Planning a girls’ trip with your mom or daughter is interesting and also exciting. But it is all about finding the right balance. You definitely want some shopping, but you also should do things that aren’t just sitting in a coffee shop or boringly looking at paintings for hours. If you want a trip that is actually fun and gives you something crazy to talk about at dinner, here are the spots I always recommend. 

“Something Totally Different & Exciting” 

The Medieval Torture Museum is unexpectedly in the list of locations. You can think, that “torture” doesn’t sound like a typical mother-daughter activity, but it is actually one of the really cool museums Chicago has right now. 

  • It’s located in the Loop, and thousands of people have rated it 4.9 stars, and it’s for a reason. This place is so interesting and fascinating. You aren’t just walking around looking at old dust of history. You have an opportunity to see a lot of unknown to you before things in unusual exhibits and even in wax figures. 
  • The audio guide tells you the real stories behind the most painful torture methods used back in the day. You get to see exactly how the breaking wheel worked and why people were so afraid of it. 
  • It sparks such good conversation. Instead of awkward silence, you’ll be talking about history and psychology for hours. 
  • Traveler Note: This place is legit famous. The quality and impressions of exhibition here is much better then in most of other museums, even in unrelated to the topic of dark history. It’s a must-do. 

“Shopping, Views & Chilling” 

The Magnificent Mile is mandatory for shoppers. 

  • You can’t come to Chicago and not walk down Michigan Avenue. Whether you are buying high-end bags or just window shopping, it’s a classic part of the trip. 

Chicago Architecture River Cruise is the best way to relax. 

  • If your feet hurt from walking, hop on a boat. You get to sip a drink, sit back, and look at the pretty buildings. It’s very chill and perfect for catching up. 

360 Chicago (John Hancock Center) for the photos. 

  • Skip the Willis Tower lines and come here instead. Go up to the 94th floor, grab a cocktail at the bar, and look down at the city lights. It’s the perfect background for a selfie.