You've seen Chicago from 1,000 feet above the city. Now it's time to experience it at street level. Whether you're looking for a memorable meal, a stroll through a vibrant neighborhood, or another iconic attraction, we've rounded up some of our favorite places to explore after your visit to 360 CHICAGO Observation Deck.
*Keep an eye out for Staff Picks throughout the guide. These recommendations come directly from members of the 360 CHICAGO team and feature some of their favorite places in the city.
Restaurants Worth the Stop
Within Walking Distance of 360 CHICAGO
Known for its Cuban-inspired sandwiches, coffee, and casual atmosphere, Cafecito is a favorite for visitors looking for a quick meal while exploring the Magnificent Mile.
A classic Chicago steakhouse, Gibsons has been serving prime steaks, fresh seafood, and generous portions for decades. Its lively atmosphere and iconic status make it a favorite among both locals and visitors.
Located just off Michigan Avenue, The Purple Pig is known for its Mediterranean-inspired small plates, house-cured meats, and shareable dishes. It's a great spot to gather with friends and sample a variety of flavors.
A lively Italian restaurant serving handmade pasta, wood-fired pizza, and shareable plates. Quartino is a favorite for groups and offers a fun atmosphere with something for everyone.
Located inside the Restoration Hardware gallery, this stunning café is known for its beautiful glass atrium, relaxing atmosphere, and elevated brunch and lunch offerings.
Whether you’re looking for a casual lunch spot or happy hour, Doc B’s offers a menu full of fresh salads, sandwiches, burgers, and comfort food favorites. It’s just a short walk from 360 CHICAGO, making it a convenient stop before or after your visit.
*360 CHICAGO Staff Pick
Mackenzie, Operations
“The Caesar salad wrap is genuinely life changing. I order it every chance I get, and it's the first place I recommend when someone asks where to eat near 360 CHICAGO.”
Experience wine-inspired cuisine where every dish is thoughtfully crafted to complement what's in your glass. The menu features globally inspired flavors, seasonal ingredients, and expertly paired wines, creating a dining experience where the food and wine enhance one another with every bite and sip.
Worth the Short Drive or Train Ride
Known for its legendary burger, Au Cheval has become a Chicago dining institution. The menu features elevated comfort food and standout dishes beyond its famous burger.
*360 CHICAGO Staff Pick
Jim, Sales
"This place is known for the burger, but you should not sleep on the rest of the menu. They serve a Bone Marrow and Beef Cheek Marmalade with Texas Toast that will change your life."
Many locals argue this is the best deep-dish pizza in the city thanks to its signature caramelized crust. The crispy, cheesy edges have earned Pequod's a loyal following for decades.
This family-run Chinatown restaurant serves traditional Cantonese cuisine and is perfect for sharing dishes with a group. Plus, it's BYOB.
*360 CHICAGO Staff Pick
Emilio, Operations
"It's very rare that someone has tried traditional Cantonese food in general, let alone in Chicago. This family-run business is BYOB and offers great deals when you order multiple dishes for the table."
Manny's Cafeteria & Delicatessen
A true Chicago institution, Manny's is famous for towering corned beef sandwiches, homemade soups, and classic Jewish deli favorites that have been drawing locals for generations.
Frequently named one of Chicago's best Mexican restaurants, Birrieria Zaragoza is known for its slow-roasted goat birria served with handmade tortillas, making it well worth the trip beyond downtown.
Discover Chicago's Neighborhoods
Within Walking Distance of 360 CHICAGO
Streeterville
You'll find 360 CHICAGO in the heart of Streeterville, a vibrant neighborhood home to Navy Pier, Ohio Street Beach, and some of Chicago's best shopping and dining. It's the perfect place to explore before or after your visit.
Gold Coast
Just north of the Magnificent Mile, the Gold Coast is known for its historic mansions, luxury stores, and some of Chicago’s most famous restaurants.
River North
Filled with art galleries, acclaimed restaurants, cocktail bars, and vibrant nightlife, River North is the perfect neighborhood to enjoy a great meal, spend an evening out, or take in scenic views along the Chicago River.
Worth the Short Drive or Train Ride
Lincoln Park
This neighborhood is a nature lover's dream, featuring gardens, a hidden lily pond, a historic indoor botanical garden, and miles of lakefront green space with sweeping views of the Chicago skyline. It's also home to one of the country's oldest free zoos and an acclaimed dining scene.
*360 CHICAGO Staff Pick
Jacob, Finance
"The heart of Lincoln Park has so many tree-lined streets, amazing food and coffee shops, and tons of people walking their dogs!"
Chinatown
Chicago's Chinatown is packed with incredible restaurants, bakeries, shops, and cultural experiences, making it a destination worth exploring beyond just a meal.
*360 CHICAGO Staff Pick
Diego, Intern
"My must-see neighborhood in Chicago is Chinatown. I love trying different kinds of Asian cuisine, and it's a great opportunity to learn more about Asian culture while exploring the neighborhood."
Wicker Park
Known for its shops, local coffeehouses, street art, and lively nightlife, Wicker Park is one of Chicago's trendiest neighborhoods. Spend an afternoon browsing boutiques, grabbing a coffee, and exploring everything the neighborhood has to offer.
Little Village
A vibrant neighborhood filled with family-owned businesses, colorful murals, and rich cultural traditions, Little Village offers visitors an authentic Chicago experience and a strong sense of community.
*360 CHICAGO Staff Pick
Jo, TILT
"Little Village is a vibrant community that carries the spirit of home for many people. From family-owned businesses and colorful murals to the rich cultural traditions that fill its streets, it offers a sense of connection and belonging, even to those who are far from where they started."
Pilsen
Known for its colorful murals, impressive arts scene, and some of the city's best Mexican restaurants, Pilsen is one of Chicago's most creative neighborhoods. Explore galleries, local shops, and incredible food while experiencing the neighborhood's rich cultural heritage.
Hyde Park
Home to the University of Chicago, Hyde Park offers beautiful architecture, museums, bookstores, and lakefront parks. Visitors can spend the day exploring cultural attractions, including the Museum of Science and Industry, before relaxing along the lakefront.
Bronzeville
This is one of the city's most historically significant neighborhoods and gives visitors a chance to learn about Chicago beyond downtown. Explore local galleries, murals, historic landmarks, and Black-owned businesses while learning about the neighborhood's lasting impact on Chicago's music, art, and civil rights history.
Must-Do Experiences
Within Walking Distance of 360 CHICAGO
Chicago Riverwalk
Experience the city from a completely different perspective along the Chicago River. Lined with restaurants, bars, public art, and riverfront seating, it's one of the best places to spend an afternoon or evening.
*360 CHICAGO Staff Pick
Grace, Marketing
"The Riverwalk is my favorite place to take visitors because you get amazing views of the city, can sit by the water and watch the boats go by, and there are so many great restaurants and bars along the river. It's the perfect place to spend an afternoon or evening."
See Chicago's skyline from a new perspective as you cruise along the Chicago River. Along the way, you'll learn about the city's rich architectural history and the stories behind some of its most famous buildings.
*360 CHICAGO Staff Pick
Jodie, Sales & Business Development
"The Architecture River Cruise offers a unique perspective of the buildings from the water and is very informative."
Navy Pier offers something for everyone, from waterfront dining and Ferris Wheel rides to lakefront views. While you're there, don't miss Flyover, an immersive ride experience that takes you on a journey above Chicago's most famous landmarks and landscapes.
Lakefront Trail
Stretching for 18 miles along Lake Michigan, the Lakefront Trail is one of the best ways to experience Chicago's skyline and waterfront. Whether you choose to walk, run, or bike, you'll enjoy scenic views of the city, beaches, parks, and the lake along the way.
Worth the Short Drive or Train Ride
Wrigley Field
There are few experiences more Chicago than catching a Cubs game at historic Wrigley Field. Even if you're not a baseball fan, the energy of the ballpark is worth experiencing. After the game, explore Wrigleyville, a lively neighborhood filled with restaurants, bars, and nightlife.
Chicago is the birthplace of modern improvisational comedy, and there's no better place to experience it than The Second City. Enjoy a live performance featuring the next generation of comedians in one of the city's most iconic theaters.
Museum Campus
Home to the Shedd Aquarium, Field Museum, and Adler Planetarium, Museum Campus offers a full day of exploration with incredible skyline and lakefront views between attractions.
Step into one of Chicago's most legendary jazz clubs. Green Mill has been entertaining guests for more than a century and remains one of the best places in the city to experience live jazz.
Escape the hustle of downtown by exploring one of the largest conservatories in the country. Filled with lush gardens and tropical plants, it's a peaceful destination any time of year.
Step inside one of Chicago's favorite neighborhood arcades, where you'll find dozens of classic and modern arcade games, pinball machines, and a full bar. It's the perfect spot to challenge your friends, grab a drink, and experience a fun side of the city beyond the typical tourist attractions.
*360 CHICAGO Staff Pick
Ashly, Marketing
“Logan Arcade is one of my favorite places to spend an evening. Whether you're feeling nostalgic playing classic arcade games or trying something new, it's a fun, laid-back spot with great drinks and a really cool atmosphere.”
No matter how you choose to spend your time in Chicago, you're sure to leave with unforgettable memories. Whether you're checking off the city's must do attractions or exploring like a local, we hope this guide helps you experience the very best of Chicago, starting with the view from 360 CHICAGO.
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