Recommendations
Architecture Tour
Looking for a fun, unique way to see Chicago? Book an architecture tour on the historic Chicago River. Great activity for first-time visitors and Chicago-natives alike. While there are many cruise options, Chicago Architecture Center was voted one of the ten best boat tours in the United States by USA Today, as well as is ranked as Chicago Reader's Best Tour for over ten years and counting. Conveniently located near all recommended hotels, too! Prices start at $65.
Green City Farmer's Market
One of our favorite ways to spend Saturday mornings in Chicago is a visit to the Green City Farmer's Market in Lincoln Park, a quick 15-minute car ride from recommended hotels. Open from 8 am to 1 pm, this outdoor market has dozens of local sustainable farmers and food producers. Go early to avoid crowds! Highly recommend walking around South Pond across the street from the market before or after, which is where Alex and Vivian got engaged and took engagement photos. Alex's Favorite Vendor: Bennison's Bakery for their fluffy cheddar chive biscuits Vivian's Favorite Vendor: Bushel and Peck for their delicious jams or microgreens from American Pride MicroFarm- ask for "The Party" variety!
Chicago Lakefront
Alex's favorite place for a walk, and Vivian's favorite place for a run. To access from the recommended hotels, walk east on Illinois Street or Grand Avenue. For a connected path, walk east along the Chicago Riverwalk where it meets Lake Shore Drive and then continue on the Lakefront Trail.
Coffee & Breakfast Spots
-TARY- Eclectic, cozy coffee shop with amazing coffee, teas and pastries -Nomad- Local fresh-roasted coffee and seasonal sweets -Beatrix- Delicious brunch and the best cookies in the city (Vivian's favorite: apple cinnamon, Alex's favorite: peanut butter chocolate chip) -Yolk- Classic, straightforward breakfast -Eleven City Diner or Lou Mitchell's- Chicago classics, located in South Loop about a 30-minute walk/10-minute drive from recommended hotels
Lunch Spots
-Ema- Tasty Mediterranean small plates -Protein Bar River North- Smoothies, salads and wraps, a very "Viv" kind of place -The Smith- American fare with burgers, sandwiches and salads -Portillo's- Nothing says Chicago more than a fully loaded dog (without ketchup, of course) and a dipped Italian beef (order a cake shake, too, trust us)
Dinner Spots
Highly recommend making a reservation for any Chicago restaurant, but especially any of these delicious options! -Quartino's- A Tantlinger favorite (which means you must order at least 6 dishes) -Zarella Pizzeria and Taverna- Fantastic artisan and tavern-style pizza (order the soppressata & mortadella) -Trivoli Tavern- A menu with as much range as the Cheesecake Factory with a swanky atmosphere and remarkable flavors (Alex and Vivian never skip dessert and neither should you- order the sticky date cake) -Galit- A short drive into Lincoln Park and Viv's favorite spot in the city