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Things To Do

Below are a few of our favorite Chicago restaurants, cocktail bars, and spots to explore throughout the weekend - many located near our hotel blocks and venues for the weekend. For Friday evening, we recommend making dinner reservations 3-5 weeks in advance, especially for larger groups. If you’re joining us afterward at the Welcome Party, West Loop and Fulton Market are great areas for dinner or drinks beforehand!

Chicago River Architecture Tour

400 North Michigan Avenue, Chicago, IL 60611

Activity / Sightseeing One of the best ways to see the city and learn a bit of Chicago history. Choose from a 45- or 90-minute boat tour along the river!

Millennium Park and the Bean

201 E Randolph St, Chicago, IL 60601

Activity / Sightseeing Home to “The Bean” - one of Chicago’s most iconic downtown landmarks.

The Art Institute of Chicago

111 South Michigan Avenue, Chicago, IL 60603

Activity / Sightseeing Located right off Millennium Park - we could spend hours here!

Pizzeria Portofino

317 North Clark Street, Chicago, IL 60654

Dinner / Happy Hour Awesome pizza, cocktails, and riverfront views just a short walk from the hotel blocks. Reservations fill-up fast - recommend booking at least ~4 weeks out (potentially longer for big groups).

Gibsons Italia

233 North Canal Street, Chicago, IL 60606

Dinner / Happy Hour A Chicago staple for steaks, cocktails, and skyline views. On the pricier side for dinner, but they also have a great open-seating Happy Hour on Fridays! Walkable from hotels and to The Dawson where we’ll be hosting our Welcome Party.

Alla Vita

564 West Randolph Street, Chicago, IL 60661

Dinner Beautiful Italian spot in West Loop with great cocktails, pasta, and a fun atmosphere for groups!

Girl & The Goat

809 West Randolph Street, Chicago, IL 60607

Dinner One of Chicago’s iconic restaurants located in the heart of West Loop. Reservations tend to book very quickly and open up online about 4 weeks in advance.

Sushi-san

63 West Grand Avenue, Chicago, IL 60654

Dinner Just wouldn't feel right not to include sushi! One of our favorite spots in the city - the crispy rice is amazing!

Lou Malnati's Pizzeria

439 North Wells Street, Chicago, IL 60654

Casual Dinner A must-try for anyone visiting Chicago for the first time or looking to try classic deep-dish pizza (although we also love their thin crust!). Quick walk from the hotels.

Green Street Smoked Meats

112 North Green Street, Chicago, IL 60607

Casual Dinner Max’s favorite BBQ spot in the city! A great casual option in Fulton Market with a great atmosphere for larger groups.

Tiny Tapp

55 West Riverwalk, Chicago, IL 60601

Happy Hour Fun casual bar right on the Chicago Riverwalk for drinks and small bites! Just a short walk down the river from both hotel blocks and a great spot for photos.

London House Rooftop

85 East Wacker Drive, Chicago, IL 60601

Happy Hour / Cocktails Beautiful rooftop views overlooking the river and skyline. On the pricier side, but great for a sunset drink (or two).