sweet home chicago
we hope you love it as much as we do
welcome to the city
While Anna had been to Chicago many times in her life and knew she loved the city, Ben committed to moving there without ever having visited before. He was skeptical on how much he would like living in Chicago, but they grew to love the city and will miss a lot of things about being there.
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They've found Chicago to be the perfect mix between the benefits of a big city while maintaining an approachable, neighborhood feel. Must be something to that midwest charm. (Go, Cubs Go!)
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things to do
museums
Anna's personal favorite is the Museum of Science and Industry, though the history museum and art museum are spectacular as well!
magnificient mile
Have the shopping spree of a lifetime wandering down Michigan Ave! This can be a free activity if you resist temptation.
360 room
Head to the 94th floor of the John Hancock builiding for panoramic views of Chicago. If you're feeling brave, try the tilt as well!
observation deck
Head to the top of the Sear's Tower for unbeatable views and step out onto the glass decks. We don't reccomend this is you have a fear of heights!
shedd aquarium
Chicago's aquarium has an enormous variety of fish, amphibians, otters, penguins, turtles, stingrays, reptiles, and even birds!
city pass
If you plan to hit a lot of attractions, you may want too check out Chicago City Pass, which provides you entry to five attractions in the city.
architecture tour
One of the most well reviewed attractions in Chicago, take a boat ride down the Chicago River and learn about Chicago's famed architecture!
speedboat tour
If you'd rather cruise on Lake Michigan, head to Navy Pier for a Seadog tour. There are a few different options depending on how much of a thrill you want.
free things to do
cloudgate
aka "The Bean"
A classic stop for any visitor in Chicago. Hard to find a better selfie opportunity, and you can wander Millenium Park while you're at it!
lakefront trail
This trail covers 18.5 miles of Chicago's lakeshore with AMAZING views. Free to walk, though bikes are available to rent as well. Access may be limited in incliment weather.
lincoln park zoo
Yes, it's free! If you've ever wanted to look at animals with a skyline view, this is the spot for you. You may choose to wander Lincoln Park along with your visit here.
beach day
Chicago has some excellent beaches, though they can be crowded in the summer. Oak Street beach is convenient, but it's worth the trek to Montrose beach if you'd like more space.
riverwalk
If you prefer hanging downtown, check out the riverwalk! Take in downtown views without worrying about Chicago drivers (and maybe stop for some wine or beer!).
harold washington
Harold Washington Library is Chicago's main public library. It's a beautiful historic building, showing off Chicago's famed architecture, located downtown in the South Loop.
navy pier
Upfront disclaimer, Navy Pier is free to visit though are definitely a lot of ways to spend money there! It's a great place to wander and of course, has some lovely views
cultural center
Chicago's cultural center has a variety of artistic exhibitions and is a landmark building that on its own, is lovely to visit. Check their calendar to see any special event occuring.
good food
deep dish
You won't be disappointed with Lou Malnati's or Giordano's! Even if you're not a deep dish fan, their thin crust pizzas are just as great!
donuts
We have options, try Doughnut Vault, Firecakes, Stan's Donuts, or Do-Rite! Doughnut Vault is exceptional but runs out quickly on the weekend.
sushi
We used to live above Union Sushi and never got tired of it! They also have a great happy hour. Sunda is an excellent higher-end option.
tapas
Whether you want to keep the meal light or get bougie with it, The Purple Pig is FANTASTIC. You can also trek to Cafe Ba-Ba-Reeba in Lincoln Park.
hot dogs
Portillo's is a classic option for this, get a chocolate cake shake too while you're at it! Other options include Byron's and The Weiner's Circle.
pancakes
Wildberry is a pretty well-known sit-down breakfast spot in Chicago. Arrive early as they do not take reservations, and there is usually a wait.
italian
There is no shortage of italian food downtown, includinig Torchio Pasta Bar, RPM, Quartino, Il Porcellino, and Osteria Via Stato.
other favorites
Ema has fantastic mediteranean food and plates for shariing. Check out Xoco for counter-serve Mexican street food and some lovely Churros.
chicago staples
no ketchup
If you want to eat a hotdog like a true Chicagoan, make sure it's a poppy seed bun, then add mustard, relish, onion, tomato, peppers, and a pickle spear.
No ketchup!
malort
You'll either love or hate this classic Chicago liquor... Give a shoutout to the bride if you're brave enough to try it (and actually like it!). It's made from fermented grapefruit.
old style
Might not be the best beer you've ever had, though it has a reputation of being "Chicago's Beer." It tastes better if you have it at a Cubs game, or on a happy hour deal.
house music
Whether you enjoy it or not, house music was born during the 1980s in the Chicago underground. From there it gained immense popularity across the country and world.
smell cookies?
Downtown Chicago is often blessed with the smell of chocolate! All thanks to the Blommer Chocolate factory west of downtown.
cubs vs sox
Not all Chicagoans are Cubs fans unfortunately. Though all wedding guests have the privilege to be honoray Cubs fans for the night.
windy city
Yes, it is literally windy here. The name dates back to the late 1800s, referencing the residents and politicians in the city full of "hot air."
sears or willis?
In 2009, Chicago's iconic skyscraper was renamed to the Willis Tower. There are few and far between who actually use the "new" name.
good drinks
centennial
If you like beer, this is where to go. If you don't like beer, you'll still find something delicious! The chips and beer chese are also fantastic.
redhead piano bar
Bit of a divey cocktail lounge with live music and singing. Lots of martini style drinks, though don't come here if you're looking for food.
mom's place
Chill place to hang out at, with live music and pool. Their drink and beer selection is nothing fancy, but less expensive than other options in the area.
signature lounge
Pricey cocktails, but you are partially paying for the spectacular view on the 95th floor. Sometimes has a wait, so plan accordingly.
headquarters
Drinks and free arcade games, going here is always a good idea. They have a rotating draft selection, cocktails, and some food available.
acebounce
Drinks and ping-pong! They also have food available. Can get busy so we reccomended making reservations ahead of time, there is also a time limit.
green door tavern
Divey, cozy bar with a vintage feel. Reasonable prices (by Chicago standards). This is Chicago's oldest tavern, in operation for over 100 years.
hubbard inn
This place has vibes siimilar to a club, but classier and without the overcrowding and noise. It's (usually) possible to have a conversation and get a seat.
