Things to Do
Explore the Neighborhoods of Chicago
Lakeview
Why you Should Visit
- Looking for a neighborhood with lots of lakeside views? You found it! Lakeview is on the northside of the city, it's the most populated and consists of smaller distinct areas including Wrigleyville, the Southport Corridor and Boystown—one of the most inclusive LGBTQ+ communities. This area is is brimming with fantastic dining, exciting nightlife and many LGBTQ+ owned businesses. Of course, when in Lakeview, you could just hit the beach too.
Fun Things to Do:
- A trip to Chicago is not complete without visiting the home of the Chicago Cubs—Wrigley Field! This is one of the two Chicago baseball fields, and one would argue, it's probably the best looking fields in the roster of National or American league ball parks.
- Take a stroll along The Legacy Walk- a permanent outdoor half-mile stretch of tall rainbow pylons and bronze memorial plaques commemorating the lives and legacies of people who have advanced the rights of LGBTQ+ people all over the world.
- See a theatre show! Like the Loop Neighborhood, Lakeview is the other significant theatre district boasting 50 theatres that including big name acts, improv and music. Near Wrigley Field is the notable Mercury Theater that opened in 1912, and features lots of fun performances for all ages and interests.
Favorite Eats and Drinks:
- Ready for the best cocktails in ChiTown? Head over to Kit Kat Lounge and Supper Club for over 20 years, this premier martini and cocktail bar and world class entertainment lounge has been serving up food, drinks, and fun with it's "Hollywood-meets-Miami' vibe. The nightly dinner and drag show is a blast and weekend brunch is divine. You can also sample two exclusive cocktails from the Kit Kat Lounge and Supper Club at CLOUDBAR at 360 Chicago.
- Did someone say chocolate? Vosges Chocolate, a luxury chocolate brand and women-owned business in Chicago. Makes delicious delicacies from the owners travels to 7 continents. Visit the Vosges Temple Boutique in Lakeview for the full experience. Vosges chocolate can also be found for purchase at 360 CHICAGO's CLOUDBAR as a chocolate gift or dessert accompaniment to it's cocktail flights.
The Best Views:
- If you love to walk, run,cycle or just stroll to check out the city, you'll love the Lakefront Trail. It spans 18miles between the intersections of W Addison Drive, and N. Recreation Drive. From this vantage point, Lake Michigan is very impressive.
Kit Kat Lounge Photo credit: Windy City Times
The Legacy Walk Photo credit: Ken Illio, Flickr
Lake Front Trail Photo credit: WTTW News
Bronzeville
Why you Should Visit
- Bronzeville is the key neighborhood of African-American business and culture located on the Southside of ChiTown from 31st street down to 51st street between LaSalle and Cottage Grove Avenue.
Fun Things to Do:
- For a live venue of music, events, plays, movie screenings and more, check out the Harold Washington Cultural Center (The HWCC), named after Chicago's first African-American mayor.
- The Bronzeville Children's Museum is the first of its kind in the country, bringing to life African-American culture for kids through a unique, and memorable guided tour format.
- Gallery Guichard is art that touches the soul. This gallery features modern and contemporary works from artists all over the world, rotating it's showcase every 6 to 8 weeks. This is truly a gallery that exposes every visitor to multicultural arts. One must-do at the here is a stroll through the Great Migration Sculpture Gallery.
Favorite Eats and Drinks:
- For fantastic food and beers, visit Moody Tongue Brewery—the world's first two start Michelin Brewery that specializes in culinary brewing. The brew master thinks like a chef, blending familiar flavors with quality ingredients to highlight flavors and aromatics in all their beers. Visit the Dining Room or The Bar. Moody Tongue beers are sold throughout Chicago too.
The Best Views:
- For great views of the lake and south side of the city skyline, check out the Margaret T. Burroughs beach for swimming, running and lakeside walks. The area is named after the accomplished artist, art advocate, poet, teacher, civic leader, historian, and founder of the DuSable Museum of African American History.
Moody Tongue Brewery Photo credit: Eater Chicago
Margaret T. Burroughs Beach Photo credit: The Citizen Newspaper Report
Gallery Guichard Photo credit: One Two Pru
Old Town
Photo Credit: Bon Appetit
Why you Should Visit
- Get your laugh on in Old Town—the birthplace of comedy and home to the most famous comedy clubs and troupes.
- This historic neighborhood just north of downtown off of North Wells Street—its main drag, is also the place to find the best preserved Victorian homes, buildings, vintage boutiques, and restaurants. The neighborhood comprises primarily upscale residential dwellings yet becomes more energetic in the Old Town Triangle District to the north, on Division Street on the south side, and on the more populated Wells and Clark Streets.
Fun Things to Do:
- Catch a show at Second City, the home of the famous improv comedy troupe that started with stars like Bill Murray, Gilda Radner, and Chevy Chase.
- Stroll along the streets or join a walking tour to discover the historic buildings and the few remaining that survived the Great Chicago Fire. Learn how this neighborhood became a hippie hangout in the '60s and '70s.
- For the lighter side of the city, visit Zanies Comedy Club for a fun night at this decades-old club that features some of the hottest headliners and up-and-coming comedy acts from all across the country.
Favorite Eats and Drinks:
- Visit the best dive bar in America, a comedy celeb hang out, and Chicago landmark—The Old Town Ale House.
- Bring your appetite over to one of the best Italian restaurants in Chicago and an Old Town staple—Topo Gigio. Book ahead in the cozy dining room, or find a spot in the garden during the summer months.
The Best Views:
- For some peace, tranquility, and gorgeous views of the city, head over to the South Pond Lincoln Park—a natural preserve in the city, just adjacent to Old Town.
- While you’re there, make a stop at The Honeycomb along the Lincoln Park Zoo Nature Boardwalk. This is a gorgeous piece of contemporary art that makes a great photograph in all kinds of lighting, both day and night.
South Pond, Lincoln Park
A sample from Topo Gigio Ristorante 
Second City Comedy Club Andersonville
Why you Should Visit
- You know a neighborhood is cool when it literally wins an award for being the #2 coolest neighborhood in the world!
- Once a small village of Swedish Immigrants, Andersonville's ethnic roots have remained and it is the #2 hub for Swedes in the world outside of Stockholm. This large LGBTQ+ community and home of Pride Month’s Midsommarfest, celebrates both LGBTQ+ and Andersonville's Swedish culture together.
- Some call this neighborhood the "shop local capital" because if you want to support independent shop owners and entrepreneurs, you've found your place. There isn't a chain store in sight!
Fun Things to Do:
- Head out on the town to the Chicago Magic Lounge, a cross between a speakeasy and magical theater. Enter through a laundromat to be transported into a mysterious, marvelous experience. Besides the surprises and magic, you can satiate your thirst from their craft cocktail menu or order a small plate if you are peckish.
- For another out-of-this-world evening, visit The Neo-Futurist Theater—a place where interactive performances are considered a blend of sport, poetry, and living newspaper. Their signature show, "Too Much Light Makes the Baby Go Blind,” has been running since 1989.
- Discover 200 years of immigrant history come to life at the Swedish American Museum.
Favorite Eats and Drinks:
- Say hello to some incredible Swedish bakery & brunch spots! Check out Lost Larson—a bakery and cafe inspired by owner and chef Bobby Schaffer's Scandanavian roots.
- You're in little Sweden after all, why not order a Viking breakfast at Svea? This Andersonville diner serves Swedish comfort food specialties perfect for big appetites and hangover cures. The Swedish meatballs are a must.
- Simon’s Tavern is decked out in Scandinavian decor and was once a speakeasy back in the day. If you visit around the holiday season, make sure you try their feature Glögg—warm mulled wine or in the summer, sample their "slushie" version of the same drink.
The Best Views:
- Feast your eyes on the bounty of colors at this Chicago institution, the Gethsemane Garden Center where you can handpick flowers, herbs, fruits, and vegetables or buy decorative items to dress up your home & backyard for the holidays or the summer months.
Chicago Magic Lounge.com
Lost Larson BakeryPhoto credit: Chicago Sun Times
MidsommarfestPhoto credit: Starevents.com
West Ridge (Little India)
Why you Should Visit
- Visit the Chicago neighborhood with some serious color and flavor! On the far north side of the city, you'll find West Ridge or Little India. It may have India in the nickname, but it spans beyond East Indian roots into a true melting pot of cultures from Asia, Africa, Eastern Europe, and the Middle East. It's earned the reputation as one of the most diverse neighborhoods in America.
- Devon Avenue is the heart of West Ridge and an eclectic street of restaurants and shops. One visit will give you a true flavor of this multicultural neighborhood.
Fun Things to Do:
- Make the most of your visit with a Little India Food Tour, that combines tastings of the best South Asian cuisines, with spice store visits, Henna tattoos, and a visit to a temple.
- Shop till you drop at Resham’s for colorful Indian home goods, fabrics, and traditional saris.
Favorite Eats and Drinks:
- Head for a feast of delicious South Indian vegetarian cuisine, including the popular Thalis and Dosas at Udupi Palace.
- Meat lovers will love Sabri NIhari, an incredible Pakistani cuisine that serves up concoctions with Halal meats.
- Got room for an after-dinner delicacy? Head to the world-famous Tahoora Sweets & Bakery, featuring all kinds of South Asian desserts. Lucky for you, they ship their sweets all over North America if you don't have room in your tummy or your luggage.
The Best Views:
- Stroll through Indian Boundary Park, a 13-acre park that opened in 1922 and is listed on the U.S. national registry of historic places. Brimming with nature all around, the park features a gorgeous lagoon, surrounded by flowerbeds, shrubs, and trees. Here, you are bound to snap a great photo and have some fun at the spray park, playground, and tennis courts.
Chicago Magic Lounge.com
Lost Larson BakeryPhoto credit: Chicago Sun Times
MidsommarfestPhoto credit: Starevents.com
Wicker Park/Bucktown
Why you Should Visit
- What was once an urban, shabby-chic enclave for artists and musicians has gradually transformed into an upscale, artsy neighborhood buzzing with galleries, nightlife, and living communities. The streets are full of art, murals, and live music which are the beating heart of this vibrant neighborhood.
Fun Things to Do:
- Pay what you can to get a ticket to the Broken Nose Theatre, featuring contemporary plays and musicals for everyone in the community.
- Subterranean is a sprawling live music and comedy venue in a converted century-old warehouse built over Prohibition-era bootlegger tunnels.
- In a city of wonderful farmer’s markets, Wicker Park Farmers’ Market is among the best. It's open most of the year, with indoor markets in the winter and you can even come for yoga and meditation classes, or stay for a storytime for the kids.
Favorite Eats and Drinks:
- Le Bouchon has been a Bucktown staple for nearly 30 years, and is considered one of the country’s best French restaurants.
- Wicker Park/Bucktown is a brunch Mecca, with no shortage of options, but Dove’s Luncheonette is among locals’ top favorites.
- Keep it on the down-low, but speakeasy cocktail pioneer The Violet Hour, serves Chicago’s best craft cocktails. Shhhhh.
The Best Views:
- Get an amazing shot of the Windy City skyline from the rooftop bar at The Up Room at the Robey Hotel. Not only are the views great, but the drinks are top-notch. You’ll need to have a pretty long selfie stick to get the whole Cloud Mural in your shot. It spans the entire side of a four-story building and is sure to make your followers smile.
Dove's Luncheonette Photo credit: doveschicago.com
Le Bouchon Photo credit: Chicago Tribune
The Up Room at the Robey Hotel Photo credit: Timeout.com
Logan Square
Why you Should Visit
- Logan Square earns its name from General John A. Logan, a soldier in the Civil War who became a U.S. Senator. The neighborhood has evolved into a hub of the city's culinary and nightlife as well as a beautiful spot to walk through with its classic Greystone buildings accented with charming restaurants, coffee shops, delis, and cocktail bars.
- Logan Square attracts visitors to it’s main commercial street of North Milwaukee Avenue and attracts locals and visitors alike to its art galleries and music venues.
Fun Things to Do:
- The Logan Theatre anchors North Milwaukee Avenue and is a vintage movie house that opened in 1915. It features a movie theater decked out in sports artifacts and a renovated bar and lounge. The theatre screens indie films, cult classics, and new-and-upcoming pieces. It's no surprise that it's the home of the Chicago Underground Film Festival which showcases experimental, documentary, and independent films.
- Shop at Chicago's handmade marketplace of local goods from over 300 makers at Wolfbait & B-Girls. Browse for unique jewelry, beauty products, cards, gifts, and so much more.
- For some unique decor, you'll find eclectic gig posters, prints, art, and street art at Galerie F.
Favorite Eats and Drinks:
- Head to the Revolution Brewery - Brewpub and Kitchen, Illinois's largest independent brewery. Get ready for big tastes and variety of options and a fun food menu to accompany your brew. Open for brunch too.
- For the real thing, Parson’s Chicken & Fish – known for its outrageously good fried chicken and the Negroni Slushy, it's easy on the wallet and is always a good time. Parson's has 4 locations throughout Chicago.
- Wet your whistle at The Whistler, a merge of a cocktail bar, with a music venue, and a gallery, while also showcasing independent artists with its record label.
The Best Views:
- Check out the towering Illinois Centennial Monument (featured in the main image above) that anchors Logan Square, built in 1918 to celebrate Illinois's statehood. If you think it resembles Greek architecture, that's correct, as it emulates a column on the Acropolis in Athens in exact size and proportion.
- For great views of the Centennial Monument, dine at the charming Lula Cafe, which features farm-to-table dining. It's a popular brunch destination featured in Food and Wine, The New York Times, and Bon Appetit.
Revolution Brewing Photo Credit: Revbrew.com
Parson's Chicken & Fish Restaurant Photo credit: Parson's Chicken & Fish
Logan Theater Photo credit: Urban Matter
Humboldt Park
Why you Should Visit
- Located on the west side of Chicago, Humboldt Park has been through profound social and ethnic change, and celebrates its strong Puerto Rican roots since the '70s. There's no mistaking this neighborhood is a strong Puerto Rican community because it will show its pride wherever you go in the area.
- Locals and visitors love visiting this neighborhood for its numerous cultural events, huge selection of independent and family-owned restaurants, and 70+ street murals made by local artists.
Fun Things to Do:
- Now this is a local walking tour! The Paseo Boricua Neighborhood Tour is led by Eduardo Arocho, a lifelong neighborhood resident who will guide you through the colorful stories and fascinating cultural landmarks that make Humboldt Park truly unique.
- For a local market experience, visit ¡WEPA! Mercado de Pueblo –translated as "the market of the town") which is a Puerto Rican cultural center and a spot for local artisans to sell their goods. This building was once a laundromat but was converted into a center to support small business owners in the area.
Favorite Eats and Drinks:
- When you are in Humboldt, sampling Puerto Rican food is a must! La Bruquena is a small family-owned cafe that serves up delicious Caribbean classics from the island.
- Another acclaimed locally-owned restaurant is Papa’s Cache Sabroso which specializes in rotisserie chicken with its acclaimed secret sauce.
The Best Views:
- The Humboldt Park Boathouse (circa 1907) and lagoon, is one of the city's nature oasis sites that boast fantastic views of the wetlands area and equally great views of the city's skyline.
- Another greenspace project in the city is The Bloomingdale Trail at the 606, a community-supported rail trail that runs east-west through the neighborhoods of Humboldt Park, Logan Square, Wicker Park, and Bucktown. This urban trail resulted in a true partnership between government departments and communities working together (and it's a great place to snap photos of the city!)
The Bloomingdale Trail at the 606 Photo credit: Curbed Chicago
La Bruquena Puerto Rican Cafe Photo credit: Trip.com
Paseo Boricua Tour Photo credit: paseoboricuatours.com
Ukrainian Village
Why you Should Visit
- Spanning Western and Division Avenues, The Ukrainian Village is a quiet residential neighborhood of brick row houses and townhomes amongst four elaborate cathedrals. It's home to over 54,000 Ukrainian and Ukrainian-American residents so, it's pulsing with folk music, dance, and the best cultural eateries in the city.
- The Ukrainian National Museum of Chicago is home to over 10,000 folk and fine arts pieces that are prized by the community. Despite its Ukrainian roots, you'll be sure to also find trendy cafes and interesting cocktail bars.
Fun Things to Do:
- For a contemporary flare, visit the Ukrainian Institute of Modern Art which includes famous and undiscovered pieces from the best Eastern European and Ukrainian-American artists.
- Alternative music can be found in the village at The Empty Bottle, a popular spot for music and drinks for almost thirty years.
Favorite Eats and Drinks:
- For Ukrainian food with a modern twist, Tryzub Ukrainian Kitchen creates popular favorites such as borscht, pierogies, and potato pancakes but also offers a new take on dishes like charcuterie boards.
- The village would not be complete without Ukrainian Bakeries. The Shokolad Bakery & Cafe creates custom desserts, pastries, chocolates, and even traditional main course plates for when you know you haven't got your fill of pierogies yet.
The Best Views:
- For the best views in the neighborhood, take a load off at Homestead on the Roof, an authentic farm-to-table restaurant, a 3,000-square-foot organic garden, and an open-air patio. Now, this is a place for fresh food!
Homestead on the Roof Photo credit: The Rooftop Guide
Tryzub Ukrainian Kitchen Photocredit: TripAdvisor
Ukrainian Institute of Modern Art Photocredit: UIMA-Chicago.com
Little Italy/University Village
Why you Should Visit
- Located on the northwest side of Chicago on its main artery of Taylor Street, Little Italy is the historic epicenter of Italian immigrants, and has evolved into a diverse ethnic and socio-economic enclave that is home to the University of Illinois at Chicago. No doubt, you will find some of the best Italian restaurants, bakeries, and delis on these streets.
Fun Things to Do:
- Who doesn't love a good market? The Maxwell Street Market is open every Sunday. This street market dates back to the 1900s when immigrant families would sell goods out of pushcarts. Today, the market is in a different location and is a fun place to bargain for thousands of different goods.
- The Jane Addams Hull House Museum pays homage to the settlement homes that served as a community center, food kitchen, and orphanage for Chicago immigrant residents. This historic site was created by social reformer and Nobel Peace Prize Laureate, Jane Addams.
Favorite Eats and Drinks:
- Craving a steak or some of your favorite Italian staples? Head to The Rosebud, one of the most famous steakhouses in Chicago that dishes out all the Italian classics. This place always reserved a regular table for its most famous customer—Frank Sinatra.
- A visit to Little Italy would not be complete without a shaved ice treat from Mario’s Italian Lemonade. Mario’s has been creating shaved ice masterpieces from its seasonal stand including flavors such as blue raspberry, cantaloupe, pineapple, and more since 1954.
- Once a wooden stand on Laflin and Harrison, Al’s Italian Beef opened in 1938 and still continues to serve its famous Italian beef sandwich. Check out their story on the website (it's amazing), then head there for a bun piled 6 inches high of thinly sliced beef! This establishment even won top honors as "The Top Food to Eat in Chicago Before You Die" designation!
The Best Views:
- The streets of Little Italy/University Village are an architecture lover’s dream. Two notable buildings are The Shrine of Our Lady of Pompeii and the Notre Dame de Chicago.
- Walk off all that good Italian food on Lexington Street for a history lesson in Italian architecture, including a stop at the John Coughlan House built in 1871. The neighborhood is also known for its many historic churches including Saint Basil and Holy Family.
The Rosebud Italian Restaurant Photo credit: Taste Atlas
Al's Italian Beef Photo Credit: Chicago's Best
The Shrine of Our Lady of Pompeii Photo credit: Chicago Sun Times
Hyde Park
Why you Should Visit
- Located seven miles south of the Chicago Loop and nestled on the shores of Lake Michigan, this beautiful neighborhood is the home of the University of Chicago, former President Barack Obama, and has been a breeding ground for Nobel Prize winners. This area is also a great place to find fabulous restaurants, bookstores, and cafes.
Fun Things to Do:
- The exciting Museum of Science and Industry, located in Jackson Park is definitely worth visiting, and contains more than 2,000 exhibits from the largest display of Lego art in the world, to space and tornado exhibits. The architecture of the building is fascinating and still includes one of the last standing buildings from the Chicago World’s Fair of 1893.
- In Washington Park, you can find the DuSable Museum with displays dedicated to African American history and culture. While visiting, check out the bird and butterfly sanctuary and the photogenic Fountain of Time.
Favorite Eats and Drinks:
- For a hearty breakfast, head over to the 100-year-old Valois Restaurant frequented by former president Barak Obama.
- A trip to Chicago's top deli may be in order, and it's located in Hyde Park! Morry’s Deli has been serving Chicagoans for over 50 years with mouth-watering subs, triple-decker sandwiches, and breakfast plates.
The Best Views:
- For an architectural wonder, visit Frank Lloyd Wright’s Robie House to see his incredibly restored home which is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- For a beautiful view of one of Chicago's greatest parks, The Midway Plaisance Park should be on your list. This park is tastefully landscaped with long avenues of trees and accented with architectural beauties like the University of Chicago campus.
Museum of Science and History Photo credit: Open House Chicago
The Midway Plaisance Park South winter garden Photo credit: Site Design Group
Frank Lloyd Wright's Robie House Photo credit: Educated Traveller
Streeterville
Why you Should Visit
- Streeterville is brimming with local attractions on the bucket list for visitors to the city. It's the home of the 360 CHICAGO Observation Deck, Navy Pier, Museum of Contemporary Art, access to the beaches of Lake Michigan, and so much more!
Fun Things to Do:
- Head to Navy Pier for family and couples fun including amusement rides, games, and the 200ft Centennial Ferris Wheel. Check out their weekend events, eateries, gift shops, and the Chicago Shakespeare Theatre
- For a more avant-garde experience, pop over to the Museum of Contemporary Art for a peek at the latest experimental exhibit.
- Shop till you drop on the Magnificent Mile, for uber luxury boutiques including Gucci, at 900 shops, and department stores like Bloomingdales.
Favorite Eats and Drinks:
- While at the Museum of Contemporary Art, stop for a cup of Kikwetu coffee at the Tuesday morning Farmer's Market.
- Looking for some international flavors to tantalize your tastebuds after a day of walking the Mag Mile? Head to Sayat Nova a Streeterville staple serving authentic Armenian cuisine since 1970.
- For a healthy and delicious option, celebrity chef Matthew Kenny serves up organic, thoughtfully sourced, and plant-based masterpieces at Althea restaurant.
The Best Views:
- If you haven't visited 360 CHICAGO at the former John Hancock building yet, the panoramic views of the Chicago skyline and Lake Michigan are a must-see!
- Get easy access to the beach via Oak street for views of Lake Michigan and many Chicagoans catching some rays.
Navy Pier
Museum of Contemporary Art
Oak Street BeachRiver North
Why you Should Visit
- Located along the Chicago River, River North is known as the Gallery District. You’re never too far away from an amazing meal, a beautiful walk along the Riverwalk, or a stimulating tour through the country’s best contemporary fine art.
Fun Things to Do:
- Known as the River North Gallery District for a reason, go on a Gallery Walk starting at the intersection of Superior and Wells and head west for a deep dive into the country’s best contemporary fine art. Stop and start at any gallery you choose. You will also catch some of the best views of the city.
- Hop aboard a Chicago Water Taxi from the Riverwalk for a fun time on the river for the whole family.
- Step back in time to Chicago’s gilded age at the Driehaus Museum, also known as Chicago’s Marble Palace. The museum presents some of the most luxurious designs of the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
Favorite Eats and Drinks:
- Celebrity chef and Chicagoan Rick Bayless, opened Frontera Grill back in 1987, but it continues to serve some of the most innovative and delicious Mexican cuisines in the country. Try its fine dining sister restaurant, Topolobampo which is right next door.
- The best deep-dish is in River North at Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria, an iconic name in Chicago pizza since the 1940s.
The Best Views:
- Some of the best cityscape views and celebrity stargazing can be found at the London House Rooftop. This is also a fantastic choice for Sunday brunch.
Driehaus Museum Photo credit: Driehausmuseum.org
Frontera Grill Photo credit: Dining Chicago
London House Roof Top Bar Photocredit: Londonhousechicago.com
Gold Coast
Why you Should Visit
- The Gold Coast area was originally referred to as the Astor Street District, named for John Jacob Astor, who wasn't a resident of Chicago but rather a name that was used to attract wealthy developers.
- The Gothic Chicago Water Tower on Michigan Ave. is the second oldest water tower in the US and was the only public building to survive the Great Chicago Fire of 1871.
- Rush Street is one of Chicago’s oldest streets, dating back to the city’s incorporation in 1837. Today, it’s home to luxury hotels and amazing restaurants, and if you are in the market for buying a Bentley or Lamborghini, you can find their showrooms in this neighborhood.
Fun Things to Do:
- Located in Water Tower Place, the Broadway Playhouse was restored and reopened in 2010, and hosts hit productions of America’s favorite plays and musicals.
- Housed in the historic Nickerson Mansion just steps from the Magnificent Mile, The Driehaus Museum exhibits art, architecture, and design of the late 19th century to the present day.
Favorite Eats and Drinks:
- A celebration of French-colonial Vietnamese culture and cuisine—Le Colonial is a Gold Coast institution. Located on Rush Street, you will enjoy their Southeast Asian fare with French bistro flare.
- Dine al fresco (even in the winter) in the light and airy courtyard within the historic building that houses the 3 Arts Club Café.
The Best Views:
- Capture Chicago’s iconic skyline on the shores of Lake Michigan at Oak Street Beach on N. Lake Shore Drive. This area also extends into the Streeterville neighborhood.
- Take in the amazing views of Chi-town’s iconic skyline from Devereaux, the swanky rooftop bar at the Viceroy Chicago.
3 Arts Club Cafe Source: JWMarriott
Le Colonial cuisine Source: @lecolonialchicago
Chicago Water Tower Loop
Why you Should Visit
- The Loop is the heart of downtown Chicago and the central business district. One may think it's quiet after 5 pm and a ghost town on weekends, but its events, theaters, and parks make it an exciting destination any time of the year.
- One of the visitor favorites is the sprawling 24.5-acre Millennium Park to wander around its year-round flower displays with its iconic Cloud Gate sculpture (a.k.a the Bean), which illuminates the faces of passers-by.
Fun Things to Do:
- Welcome to Chicago's theater district boasting 11 of the best theaters in the city, including the 5,000-seat Chicago Theater (circa 1921), which is home to popular events and its famous illuminated marquee sign.
- Shop to your heart's content at Macy's, on State Street's discount department store zone, or at an array of eclectic boutique shops.
Favorite Eats and Drinks:
- For an amazing cup of coffee, look out for Kikwetu coffee- family-owned Kenyan coffee purveyors. Their coffees can be found at the Green City Market on Saturday mornings in the West Loop and also in Lincoln Park.
- Satisfy your hunger at Revival Food Hall, which brings all of Chicago's local culinary flavors under one roof. It's perfect for groups looking for different options.
- Former food truck chefs bring together Asian-Latin flavors at Saucy Porka or take your dining up a notch with Italian flavors at Acanto restaurant and wine bar steps from Millennium Park.
The Best Views:
- Soak in the views of the windy city's famous architecture on a Chicago Riverwalk along Wacker Drive from Franklin Street to Lake Shore Drive. You can also hop on a river cruise for another vantage point for some stellar vacation photos.
Chicago River Walk
Acanto Restaurant and Bar 
Chicago Theater
