Take a ride down the Chicago River and learn more about the history of our city. We love the tour from The Chicago Architecture Foundation, but there are many other companies that offer tours and are also great, so don't be afraid to hop on a different company's tour. Try to book your tour in advance! Summer in Chicago is a busy time, and tours book up.
A great free activity while visiting the city. The zoo is located right in the middle of Lincoln Park. Check out the Zoo, walk through the park, and on Saturdays check out the Green City Market, one of the best farmers markets in the city.
Home of the Bean! 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. In Millennium Park, you'll find a new kind of town square – a lively, spectacular gathering spot located in the heart of the city and a destination for Chicagoans and visitors alike.
A trip to Chicago isn't complete without a stop in Wrigleyville. Catch a Cubs game at historic Wrigley Field. Explore the fun bars and restaurants lining the streets. If the Cubbies aren't in town, take a tour of the field!
We have spent far too many Sundays binge watching tv shows while enjoying a delicious fried chicken sandwich, french fries, and a donut. Yes. All 3. Visit their location off of Michigan Ave. or their Morgan Street location in the West Loop. Don't leave without trying a chicken sandwich and a donut. You can't go wrong with anything on the menu.
Located less than 10 minutes from our home in Bucktown, Piece is our favorite place to order pizza on a Friday night. Check out the Hot Doug's Atomic Sausage Pizza and some of their house made beer.
For those wanting to experience Chicago Style Deep Dish, make sure to try Lou Malnati's. It is the best deep dish in the city. While there, don't forget to order the Malnati Salad...even Dan says that it is a must-order with your deep dish pizza. There are multiple locations across the city, so pick the one most convenient to you!
You might have heard about Au Cheval, an amazing restaurant in the West Loop, but you can count on a 2 hour wait to get a table. Since most people go there for the burger and fries, skip the line and head over to Small Cheval...Au Cheval's more casual outpost, and a great option if you're looking for the best cheeseburger of your life. The only items on the menu are a cheeseburger, fries, and milk shakes/other beverages - but that's really all you need.
Dark Matter Coffee is Dan's favorite coffee in the whole city. You can find him on any of his days off from work at The Mothership Roastery location in West Town drinking far too many cold brews. The Meddle Coffee Bar location offers the same coffee but is a bit more centrally located.
Located just a few blocks from both of our hotels, Cindy's is a great option for a fancy cocktail and a great view overlooking Millennium Park from the rooftop patio attached.
We spent many a weekend night grabbing dinner and beers at Timmy O'Tooles. You can't beat their extensive beer list and they have some pretty good bar eats, as well.