What is a Staycation?
A staycation is exactly what it sounds like: you stay in town but act like a tourist, planning day trips and outings to places that attract out-of-town visitors. It’s a great way to experience a vacation while saving money on flights and hotels.Chicago Staycation Hotspots
Here are some of our family favorites:- The Field Museum - See the most complete T-rex on display anywhere in the world at Chicago's natural history museum.
- Lincoln Park Zoo - It’s huge, and it's free! Your family will love seeing the animals and fresh exhibits that are always being added.
- Millenium Park - Enjoy a photo op at the famous “Bean,” and splash at the Cloud Gate video fountains.
- John G. Shedd Aquarium - This gorgeous aquarium is massive, with a 400,000-gallon shark tank and dolphin shows.
- Big Bus Tour - Be a true tourist on this open air bus that hits all the most famous views in the Windy City.
- Architecture River Cruise - If boat rides are more your speed, enjoy a river cruise where you’ll learn all about Chicago’s growth and architectural innovations.
- Frank Lloyd Wright Tours - Choose the guided home and studio tour or neighborhood walking tour for a leap back in history and design.
- Navy Pier - This popular family attraction features a pier on Lake Michigan, a Ferris Wheel, boat rides, the Chicago Children’s Museum, and eateries.
- Wrigley Field - Hit a Cubs game in this old-time stadium with a hand-operated scoreboard, famous neighboring rooftop seats, and ivy on the outfield fence.
- Willis Tower - Take in the glorious view from the 103rd floor skyscraper, the tallest in the western hemisphere.
- Art Institute of Chicago - Explore on your own or take one of the guided tours for a particular artist or especially for children.
- Adler Planetarium - Beautiful, educational star shows are perfect for children of all ages.
- Museum of Science and Industry - Interactive, immersive exhibits take you through a World War II submarine, mine shaft, and the Amazon rainforest.
