15 days in New York City & Chicago Itinerary

Writer Pearl Buck once called New York City “a place apart,” and this giant urban center remains unlike any other in the world.

Take a break from the city and head to Valley Forge National Historical Park and Speed Boats Tours. 9/11 Memorial and Ellis Island will appeal to history buffs. Venture out of the city with trips to Philadelphia (Kelly Drive & Logan Circle) and Great Neck Steppingstone Park (in Great Neck). And it doesn't end there: admire the masterpieces at The Metropolitan Museum of Art, pause for some serene contemplation at St. Paul's Chapel, enjoy breathtaking views from Empire State Building, and admire the landmark architecture of Rockefeller Center.

To find ratings, reviews, where to stay, and more tourist information, read our New York City online journey planner.

Hamburg, Germany to New York City is an approximately 12.5-hour flight. The time zone changes from Central European Standard Time to Eastern Standard Time, which is usually a -6 hour difference. Expect somewhat warmer temperatures when traveling from Hamburg in July; daily highs in New York City reach 35°C and lows reach 26°C. Wrap up your sightseeing on the 30th (Sun) to allow time to fly to Chicago.

A huge and vibrant city, Chicago is home to top-notch theaters, shops, museums, galleries, and restaurants.

Escape the urban bustle at Boat Tours & Water Sports and John Husar l&M Canal Trail. Popular historic sites such as Ernest Hemingway Birthplace and Pleasant Home are in your itinerary. Step out of Chicago with an excursion to Centennial Bike Trail in Willow Springs--about 32 minutes away. The adventure continues: explore the world behind art at The Art Institute of Chicago, wander the streets of The Magnificent Mile, learn more about the world around you at Field Museum, and learn about wildlife with up-close encounters at Lincoln Park Zoo.

For more things to do, other places to visit, and other tourist information, read Chicago road trip planning tool.

You can fly from New York City to Chicago in 4 hours. Other options are to drive; or take a bus. The time zone difference when traveling from New York City to Chicago is minus 1 hour. Expect a bit cooler evenings in Chicago when traveling from New York City in July, with lows around 22°C. Wrap up your sightseeing on the 7th (Mon) to allow time to fly back home.