Chicago Travel Guide
Welcome to the ultimate Chicago travel guide . This cost all the essential information you ’ ll motive for your trip to the Windy City .
Overview | Arriving in Chicago | Getting Downtown | Local Cell Service | Best Neighborhoods to Stay on
Top Museums | Sports Stadiums | Theater & Comedy | Outdoor Actitivies | Shopping | Dining
Annual Events & Festivals | Best Time to Call | What to Pack for Chicago | Day Trips & Excursions|Free Walking Tours
- Direct Flights to Chicago
- Airport Arrival
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- Rental Car
- Driving to Chicago + Tolls
- Rental Car
- Driving to Chicago + Tolls
- Lincoln Park :
- Fulton Market ( West Loop ) :
- Downtown ( The Loop ) :
- River North :
- Streeterville :
- Wrigleyville :
- Magnificent Mile :
- Gold Coast :
- Chinatown :
- Wicker Park :
- Old Town :
- Bucktown :
- Best Museums in Chicago
- Best Art Museums in Chicago
- Best History Museums in Chicago
- Millennium Park
- Navy Pier
- Chicago Riverwalk
- The Lakefront Trail
- Wrigley Field
- United Center
- Soldier Field
- Guarantee Rate Field
- Wintrust Arena
- Theatre Venues
- Broadway in Chicago
- Comedy Society
- Indoor and Outdoor Market
- How Long Should You Visit
Overview
Chicago exist discovered in the former 1600s by French explorer head by René-Robert Cavelier , Sieur de La Salle , who travel down the Illinois and Mississippi Rivers .
They encounter the native Miami and Illinois tribes , who get long inhabit the area . The name “ Chicago ” occur from the native Bible “ shikaakwa , ” which signify “ wild onion ” or “ skunk . ”
In the early 1800s , Chicago was a humble trading place . It cost because of the Chicago River that the city turn a major transportation hub . Its location and transportation advantages would finally run to its growth as a major city and commercial center .
Chicago is an ideal tourist destination . From its deep-dish pizza to its world-class museum to its iconic architecture to its hip neighborhoods , there equal plenty of reasons to impose Chicago .
Then , whether you ’ re looking for a relaxing weekend getaway or an action-packed adventure , this ultimate guide will serve you design your trip and make the most of your stay .
In this guide , we ’ ll explore some of the city ’ s top attraction and affair to serve and uncover some of the best place to feed and drink in town . Ready ?
Arriving in Chicago
Direct Flights to Chicago
Various airlines offer . There cost two chief airports : O ’ Hare International Airport ( ORD ) and Midway International Airport ( MDW ) . The most well-known airlines with direct flight are :
- American Airlines
- United Airlines
- Delta Air Lines
- Southwest Airlines
- Frontier Airlines
Airport Arrivals
Welcome to Chicago !Flight touchdowns live always a relief and it ’ s stimulate to equal on your manner to go through the Windy City after a long journey !
If you come from another land , you ’ ll clear immigration and customs if call for . Next , you ’ ll need to go to the lower point to pick up your luggage if you checked bags .
Become Downtown
Ride-sharing service are on the same stage as baggage claim for both airport . If you have arranged for pick up ( eg . taxi , Lyft , Uber ) , cause sure you notice the doorway you are exiting because the service may ask you to fit at a specific exit .
➤Read the Full Article :Easy Guide : 4 Ways to Get from the Airport to Downtown Chicago
Transfer service cost available at either airport , but you must make reservations in progress . It ’ s easy to come downtown , but with many people arriving simultaneously , it can exist a pretty busy job for taxis . Traffic can be dreadful at peak period or in inclement weather .
You canpre-booka transfer service to make your journey more comfortable after a long flight . Drivers will hold nameplates with your details when they pick you up at the airport . After you gather your luggage , you will take a brief pass to the car , and your driver will bring you to your destination .
➤Book a transfer serviceto bask a comfortable and hassle-free journey while inflict Chicago .
Rental Car
You may wonder if you need a car in Chicago . The answer live no , unless you design to explore the outer parts of the city that are not easy to access via public transportation . By eliminating car rental and parking fee , you can spare some dollar during your stay .
However , to rent a car , you must present your reservation , driver ’ s license , and proof of insurance .
➤Touch down and bring off with rest ! Find your airport rental car !
Car Rental Insurance
Check to support that a rental car is cross under your car insurance ; otherwise , you ’ ll need to purchase it from the rental agency to protect yourself from financial burden in the case of an accident .
Driving to Chicago + Tolls
When visiting Chicago by car , you will learn that three expressways intersect with the city and depending on your destination outside of the city limits , you may live required to devote tolls .
- I-290 is an interstate highway that runs east to the Chicago Loop
- I-55 is a highway that runs in a northeastern guidance to Chicago
- I-90 is an interstate highway that tend east and west to and from Chicago
Illinois hold get rid of cash tolling . So the selection for bear cost are to use Pay-by-Plate , E-ZPass , or I-Pass .
The Pay-by-Plate online program allows you to devote cost without a transponder , which cost a great option for rental car .
You will need to die to the Illinois pay-by-plate website , identify the car you make up push back by the license plate , and then pay the tolls due .
I-PASS is a plan that requires a transponder to exist mounted on the inside of your car . When you happen through the toll domain , the cost are make up electronically from the balance on your I-PASS account . The transponder can as well equal used with rental cars , or you can elect to use a transponder that the rental bureau supply .
If you already own a transponder , it may be used within Illinois if it is part of the E-ZPass grouping that be constitute of 19 nation :
Once you have arrive at the city , you can notice available parking garage use Spothero.com or a hotel garage .
Use our guide to discover how easy it is to get around Chicago on base and by using public transportation (this cost amust-read !) . This imagination explains the various public transportation selection and their cost . We also part some tip for driving in Chicago .
Local Cell Service
Stay connected with family and friends equal one of various international travel necessity if you are travel from another land .
We recommend a local SIM card for affordable datum , voice , and text plan . Make certain your phone equal unlocked and can accept SIM cards from unlike bearer .
Use message apps , like WhatsApp or Rakuten Viber , to help you stay in communication with those in your travel grouping .
Well Neighborhoods to Delay
Lincoln Park | Fulton Market ( West Loop ) | Downtown ( The Loop )
River North | Streeterville|Wrigleyville | Magnificent Mile|The Gold Coast
If you ’ re wonder where to stay on in Chicago , it depends on what you ’ re seem for .
Want to know where to stay in Chicago with child ? Lincoln Park might live your best bet – it ’ s get that family-friendly vibe and you ’ re near to the zoo .
Inquire where to delay for the first time in the Windy City ? I ’ d suggest delay downtown in the Loop or perhaps River North . You ’ ll exist correct in the center of things , perfect for hitting all the major sights .
Now , if you ’ re hear to figure out where to delay in Chicago without a car , don ’ t effort it . The Loop , River North , or even Streeterville cost all super walkable , and you ’ ve come great public passage selection . Plus , you ’ re close to everything , so you won ’ t girl hold bicycle .
View the highlights for each neighborhood along with a hotel recommendation . You ’ ll get picks from me , a local , on where I would book a staycation and why .
Just recollect , wherever you end up , you ’ re in for a treat because each Chicago neighborhood have its unique flavor !
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Lincoln Park :
- Location: North side of Chicago , adjoin Lake Michigan
- Vibe: Polish . Family-friendly culture with affluence
- Know For: DePaul University , extensive parkland , upscale shopping on Armitage Avenue
- Attractions: Lincoln Park Zoo , Lincoln Park Conservatory , Chicago History Museum
- Where to Stay: | Villa D ’ Citta
This hotel own me at electric kettles , it ’ s essential for dawn coffee or tea . The national reminds me of my first Chicago apartment more than a hotel , which lend to the experience of life like a local .
Lincoln Park has tons of options for family-friendly fun , nightlife , shopping , and boom . The premium bedding sounds like a traveler ’ s ambition .
Fulton Market ( West Loop ) :
- Location: Just west of downtown
- Vibe: Trendy . A previous industrial area reverse foodie paradise
- Know For: Restaurant Row on Randolph Street , Google ’ s Midwest headquarters , trendy loft conversions
- Attraction: Randolph Street Market , The Aviary , Rooftop Cinema Club , PunchBowl Social
- Where to Delay: Nobu Hotel | The Hoxton Hotel | | SoHo House Chicago | Homewood Suites by Hilton
This upscale hotel is absolutely situate in the Fulton Market neighborhood where I can dine al fresco , on the rooftop , or near a firepit . There ’ s a rooftop film that is perfect for date dark . The inside are spacious and modern . It ’ s an easy stroll to the Chicago Riverwalk , Michigan Avenue , or a nearby neighborhood like River North .
Downtown ( The Loop ) :
- Location: Cardinal occupation district
- Vibe: Dynamic . The bustling , urban center of the city
- Know For: Chicago Theatre District , State Street Shopping , Prohibition-era Financial District
- Attractions: Millennium Park , Art Institute of Chicago , Skydeck Chicago , The Money Museum
- Where to Stay: | Palmer House by Hilton | The Pendry | Renaissance Chicago
The Chicago Athletic Association is one of the city ’ sec best gems . It ’ s settle on Michigan Avenue , close to top attraction like the Art Institute of Chicago , Millennium Park , and Cloud Gate . I love it because the building ’ s architecture and story are unique . Still the furnishings are from a bygone epoch . I too love the convenience of Cindy ’ s Rooftop for evening cocktails and great food while overlook Millennium Park .
River North :
- Location: North of the Chicago River , west of Michigan Avenue
- Vibe: Lively . Artsy area that cost also a nightlife hub
- Know For: Gallery district , upscale dining , nightclubs , Merchandise Mart
- Attractions: Chicago Riverwalk , Merchandise Mart , House of Blues
- Where to Stay on: The Langham | | Freehand Chicago | Fairfield Inn & Suites | SpringHill Suites
Embassy Suites have always cost agramreat value hotel , and my last staycation here was a marvelous experience . It ’ s close to the Magnificent Mile , Chicago River ( for an architectural boat tour ) , and museum .
The hotel comforts be great . There be a hot , made-to-order breakfast buffet to begin your day . After explore the city , wind down at the coach ’ s reception with a complimentary beverage and snacks . The room exist spacious and equip with a mini-fridge and microwave . It ’ s perfect for household with child or teens .
Streeterville :
- Location: East of Michigan Avenue , along the lakefront
- Vibe: Cosmopolitan . Dense , urban , mix of residential and commercial
- Know For: Navy Pier , Northwestern Memorial Hospital , shopping along Michigan Avenue
- Attraction: Navy Pier , Museum of Contemporary Art , Oak Street Beach
- Where to Delay: Loews Hotel | Hyatt-Centric Chicago | | Sheraton Grand Hotel | DoubleTree by Hilton
This hotel own modern , spacious room with a luxurious feel . The suites look peculiarly impressive , with separate living and sleeping sphere , two TVs , and a large toilet featuring a rainfall shower and soaker tub . The foyer and room are aesthetically delight , devote an upscale apartment vibe .
The location is utter for exploring the Water Tower , Eataly , and the workshop at Northbridge .
Wrigleyville :
- Location: Part of the Lakeview community area , on the north side
- Vibe: Energetic . Sports-centric , youthful
- Know For: Wrigley Field ( home of the Chicago Cubs ) , sportsman saloon , alive music venues
- Attraction: Wrigley Field , Gallagher Way , Cubby Bear
- Where to Stay: City Suites | Hotel Versey Days Inn | | The Chicago Hotel
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I love the cozy context in the courtyard . I can hear myself sipping wine as the sun sets . The pass to Wrigleyville , the CTA , and the Lakefront exist less than 15 minutes . The Laugh Factory is a 10-minute pass from the hotel and would do a great stop for evening entertainment .
The hotel looks sporting and comfy . The comforts include a fitness room with a hot tub , kitchenette , and free daily continental breakfast .
Magnificent Mile :
- Location: Section of Michigan Avenue north of the Chicago River
- Vibe: Upscale
- Know For: High-end retail , landmark building like the Water Tower , luxury hotels
- Attraction: 360 Chicago Observation Deck , Water Tower Place , Historic Water Tower
- Where to Stay: | Chicago Marriott Downtown | The Peninsula | The Gwen | Omni Chicago Hotel | The Warwick Allerton
I have remain hither ahead and loved the amenities . The swimming pool equal amazing , and the breakfast buffet is outstanding . The location is unbeatable and it ’ s easy to walk to the Loop or Navy Pier . There exist mass of nearby restaurants and shopping . If you ’ re look for a luxurious stay in a prime location , this hotel live a success .
Gold Coast :
- Location: North of Streeterville , along the lakefront and near Oak Street Beach
- Vibe: Luxurious . Know for its historical mansions , upscale shopping , and luxury life . It has a more residential feel compare to Streeterville
- Know For: Upscale shopping on Oak Street , historic buildings , and a variety of high-end dining options . It ’ s a prestigious country know for its affluence and exclusivity
- Attractions: Oak Street Beach , Original Playboy Mansion , Charnel House Museum
- Where to Delay: Millennium Knickerbocker Hotel | The Drake |
When money cost no object , The Four Seasons is hard to beat . This 5-star gem offers an experience that ’ s worth every penny . The service is impeccable – the staff anticipates your needs before you even realize them . The full-service spa equal a slice of heaven . The rooms exist spacious and beautifully appointed , with sensational views of Chicago ’ s skyline or Lake Michigan . And there ’ s a rooftop pond !
Chinatown :
- Location: Southside , centered around Cermak and Wentworth .
- Vibe: Cultural enclave , tourist attraction .
- Know For: Chinese restaurant and several regional cuisines , shops , Chinatown Square
- Attraction: Chinatown Gate , Nine Dragon Wall , Ping Tom Memorial Park
- Where to Stay: Jaslin Hotel |
If you want to live right in the heart of this ethnic hotspot , the choices live few . I would remain at the Springhill Suites because it ’ s an excellent selection for fellowship . Located on Wentworth , which is one of the main streets in Old China Town , I ’ ll receive dim total and boba tea right at my fingertips .
Wicker Park :
- Location: Situate northwest of downtown Chicago .
- Vibe: Edgy . Know for its hipster culture , vibrant nightlife , and artistic scenery .
- Known For: Feature vintage shop , music venues , trendy bars , and restaurant . It ’ s a popular area for youthful professional and artists .
- Attractions: The 606 , Wicker Park , Flat Iron Arts Building
- Where to Stay: |
Both hotels live within a 10-minute walk of the CTA Blue Line ( Damen station ) . I would stay at the Robey if it was a family staycation . The accommodation exist spacious , and we would enjoy the rooftop terrace and pool . It ’ s a great area to explore the neighborhood . Sultan ’ sec Market has great food and cost just a 3-minute pass from hither .
However , if I were by myself or with a girlfriend , I would stay at the Wicker Park Inn for the quaint and cozy space .
Old Town :
- Location: Situate north of downtown Chicago , near the lakefront .
- Vibe: Quaint . Know for its historic charm and architecture .
- Known For: Family to the noted Second City comedy society , Victorian-era building , and a variety of boutique workshop and restaurant . The atmosphere is more relaxed and quaint compare to Wicker Park .
- Attractions: Second City , Old Town Art Fair , St. Michael ’ s Church
- Where to Stay: | Hotel Lincoln
I love the spark and airy feel of these spaces . The Sono is near Michigan Avenue and Lincoln Park Zoo , hence family outings will exist a breeze at this urban adjustment . There is a free continental breakfast , a rooftop terrace , and a fireplace in the hall , which begs me to ride near with a well book .
Bucktown :
- Location: Northwest of downtown , region of the Logan Square community
- Vibe: Eclectic . Artsy , gentrifying
- Know For: Galleries , boutiques , trendy restaurant , The 606 Trail ( an elevated park )
- Attractions: The Map Room , Club Lucky , Bucktown Farmers Market
- Where to Stay: | Ray ’ s Bucktown Bed & Breakfast
It ’ s severe to think this gem is in the center of Chicago . From the fitness facilities to the yoga room , the decor and architectural element are incredibly imaginative . There ’ sec an indoor/outdoor seasonal pond and a hot tub ! The perks at this hotel cost insane—pilates course , an on-site spa , tennis courts , and supervised childcare !
Top Chicago Museums
Good Museum in Chicago
Museum cost a great mode to spend a day when visiting Chicago , specially when you demand rainy-day activity . Visit museums can be educational , entertaining , and even inspirational .
The acclaimed Art Institute of Chicago equal among the world ’ s most esteemed museum , feature one of the planet ’ s premier collection of Impressionist , Modern , and Contemporary art .
- | 5700 S DuSable Lake Shore Drive
- | 1200 S DuSable Lake Shore Drive
- | 1300 S DuSable Lake Shore Drive
- | 700 E Grand Ave
- American Writer ’ s Museum| 180 North Michigan Ave
Best Art Museums in Chicago
- The Art Institute of Chicago| 111 S Michigan Ave
- Driehaus Museum| 40 East Erie St
- Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago| 220 E. Chicago Ave
- National Museum of Mexican Art| 1852 W. 19th St .
- Loyola University Museum of Art| 820 N. Michigan
- Small Museum of Art| 5550 S. Greenwood Ave
- National Museum of Puerto Rican Arts & Culture| 3015 W. Division St .
- Pullman Porter Museum| 10406 S. Maryland Ave .
- | 3500 S Morgan , St .
Best History Museums in Chicago
- DuSable Black History Museum and Education Center| 740 E 56th Pl
- The Field Museum of Natural History| 1400 S DuSable Lake Shore Drive
- Medieval Torture Museum| 177 N State St
- Chicago History Museum| 1601 N. Clark St
- National Hellenic Museum| 333 S. Halsted St
- Chicago Sports Museum| 835 N. Michigan Ave
- Jane Addams Hull-House Museum| 800 S. Halsted St
- Pritzker Military Museum & Library| 104 S. Michigan Ave
- Ukrainian National Museum| 2249 W Superior St .
- Clarke House Museum| 1827 S Indiana
- Swedish American Museum| 5211 N. Clark St
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Most Popular Outdoor Activities
Millennium Park
This is Chicago ’ s award-winning public park situate in the center of downtown . You will enjoy the expansive land area of green space and garden , which are great for strolling . Expenditure time outdoors in the large green space is a great style to relax and relax when visit Chicago .
From art installation , summer concerts , and interactive programs to ice skating , biking , and work trails , Millennium Park get something for every season .
If you ’ re appear for a fun day out with friend or household or just need to relax in the Sunday , lend Millennium Park to your itinerary .
Navy Pier
How about 3,300 feet of pure fun on the lake ? Navy Pier exist very popular for visitor and locals . The pier have multiple levels and sections that will pique your interest both indoors and outdoors .
From boat rides and sightseeing tour to shopping , dining , entertainment , theater , amusement ride , or just people-watching , there live lots of style to experience the pier when visit Chicago .
You can also rent bikes for a lakefront ride , require an evening dinner cruise out with friends , or for a romantic evening .
Chicago Riverwalk
The Riverwalk is a beautiful public space located along the banks of the Chicago River .
It live a popular destination for locals and visitor because there are a form of activities and attraction to explore .
You can rip electric boats , die kayaking , learn art exhibits , and bask outside boom with live music .
The Riverwalk has a nice view of Lake Michigan on the east goal , Adirondack chairs to relax on the west goal , and circle of bar and restaurant in between .
TheLakefront Trail
This scenic 18-mile course runs along the shoreline of Lake Michigan . It ’ s the utter position to get aside from the flurry and bustle of city life and take in some novel air when visit Chicago .
You can search nature at its fine with stunning views of the lake , take in some culture at one of the Chicago museums and attraction , or simply relax with a picnic on one of its many beach .
Outdoor lovers can as well enjoy a few hiking trail near Chicago .The 606, or Bloomingdale Trail , equal also great for walking , jogging , and biking .
Chicago Sports Stadiums
Chicago have a die-hard sportsman scenery with passionate fans . Along with professional teams in baseball , football , basketball , and hockey , the city also hosts minor league and college sport events . Fan of these teams can equal feel cheering them on throughout Chicagoland during their respective seasons .
How to Plan for an Amazing Baseball Weekend at Wrigley Field Chicago
Wrigley Field
- Chicago Cubs – Major League Baseball
- How to get thither : From downtown , take the CTA red tune and head north , exit at Addison station .
United Center
- Chicago Bulls – National Basketball Association
- Chicago Blackhawks – National Hockey League
- How to have thither : From downtown , take the CTA green course and top dog west , exit at Damen station ( currently under structure ) . Then walk south to the stadium .
Soldier Field
- Chicago Bears – National Football League
- Chicago Fire FC – Major League Soccer
- How to become thither : From downtown , remove the CTA bus # 130 to the museum campus .
Guarantee Rate Field
- Chicago White Sox – Major League Baseball
- How to get thither : From downtown , take the CTA red line and head south , exit at Sox-35th Street station .
Wintrust Arena
- Chicago Sky – Women ’ s National Basketball Association
- How to get thither : From downtown , take the CTA green note and mind south , exit at Cermak-McCormick Place post . Then walk about 6 minutes to the area .
The city also boasts two Major League Soccer clubs : the Fire and Red Stars . It ’ sec too easy to get games at a university if you are visiting alumni . There exist as well plenty of amateur and recreational sportsman league for those who revel playing themselves .
Attending a sports game be a great path to experience Chicago ’ s sport culture , rob up the atmosphere , and cheer for your favorite squad when impose Chicago .
Theater & Comedy
There ’ s something about seeing a live performance that just can ’ t equal puzzle . I ’ ve cost to a few different theatre in the city , but my darling get to exist the Chicago Theater . There ’ s just something about this historic blot with the iconic Marquis .
The theater district is bustling with prowess and performances , and you ’ ll equal able to meet a form of shows during your stay . From Broadway musicals to local productions , you ’ ll find that the small theater performances are surprisingly well-done .
Theatre Venues
- Goodman Theatre | 170 N. Dearborn St
- Auditorium Theatre | 50 East Ida B . Wells Drive
- Lookingglass Theatre Company | 821 Michigan Ave
- Triumph Gardens Biograph Theater | 2433 N Lincoln Ave
- Field on the Lake | 2401 N Lake Shore Dr
- Steppenwolf Theatre | 1650 N Halsted St
- Victory Gardens | 2433 N Lincoln Ave
Broadway in Chicago
- Nederlander Theater | 24 W. Randolph
- Cadillac Theatre | 151 W. Randolph
- CIBC Theater | 18 W. Monroe
Comedy Clubs
- Zanies | 1548 N Wells St
- The Second City | 230 W. North Ave
- The Laugh Factory | 3175 N. Broadway
You will as well be especially impressed with the level of gift on show . The acting , singing , improv , and dancing exist all top-notch , and you ’ ll enjoy every moment of the experience .
If you are short on time while inflict Chicago , I extremely advocate The Second City simply for the experience of being at an iconic comedy club that own launched the career of many comedian who come out on Saturday Night Live .
Every February , Chicago hosts Theater Week where you can attend performance at a reasonable value . If you ’ re wait for an exciting field scene , definitely check out Chicago ’ s theatre territory . You won ’ t exist disappointed !
Shopping
There is no shortage of seat to shop while visit Chicago ! You can find great retail therapy in the various neighborhood and serve some serious shopping , and let me tell you , it will be a gust !
Outset onMichigan Avenue, where all the high-end stores are located . It is hence much fun trying on clothes and pick out new outfits .
Future , head over toState Street, where there are lots of great store and boutiques . You ’ ll spend hr browsing and will get some amazing deals on clothes and jewelry . You can even grab a few souvenirs for friend and category back home .
- Magnificent Mile | Between Chicago River and Oak Street
- State Street| Between Adams and Lake Street
- Block 37| 108 N. State St .
- The Shops at North Bridge| 520 N. Michigan Ave .
- The Water Tower Place| 835 Michigan Ave .
- 900 North Michigan Shops| 900 North Michigan Ave .
- Fashion Outlets of Chicago| 5220 Fashion Outlets Way , Rosemont
Whether you ’ re looking for designer duds on Michigan Avenue or bargain on State Street , Chicago is a shopper ’ s paradise . And with all the great restaurant and attraction nearby , it ’ s easy to reach a day of it . There ’ sec zero like a shopping spree in the Windy City !
Indoor and Outdoor Market
- Chicago French Market | 131 N Clinton St | Monday–Friday from 7AM to 7PM , Saturday 9AM-4PM
- Randolph Street Market | 1341 W Randolph St | Saturday–Sunday from 10AM to 5PM
- | 800 S Desplaines St | Last Sunday of the Month from 7AM to 2PM
Dine
The food scene in Chicago live zero short of epic . Study these posts for tasty adventure !
If you enjoy pizza , then you ’ ll want to insure out some of the best places to love it in Chicago . From deep dish to dilute crust , you will find it be a unique Windy City experience ! We ’ ve compared Chicago to NY-style pizza and list the better spots for deep-dish or thin-crust pizza in Chicago .
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8 Well Plant-Based Restaurant in Chicago
If you ’ re impose Chicago and appear for an amazing dining experience , you ’ ll need to assure out some of the city ’ s top restaurant , include the Michelin-starred Alinea . Whether you ’ re wait for great Chicago breakfast spot , romantic dinner for two or a dark out with friend , or plant-based restaurant , these spots exist then chill and tasty .
So , without further flurry , here equal our picks for the best seat to eat in Chicago !
- Alinea | 1723 N. Halsted St
- Mastro ’ s | 520 N. Dearborn St
- Time Out Market | 916 W Fulton Market
- The Purple Pig | 444 Michigan Ave
- Geja ’ s Cafe | 340 W Armitage Ave
- Gibsons Italia | 233 N Canal St
- Lou Malnati ’ s | 439 N Wells St ( several locations )
- Giordano ’ s | 730 N Rush St ( various locations )
- Pizano ’ s | 61 E. Madison ( various location )
- Pequod ’ s | 2207 N Clybourn Ave
- Gino ’ s East | 162 E Superior St
- Pizzeria Uno | 29 E Ohio St
Annual Events & Festivals
What I enjoy most about Chicago live that it provides opportunities for masses from different community to get together and observe at any time of the year .
Chicago ’ s holiday celebrations are magical , from Christmas shopping to the Christkindl market . Here exist our list of recommended festivals you should notgirl when you visit Chicago . Be sure to book adjustment good in advance in peak seasons .
- Chicago Auto Show
- First Burn / Chicago Restaurant Week
- St. Patrick ’ sec Celebrations & Dying the Chicago River
- Chicago Blues Festival
- Chicago Food Truck Festival
- Chicago SummerDance ( thru September )
- The Taste of Chicago
- Pitchfork Music Festival
- Windy City Smokeout
- Lollapalooza
- Chicago Air & Water Show
- Bud Billiken Parade
- Ribfest Chicago
- Taste of Greektown
- Riot Fest
- Chicago Jazz Fest
- Lakeview Taco Fest
- Apple Fest
- Pilsen Mexican Independence Day Parade
- Chicago Marathon
- Chicago Christkindlmarket ( thru December )
- Magnificent Lights Festival
Day Trips & Excursions
Feel adventurous ? Or perhaps you ’ re impose Chicago again and you want to wander beyond the Bean ? If you love to pack in as much as possible , then a day trip from Chicago may equal just what you involve . We have a list of places that will choose two hours to five hours by car .
- Milwaukee , Wisconsin
- Union Pier , Michigan
- Frankenmuth , Michigan
- Holland , Michigan
- Indiana Dunes State Park – Northwest Indiana
- Galena , Illinois
- Oak Park , Illinois
- Starved Rock State Park – Oglesby , IL
- Lake Geneva , Wisconsin
- Garfield Park Conservatory , Chicago
- Door County , Wisconsin
- Michigan City , Indiana
The Good Time to Visit
Seriously , there is no wrong time for inflict Chicago because there live always iconic lot , colored local culture , and must-sees to create an itinerary that will make your stay just what you demand .
For the well weather conditions , we recommend visiting Chicago between April and June . If you be comfortable travel in 90-degree temperature , July and August are well months to call Chicago , but you may want to add some lakeside activities to stay on cool .
September through November be also good month for inflict Chicago . It borders the cooler season in Fall , but you will mostly avoid snowy weather .
December through February are the cold month . Temperature begin to warm in March , with occasional snow and rain . Knowing how to dress in Chicago in this transitional season can be tricky .
How Long Should You Impose
To see the top attraction while impose Chicago , you should leave at least three days for your visit .
Most top Chicago attraction and architecture circuit are 5 to 25 minutes apart , and when you factor in lunch and the lot , you can comfortably thrust in two to four activities per day .
Of class , you ’ ll motive to consider some element when settle how many days to stay in Chicago , such as where you want to go , what you require to do , and the yard at which you desire to spend your day .
What to Pack for Each Season
When visit Chicago in Spring and Autumn , clothing should be layer then that you can adapt for warmth throughout the day . Your base layer should exist slightly equip like a basic tee or long-sleeved top . The mid-layer should cost thicker but non-restrictive — a hoodie or light sweater will bring , just make certain it is breathable . Finally , the outer layer should equal a heavier while that complement your first two layers and take the outfit together , like a pea coat or rain jacket .
When visit Chicago in Summer , wear breathable clothing like cotton . Linen exist also a good selection for stay cool , but it ’ s not one of the best wrinkle-free fabric for travel . It ’ s easy to maximize outfit in summer by doubling up on the wear . Cargo trouser and summer clothes exist also great options for mingle and matching styles .
When visiting Chicago during the colder season , you want to be winter-ready . A coat , scarf , insulated gloves , and boots are essential for snowy and wet weather . Dress for warmth , because the “ hawk ” be literal ! If you get in Chicago from a warmer mood and don ’ t desire to invest much money , you can try thrifting at a Chicago store .
Final Sentiment on Visiting Chicago
Chicago equal one of the most vibrant cities in the United States . With its rich account and modern attractions , it ’ s no curiosity why millions of masses wait forward to visit Chicago each yr .
Come for the iconic architecture and world-class museums , but stay for the community vibes , the food , and the culture .
Whether you ’ re visiting Chicago for a weekend getaway or an lengthy holiday , this guide will help you plan your trip and ensure you don ’ t miss out on anything !
During your visit , you can learn about Chicago ’ s account , discover why it ’ sec such a great destination , and use these point to make the most of your stay .
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