Rachel & Chas
Things To Do
The Art Institute of Chicago
We went here for a Medieval Art dinner event. The exhibits are beautiful and well worth the time spent browsing!
The Field Museum
One of Rachel's favorite museums in Chicago- she LOVES Sue the dino in the entrance area!
Chicago History Museum
A beautiful history of Chicago and Illinois. Highly recommended by Rachel and several of her family members.
Chicago's Original Architecture Tour- Wendella Boats
It is a 75-minute ride through the heart of the city and all three branches of the Chicago River. A professionally-trained architecture guide tells the story of over 130 years of innovation in design, style, and history. There is a cash bar on board for soft drinks, alcoholic beverages, and snacks. The tours run every 30-minutes between 9:30 AM and 9 PM. Don't forget a light jacket as the river breezes can be a bit chilly at times! *Note- There is another set of docks at Rush Street and Kinzie Streets along the river.
Wendella's Signature Lake & River Tour
A Chicago family tradition since 1935, this is the tour that started it all! This ride tells the story of more than 200 years of fascinating social, cultural, and political history while exploring more than a century of groundbreaking architecture. The tour begins on the Chicago River before venturing through the Chicago Locks and out onto the waters of Lake Michigan. From there you'll see expansive views of Chicago's 26-mile skyline and have the opportunity for the best selfie ever! This tour is 90-minutes and boats leave on the hour from 10 AM-8:30 PM. *Note- there is another set of docks at Rush Street and Kinzie Street.
Navy Pier: A Chicago Landmark
Originally completed in 1916, Navy Pier is an iconic landmark in Chicago. The Centiennal Wheel (the giant ferris wheel!) and Pier Park are located here.
Millennium Park
This is a must-see in Chicago! Millennium Park is home to movies-in-the-park and outdoor performances by the symphony and Lyric Opera. Most importantly, Cloud Gate is located in the park. Better known as "the bean", it is a must-visit place in Chicago to snap a picture or two!
John Hancock Center
While the Hancock boasts numerous shops and restaurants, the more important things to do are the 360 Observatory Deck on the 94th floor and the Signature Room on the 95th floor. The 360 Observatory offers just that- a 360-degree view of Chicago and the Tilt. The Tilt is a glass enclosure that tilts you forward and slightly down for an amazing thrill and view! The signature room is a fun spot to grab a cocktail and take in the views!
Chicago Water Tower
The original Chicago Water Tower (the castle-looking building) is a fun spot to wander past, and maybe in! Originally built as a simple standpipe, its purpose was to help solve the inadequate water supply to the city in the 1860s. Right next door is Water Tower Place with several floors of shops and restaurants.
Macy's
This is the second largest department store in the world and a Macy's Flagship location. Situated in Chicago's Loop, it is a National Historic Landmark and on the National Register of Historic Places. The Walnut Room is a great spot for a light lunch while browsing the store.
Nordstrom Michigan Avenue
For any last minute needs, go across the street from The Langham and you'll find Nordstrom plus an entire 6 floors of stores!
Bloomingdales
Much like Nordstrom, Bloomingdales sits in a building with 6 floors worth of stores along Michigan Avenue in the Gold Coast neighborhood of Chicago.
Luxbar
Where it all began! Luxbar is where we met for the first time as adults. While we met at dinner, their brunch is delicious too! Luxbar is situated on the Viagra Triangle in the Gold Coast neighborhood of Chicago. On the triangle are several delicious places to grab a meal or a snack. Some of our favorites are Gibsons for their burger in the bar, Hugos Frog bar for the bookbinder's soup, Velvet Taco for quick tacos and street corn, and Whispers Cafe for coffee, juice, or gelato!
The Goddess and Grocer
The sandwiches and sweet treats are all amazing! Personal favorites include the California Dreamin', the Veggie bagel on everything, and the bagel and lox! A quick and easy place to grab something to eat or drink and keep going!
Lou Malnati's Pizzeria
Chicagoans usually don't agree on their favorite deep dish spot. In fact, the options include Gino's East, Giordano's, Pizano's Pizza & Pasta, and Pequod's Pizza. However, our favorite is Lou's and if you're looking for the true Chicago pizza experience try them out. Don't forget though that deep dish can take upwards of 45-minutes to cook so call your order in to-go or leave plenty of time to eat and enjoy!
Silver Spoon Thai Restaurant
Delicious and unassuming, the Silver Spoon is a great spot for lunch! Portions are large so don't be afraid to share!
The Purple Pig
The Purple Pig offers wine, swine, Mediterranean flavors and a fourth-generation restaurateur. Conveniently located almost across the street from The Langham and up the street from The Westin, The Purple Pig is a fun spot to visit.
Wells Street Market
A go-to food hall and market offering standout food options from some of the best chefs in Chicago. Situated across from the Riverwalk and Merchandise Mart, Wells Street Market should make it on your must-do list! You can enjoy donuts, lunch, cocktails, and anything in between! The only non-food vendor in the market is our florist- Flowers for Dreams! Wells Street Market is open Monday-Friday from 7AM-8PM.
Chicago Riverwalk
The Chicago Riverwalk is an open, pedestrian waterfront located on the south bank of the main branch of the Chicago River downtown. It spans from Lake Shore Drive to Lake Street. There are restaurants, places to sit and relax, or kayak and paddleboard rentals for those looking to be active. A beautiful, and relatively new, addition to Chicago.
Wrigley Field
TBD if the Cubs will be in town but even if they're not, the recent remodel and development of the area makes it fun to wander around. There are great restaurants and bars in the neighborhood to hang out at as well!
Soldier Field
Situated on museum campus by the Adler Planetarium and Field Museum, there are monuments dedicated to members of the Armed Forces and in honor of Gold Star Families. The walking paths around the stadium offer lakefront views lead to Burnham Harbor and Buckingham Fountain. While it definitely won't be Bears season, it is a great area to wander around!
New Age Nail Studio
Walk-in only but they'll take your phone number and text you when it is your turn if there is a wait! Very clean, great services, and a short walk from both hotels.
Drybar River North
