Sunshine, self-care, and spa day bliss by the pool.
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Grab your besties and set off on an unforgettable day exploring the city!
Whether you’re eager to refresh with chic self-care, discover cultural wonders, or hunt for the latest style trends, Chicago caters to every whim with delightfully unique things to do for your group. Use this guide to plan the ultimate girls' day out, exploring the best Chicago has to offer. Time to rally the group!
Immerse yourself in the pools at Ancient Aire Baths to relax your mind and body.
Aire Ancient Baths
If you’re on vacation, why not make it a relaxing one? Treat yourself and your group to a day of indulgences, and you’ll be all the more recharged for a hopping night on the town. AIRE Ancient Baths is the city’s luxurious, Roman-style bathhouse in River West. This premier day spa caters well to groups, offering a serene setting for intimate conversation, free from distractions. Take a dip in the variety of pools (which include a cold plunge and salt flotation pool) and unwind in the aromatherapy steam rooms.
After you’ve soaked your cares away, continue the spa party at NAILàCARTE. Four locations throughout Chicago specialize in manicures and pedicures for groups. Take note: All locations are BYOB (bring-your-own-drinks), so you’ll want to pick up some spirits if you’re planning on an afternoon toast. Next stop: hair and makeup. Get styled with a fresh blowout and makeup by an expert at one of two goldplaited locations. Now bring on that perfect photo op!
AAA Members can enjoy cash back savings when they book their Chicago spa treatments on SpaFinder using this link.
Sky-high smiles and memories on the Skydeck!
Illinois office of tourism
All glammed up and ready to go! The city abounds with photo opportunities on nearly every corner. Here are some of the best spots to “do it for the ‘gram’!”
The Bean (Cloud Gate): The Bean is a marvel of stainless steel engineering. Shiny, polished and ultra-reflective, step up and master the perfect group selfie. While you’re here, grab another selfie (but try not to get wet) in front of the delightfully quirky Crown Fountain.
Skydeck Chicago: You can’t beat Skydeck Chicago’s 360-degree look out from the 103rd floor of the Willis Tower. Test your group’s bravery by stepping out on The Ledge, the observation deck’s all-glass balconies that extend beyond the building. Don’t look down, strike a pose and do your best not to show any fear in your eyes.
Cindy’s Rooftop: The camera eats first at Cindy’s Rooftop. Ascend to the 13th floor of the Chicago Athletic Association hotel just off Millennium Park for a stunning glass atrium and incredible lake views. Pre-dinner drinks are best here, especially during golden hour.
Traveler’s Tip: The Bean and Skydeck Chicago can get busy. Head to both first in the morning for the best golden light and fewer crowds.
Ferris wheels, food, and fun—Navy Pier has it all.
choose chicago \ Ranvestel Photographic
Chicago charms with its pristine lake, incredible city parks and timeless bites. Rally the group for a day of enjoying the best of the city.
Lincoln Park is one of Chicago’s most iconic neighborhoods, renowned for its historic charm, lush green spaces and urban sophistication. The neighborhood is a quick 20-minute ride north on the Red Line. The main attraction here is Lincoln Park itself, a sprawling city park just off Lake Michigan. Free and fun activities in Lincoln Park include the glass-domed gardens of the Lincoln Park Conservatory (free, although reservations are required), the always-free Lincoln Park Zoo and the bustling North Avenue Beach.
Once you’ve worked up an appetite exploring the picturesque park, head to The Wiener’s Circle (2622 N. Clark St.). This famed eatery has perfected Chicago’s most prized delicacy, its hot dog. Get it Chicago-style, and it will be “dragged through the garden” with mustard, relish, onions, tomato, sport peppers, celery salt, a pickle spear and never, ever ketchup. The playfully outspoken staff add to the spirit of this legendary joint. You’ll find some of the best burgers in the neighborhood at Firefly Burger (2412 N. Lincoln Ave.). This viral hotspot serves ooey-gooey burgers with cheesy add-ons and “injections” that transform your meal into a theatrical experience.
Navy Pier is a go-to for group activities. Start the day with the best views of the city from the towering Centennial Wheel. Each car can accommodate up to eight adults. Navy Pier is home to many fun things to do, including a 1.5 walking path known as “Wellness Way,” Chicago Shakespeare Theater’s year-round programming, a 4,000‑sq‑ft twisty maze at Amazing Chicago's Funhouse Maze, a simulated flight experience at Flyover Chicago and dozens of unique shops to explore. From Navy Pier, you can board the stunning Tall Ship Windy for a unique sailing excursion along the Chicago coast.
California-fresh fare at Summer House
summer house
On the hunt for the best pancakes and avocado toast? Chicago’s inventive food scene offers fresh, fun and innovative takes on nearly every type of cuisine imaginable. Here are three of the best brunch spots you and your group are sure to love.
Traveler’s Tip: While not required, reservations are encouraged at all three of these spots.
Beatrix (Multiple locations): With five locations throughout the Chicagoland area, Beatrix is destination dining with bright, buzzy interiors and health-conscious spins on brunch favorites. The menu must-trys include the lemon pancakes, the migas egg scramble and the indulgent hot honey fried chicken sandwich.
Little Goat Diner (3325 N. Southport Ave.): If Chef Stephanie Izard is at the helm, you know it’s going to be good. Nationally known as the Top Chef winner, Chicagoans have been clamouring to dine at an Izard restaurant for more than a decade. Little Goat Diner is her more casual, quirky eatery, in contrast to her upscale Chicago staple, Girl & the Goat. There are many top favorites here, so consider ordering a few items to share at the table, most notably the okonomiyaki Japanese pancake, the hot crab dip and the BBQ chili crunch cheese fries.
Summer House Santa Monica (1954 N. Halsted St.): Tuck in for picture-perfect renditions of avocado toast, spicy kale caesar and blueberry pancakes. These top menu items, along with much more California-fresh fare, are what make Chicago’s Summer House Santa Monica irresistible. The eatery’s sun-drenched vibes are elevated and airy, making it an ideal spot for a relaxing and delicious meal.
Traveler's Tip: Discover helpful planning resources for hotels, dining and all the fun things to do in Chicago with AAA TripCanvas.
Information about attractions, restaurants and other businesses was accurate at the time of publication. Offerings, hours and availability may change, and some locations may have closed since. We recommend checking directly with the business before visiting.
