Chicago for 8 days.

Question

Hello all. My husband and I are visiting Chicago for 8 days at the start of July from the UK. We will be hiring a car and an apartment for the gestation. I have a few questions. We will be there for the 4 July celebrations, any recommendations of what and what not to do. I have booked us an apartment in Forest Park. It that a safe area, and easy to get into the city. We also plan to drive to Michigan City to see a motocross championship on the 5th July. Is any do's and dont's? Lastly, is there enough to keep us busy for a week without having to take out a bank loan.. Thanks in advance ☺️.

Answer

Sounds like an exciting trip to Chicago! I’ll try to answer your questions as thoroughly as possible to help you make the most of your time in the city, and provide some insights into the areas you’ve mentioned.

First, regarding the 4th of July celebrations, Chicago is a fantastic place to celebrate Independence Day! Here are a few things to consider:

Fireworks: The most iconic fireworks display is at Navy Pier, which you can watch from several vantage points in the city. Arrive early to grab a spot, especially if you're planning on watching from the pier itself. Alternatively, you can view the fireworks from the shoreline at Millennium Park or along the lakefront trail.
Lakefront Activities: On the 4th of July, there are often events like concerts and barbecues along the lakefront. This is also where the fireworks show is launched, so it’s worth spending some time in this area to soak in the atmosphere.
Avoid Crowds on the Day: While the fireworks are the highlight, expect massive crowds in the downtown and lakefront areas. If you prefer to avoid large crowds, consider watching the fireworks from less crowded spots, such as the south side or further out on the North Shore, but still within view of the lake.
Safety: As with any big holiday, be mindful of street closures and heavy traffic. Avoid driving into the downtown area close to fireworks time if you don’t have a designated parking spot.

As for your accommodation in Forest Park, it’s a charming suburb located around 10 miles west of downtown Chicago. It's generally considered a safe area, with a mix of residential homes, small businesses, and parks. While it’s not in the heart of the action, you’ll find that Forest Park has its own local charm, including the famous Brookfield Zoo, which is a great spot for families. Here’s what you should know:

Commute to the City: Forest Park has easy access to the CTA Blue Line, which is a fast and convenient way to get into downtown Chicago. The ride will take around 30 minutes, depending on traffic, so it’s not too difficult to access the city. However, do note that parking can be expensive in the downtown area, so taking public transport is often a better option if you're planning on spending time in the city center.
Local Attractions: Besides the zoo, Forest Park is home to beautiful parks and a relaxed, small-town atmosphere. It’s a nice place to stay if you want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city after a day of sightseeing.

As for your trip to Michigan City, which is about 90 minutes from Chicago, it sounds like a fun day trip. Here are a few tips:

Traffic: Be mindful of traffic, especially around the holiday weekend. The roads leading to Michigan City (I-80/94) can get busy, so plan your drive early to avoid congestion, particularly with the motocross championship and potential 4th of July traffic.
Weather: July in Michigan City can be warm, so dress appropriately for outdoor activities. Bring sunscreen and stay hydrated, especially if you’ll be spending a lot of time outdoors at the event.

As for the rest of your stay in Chicago, there’s plenty to do to fill 8 days without breaking the bank. Here are some affordable and free options:

Millennium Park: A must-see! Not only is it free to visit, but it has plenty to offer, including the famous Cloud Gate (the “Bean”), the Crown Fountain, and Pritzker Pavilion where you might catch free concerts.
Chicago Architecture River Cruise: While this can be a bit pricier, it’s a fantastic way to see the city from the water and learn about Chicago’s iconic architecture. Consider this if you have a little more in the budget, but it’s worth it for a great experience.
Lincoln Park Zoo: Another free option, this is one of the oldest zoos in the U.S. and located in the Lincoln Park neighborhood, which is also a lovely area for a stroll. It’s a great way to spend a few hours without spending a dime.
Walk or Bike the Lakefront Trail: If you enjoy outdoor activities, the Lakefront Trail offers scenic views of Lake Michigan and is perfect for walking, jogging, or cycling. There are also parks along the way where you can relax and enjoy the views.
Chicago Museums: Many museums offer free days, so check schedules for places like the Art Institute of Chicago, the Museum of Contemporary Art, and the Field Museum to see if your dates align with free admission days. Even if you’re not visiting during free days, there are often discounts available.

In terms of overall budget, Chicago offers a mix of pricey tourist attractions and plenty of free or affordable options to help balance the cost. It's definitely possible to have a fulfilling trip without overspending!

To sum up:

Check out the fireworks and festivities, but plan for crowds on the 4th of July.
Forest Park is a safe area with easy access to the city by public transport.
Enjoy some family-friendly activities like Millennium Park and the Lincoln Park Zoo.
For a budget-friendly trip, take advantage of free museum days and outdoor activities like the Lakefront Trail.

Have a wonderful trip and enjoy your time in Chicago!

Chicago for 8 days.

More Chicago Travel Questions

The attractions mentioned in this question

Popular Destinations

Popular Travel Questions