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The Trips to Chicago program provides students with the opportunity to interact with the city of Chicago through fun, custom created trips. Sponsored by the Center for Chicago Programs, and led by students familiar with the city and how to navigate it using its public transportation system, Trips to Chicago trips aim to give students a one-of-a-kind experience in Chicago – completely free of charge.

Spring 2024 Trips:

January 27, 2024: Chicago Cultural Center

The Chicago Cultural Center is located in the heart of downtown and is considered one of the city's most valuable assets. After lunch, you will have time to explore the unique cultural experience that the center offers. It showcases a stunning display of art, architecture, and history that is sure to leave you amazed. Particularly, the world's largest and most exquisite Tiffany stained-glass dome is a must-see attraction.

February 17, 2024: Argyle Lunar New Year Celebration (Uptown) 

During this trip, you will have the opportunity to explore the bustling and diverse Uptown neighborhood, located just a short distance north of the city. We’ll begin with a Metra train ride into Ravenwood. Our first stop of the day will be lunch at a popular restaurant where you’ll have the opportunity to try one of the rich culinary offerings of this neighborhood. One of the trip's highlights will be the Lunar New Year Parade at the intersection of Argyle and Winthrop. The parade will feature over 20 local community groups, cultural institutions, dancers, and performers!

April 20, 2024: Garfield Park Conservatory

Located north of The Loop, Lincoln Park is one of the city’s most popular neighborhoods. The day will begin with a Metra train ride into the city. Then transfer to a CTA “L” train where you’ll get to see the city from a unique perspective. You’ll arrive in Lincoln Park just in time for brunch. You’ll get to experience one of the hundreds of insta-worthy brunch spots Lincoln Park has to offer, complete with delicious food and good company. After brunch take a stroll through the neighborhood past its several shops and cafes. You’ll then have the opportunity to explore the neighborhood’s namesake park, home to the beautiful Lincoln Park Conservatory and the famous Lincoln Park Zoo before heading back to campus!

Meet some of our Chicago Ambassadors:

Michelle Tkachenko Weaver

"I love that there is always something new to discover about the city. You can enjoy the popular touristy spots, like The Shedd Aquarium or Magnificent Mile, just as much as the hole-in-the-wall thrift stores and tiny hidden cafes. Also, the music scene in the city is absolutely incredible. The venues are some of the coolest places to explore, and Chicago has such a variety of performers that you can find amazing shows to go to any day of the week for any price range. The best part might even be getting great food after a show from a place you might have never come across otherwise; the food in the city is unbeatable, and there's always something new to find"!

Ben Reynaldo

“My favorite things about Chicago are the vibrant culture and the amazing skyline. It’s the best skyline in the country.”