One Day in Chicago: The Perfect 1 Day Chicago Itinerary
Only have one day in Chicago? Looking for the best things to do and the perfect way to plan your 1-day Chicago itinerary?
You’re in the right place! My husband grew up in Chicago, and we have been there as a family more times than we can count. Whether you’re visiting for a layover, road trip stop, or quick city escape, this guide covers everything you need to make the most of just one day in Chicago.
In this post, we’ll share a 1-day Chicago itinerary featuring the city’s top sights—plus a few alternative options to help you customize your perfect day in the Windy City.
Let’s explore all the fun things to do in Chicago!
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Breakfast
If you only have one day in Chicago, I would grab a quick breakfast and start exploring.
Stans Donuts are really popular in downtown Chicago. There are lots of locations. You can easily jump in and out quickly.
We stopped here, and we were not disappointed.
If you do want to try one of the “famous” breakfast spots in Chicago, here are a few recommendations:
- The Wild Berry Pancake Cafe
- Lou Mitchells
Visit a Chicago Museum
Museum Overview
This table will provide you with a comprehensive overview of all the museums, including their opening and closing times, as well as some additional information to help you decide whether to visit one.| Opening/Closing Times | Estimated Time To Visit | Good To Know/Must See | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Field Museum | 9:00 am – 5:00 pm | 2.5-4 Hours | Sue the T-REX, Ancient Egypt |
| Museum of Science and Industry | 9:30 am – 4:00 pm | 3-4 Hours | Good for Families, Huge, Coal Mine, Submarine |
| Shedd Aquarium | 9:00 am – 5:00 pm (6:00pm) | 2-3 Hours | Great for Kids |
| Childrens Museum | 10:00 am – 5:00 pm | 1.5 -2 Hours | Great for Kids |
| National Institute of Art | 10:00 am – 5:00 pm (Thurs 8:00 pm) | 2-3 Hours | Monet and Van Gogh |
| Chicago History Museum | 10:00 am – 5:00 pm | 1.5-2 Hours | Local History |
| Alder Planatarium | 9:00 am – 4:00 pm (Wed 4:00 pm – 10:00 pm) | 1.5 -2.5 Hours | Shows are cool |
Navy Pier is not too far away from some of the museums. It is a great place to spend a few hours.
Centennial Ferris Wheel
The most iconic site on Navy Pier is the Centennial Ferris Wheel. It was placed at Navy Pier on its 100th anniversary. You can book a ticket and go for a ride.
Lake Michigan Boat Rides
One of my favorite things to do in Chicago is go out on Lake Michigan. There are lots of boat rides. You can book Speed Boat Rides, an Architectural Tour, City Cruises with Lunch, or you can even rent Kayaks and bikes!
We went on a speedboat ride, and it was so fun. We have also been on an architectural boat ride, and it was really interesting.
Getting out on the water is so fun, and if you have time would be a great activity to add to your 1-day Chicago itinerary.
There is a water taxi that has stops at Navy Pier and other cool spots around Chicago. You can also jump on the BigBusTour. This is a great way to get around town as well.
Magnificent Mile
The Magnificent Mile is amazing! There are lots of stores and restaurants.
Stores on Magnificent Mile
- Harry Potter Store
- American Girl Store
- Hershey Store
- Lego Store
- Ghirardelli
- Fannie Mae
- Colores Mexicana
- Build a Bear
- It’s Sugar
Nordstrom
Macy’s
Bloomingdale’s
Neiman Marcus
Zara
H&M
Gucci
Pandora
Cartier
TAG Heuer
Swarovski
Tiffany & Co.
Burberry
Rolex
Cartier
Louis Vuitton
Prada
Uniqlo
Nike Chicago (Flagship)
Adidas
Lululemon
Levi’s
AllSaints
Canada Goose
There are even more than I can list out. We loved walking around and visiting.
John Hancock Center
The John Hancock Center is located on the Magnificent Mile. There is a 360 observation deck located on the 94th floor.
You can book tickets, and if you want a thrill, you should try the TILT. The glass wall tilts outward and downward. It is not much more than a standard ticket.
Museums Near the Magnificent Mile
- Museum of Ice Cream
- Chicago Sports Museum
- Chicago Museum of Illusions
- Museum of Contemporary Art
Tours Near Magnificent Mile
A lot of tours start near the Magnificent Mile. The Chicago Crime and Mob Bus Tour, Chicago City Tours, Walking Tours, or Food Tours.
Lunch on the Magnificent Mile
Portillo’s is a great option for lunch. This is where you will find the famous Chicago-style hot dogs! Grab a bite and keep exploring!
Millennium Park
Located near the Magnificent Mile is the iconic “Bean” or Cloud Gate of Millennium Park.
This is such a fun place to walk around. In the winter months, there is ice skating. In the summer, you can enjoy the gardens.
See a Sports Game
Chicago is home to some amazing sports teams. Depending on which time of year you visit, you can enjoy a sporting event.
We recently went to a Cubs game. It was a lot of fun. Going to a Blackhawks game was really cool! It was one of my favorite experiences in Chicago!
Dinner in Chicago
After a long day, a deep-dish Chicago-style pizza is exactly what you need.
- Giordano’s
- Gino’s East
- Pizzaria Uno
We went to Gino’s East on our most recent visit and it did not disappoint!
Chicago Theatre
Chicago puts on some really great shows. I have seen Wicked and The Lion King in Chicago.
It is so fun to see a show; the quality is similar to New York. If you have time at the end of your one day in Chicago, go see a play. It is a perfect way to end your day!
Chicago 1 Day Itinerary
I have probably given you way more than you could do in one day! I lived in Chicago and still haven’t seen everything. There are so many options. If you have more than one day, you can check out my Chicago 3-day itinerary.
Sample 1-Day Chicago Itinerary
- Museum 2 hours
- Navy Pier
- Boat Ride
- Magnificent Mile
- Sports Game/Theatre
Sample 2 Chicago 1-Day Itinerary
- Magnificent Mile
- Book a Food Tour or Bus Tour
- Navy Pier
- Museum
Are You Ready to Go to Chicago?!!!
From breathtaking skyline views atop the John Hancock Center to exploring iconic spots like Millennium Park and Navy Pier, your one day in Chicago is packed with unforgettable sights and experiences.
Whether you’re indulging in deep-dish pizza, strolling the bustling Magnificent Mile, or taking in the city’s rich architecture on a river cruise, Chicago’s energy and charm will leave you inspired and eager to return.
With this itinerary in hand, you’re all set to make the most of every moment in the Windy City — a day filled with adventure, culture, and lasting memories awaits!
General Travel Facebook Group
If you have any questions, join my Facebook Travel Community. You can ask any questions you have about upcoming trips and everyone is happy to help you plan your trip. I also try to give exclusive travel deals that companies send me. It is a great group to join!
