Home Pricing Archive About Privacy

2-Day Itinerary in Illinois

📑 10 slides 👁 33 views 📅 2/4/2026
5.0 (1 ratings)

Introduction & Overview

Explore Illinois in 2 days with this curated itinerary

Introduction & Overview
2

Day 1: Morning in Chicago

  • Start at Millennium Park (8:00 AM, free entry) to see the Cloud Gate sculpture
  • Visit the Art Institute of Chicago (10:00 AM, $25 adults, $19 seniors)
  • Stroll along the Riverwalk for stunning architecture views
Day 1: Morning in Chicago
3

Day 1: Afternoon Adventures

  • Lunch at Lou Malnati's for deep-dish pizza ($15-$25 per person)
  • Navy Pier exploration (1:00 PM, free entry, $18 for Ferris wheel)
  • Architecture boat tour (3:00 PM, $45 per person)
Day 1: Afternoon Adventures
4

Day 1: Evening & Dinner

  • Sunset at 360 Chicago Observation Deck (6:00 PM, $25)
  • Dinner at The Signature Room (8:00 PM, $50-$80 per person)
  • Optional: Jazz show at Green Mill Cocktail Lounge (10:00 PM, $15 cover)
Day 1: Evening & Dinner
5

Day 2: Morning in Springfield

  • Travel to Springfield (6:00 AM, 3.5-hour drive or train for $30)
  • Visit Lincoln Home National Historic Site (10:00 AM, free)
  • Explore the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library & Museum (12:00 PM, $15)
Day 2: Morning in Springfield
6

Day 2: Afternoon History

  • Lunch at Obed & Isaac's Microbrewery ($15-$30 per person)
  • Tour the Old State Capitol (2:00 PM, free)
  • Visit Lincoln's Tomb at Oak Ridge Cemetery (3:30 PM, free)
Day 2: Afternoon History
7

Day 2: Nature Break

  • Short hike at Garden of the Gods (5:00 PM, free entry)
  • See unique rock formations and scenic overlooks
  • Photography opportunities with stunning sunset views
Day 2: Nature Break
8

Day 2: Evening Return

  • Dinner at Augie's Front Burner in Springfield (7:00 PM, $25-$40)
  • Drive back to Chicago (9:00 PM, 3.5-hour return)
  • Optional overnight stay in Springfield (Hotels from $100/night)
Day 2: Evening Return
9

Budget Breakdown

  • Total estimated cost: $300-$500 per person (excluding lodging)
  • Major expenses: Museums ($40-$60), Dining ($100-$150), Tours ($45)
  • Savings tips: Use public transit, pack snacks, book tickets in advance
Budget Breakdown
10

Conclusion & Tips

  • Illinois offers urban excitement and rich history in one trip
  • Best seasons: Spring and Fall for comfortable weather
  • Book popular attractions in advance to save time and money
Conclusion & Tips
1 / 10