The bustling city of Chicago, home of the Chicago Bulls, is located on the shore of Lake Michigan. It is the most populated city in the state of Illinois, while it ranks as the third most populated city in the whole of the United States.
It is famous for its architecture, skyscrapers, and amazing food! So, if you’re planning a trip to Chicago, here’s a brief guide for you.
Best Time to Visit Chicago
Chicago has a continental climate, which means it has cold winters and hot summers, with frequent temperature, humidity, wind, and cloudiness fluctuations. However, springtime is when the weather is relatively moderate and pleasant.
Therefore, the best time to visit Chicago is between April and June, when spring is in full bloom, or September to November, when the summer heat dissipates, and the cool and crisp autumn starts taking over.
How to Get Around Chicago
There are several ways to get around Chicago, given its growing population.
The most popular way to get around the city is via the L Train, which is quite cheap. However, you can also take the bus as it stops around almost all the popular attractions, but if you’re new, you might need help with the navigation.
Another popular option is hiring a taxi or a rental car, especially if you have kids. Because firstly, Chicago is too big to travel on foot, and secondly, getting on and off buses and trains can be quite a hassle, especially if you’re visiting for the first time.
Best Family Hotels in Chicago
Chicago is a metropolitan city; therefore, you can find plenty of options to stay in. From 5-star luxury hotels like the Langham to mid-range hotels like Felix, and budget-friendly accommodations like Four Seasons, there are hotels for everyone.
The best part is that almost all hotels have activities for children, kids meal options, and offer features catered specially to newborns, like cribs and daycare centers.
Top Family Attractions in Chicago
Chicago is a bustling city with a lot of family attractions. Whether you want to take your kids to the park, visit the zoo, or spend a day at one of the museums, there are plenty of fun and exciting things to do in Chicago.
Starting from Grant Park, you can enjoy the scenic view of the magnificent Buckingham Fountain, with its water shooting 150 feet up in the air. Then there’s the Navy Pier which has a giant Ferris Wheel, boat tours, and fireworks.
And how can we forget the Lincoln Park Zoo, with over 1200 animals? It is a must-visit place if your kids are traveling with you!
As Chicago is situated at the waterfront, you can also get a chance to enjoy some water activities. You can take a boat tour at the Chicago Riverwalk, go kayaking, or rent a paddle boat.
In short, Windy City has numerous activities for the whole family!
Packing List for Chicago
Whenever you’re traveling to another place, your packing list should be based on what time of the year you’re going and what the weather would be like in that city.
Therefore, if you’re visiting Chicago in the summer, pack casual pants, jeans, skirts, tops, flip-flops, comfortable walking shoes, flats, or casual shoes to go with dresses. Don’t forget to keep sunglasses, a hat, sunscreen lotion, and an umbrella in case it rains.
If your trip is during the winter, we suggest keeping coats, sweaters, sweatshirts, cardigans, warm socks, boots, gloves, scarves, and extra socks. In short, anything that keeps you warm in the chilly winters is preferable!
During spring and autumn, you can pack a few cardigans, tops to add layers, a rain jacket, poncho, hats, walking shoes, and a couple of sweatshirts in case it rains, and the weather gets a bit chilly.
Also, keep in mind that you will find laundry options where ever you stay; therefore, if you pack fewer things, you can travel light and have space in your bags for souvenirs and gifts!
Additional items you can pack include sunscreen, baby wipes, a travel towel, hand sanitizers, tissues, a portable charger, hats, and windbreakers to protect yourself and the kids from the strong winds.
