Discovering Chicago with the Go City Explorer Pass

When I first heard about the Go City Explorer Pass, I was intrigued by the idea of creating my own sightseeing itinerary in Chicago. As a family travel writer, I’m always on the lookout for ways to make travel more affordable and stress-free for families. The promise of saving up to 50% on attractions was too good to pass up, so I decided to give it a try with my family.

Navigating the Windy City

Our adventure began with a bit of apprehension. The instructions on how to use the pass weren’t as clear as I would have liked, and I was worried about the availability of some attractions. However, once we got the hang of it, the pass proved to be a fantastic tool for exploring Chicago. We started with the Architecture Boat Tour from the Riverwalk, which quickly became a family favorite. The tour offered a unique perspective of the city’s stunning skyline and was both educational and entertaining for the kids.

Next, we headed to Navy Pier for the Classic Lake Shoreline Tour. While it didn’t quite match the excitement of the Architecture Tour, it was still a delightful experience. The kids loved the boat ride, and we discovered a hidden gem at the far end of the pier—a cozy spot with great views and live music. It was the perfect place to unwind after a day of sightseeing.

Art and Heights

Our next stop was the Art Institute of Chicago. As a fan of the movie “Ferris Bueller’s Day Off,” I was thrilled to explore the museum and relive some iconic scenes. The pass allowed us to skip the regular line, which was a blessing with three kids in tow. We spent hours wandering through the exhibits, and the kids were particularly fascinated by the modern art section.

The highlight of our trip was undoubtedly the visit to the Skydeck at Willis Tower. The kids were in awe as we stepped onto the glass platform, 1,353 feet above the ground. The views were breathtaking, and we managed to capture some incredible family photos. It was a moment we’ll cherish forever.

Evening Adventures

As the sun set, we embarked on a nighttime Big Bus tour. The city lights twinkled around us as we cruised through the streets, and the kids were captivated by the stories our guide shared. It was a magical way to end our day, and the perfect reminder of why I love traveling with my family.

We also made time to visit the Signature Lounge on the 95th floor of the John Hancock Tower. With no entry fee, it felt like a mini-excursion in itself. We enjoyed a leisurely meal with stunning views of the city, and it was a great way to relax and reflect on our adventures.

Overall, the Go City Explorer Pass was a fantastic addition to our Chicago trip. It encouraged us to explore more and made our vacation both affordable and memorable. If you’re planning a family trip to Chicago, I highly recommend giving it a try. Just be sure to plan ahead and make reservations where needed to ensure a smooth experience.