Planning a trip to Chicago? Check out my travel guide for places to see and my Recs @livethruthelens.com
Chicago is a diverse city with so much to offer- vibrant culture, rich architecture and history, and world-class dining scene.
Where To Stay- Lux Hotels Downtown Chicago: The Peninsula, The Langham, Waldorf Astoria, and Four Seasons.
My Adventures: Sights & Attractions-
Visit Millennium Park- check out The Cloud Gate, aka “The Bean” and Crown Fountain, great photo-ops.
Explore World-Class Museums- The Art Institute of Chicago, The Shedd Aquarium, Adler Planetarium, and Field Museum.
The Willis Tower, formerly known as the Sears Tower, is the tallest building in Chicago. Visit the Interactive Chicago Museum, immerse yourself in the story of Chi-Town- city’s history and culture, and architecture.
Skydeck Chicago- Observation deck on the 103rd floor of the Willis Tower with views of up to four states on a clear day: Illinois, Indiana ,Wisconsin, and Michigan.
The Ledge at Skydeck- glass balconies 1,353 feet above the city with breathtaking panoramic views of the city and famous skyscrapers.
Color Factory- Immersive art exhibits, very colorful and playful. I recommend purchasing tickets in advance on the website for the Willis Tower so the time slots do not sell out!
Explore Navy Pier, Water Taxi- sightseeing – great views of the skyline and city’s architecture.
Chicago River Boat Architecture Tours- to learn about the city’s architectural history and Iconic Landmarks.
Ride the Ferris Wheel (Centennial Wheel), take in Chicago’s Iconic skyline views and the scenic Chicago River. Walk the Pier, shop, dine at a variety of restaurants, take a boat cruise. Dine and Drink at Offshore Rooftop, the largest rooftop deck in the world, take in the best skyline views!
Wrigley Field- Stadium of the Chicago Cubs if interested in sports.
Puttery- Rooftop Terrace with 9- hole rounds of miniature golf and a bar. Also hosts special events.
Explore the Chicago Riverwalk- take architecture cruises and kayaking adventures. You can also stroll the Riverwalk and dine at riverfront cafes, bars, and restaurants.
Shopping- Stroll the Mag Mile – The Shops at North Bridge, 900 N. Michigan Shops, Neiman Marcus, Saks Fifth Ave, Burberry and Oak Street (Gold Coast) for high-end boutiques and luxury shops, and fine dining. For Upscale Suburban Experience, visit Oakbrook Center and shop at luxury retail stores- Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Burberry, David Yurman, Tiffany and Co., and Yves Saint Laurent to name a few.
Luxury Spas- AIRE Ancient Baths Chicago- offers a variety of signature thermal baths and spa treatments, so peaceful! The Peninsula Spa and Wellness Center- great massages, facials, and therapeutic spa treatments.
Check out Chicago’s diverse culinary scene- Culinary Hot Spot- Michelin- starred and James Beard Award- Winners restaurants, as well as classics like Chicago style hotdogs and Deep-dish Pizza, of course I had to bring Giordano’s home. Fulton Market District is known for boutiques, bars, dining, nightlife, and art. Some of my favorite restaurants, rooftops, and cocktail bars are listed below:
RESTAURANTS: Bavette’s Bar & Boeuf, Fioretta, Maple & Ash, Gibsons Italia , RPM Steak, RPM Seafood, Gino & Marty’s, Joe’s Seafood, Prime Steak and Stone Crab, Alla Vita, OLIO E PIU`, Bar LaRue, Pizzeria Portofino, and Au Cheval.
Cocktail Bars:
Dearly Beloved- stunning ambience and great cocktails.
Gilt Bar, Chemistry, and Machine Cocktail Bar
New Experiences in The Chi- Cliquot Courtyard at the Waldorf Astoria, Sippin Champagne 🍾.
Thank you so much for reading my guide to visiting Chicago. I hope this will inspire you to check out Chi-Town. Please feel free to reach out for comments or questions.
Rochelle @livethruthelens