🇺🇸 Architecture Lover’s Dream: 1.5-Day Chicago Express Guide

I unexpectedly fell in love with Chicago! ✨ We arrived on the afternoon of May 21 and left on the 23rd — packed with classic landmarks in just 1.5 days. Amazing architecture, clean streets, and the vibes by the lake… loved it all! ❤️ 🏨 Hotel Recommendation: Sable at Navy Pier Rooms with stunning views of Lake Michigan 🏞️ — book a high floor! Steps away from Navy Pier — super convenient location. 🚇 Transport Tips: Download the Ventra App — $5 day pass for unlimited metro + bus rides within 24 hrs 🚌 From airport: Blue Line → Grand Station → bus to Navy Pier → short walk to hotel. 🎟️ CityPASS Review: I chose the 3-attraction version — perfect for 1–2 days! Recommended picks: Architecture Boat Tour 🚢 — immersive skyline tour with guide ✅ Art Institute of Chicago 🖼️ — follow their 1-hour highlight route! ⚠️ Not recommended: 5-attraction pass (too rushed!) 📍 1.5-Day Itinerary: Day 1 (Afternoon) Check-in + explore Navy Pier 🎡 River Walk + Architecture Cruise 🌉 Day 2 ☀️ Morning: Brunch at Venteux Brasserie (matcha latte 🍵 + duck & waffle 🦆🧇) → Skydeck 🖼️ Afternoon: Bus to Art Institute → Millennium Park (The Bean ✨ + Crown Fountain 👑 + Buckingham Fountain) 🛍️ Evening: Magnificent Mile shopping + New Harry Potter Flagship Store! 🧙♂️⚡ 🍝 Dinner: Tre Dita (~$100+/person) — try Braised Oxtail Pasta 🍝 + Grilled Lamb Chop 🥩 (a bit salty though). For better value, try Nonnina or Volare! Day 3 (Morning Departure) Last stroll around Navy Pier 🌊 before leaving. #Chicago #TravelGuide #NorthAmericaTravel #ArchitectureLovers #CityWalk #USATravel #WeekendGetaway #ExploreChicago