If you are staying downtown and would like a scenic place to walk, run, or ride a bike, my personal favorite place is the lakefront trail! The trail spans 18.5 miles long and follows along the edge of Lake Michigan.
If you are staying in the city and like to try new restaurants, Fulton Market is a great area for that. Fulton Market District is a strip of upscale restaurants and bars, some of our favorite spots include Boqueria (Spanish), Au Cheval (Burgers), Good Ambler (Coffee), and of course Levain for dessert.
Another must-visit place in the city is the Art Institute! The Chicago Art Institute is the second-largest art museum in the US. It is home to over 300,000 works, featuring renowned Impressionist/Post-Impressionist paintings, modern art in the Renzo Piano-designed Modern Wing, and extensive, diverse global art collections.
Mag Mile is a premier 13-block stretch of North Michigan Avenue in Chicago, running from the Chicago River north to Oak Street. As a top commercial and tourist hub, it features over 460 stores, luxury boutiques, historic landmarks, top-tier restaurants, and hotels. Also home to the largest Starbucks Reserve.
In the Wrigleyville neighborhood you’ll find Wrigley Field, home of the Chicago Cubs, along with many bars and restaurants. Nearby is also Southport Corridor, a less touristy area for shopping compared to Michigan Avenue.
In the suburbs close to the hotel, you can take a scenic hike through the Ryerson Conservation area. There are over 6.5 miles of scenic trails that wind through woods to the Des Plaines River as well as an education center. Pro tip: Don’t forget the bug spray!
If you’re looking for a fun area to hang out, shop, explore, grab a bite or drink, check out historic downtown Long Grove. Known for historic buildings, cobblestone walks, and flowering gardens. In downtown Long Grove you’ll find boutiques, the Sock Monkey museum, Ma and Pa’s candy (old fashioned candy shop), Broken Earth winery, Blu Fig Cafe, Buffalo Creek Brewing, as well as Covered Bridge Creamery (best Ice Cream Shop in Illinois in 2019). On July 25 and 26 they will be holding their annual vintage fair, “Vintage Days”, a fun-filled, throw-back celebration features vintage, reclaimed, hand-made, upcycled, antique, and repurposed items available for sale by vendors.
Looking for another fun outdoor activity in the suburbs? Try mini golf! Note: Cash admission only. ATM on-site.