Explore Chicago
Lincoln Park Zoo
Steps away from Cafe Brauer, the Lincoln Park Zoo is free and a wonderful way to spend an afternoon. Hours: 8 a.m. – Gates and Farm-in-the-Zoo open 10 a.m. – Buildings open 4:30 p.m. – Farm-in-the-Zoo closes 6:30 p.m. – Buildings close 7 p.m. – Gates close
Wendella Tours & Cruises
Chicago's architecture tour is the best way to see the city! Open-air ferry boats guide you along the waterways while learning about Chicago's rich history and enjoying the beautiful weather.
Navy Pier
Navy Pier is a free 3,300-foot-long pier with rides, games, and food vendors. Hours: 11:00 am – 9:00pm
Kayak Chicago
A cool way to see and explore Chicago is via Kayak Rental. The waters are very calm so you can leisurely paddle up the river into Lake Michigan.
The Bean
Cloud Gate or "The Bean" is a public sculpture that is the centerpiece of Millennium Park. If you go visit, make sure to take a classic selfie in the sculpture's mirrored surface.
John Hancock Building Tilt Thrill Ride
Observatory on the 94th floor of the John Hancock Building with a tilting glass lookout 1000ft up.
Cindy's Rooftop
Hip, stylish rooftop bar/eatery at the Chicago Athletic Association Hotel with stunning views of downtown and Lake Michigan.
LondonHouse Chicago Rooftop
One of the best rooftop bars in Chicago, directly across the river from the Trump Hotel.
City Winery Riverwalk
Winebar along the Riverwalk with live music and fun atmosphere!
Wildberry Pancakes & Cafe
Pancakes & other big portions of American eats draw hungry folks to this breakfast-lunch cafe.
Batter & Berries
A regular winner of "Best Black-Owned Business in Chicago", this famous breakfast cafe has creative pancakes, omelets & other breakfast eats plus sandwiches & lunch fare too. Located in the heart of Lincoln Park.
Beatrix
An American-style restaurant plus breakfast cafe with a cool Californian vibe. There are multiple locations across the city, you can't go wrong here!
Portillo's & Barnelli's Chicago
Try a Chicago-style hotdog or Italian beef at this local and casual staple. If you're craving an indulgent dessert, Emma recommends the Chocolate Cake Shake.
Au Cheval
Widely known as the "Best Burger in Chicago", Au Cheval is worth the trip. However, they do not take reservations so expect a long wait. If you do not have the time, the restaurant has many "Small Cheval" locations across the cities with picnic-style dining and no wait.
Giordano's
In the great deep-dish debate, we are a Giordano's household. Give it a try for yourself!
The Chicago Diner
A great spot for our plant-based friends; their entire menu is vegan.
Pizzeria Portofino
Chic Italian eatery with a riverfront terrace and patio offering craft pizza, pasta, grilled seafood, and wines.
The Three Arts Club
The 3 Arts Club Café resides in the grand central garden courtyard of RH Chicago, the Gallery at the Historic Three Arts Club, a 70,000-square-foot design gallery in Chicago's famed Gold Coast neighborhood. Open for lunch and dinner, RH Chicago also features the 3 Arts Club Wine Vault.
Gemini
A favorite dinner spot of Alex and Emma. We went here regularly as it's down the street from our first apartment together!
Geja's Cafe
In the neighborhood since 1965, this fondue restaurant is one of the most romantic restaurants in Chicago. Emma and Alex have had many date nights here.
Three Dots and a Dash
A Tropical-style speakeasy cocktail bar with a cool Hawaiian vibe.