Things To Do
Bridget's Preferred Day in Chicago!
I like to start my day off with a nice stroll through Lincoln Park Farmer's Market and check out all the fresh flowers, produce, and smoothie of the day. After hanging out in the park, I will head to lunch at one of the Beatnik locations (On The River has a gorgeous view of the riverwalk, and Westown has incredible decorations!) and enjoy some ceviche. After lunch, it's time for some shopping! I grab a coffee at the 4-floor Starbucks Reserve location and hit the shops on Michigan Ave or the Gold Coast triangle. I'll meet some friends for dinner and drinks at LuxBar - I'm having an espresso martini and a California Vegetable Salad with Jumbo Shrimp. I'll get a scoop of artisanal ice cream at Jeni's - their fun flavors are the best, like goat cheese, cherry, or triple chocolate! Then I'm back downtown to watch the free Art on the Mart light show at Merchandise Mart. I'll head to Hubbard Street and go dance at Celeste, a multi-level club - find me on the Disco floor all night long!
Kevin's Preferred Day in Chicago!
I like active mornings so I'll strap on rollerblades and ride the lakefront trail. On my way back, I'll walk through Lincoln Park Zoo and stop by the Rainbow Cone truck next to the farm. Then if I'm going for an active day, I'll rent a kayak with and paddle through the river. At this point, I'm starving, so where else but my favorite sandwiches at Publican Quality Meats in West Loop. It's a beautiful day so of course I'm checking out a rooftop bar and meeting friends at Cindy's Rooftop! Time to ride the vibes into dinner at Avec. A Mediterranean restaurant with impeccable atmosphere - one of my favorites in Chicago! At this stage of the night, I'm getting tired and we'll agree as a group to get a casual drink at PB&J. We'll discuss that we won't end up at Federales but the next thing we know we're throwing ice shots at a bell. Afterwards, I may or may not end the night with a hotdog at Weiner's Circle (tip: slip the lady at the cash register $20 and ask for a chocolate shake).
Time Out Market Chicago
Multi-level food hall with a rooftop bar, featuring some of Chicago's top restaurants. A great family spot - something for everyone to choose from. No reservation required. Kevin's favorite: the burger at Big Kids. Bridget's favorite: the peanut noodle salad at Bill Kim Ramen Bar.
Lincoln Park Zoo
The zoo is free and fantastic! Bonnie loves to walk past the cows at Farm-in-the-Zoo.
PB&J: Pizza Beer and Jukebox
We love this laid-back bar in West Loop. If you're a reality TV fan...we've spotted a few Bachelor/Bachelorette alumni here.
Cafe Ba-Ba-Reeba!
Great Tapas restaurant. Reserve in advance! We recommend the Sangria.
North Avenue Beach
Go for a swim, catch a volleyball tournament, or grab a quick bite at one of the food stands near the beach!
Chicago Riverwalk
Enter the riverwalk anywhere on Wacker Drive! This colorful path will lead you all the way to Lake Michigan, with stops for food and drink along the way, including City Winery, Beat Kitchen, O'Brien's, and The Northman beer garden.
Wendella Tours & Cruises - Architecture Boat Tour
The best way to see the city is the architecture boat tour! Wendella is our favorite cruise line, but there are several in the city. The tickets are affordable and there are beverages for purchase on board - and if you’ve already been on one, don’t worry. We’ve gone a couple times and every tour guide has their own spin and things you may not have learned before! Family friendly activity, and a great way to cruise down the Chicago river.