Things To Do
The Art Institute of Chicago
A wonderful place to wander and take in beautiful pieces of art. Averi spent many days just going room to room and taking it all in. Also, as a recent Museum Studies graduate, this institution holds a special place in Averi's heart... I mean it was one of the reasons she chose to pursue her career afterall!
Alice & Friends' Vegan Kitchen
A little far out from the main city, but it is in Rogers Park, right where Loyola Chicago is Located! Averi and Jackson had many date nights featuring the food from this restaurant, and they are sure you will LOVE IT!
Millennium Park
Home to The Bean and breathtaking city views, this is simply a must-go location. You can wander the beautiful landscape, take stunning photos of the skyline, and just enjoy the sounds of the city. The best part? It's completely free to enter the park, so you can feel good about saving some change on this activity while taking in the beautiful sights!
Starbucks Reserve
If you are a coffee person (and oh boy Averi sure is) you have to check out this GIANT Starbucks. It is four floors of beautiful architecture, wonderful smells, and coffee bean tubes.... yes, tubes that deliver the coffee beans to where they need to go! In addition to having wonderful coffee in a beautiful building, the Reserve also has gorgeous street views.... you have to go!
The Chicago Diner, Logan Square
Another recommendation for food is The Chicago Diner. This place is perfect for breakfast or (Averi and Jackson's favorite) a nice big brunch! They even have a vegan milkshake that is truly to die for. If you are looking for a filling and delicious breakfast the day of the wedding (or hey, even a little brunch the day after), this is the place for you.
Adler Planetarium
If you are looking for something fun and a little unique to add to your visit, the planetarium is the place to go. You will learn so much, and also get an absolutely stunning view of the Chicago Skyline just outside of the building. Oh, and if you are curious, this is where Averi's freshman sorority formal was held!
Chicago Riverwalk
Pretty self explanatory, but also needed to make the list! The Chicago Riverwalk has gorgeous views, and also access to so many fun restaurants and bars. Taking a stroll along the Riverwalk is an amazing way to view the city and to be immersed in all of it's buzz! So put on your best walking shoes, bring your camera and maybe an appetite (if you are planning on stopping for food) and enjoy all of th beautiful views of the city!
Grant Park
Grant park is home to the Buckingham Fountain, which is simply stunning. This park offeres some space to walk, benches to sit and relax, beautiful views of the city, all with the calming sound of a fountain in the background (it truly does not get any better than this). Take your lunch here to sit and relax, get some cute photos with the fountain, and simply enjoy your day. Just make sure to bundle up because the wind off the lake can be very chilly!
Lincoln Park Conservatory
If you are looking for a free way to spend a few hours of the day, the Lincoln Park Conservatory is a beautiful way to do it! No matter the time of year, the conservatory is always lush with beautiful plant life bound to make any day feel a little bit more lively! The Conservatory can also serve as a little opportunity to warm up from the usually chilly, Autumn weather in the city. Make sure to bring your cameras because you will want to take a million photos!
Chicago History Museum
If you are looking to learn more about the city's history (not just the folktales and the fun sayings), then you need to take a trip to this beautiful museum! Being that Averi just graduated with her M.A. in Museum Studies, it makes sense that she would be recommending a beautiful museum, but this one is particularly special... the current Executive Director is a USF Grad! Fellow history nerds... this is your place to go while you are visiting the city!
Kale My Name
If you are looking for the best vegan food you have ever had... look no further than this amazing restaurant! This place is one of the couple's favorite places, and they make sure to hit it up every single time they are in the city (sometimes twice). Co-owned by vegan icon, Tabitha Brown, this restaurant is sure to leave your belly and your heart very full and happy. Make sure to bring your appetite and make sure you save a special spot in your stomach for the mac n' cheese balls!
Garfield Park Conservatory
If you are looking for a relaxing activity that will take you about an hour and a half, this could be the prefect fit. The expansive, lush conservatory is filled to the brim with beautiful greenery and flowers for you to enjoy. Take some photos, breath in the aromas, and relax the afternoon away if you want to! Averi and Jackson stopped here on their first full wedding-planning-trip to the city, and could have spent hours enjoying the blooms. Tickets can book up fast, so make sure to buy online ahead of time if you want to stop by!