Before You Go

Coordinates | 41.8781 ° N, 87.6298 ° W
Baton Rouge to Chicago | 911.9 miles
Driving Time | 13 hours, 17 minutes

Why Chicago?

From world-class museums to Michelin-star restaurants, Chicago is truly “the city that feels like home.” If you’re looking for a place to visit with entertainment the entire family can enjoy, then Chicago has just what you’re looking for. There are tours, shopping adventures, fun attractions, and we can’t forget to mention the Bears, Cubs, and the Blackhawks if you’re looking to take in a game during your visit. But, no matter when you decide to go, the Windy City will be ready to provide a trip you won’t forget.

Where to Eat

Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria | 1120 North State Street | Chicago, IL 60610
Chicago is famous for its deep dish slices, and no one serves them up better than Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria. With fresh toppings and delicious crust, it will easily claim the title of the best pizza you’ve ever tasted. Lou Malnati’s is a must for anyone visiting the Windy City.
■ loumalnatis.com

Nutella Cafe | 189 North Michigan Avenue | Chicago, IL 60601
Want to grab a quick coffee on the way to a museum or sit down for a fun lunch? The Nutella Cafe offers an array of all-day dishes designed to make your tastebuds and the little ones happy, and most of the dishes are served with, you guessed it, Nutella. Try the crêpes, gelato, paninis, or even the fondue during your visit.
■ facebook.com/nutellacafechicago

WHISK | 2018 West Chicago Avenue | Chicago, IL 60622
WHISK serves up a plate of steak and eggs that would make even Ron Swanson’s mouth water. So it only makes sense that Ron Swanson is the decor of choice at WHISK. With photos of the Parks and Recreation character adorning the walls, breakfast and burger lovers alike can feast on brunch favorites and cooked-to-order burgers.
■ whiskchicago.com

What to Do

Head to the 103rd floor of the Willis Tower for a breathtaking view of the city. The Skydeck offers a ledge that extends four feet outside the tower with a glass bottom, so you can see straight down. Or, you can stay securely inside the tower and appreciate the views from afar.
■ theskydeck.com

Take photos of the Cloud Gate, or the Bean as many refer to it, as you stroll through Millennium Park. The Park also offers monthly events, shows, and activities.
■ cityofchicago.org

While the Cubs won’t be playing in the winter, you can always take a tour of Wrigley Field, built in 1914. Daily tours are offered in which you will see the seating bowl, press box, bleachers, clubhouse, dugout, and field. ■ mlb.com

Introduce your children to the excitement of hockey by bringing them to a Chicago Blackhawks Game. A game in the United Center is a unique experience, one that will certainly leave you and your little ones humming along to the team’s goal song long after you’ve left the arena.
■ nhl.com

Visit the place where it all started. Adler Planetarium and Astronomy Museum, the first planetarium in the United States that entertains visitors with shows and exhibits such as Cosmic Wonder and Destination Solar System. See the historic Atwood Sphere, which shows the night sky over Chicago as it appeared in 1913.
■ adlerplanetarium.org

Chicago boasts the beautiful and inspiring Art Institute of Chicago. Since 1879, this institute has worked to preserve art and educate the public. Spend a day gazing upon both modern and ancient artwork.
■ artic.edu

Navy Pier is home to many shops, restaurants, and entertainment, and it is said to be Chicago’s number one attraction. Take a ride on the Centennial Wheel for 360-degree views of Chicago and Lake Michigan, and during Christmas time, see thousands of Christmas lights as the Pier transforms into a winter wonderland.
■ navypier.com

To experience the 1893 World’s Fair architecture and haunted lore of H.H. Holmes, take The Devil in the White City Tour. The tour includes a presentation of The World’s Fair and is followed by a bus tour to locations fairgoers would have experienced. Those who have read Erik Larson’s book will learn more about the amazing circumstances, and those who haven’t will find this tour to be a fascinating gateway to the 1893 World’s Fair and the terrifying Dr. Holmes.
■ architecture.org