Things To Do
Wrigley Field
Nicknamed the Friendly Confines, Wrigley Field is baseball’s second oldest ballpark, where fans come to see the ivy covered outfield walls, the classic hand-operated scoreboard, the marquee outside the homeplate entrance and the Cubs play ball!
Pisano's Pizza
Carla (and Oprah’s) favorite thin crust pizza! Founded in 1991 by Rudy Malnati Jr., son of the man who was instrumental in the early success of Uno's, Pizano's Pizza and Pasta serves deep dish pizza alongside other Italian favorites.
Lincoln Park Zoo & Conservatory
Established in 1868, this 35-acre, beautifully landscaped zoo in the heart of Chicago's Lincoln Park neighborhood is one of America's last free-admission zoos. While here visit the adjacent Conservatory - designed to showcase exotic plants and grow the thousands of plants used in the city's many parks.
Al's Beef
Started in 1938, and formed out of necessity during the Great Depression when meat was scarce, this sandwich of thin sliced beef has grown into a quintessential food icon and Chicago legend. Be sure to take "the Italian Stance" when eating as not to ruin your shoes!
Crown Fountain
An interactive work of public art and video sculpture featured in Chicago's Millennium Park, by Jaume Plensa exploring dualism. Two randomly selected faces "converse" with each other representing the diversity of the city both in ethnicity and in age.
The Wiener's Circle
Known for its char-dogs, char-burgers and the Maxwell Street Polish, The Weiners Circle has been serving customers since in 1983. Unassuming by day, the infamous late-night scene is notorious for the legendarily crude humor and obscenity-screaming cashiers. You've been warned!
Cloud Gate
Affectionately called “The Bean,” Anish Kapoor's Cloud Gate has become synonymous with the Chicago experience. 80% of the polished metal surface reflects the sky and city skyline. To most, this stainless steel figure is a work of art – but to some, it's the best opportunity for a selfie!
Au Cheval
The classic Chicago diner, reimagined as a sexy, dimly lit den of booze and burgers. Perfect for an impromptu evening of cocktails, burgers and foie gras. Many consider this the best burger in the city, if not country. They do not accept reservations so expect a wait.
The Art Institute of Chicago
Located in Grant Park and founded in 1879, The Art Institute of Chicago is one of the oldest and largest US museums. The museum is most famous for its collections of Impressionist, Post-Impressionist paintings, but also features modern and contemporary art, photography and more.
3 Arts Club Cafe
Set inside the atrium of Restoration Hardware, this “unique” hangout combines coffeehouse, wine bar and American kitchen with a refined menu spanning breakfast pastries, sandwiches and seasonal plates a swanky setting, with plush sofas, candle lanterns and central fountain.
Oak Street Beach
Spanning 10 blocks of Lake Michigan coastline, Chicago's Oak Street Beach is just a few minutes from prime shopping on Michigan Avenue. Its spectacular skyline view and easygoing atmosphere offer close up views of the famed Drake Hotel and Hancock building.
3rd Coast Cafe
Carla's high school hangout just a block from The Ambassador Hotel! From early morning fresh baked scones to late night dinner, wine and music, “the Coast” is a casual neighborhood gem.
Chicago Riverwalk
Depart here for an architectural boat tour or explore a waterside wine patio, pier fishing, kayaking and more along the Riverwalk’s lush 1.25-mile pedestrian stretch, which runs along the south bank of the Chicago River from Lake Shore Drive to Lake Street.
Parachute
A recent James Beard Award winner, Parachute is one of our favorite restaurants in the city! This funky-chic place serves modern, creative Korean-American fare, creative desserts plus wine & cocktails.
The Second City
The Second City improv theater opened in 1959 and has consistently been a notable starting point for comedians, award-winning actors and directors. Alumni include Bill Murray, Gilda Radner, John Candy, Dan Aykroyd, Eugene Levy, Catherine O'Hara, Mike Myers, Steve Carell, Tina Fey, Amy Poehler, Stephen Colbert, and many others.