Allie & Christopher
Things To Do
Getting Around Chicago
There are a lot of ways to get around the city. Parking is expensive throughout Chicago, so below are a few other options if you don't want to drive or don't have a car. - Walk! Chicago is a walker's paradise and you can see so much strolling through the streets. - Uber/Lyft- Great way to get around the city and always easy to grab - Taxi- Easiest to find in downtown/loop. Drivers here are honest and fast! - Public transportation- fantastic option for easily getting around the city. There is an elevated train line—called the “El,” and there is reliable bus service. Find more information at www.transitchicago.com No matter what option you choose, google maps or apple maps is your best friend. The app will show you routes for walking, driving, or taking public transportation.
Chicago Riverwalk
The Chicago Riverwalk is a beautiful walkway right on the Chicago River (and can be accessed right outside of the Sheraton Grand hotel). It extends from Lake Shore Drive and Lake Michigan to Lake Street. The Chicago Riverwalk contains bars, cafes and restaurants, small parks, boat and kayak rentals, a Vietnam War memorial, and other amenities. Great for a stroll, going for a run, or walking around to see attractions!
Chicago River Boat Architecture Tours
Cruise down the Chicago River to see the city's famous architecture on this boat tour. The tour includes more than 40 notable buildings like Navy Pier, the Wrigley Building, and the John Hancock Building. 465 North McClurg Court Allie has taken this tour at least 5 times and it is always on her list for out-of-town visitors!!
Chicago Cubs versus Chicago White Sox
Lucky for you, we have a classic Chicago rivalry happening over Memorial Day weekend 2022. The Chicago Cubs will be playing the Chicago WhiteSox at the Guaranteed Rate Field on the 28th and 29th. Check https://tickets-center.com or your favorite ticket site for seat options!
Revolution Brewing - Brewery & Taproom
This is a fantastic place to check out a local Chicago brewery! They offer brewery tours or an open space to sit and drink draft beer. 3340 North Kedzie Avenue
Magnificent Mile
It’s the best shopping outside of New York! Walk along the north section of Michigan Avenue to visit various flagship stores. Along the way visit the historic Water Tower, which was the only public building to survive the Great Chicago Fire of 1871. The highest end stores like Tiffany’s, Neiman Marcus, and Burberry are further North and just off Michigan Avenue is the famous Oak Street where you can find other very high end boutiques. Happy shopping!
The Second City
Looking for some amazing comedy and a famous Chicago site? Second city is a great option and always has multiple shows! 1616 N Wells St.
Millennium Park
Discover a state-of-the-art collection of architecture, landscape design and art that provide the backdrop for hundreds of free cultural programs including concerts, exhibitions, tours, and family activities. Check out the Cloud Gate sculpture, AKA, “the Bean” and stroll around the prairie gardens. 201 E. Randolph Street.
Oak Street Beach
A scenic and relaxing Summer attraction on the Near North Side of Chicago, the Oak Street Beach Chicago is clean, quaint and family friendly. Featuring a spacious Chicago walkway great for exercise or renting a Divvy bike and offers plenty of room for Chicago travelers. There's a lot to love when it comes to this popular Chicago beach in the Near North Side. Be warned, the water is cold! 1000 N Lake Shore Drive.
North Avenue Beach
A quick cab ride North (or walk from Oak Street) you will find North Avenue Beach. This beach is family friendly too but much larger than Oak Street Beach. It also boasts amazing skyline views and a nice expanse of sand for sunning. Castaways, the beach house shaped like a boat, is your go-to place for a drink, ice cream or some snacks. 1600 North Lake Shore Drive.
The Art Institute of Chicago
The Art Institute is located on the south side of Millennium Park as well. It is considered one of the world’s great art museums and famous “American Gothic" painting lives here. Be sure to visit the new modern wing too. It is open daily from 10:30 AM–5:00 PM and on Thursdays until 8:00PM. 159 E Monroe Street.
Museum of Science & Industry
A great place to take kids! Such a fun, interactive adventure and a gem in Chicago! 5700 S Lake Shore Drive
Lincoln Park Zoo
The Lincoln Park Zoo is perfect for a family outing. Built in 1868, it is one of the oldest zoological gardens in the country. The zoo management team comprises experts in wildlife conservation, community education and recreation. The zoo, which attracts more than three million visitors a year, is open all year-round and is the only free zoo in the US. It is open daily from 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM. 2001 North Clark Street.
Field Museum
Close to downtown Chicago, it is a great place for kids to explore and learn. 1400 S. Lake Shore Drive. It is open daily from 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM.
The Willis Tower (Formerly the Sears Tower)
The Willis Tower still holds the title as the Western hemisphere’s tallest building, and is the world’s fifth tallest building. Travel to Skydeck Chicago to see the whole of metropolitan Chicago and up to four states from atop its observatory. If you’re gutsy, make sure to get pictures on “the Ledge” which is a large glass box that extends four feet from the Skydeck. Adult tickets are $18 and children’s tickets are $12. It’s open daily from 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM. If it’s a clear day, plan to get there early, before the long lines form. 233 S Wacker Drive.