Ultimate Weekend in Chicago, Illinois
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Ultimate Weekend in Chicago, Illinois
Nikki | Weekend Postcards
Available for hire
Welcome to the Windy City, located along the shores of beautiful Lake Michigan. Chicago is a hustling and bustling city full of over 70 unique & charming neighborhoods, amazing food and iconic landmarks. Chicago has so much to offer, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
Fun fact: Chicago is NOT the capital of Illinois, even though it is the most well known city in Illinois (We see you Springfield).
This guide includes everything from popular tourist destinations to local stops by neighborhood and tons of restaurants to try. While this is not an all inclusive list of what to do in Chicago, but its a pretty good way to start with over 150 options and tons of personal favorites! Get ready to plan your weekend of fun in Chicago depending on what neighborhood you're located in. Get ready to put on your walking shoes, as you are sure to get plenty of steps in walking around the city. Immerse yourself in the melting pot of cultures.
If you're searching for a specific day-to-day itinerary for Chicago, set up a call and I will help craft the perfect trip based on your needs. Even if you only have a day (which only would begin to scratch the surface) it is absolutely worth it to make a trip to downtown Chicago.
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Welcome to Downtown Chicago!
How to Get There
Home to two busy international airports, both Chicago O'hare and Chicago Midway are easily accessible to the downtown Chicago Area by using the local metro train system.
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Chicago O'Hare International Airport
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The larger of the two Chicago Area airports servicing all across the U.S. and the world. From O'hare, you can take the CTA Blue Line to reach downtown Chicago. This ride will take approx. 45 mins to an hour depending on your exact final stop.
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Chicago Midway International Airport
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To get to downtown Chicago, follow the signs to CTA where you will ride the orange line into the city. You can buy single ride or day pass tickets at Kiosks near the metro platforms.
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Chicago Transit Authority (CTA)
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This is all of your city buses and downtown train lines called the "L" for short. All busses are identified by a number and metro lines have colors to determine their routes. They are easy to read. Day pass tickets purchased for the bus also work on the metro lines.
There is also an app you can download on your mobile devices called Ventra. Apple Pay and Google Pay do work at all entrance stations although we personally recommend buying a paper or reusable card at the kiosks to avoid confusing charges on apple pay.
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Access all the local insights and recommendations from @WeekendPostcards when you purchase this guide.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Nikki | Weekend Postcards
Available for hire
Hi travelers! I am here to help you enjoy your weekend trips to the fullest to cities near, far, or even in your backyard.
Currently:šMichigan, U.S.A.
Just Posted: Lakeland, FL & Explore Berlin, Germany with a Local
Upcoming Trips: European Summer in Zablajk, Montenegro
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Michigander at heart but currently traveling the world one week at a time for work. When not on the road and living out of my suitcase, I am down to spend the day exploring the local city scene or out hiking in nature. I am an adventurous spirit and try to maximize my free time exploring the hidden corners of whatever city I am in. I've been traveling all over the U.S. and Europe for nine years and crave authentic experiences at local hot spots (and sometimes the touristy faves). As a young and avid traveler (16 Countries, 45 U.S. States, 24 U.S. National Parks & numerous cities) my goal is to help you reach your travel goals - no matter the destination.
On Thatch, I create super detailed guides and itineraries to destinations that I've personally visited. These destinations have a little bit of everything that I love about travel (adventure, city life, great eats, beach days and more). I can also create custom guides and itineraries to wherever you may be dreaming of traveling to.
Top bucket list items: Ride in a hot air balloon, visit all 50 U.S. states, and someday be on the Amazing Race with my sister.
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Check out my free and paid thatch travel guides on my profile, or for a customized itinerary for any of the locations featured, shoot me a message so we can connect. Let's explore!
What's included
Digital Map
Fully interactive, digital map for finding places nearby
160 places
160 hand-picked places with notes from the creator
6 extra guides
Access to additional guides curated by the creator.
1 link
1 link from the creator to go even deeper with more info
DESTINATION(S) COVERED
Chicago, IL, USA
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