DAY HIKES
American Writers Museum
Chicago, IL
April 9, 10, 2026
April 9, 10, 2026
4-hours
NOTE!
Afternoon Start Ogilvie at 1:20PM
$25.00 + $12 discount museum entry
Difficulty rating
Miles
Approximately 2 miles
Terrain
Walking the Chicago sidewalks and Riverwalk from Ogilvie train station to the museum and back.
For some, English class might have been boring... l guarantee you won't be bored at this museum. There's something for everyone. It's a 4.8 on Trip Advisor and #13 of 1,656 things to do in Chicago.
The first of it's kind in the nation. It covers 400 years of American writing of all genres, depicted by a history timeline, a word waterfall; and a "bookshelf" that includes, sounds, smells, videos, and dioramas. There are vintage typewriters that famous writers used, and then remember old times of White-Out and jammed ribbons with vintage typewriters you can use. Show your knowledge and writing skills or learn with the 1 or 2 player interactive games. Finally there’s a section at the end specifically about Chicago writers’ and their impact on the world.
Washroom
Two options:
-The restroom on the main floor, Madison street. Look for signs.
-Bathrooms on the train station’s lower level (where the French Market is) on the east end of that lower level. When you disembark the train look to your right or left for the stairway. (More detailed description…The stairway is midway on the disembarking walkway. If you’re at the front of the train walk towards the back of the train, to the north. If you’re at the back of the train, walk towards the station.)
What to Bring
Water
Emergency Medical Information form filled out, kept in your bag
Clothing layers as needed
Sturdy walking shoes
Optional French Market
After going to the museum, we walk back to Ogilvie and can visit the French Market before boarding your train home.
Founded in 2009, the Chicago French Market came about with the movement in America to support local food systems and bring back the European-inspired marketplace — providing you with year-round, permanent access to their local bounty.
The Bensidoun Family is proud to bring together a unique collection of 30 + local vendors that were hand selected for their individual passions and high-quality products. You will find best-of-the-best from Chicago’s melting pot neighborhoods. The Chicago French Market is largely comprised of entrepreneurs, family-owned businesses and accomplished purveyors presenting foods from around the world.
It’s located in the northwest corner on the lower floor, below the actual trains.
Times
We meet by 1:20 pm near Hudson Booksellers near the Madison street doors at the south end and begin our walk at 1:30.
As a courtesy to all women, please arrive early, as we will begin promptly. Our return trip on the Metra UP- NW train is at 4:15, or you may choose to stay longer in the city on your own.
Let’s Fully Savor the Fun
We ask you kindly to silence your phones and keep conversations positive.
Weather
We have fun in all kinds of weather, so we rarely postpone. If we do cancel a hike, you will receive an email before 8am on the day of your hike.
You Will Learn
Unique facts about American writers, see the actual typewriters of some of those famous writers and see what authors came from which states.
Driving Directions
Meet at Ogilvie Transportation Center
500 West Madison Street
Chicago, IL 60661
We will meet on the ground floor, in the lobby facing Madison Street at 1:15 pm. Meet near the Hudson Booksellers store.
(Those from the Northwest Suburbs can ride the train on the UP-NW 648 line, leaving Palatine at 12:12)
Discussion Starter Question
What part of the museum resonated with you the most?
Guides
Kathryn aka “Laughing Ocean”
Quote of the day
“Do not lose hold of your dreams or aspirations. For if you do, you may still exist but you have ceased to live.” - Henry David Thoreau
Cancellations
If you desire to cancel your day hike, you can reschedule for a different hike within the same season:
Please email hello@trailboundtrip.com, and state your name, and desired new hike day.
You will receive confirmation for this new day hike if there is room on the trip.
Refunds
Refunds are given when Trailbound Trips cancels a hike. Trailbound Trips will cancel and refund a hike for two reasons:
There needs to be a minimum of five people. You will be notified 24 hours in advance if this is the case.
The weather is dangerous or not bearable. You will be notified before 8 a.m. on the day of the hike via email.