Conjoined Twins Take a Weekend Road Trip! | Abby and Brittany Explore Chicago

A Special Journey Begins

With graduation looming and life’s next chapter just around the corner, Abby and Brittany Hensel, together with their close friends, decided to hit pause on their busy schedules and take a weekend getaway to Chicago—the Windy City famous for its vibrant atmosphere, iconic deep-dish pizza, and breathtaking skyline views. For Abby and Brittany, every trip is more than just an adventure; it’s a testament to their confidence, independence, and the optimism that defines them, even as conjoined twins.

“We’re Abby and Brittany, 22 years old. People have been curious about us since we were born, but our parents always taught us: don’t use being different as an excuse to give up on anything. We believe we can do anything, and we try to prove it every day.”

Packing Up – Small Challenges, Big Joys

The end of the school year is always hectic—graduation, job hunting, house searching. Abby, Brittany, and their friends Katie, Erin, and Kristen decided to set all worries aside, pile into the car, and head for Chicago. Packing became an art form as they tried to fit a week’s worth of clothes and shoes into a single suitcase. Laughter filled the air as they argued about who was the best packer, who would drive, and who got to choose the music.

Abby and Brittany both have their own driver’s licenses—each passed the test individually. Abby controls the gas and brakes; Brittany handles the turn signals. Their seamless teamwork leaves friends in awe: “I have no idea how they do it. Driving is so much instinct, but they have to communicate and share every action!”

Chicago – A City of New Experiences

After a long drive, the group finally arrived, tired but excited. The first night at the hotel was all about resting up for the adventures ahead.

Segways – A Unique Balancing Act

One of the highlights was riding Segways around the city. With their unique physical structure, Abby and Brittany had to figure out how to balance on the Segway—a challenge that took patience and creativity. Brittany often stands on her tiptoes to match Abby’s height, and coordinating their movements required real teamwork. Though a bit wobbly at first, they tackled the challenge with enthusiasm and determination.

Weather Surprises

Trusting the forecast, the group packed tank tops and summer clothes, only to be greeted by chilly winds. Emergency sweatshirts became their saviors, and everyone laughed at how “naive” they were for believing Chicago’s unpredictable weather.

Chicago’s Famous Deep Dish Pizza

No trip to Chicago is complete without trying deep-dish pizza! The group found a popular pizzeria and ordered a medium pie—half spinach, half meat. The thick, cheesy slices were so filling that most could only manage one piece. Abby and Brittany described the quirky sensation: “If Abby has a stomachache, Brittany doesn’t feel it, and vice versa. Our bodies can be hot or cold on different sides—it’s fascinating!”

Skydeck – Conquering 103 Floors of Heights

The biggest thrill was visiting the Skydeck at Willis Tower—a glass ledge jutting out from the 103rd floor, over 1,400 feet above the ground. Brittany is afraid of heights, but she bravely stepped out with Abby. The group took photos, pretended to fly, and enjoyed the dizzying view. These moments weren’t just personal milestones—they were proof of Abby and Brittany’s shared courage: “Sometimes one of us doesn’t want to do something, but because the other does, we both experience it together.”

Millennium Park – The Iconic ‘Bean’

No Chicago trip is complete without a stop at “The Bean”—the city’s famous reflective sculpture. Abby, Brittany, and their friends struck poses and snapped creative photos, capturing the essence of their youth and friendship.

Winding Down – Cherishing Simple Moments

After a packed day, the group returned to their hotel, exhausted but happy. They painted their nails, shared stories, and reflected on the bittersweet reality that college—and the constant presence of friends—was coming to an end. As graduation approached, they treasured every moment together, knowing that life’s next steps might take them in different directions.

A Weekend to Remember

Abby and Brittany’s Chicago adventure was more than a road trip—it was a celebration of friendship, resilience, and the joy of living fully, no matter the circumstances. Through every challenge and laugh, they reminded everyone around them that the most amazing thing about them isn’t how they’re different, but how they embrace life just like everyone else.

“We may not get many chances to take trips like this again, so we’re grateful for every memory. It was a great trip, and we’re glad we did it together.”

Thanks for joining us on this journey! Don’t forget—life’s greatest adventures are the ones you share with friends.