After two visits to Chicago, I stand firmly that it is one of my favorite places I’ve visited. The architecture, views of Lake Michigan and the Chicago River, and the amazing landscaping throughout the city, it makes it absolutely amazing. I have rounded up my favorite places to eat, visit, and stay, but I will leave with you a few places that I want to try on my next go-round.
Chicago Travel Guide: Eat
Hash House A Go-Go was one of the places I ate on my first trip to Chicago (seen here), and I would recommend it again.
You can’t go to Chicago without getting a deep dish pizza. Lou Malnati’s is my favorite! My tall friend Kayd, who lives in Chicago, sent me Lou Malnati’s for my birthday a couple of years ago and it was amazing then, too!
Hampton Social has been on my list of places to visit because of the Rose All Day sign. It’s a coastal themed restaurant with delicious crab dip and lobster rolls. I also love their fried Brussels sprouts with bacon. It’s definitely worth the hype! P.S. They have a rose of the day!
We had lunch at the Boarding House for the blog conference, and y’all, it’s in an 1871 building. The food was absolutely delicious but I was blown away with the interiors.
We also had lunch at Castaways on Lake Michigan. It is a super casual spot, but I really enjoyed my wrap and the views! It’s the perfect spot for a leisurely lunch.
My first trip includied dinner at RPM Italian, and I was complely blown away with their food.
Chicago Travel Guide: Do
Lincoln Park, including the Lincoln Park Zoo, is one of my favorite strolls.
You can’t go to Chicago without a stroll on the Magnificient Mile and through Magnificient Mile. Also, have a drink at Cindy’s for a great view as well.
Kristina somehow convinced me to do the Skydeck (and originally, I thought it was a bar, but nope). I shook the entire time because I am petrified of heights and I almost chickened out, but I’m glad I didn’t. I made the mistake of looking down before I stepped out and it messed with my mind.
My favorite thing, besides just wandering through Chicago taking it all in, has been the Chicago Architectural Boat Tour. It was absolutely amazing and had the best views of the city.
Chicago Travel Guide: Stay
W Chicago – Lakeshore has been on my list of places to stay. The decor is gorgeous, they have amazing service, and they have the sweetest rocking chairs over looking Lake Michigan.
Bonus: Northwestern University’s beautiful campus is right up the street.
Next time…
I’d like to eat at 3 Arts Cafe at Restoration Hardware. The interiors are gorgeous!
I’d like to visit Navy Pier. How have I never been?
I’d like to do a Frank Lloyd Wright Trust Tour!
I’d like to attend a Cubs game.
I’d like to attend a play or musical at the Chicago Theatre.
What are your favorite things to do in Chicago? What should I add to my list of things to do?
xx
What perfect timing for me as I am heading to Chicago for the first time next week! Adding all of these to my list.
I want to go to RPM. I love Guiliana and Bill! These pictures are gorgeous but I’m sure they don’t do it justice.
I’ve never been to Chicago but it’s on my bucket list!
The architectural boat tour is one of my favorite Chicago experiences. If you haven’t seen this already, I think you’d enjoy seeing the Louis Comfort Tiffany dome inside Macy’s on State Street (the former flagship Marshall Fields store). The building is on the historic register. The dome is magnificent!
Awe! Sweet home Chicago – so glad you had a good time. Next time, I’m going back with you!! xoxo