Explore the Chicago Route before the 3-Day 

The 3-Day is coming to the Windy City! Known for its stunning architecture, cultural landmarks, and vibrant neighborhoods, Chicago offers an endless array of experiences to explore on foot. Together, we’ll get to explore the city’s iconic attractions, beautiful suburbs, and hidden gems. Lace up your walking shoes and let’s embark on an unforgettable journey through the heart of Chicago. 

Day 1   

To kick off the 3-Day, we’ll delve into the heart of downtown Chicago and take in its stunning skyline, lakefront trails, and cultural landmarks. From the hotel, we’ll begin at the renowned Shedd Aquarium, where you can immerse yourself in the wonders of the underwater world. Make your way to the picturesque Lakefront Trail which offers breathtaking views of Lake Michigan, for the perfect opportunity to enjoy the refreshing breeze and admire the city skyline. It’s a perfect spot for a selfie! 

Cross the Chicago River and bear witness to the city’s famous bridges and the lively activity on the Riverwalk. Capture stunning photos and embrace the energy of the city as you head north to the Magnificent Mile, a shopper’s paradise featuring upscale boutiques and department stores. Marvel at the architectural splendor as you walk along this bustling stretch of Michigan Avenue.  

Venture north to Lincoln Park, a sprawling urban oasis offering lush greenery, beautiful gardens, and the Lincoln Park Zoo. Take a moment to relax and recharge in this serene environment before continuing onward; this is what it’s all about! End your day at Wrigley Field, the beloved home of the Chicago Cubs. Even if it’s not a game day, soak in the atmosphere and snap a photo in front of this historic ballpark before resting up for Day 2. 

Day 2 

With the 3-Day in full swing, we’ll explore a never-before-seen route on Day 2! Step outside the bustling city center and start your day with a short bus ride to the quaint residential area of Highland Park. Filled with boutiques, restaurants, and local shops, you can browse through the unique offerings and savor the small-town charm. From here, make your way to Glencoe where you’ll see Skokie Lagoon, a hidden gem nestled within the forest preserves. This sanctuary provides an opportunity to reconnect with nature and enjoy the peaceful surroundings despite being just steps outside of the busy city. 

Continue through the picturesque suburb of Winnetka, where you’ll marvel at the historic homes and serene ambiance on the shores of Lake Michigan. In fact, one home in particular may bring a bit of nostalgia to movie fanatics. Standing proudly in this quintessential community is the notable house from the film Home Alone. This is the perfect chance to steep yourself in the magic of the film and capture memorable photos with this beloved cinematic landmark. Be sure that you don’t accidentally leave behind any of your teammates! 

Wrap up your day at the architectural masterpiece that is the Bahai House of Worship in Wilmette. Known as the “Temple of Light,” this spiritual hub boasts stunning gardens and intricate designs. Visitors from all walks of life are welcome at this breathtaking temple, where you can absorb the principles of unity, harmony, and the advancement of social progress. What an enlightening way to finish Day 2!

Day 3 

To wrap up our 3-Day journey in Chicago, we’ll explore some of the Midwest’s most eclectic neighborhoods which offer a blend of history, culture, and vibrant energy. We’ll start in the trendy West Loop neighborhood, known for its culinary delights and artistic flair. Full of art galleries and renowned eateries, these lively streets are sure to inspire you on your final stretch to 60 miles. With motivation in tow, continue your trek to Wicker Park, a hotspot of creativity and hipster culture. This trendy neighborhood offers a diverse mix of independent shops, street art, and cozy cafes. 

Soon, you’ll find yourself back at the Chicago River where you can absorb the picturesque views of Chi-Town once more. Take a final moment to appreciate the city’s architectural marvels, the dynamic atmosphere surrounding the waterway, and reminisce on the incredible journey you’ve partaken in. Finally, no visit to Chicago is complete without a stop at Millennium Park where you can admire the famous Cloud Gate sculpture, affectionately known as “The Bean.” Capture some incredible pictures in front of this landmark and take in all of the charm that this city has to offer before heading to the Finish Line Festival. 

All in all, Chicago is an incredibly captivating city to explore on foot! These 3-Day walking routes allow you to experience the best of downtown Chicago, its beautiful suburbs, and high-spirited neighborhoods, ensuring an unforgettable journey through the Windy City. So put on your walking shoes, embrace the urban charm, and create lasting memories in the dynamic city of Chicago. 

2023 3-Day New England Crew Impact Award Winners: Kris and Ken K. 

Meet Kris and Ken K., “The TuTu Brothers”, our New England Crew Impact Award Winners!  

For 15 years, brothers Kris and Ken K. have been participating in the 3-Day as crew members, raising a combined total of almost $15,000. This power duo shows up year after year to honor their mother and provide support to 3-Day walkers. Get to know their impact below! 

What was your inspiration to do your first 3-Day? 

Our inspiration to get involved with the 3-Day stems from our mom. Back in 2006, she was diagnosed with inflammatory breast cancer, a very rare and aggressive form of the disease. After multiple rounds of chemo, surgeries, and radiation, she was given a clean bill of health. In 2008, our family life was getting back to normal when we, as a family, knew it was time to pay it forward and get involved anyway possible with fighting this disease. Little did we know that getting involved would lead to the 3-Day, which has changed all of our lives for the better. 

What has brought you back to the 3-Day year after year? 

What keeps us coming back is the inability to stop coming year after year. To be given the chance to be surrounded by our heroes and extended family makes it hard to stay away. And, of course, the need to keep fighting for the cures. 

What is your favorite aspect of crewing the 3-Day?  

There are so many favorite aspects of crewing for us, including spending time with each other, the rest of our family, and certainly our 3-Day family. 

What is your best advice to anyone crewing the 3-Day?  

Be ready to work hard and have a good time doing it! The days may be long, but being able to support the walkers makes the day go by fast. The walkers? Yeah, they love the crew, and it shows. We love them right back. 

What’s a fun fact about you?  

Ken: I am an Architectural Project Manager and have worked on projects in/been to 48 states. Kris: I’m the Technical Director and ADA coordinator for a small theatre company in Burlington, NJ. 

What are the most important lessons you’ve learned on the 3-Day? 

The most important lesson for us is to be reminded that there are a lot of good people in the world doing good things. With so much negativity around us, it’s important to know that in your own part of the world, the best people are the ones you surround yourself with and do good things with. 

Jen R. is the 2023 New England Milestone Award Winner!

Meet Jen R., our New England Milestone Award Winner!  

Over the past 14 years, Jen has participated in 15 3-Day events, walking in honor of her best friend, Lori, who lost her battle many years ago. She has been described as a ball of energy when it comes to raising money for the cause, bringing in a whopping $144,904.05 in contributions to breast cancer research and treatment. Her friends and family describe her as a loving, caring and devoted person who will not stop until the cures are found. Since the passing of her best friend, Jen stepped up to help be there for Lori’s three boys and has always treated them as her own. She puts a lot of time into raising money so that others will not have to go through what Lori went through before she passed. Described as having a heart of gold, Jen has volunteered for many activities that will help make the New England 3-Day a success. Get to know this year’s New England Milestone Award Winner.  

What was your inspiration to do your first 3-Day???  

My best friend, Lori, was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2005 and walked in 2006 after treatment. She planned on walking in 2007, but her cancer metastasized, and she was too sick. She passed a month after the Boston 3-Day that year. I wanted to walk the 3-Day in her memory, but honestly didn’t know if I would be strong enough. I’ve never looked back since my first walk in 2008. 

What has brought you back to the 3-Day year after year?   

I walk for Lori, I walk for the cures, I walk because I believe in Komen’s mission. But the 3-Day is more than those things. The Pink Bubble can change you; it can help heal your soul. It did for me, and that is why the 3-Day has become such an important part of my life. Lori was my best friend and cousin, but we were like sisters. She was my person. When she passed, I knew I had to be strong and present for her three boys, who I lovingly call my nephews, but I had lost meaning in my world. The 3-Day gave me back that meaning when I needed it most. I will continue to participate until there are cures – for Lori, for her boys, for everyone who has lost someone or is going through this fight. 

What is the secret to your 3-Day fundraising success?   

First, I have an AMAZING support system of friends and family who don’t turn their back on me even though I ask them for donations year after year. At this point, I think they all know I’m a 3-Day Lifer and will be asking for donations. The key is to ask. Second, the team that formed around Lori, Lori’s Breast Friends, hosts fundraising events like an annual golf tournament and divides the proceeds among the team members each year. The golf tournament is hard work, but it’s always a great time and a great success. There, too, we have loyal participants who show up year after year. We had one team travel from Colorado to Massachusetts this year to make the tournament! 

What is your best advice to anyone walking the 3-Day?   

The best advice I can give to a 3-Day participant, whether walker or crew (I’ve done both), is to enjoy the journey. The 3-Day is different for everyone because we all have our own story and our own 3-Day. You might walk the entire thing, you might sweep, you might work at a pit stop — it’s all a beautiful journey and part of your story. I’ve actually tried to take a little bit of that philosophy into my non-Pink Bubble life — appreciate the journey. 

What’s a fun fact about you?

I am an avid Boston University Men’s Ice Hockey fan. In fact, I usually only post on Facebook about the 3-Day/my fundraising or to share my feelings about how the hockey team is doing. I am a season ticket holder and have taken my nephews to games since they were little. I’m proud that they are all Terriers fans! 

What are the most important lessons you’ve learned on the 3-Day?   

This goes back to my advice for participants — enjoy the journey. I think that’s a great way we can bring the Pink Bubble to the rest of the world year-round.