Clint & Katie
Things To Do
Architectural Boat Tours
Katie has done the architectural boat tour at least 6 times and never gets tired of going! There are many companies that do the tours, but we recommend going through the Chicago Architecture Center or Wendella Tours. We love the river tour but also love the tours that offer a river/lake hybrid. Note that you will always want to get in line 30 minutes prior to the tour start!
Cindy's Rooftop
A favorite rooftop bar for drinks and views! Located in the Chicago Athletic Association Hotel.
The Gage
Great food in a really cool historic space - hit up Cindy's rooftop after for drinks, it's in the same building!
Lou Malnati's Pizzeria
Our favorite deep dish pizza. The thin crust is also excellent. There are many locations but this one is the closest to the venue.
Mr. Beef
Made famous by the show The Bear, it's one of the best places to get an Italian Beef sandwich near downtown. Order it dipped with hot peppers. Katie works around the corner and has seen the crew filming on many occasions.
Lakefront Trail
The Lakefront path is a great way to take in the skyline views either by walking or biking. Clint recommends taking the Red Line up north and then renting a Divvy bike back downtown.
Chicago Riverwalk
The Riverwalk will let you walk along the Chicago River all the way from Lake Shore Drive down to Lake Street. There are lots of bars and restaurants you can stop at along the way - including the Chicago Brewhouse, which was a project that Katie worked on.
Gus' Sip & Dip
Great cocktails and all are $12. Hard to get into so make a reservation or plan to show up when they open at 4.
Gilt Bar
A favorite spot for drinks or dinner (because you probably won't get into Bavette's next door). Reservations go quickly but if you can walk in or set an alert on Resy to notify you of cancellations; you can usually snag something!
Eleven City Diner
Some of the best brunch in the area - restaurant with a Jewish deli flair
Club X Speakeasy
Great little cocktail bar near the venue
Bar Sotto
Cocktail bar and small plates restaurant in the basement beneath one of the oldest Italian restaurants in the city
Chinatown
Chinatown in Chicago is easy to get to from downtown - take the Red Line to Archer. Our favorite places are Nine Bar, QXY Dumplings, and Chef Xiong.
Tilly Bagel Shop
Best bagels you will find downtown. There's often a line, but it moves quickly
Do-Rite Donuts & Chicken
Clint and I love donuts, and this is one of our favorite spots
Redhot Ranch
Our favorite hot dog place - cash only. Their burger is also excellent.
Jim's Original
Great hot dogs closer to downtown than our beloved Red Hot Ranch