close proximity to Cloud Gate

A small cruise boat on a river going toward a bridge with buildings surrounding
A Chicago River cruise allows you to see the city's most stunning buildings

Chicago Architecture River Cruise on the Chicago River

Chicago is a destination filled with stunning architecture. The best way to see the beautiful skyline is by getting out on the river. A fun Chicago Architecture Cruise is the perfect option and will take you past the city's most amazing buildings.

Once aboard the boat, you'll sail past 40 plus iconic buildings. Attractions to see range from the John Hancock Building to Wrigley Field and the Lyric Opera House. Architects with buildings on the route include Mies Van de Roche and Skidmore Owings.

🏨 Stay nearby Chicago River

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On your 3 day Chicago itinerary, ensure you add a trip to the Art Institute
Be sure to add a trip to the Art Institute of Chicago to your 3 day Chicago itinerary

Art Institute of Chicago

Another must-see attraction to put on your three days in Chicago itinerary is the Art Institute of Chicago. This world-class gallery is one of the oldest and largest art museums in the US. When visiting, you can see works by Matisse, Van Gogh, Renoir, and many more.

The Art Institute houses over 300,000 pieces. While not all of those are on display, the collection open to the public is quite large. Spending two to three hours here is recommended to see everything. To save some time, book an Art Institute of Chicago fast pass ticket before you go.

🏨 Accommodations close to The Art Institute of Chicago

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A waterfront area with colorful buildings, a Ferris wheel, and skyscrapers behind
Navy Pier is an exciting waterfront area, with shops and restaurants

Navy Pier is a bustling area found on Chicago's waterfront. The river-side attraction features shops, restaurants, and even a Ferris wheel! The views of the Chicago River from Navy Pier are breathtaking too. When in the area, you can browse the shops, pick up some gifts and souvenirs, and grab a delicious dinner.

In addition, there is a spectacular firework show held here each Wednesday and Saturday evening. Watching the Navy Pier fireworks is absolutely one of the best things to do at night in Chicago.

☂️ Visit Navy Pier with an excursion

🏨 Nearest accommodations to Navy Pier

A Fun-Filled Day of Top Attractions

A large water fountain with skyscrapers behind it under a blue sky
You can see the renowned Buckingham Fountain in Grant Park on day two in Chicago

Day two of your Chicago three day itinerary begins at the bustling New Maxwell Street Market. Having explored the various market stalls, you'll then move on to the south part of scenic Grant Park. After wandering around the park and viewing landmarks like the Buckingham Fountain, head to Museum Campus.

This area houses some of Chicago's finest museums, such as the Field Museum of Natural History, which is your next stop. The Shedd Aquarium is your next stop before going to the waterfront to spend the evening on a luxurious Lake Michigan dinner cruise.

New Maxwell Street Market

A fun way to start your day is by visiting the New Maxwell Street Market. This historic market has been in operation in Chicago since 1912, with variations of the market being documented even earlier. Today, you can wander around a range of food and merchandise stalls, mixing with the locals.

You will also find entertainment preferences at Maxwell Street Market, such as live music acts. The best part about shopping at the market is that you never know what you'll find! You're guaranteed to go home with some one-of-a-kind souvenirs. Do note that the market is only open on Sundays.

🏨 Accommodations near Maxwell Street Market

A green park with lampposts and high rise buildings in the background
Beautiful Grant Park is a great place to escape the bustle of Chicago

Grant Park

Grant Park is a vast urban park that houses many attractions, including the landmarks of Museum Campus and Millennium Park to the north. Taking a relaxed walk around Grant Park is the perfect way to take a brief break from the bustle of Chicago.

While in the park, you can admire the many beautiful trees and plants and are likely to spot wildlife. Be sure to pass by Buckingham Fountain too, which is one of the largest water fountains in the world.

☂️ Visit Grant Park with a tour

🏨 Stay near Grant Park

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A stone museum building with steps leading up to it, and a skyline behind
Chicago's Field Museum is one of the biggest natural history museums in the world

Field Museum of Natural History

The Field Museum of Natural History is a North American landmark, known as one of the largest natural history museums in the world. Exhibits to see include those on dinosaurs and fossils, ancient Egypt, ecosystems, and many other historic and scientific-related topics.

Depending on when you visit, you may also be able to attend some interesting events. To ensure that you get in, buy a Field Museum Natural History Museum admission ticket ahead of time.

🏨 Accommodations nearby Field Museum

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A red octopus statue and Shedd Aquarium sign with greenery surrounding
Spending the afternoon at the Shedd Aquarium is a fun and relaxed activity

Shedd Aquarium

Whether you're traveling with kids or not, adding a trip to the Shedd aquarium to your weekend trip to Chicago itinerary is a must! The almost 100-year-old aquarium is home to a range of marine creatures.

Sea animals to see here range from tropical fish to sharks and beluga whales. The aquarium also offers a range of experiences, such as feeding stingrays and meeting penguins.

☂️ Explore Shedd Aquarium on a tour

🏨 Stay near Shedd Aquarium

The Chicago skyline at night with water in front of it
Taking a dinner cruise on Lake Michigan is a luxurious way to see Chicago at night

Lake Michigan Dinner Cruise

An ideal way to end your day in Chicago is by going on a Lake Michigan dinner cruise. On this sophisticated boat cruise, you'll be served a delicious three-course meal. Drinks including cocktails, beer, and wine are also available.

After eating, you can head to the stylish rooftop deck to take in amazing views of Chicago. Places of interest to see on the cruise include Navy Pier and Willis Tower. A DJ is on board as well to add to the atmosphere and make your night out even more memorable.

🏨 Stay near 600 E Grand Ave

Sports, Shopping, and an Afternoon at the Beach

A large pond with greenery surrounding and skyscrapers in the distance
You can discover many attractions in scenic Lincoln Park

The last day of your Chicago weekend itinerary starts at the home of the Chicago Cubs, Wrigley Field. After taking a tour of this iconic baseball stadium, you'll visit Lincoln Park where you can go to a range of attractions or just take in the green open space.

The afternoon will start at North Avenue Beach. Next, you'll go up in the sky to the 360 Chicago observation deck from more panoramic views. The day ends on Magnificent Mile, where you can see the famous water tower, hit the shops, and try some Chicago style deep dish pizza.

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A red sign that says "Wrigley Field" "Home of the Chicago Cubs"
Taking a tour of Wrigley Field, home of the Chicago Cubs, is ideal for sports lovers

Wrigley Field Tour

Wrigley Field is the iconic home of the Chicago Cubs Major League Baseball team. If interested in sports, taking a guided tour of this Chicago landmark is a must.

On the tour, you can see the Cubs' dugout, the field, and more. You'll also learn more about the history of the team and the stadium. Depending on when you visit Chicago, you may also be able to catch a Cubs game at Wrigley Field.

☂️ See Wrigley Field on a tour

🏨 Accommodations in close proximity to Wrigley Field

An aerial view of a green urban park with ponds and a skyline in the background
Lincoln Park has many attractions, like the Lincoln Park Zoo

Lincoln Park

Lincoln Park is Chicago's largest park and is well worth visiting when in the city. This spectacular green urban park features beautiful gardens, lots of trees, and a charming lake.

You can discover many attractions within the park too. Places to visit include the Lincoln Park Zoo, the Chicago History Museum, and the Lakefront Trail. The park is also home to the Lincoln Park Conservatory. If in the city with your partner, visiting the conservatory is one of the cutest Chicago date ideas.

☂️ Visit Lincoln Park with an excursion

🏨 Accommodations close to Lincoln Park

An urban skyline with a sandy beach and people in the water in front of it
Chicago has an urban beach that's fun to hang out on during the summer

North Avenue Beach

It may be a surprise that a Chicago travel itinerary includes a trip to a beach. But it does! North Avenue Beach is a small sandy shoreline located next to Lincoln Park.

At this quaint urban beach, you can hang out on the sand, sunbathe, and even take a tip in the "ocean" (which is actually Lake Michigan). From the shoreline, you also get the most fantastic view of the Chicago skyline.

As you can imagine, this attraction is only enjoyable during the warmer months. If you want to go to the beach, spring or summer is the best time to visit Chicago. You can relax under the sun on the sand before the rainy and cold weather of fall and winter arrives.

🏨 Places to stay near North Avenue Beach

An aerial view of a city skyline with a beach to the side
The panoramic views from 360 Chicago are breathtaking

360 Chicago Observation Deck at the John Hancock Center

Located on the 94th floor of the John Hancock Building, the 360 Chicago Observation Deck is another of Chicago's lookout points. Once on the observation deck, you can take in the spectacular panoramic views.

This observation tower even features tilting windows! If you dare to look through them, you can also enjoy views of the bustling city below. To avoid a wait when you arrive, purchase a 360 Chicago Observation Deck skip the line ticket ahead of time.

🏨 Places to stay close to 360 CHICAGO

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An urban street with greenery in the middle and skyscrapers in the distance
Magnificent Mile features a range of shops, restaurants, and bars

Magnificent Mile and the Chicago Water Tower

Magnificent Mile is a commercial district that runs along North Michigan Avenue beside the River North neighborhood. This area features a multitude of shopping, dining, and entertainment options.

One of the must-visit places on the Magnificent Mile is the Chicago Water Tower. This Illinois landmark has stood in Chicago since the 1860s and even survived the Chicago fire of 1871.

Having visited the water tower, you can shop at the array of stores on magnificent miles. If you get hungry, grabbing some iconic deep-dish pizza is highly recommended. There are many deep-dish spots on Magnificent Mile, including Gino's East and Lou Malnati's Pizzeria.

🏨 Stay near Magnificent Mile

☂️ Visit Magnificent Mile with a tour

In Summary

Going on a Chicago weekend getaway is a great idea. However, deciding what to see in 72 hours can be a challenge. Hopefully, this three day itinerary has made planning the perfect long weekend in the Windy City a lot easier!

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Written by Alli Sewell

allisewell FORMER WRITER Currently based in Canada, Alli has also lived and worked in the UK and Brazil and traveled in North and South America, Europe, Australia, and Asia. She loves finding the best photo-ops and food and drink locations wherever she goes.

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