Things To Do
Aba
Aba's romantic atmosphere and modern Mediterranean food are two of Steph's favorite things about the restaurant. Right in Fulton Market, it is walking distance from everything in the neighborhood. Aba serves brunch, dinner, happy hour and dessert. Visit their website to peek at their menu and reserve your table!
Architecture Boat Tour
Anyone that has visited Chicago raves about this experience. Steph cannot stop talking Nick's ear off about a lot of things, one being the name of almost every building in Chicago. This tour takes you through the beautiful Chicago River and highlights the city's architecture. There are several cruises, but we recommend the Wendella original cruise, which is attached.
The Art Institute of Chicago
For those who love museums... The Art Institute is one of Steph and her family's go-to places to visit. Our favorite exhibit is always the Thorne Miniature Rooms! If you're interested in visiting, reach out to Maureen (Steph's mom) with any questions. She is a member and very knowledgable!
Bar Siena
This casual Italian restaurant is great for reservations or walk-in brunch, lunch, dinner, dessert and drinks! The atmosphere is romantically lit up by strung olive trees. Bar Siena is located in West Loop, right by Fulton Market. It's location is walkable from all listed hotels.
Cloud Gate (The Bean) + Millennium Park
Millennium Park is home to the iconic Chicago Bean (aka Cloud Gate)! This public park is also home of the Crown Fountain face towers. For anyone bringing kids (and flip flops), Steph grew up running through these spitting pieces of artwork. Visiting is a free, fabulous way to see the city.
Chicago Riverwalk
From Lake Street to the vast Lake Michigan, the Chicago River Walk is the best way to take in the views of the city. It is 1.25 miles in total, however, you can shorten your journey by hopping on or off whenever you wish! Even if it's getting from point A to point B, it's worth trying to work the river into your route. The walk is free and open from 6am until 11pm. There is no better way to get some fresh air and walk off your hangover!
Gibsons Bar & Steakhouse
Gibson's is one of Chicago's most famous steakhouses! They serve lunch, dinner, dessert and drinks. Although Steph doesn't eat steak, a man at the airport once told her that it's the best steak he has ever had. I guess we'll have to trust him on that! Visit their website to see their menu and make a reservation.
Lou Malnati's Pizzeria
Ready to try deep dish pizza? Lou's has the best in the city! There are many locations in the Chicagoland area, but Steph's favorite is on Wells. Other great locations that are close to some tourist attractions are the Michigan Avenue and State Street locations. Walk in and put your name down to get your table!
Magnificent Mile
From shopping to appreciating architecture to viewing the gardens throughout, you'll love your magnificent mile walk. Although walking down Michigan Avenue is free, shopping is quite tempting! Visit their website if you want to see all that there is to offer on this famous strip.
Pizzeria Portofino
This Italian restaurant is one of Steph and Nick's favorites! It has great drinks, pizza and pasta with a close-up view of the Chicago River. Visit their site to explore their menu and reserve your table!
Shedd Aquarium
The Shedd, unbiasedly, is the best aquarium that there is! Located right on Lake Michigan, the building itself is stunning. Steph's senior prom included eating around the grand fish tank, having mocktails on the terrace and exploring the exhibits. Her favorite animals to visit are the penguins, whales and jellies. Plan your visit in advance for best pricing!
Small Cheval
Looking for some quick, walk-in burgers and fries? Small Cheval has high-quality American classics. Pop over and stay a while for some fun, outdoor Chicago vibes.