Oralia & Kirk
My Kind of Town
The Art Institute of Chicago
This world renown art museum is located right across our wedding reception venue! Take advantage of the location and view incredible artwork. We have enjoyed the Renaissance and Impressionist exhibitions.
Chicago Architecture River Tour
We love playing tourists in our own city! Take a boat ride and enjoy learning about some of Chicago's most famous architectural structures. We love the scenic river views from this tour!
The Field Museum
We have visited The Field Museum numerous times and always learn something new. It has 4.6 billion years of natural history, from ancient Egypt to Qing Dynasty China to the prehistoric era and beyond. Stop by and visit Máximo the Titanosaur and Sue the T.rex.
Museum of Science and Industry
We learned that the Museum of Science and Industry represents the only major building from the 1893 World's Fair. The MSI is a Chicago must-see. We enjoyed the Science Storms and U-505 Submarine exhibit.
Adler Planetarium
The Adler Planetarium is America's first planetarium! This museum is dedicated to the study of astronomy and astrophysics. We’ve enjoyed the shows in their giant screening room and the views of the city.
Shedd Aquarium
The Shedd is our favorite aquarium. It is a great family friendly place to enjoy nature and aquatic wildlife. We liked meeting the belugas and being memorized by the jellyfish.
Chicago History Museum
This museum is located in Kirk's old neighborhood. It is a gem and full of rich Chicago history. We especially enjoyed the Railroad exhibit on the second floor!
Harold Washington Library
If you’re seeking a quiet place to relax and read a book, make sure to stop by this Chicago staple. The bride-to-be has spent many hours studying under the glass roof located on the 9th floor of the library. They also have the Thomas Hughes Children's Library for kids to visit.
The Chicago Theatre
We have seen some of our favorite shows and artists at this theater including Phantom of the Opera and Frankie Valli. Check out a show while you’re in town and visit this legendary venue in the heart of the Windy City.
The iO Theater
We had our fourth date at the iO Theater. The iO is an improv theater located in Lincoln Park, Chicago. We shared many laughs here! It’s a great date spot with dinner, drinks, and an outdoor beer garden.
Navy Pier
We had our third date at Navy Pier! We took a walk through Crystal Gardens, tasted toasted nuts, enjoyed ice cream, and rode the Ferris wheel together.
Water Tower Place
This mall is located along the Magnificent Mile. There are plenty of shops to visit and a large food court. If you have children, there is a sweet American Girl Place we’re sure they’ll love.
Millennium Park
Located across from our reception venue, you will find the iconic Cloud Gate sculpture, also known as The Bean. Take a selfie and share it with us!
Buckingham Fountain
This impressive fountain is Chicago's centerpiece along the Lake Michigan shore. Stick around and watch it's hourly water show in the summer.
Skydeck Chicago
Although Kirk is not a fan of heights, Oralia enjoyed the views from the 103rd floor of the former Sears Tower. At 1,353 feet in the air, it has clear observation boxes & views extending to four states.
360 Chicago
Located on the 94th floor of the John Hancock Center, 360 Chicago Observation Deck offers breathtaking views of Chicago’s skyline, the lakefront, and four states. Make sure you enjoy the TILT! After the scenic thrills, we enjoyed a cocktail at the Signature Room on the 95th floor.
Lincoln Park Zoo
One of our first dates was at the Lincoln Park Zoo. A free admission zoo located in the middle of Chicago's hustle and bustle. It has a variety of animals and a darling cafe. Make sure to stop by and visit the pygmy hippopotamus.
Lou Malnati's
If you’re in Chicago, you must do what Chicago natives do and order a deep dish pizza! We love all the fixings, especially pepperoni and sausage.
Garrett Popcorn Shops
A Chicago tradition since 1949, Garrett's popcorn has so many delicious combinations. Our favorite is the famous cheese-and-caramel fusion. This Garrett’s is located one block away from our reception venue. Stop by for some gourmet popcorn that will make your day!
Starbucks Reserve Roastery
This is the world’s largest Starbucks! Each floor is a unique experience with different tasting menus. They also have a rooftop that is open in the summertime.
The Purple Pig
Located right off Michigan Avenue, this Michelin Star restaurant has outstanding food. We especially love the octopus a la plancha and crispy pig ears.
City Winery
City Winery at the Chicago Riverwalk brings urban wine country to the heart of Downtown Chicago. This is a great place to stop by at any time of the day for stunning views and locally-made wine paired with delicious food.
Au Cheval
This is our favorite place for a burger. The wait can get long and they do not take reservations, but it is worth it! Don’t forget the garlic fries with an egg on top.
3 Arts Club Cafe
Enjoy brunch and mimosas at this restaurant's beautiful courtyard. You can grab a cup of coffee and shop while you wait.
London House Rooftop Bar
Grab a summery beverage and enjoy spectacular views of the Chicago River. This rooftop bar has a great seating area and tables to enjoy a meal with friends.
Cindy's Rooftop
A stylish rooftop bar and eatery at the Chicago Athletic Association Hotel. It's steps away from Millennium Park and offers amazing views of the city. Be sure to make a reservation.
Wrigley Field
This 100-year-old stadium hosts movie screenings, concerts, and events all year round. You can’t leave Wrigleyville without stepping foot inside iconic Wrigley Field. Catch a baseball game and enjoy a ball park hot dog. We also like to enjoy a cold 312 beer at a local bar and hit the batting catching at Sluggers.
The 606 Trail
The 606 is an urban hiking and biking trail modeled after New York's High Line trail. This elevated railroad is a great way to visit some of the Chicago neighborhoods and get some exercise.