Currency
US Dollar (USD) $
Best Time
April to October
Chicago is a city of contrasts, where the old and new coexist. Its towering skyscrapers, like the Willis Tower, offer panoramic views of the city. In contrast, the rich blues and jazz culture continues to thrive, with legendary clubs that have hosted the likes of Muddy Waters and Buddy Guy. The city's food culture is just as diverse, from its signature deep-dish pizza to the internationally recognized Chicago-style hot dog. Whether you're visiting for its architectural wonders, live music, or culinary delights, Chicago promises an experience like no other.
Airport
O'Hare International Airport (ORD)
Minimal List TL;DR
🍕Dining/Pizza
Lou Malnati’s Pizza ($$)Chicago’s famous deep dish pizza can be found in this local favorite; be wary of long lines and expect at least a 40 minute wait
🍔Dining/Burger
Au Cheval ($$)the best burger in town” infamous for 2-5 hour waits; no reservations; Small Cheval ($) is a similar chain that offers the casual version of Au Cheval
🥟Dining/Asian Fusion
Duck Duck Goat ($$-$$$)Chinese fusion small plates; same chef as above; truly 10/10 creative and delicious.
🍷Cocktail Bar, American
The Violet HourCreative cocktails & small bites define this sophisticated, stylish bar.
🌆Casual Dining, American
Cindy’sHip, stylish rooftop bar/eatery at the Chicago Athletic Association Hotel with choice seasonal fare.
Places to See
1600 N Lake Shore Dr, Chicago, IL 60613, United States
4.6
€-€€
Wednesday at 9:30pm | Saturday at 10:15pm.
Offers beautiful views of the city and the lake.
Vibe:
Beach volleyball, Scenic views
Tip:
Relaxed, Family-friendly
Get To:
Diverse public transport options
stunning skyline views in front of the beach; in the summertime, watch fireworks on Wednesday at 9:30pm and Saturday at 10:15pm.
111 E Wacker Dr, Chicago, IL 60601, United States
4.6
€-€€
10AM to 4PM
Learn about Chicago’s architectural history from experts.
Vibe:
Architectural insights, Scenic views
Tip:
Educational, Informative
Get To:
Various docks available
Awarded as one of the most popular tours in America, the tour is a must-do for those interested in the history of Chicago and how the city unfolded
2045 N Lincoln Park W, Chicago, IL 60614-4707
4.5
€-€€
6AM to 11PM
Home to the Lincoln Park Zoo and the Chicago History Museum
Vibe:
Outdoor activities, picnics, zoo visits
Tip:
Relaxed and Family-Friendly
Get To:
Accessible via Brown Line, Red Line
a residential neighborhood featuring a free Zoo, the famous Lincoln Park and Chicago’s “beach”
233 S Wacker Dr, Chicago, IL 60606, United States
4.5
€-€€
12 to 12:30AM
One of the tallest buildings in the Western Hemisphere.
Vibe:
Views of the skyline, Glass Ledge experience
Tip:
Thrilling, Awe-inspiring
Get To:
Adams/Wells station (0.6 miles)
photo opportunities of the skyline on a glass balcony extending four feet outside the 103rd floor
220 E Chicago Ave, Chicago, IL 60611, United States
4.5
€-€€
Temporarily closed
Engages visitors with contemporary art and culture.
Vibe:
Modern art exhibitions, Live performances
Tip:
Innovative, Thought-provoking
Get To:
Chicago Ave station (0.3 miles)
Downtown museum showcasing post-World War II paintings, sculptures, photos, videos & performances.
River North, Chicago, IL, USA
4.5
€-€€
6AM to 11PM
Home to the famous "Holy Name Cathedral" and many art installations
Vibe:
Fine dining, art galleries, river cruises
Get To:
Accessible via Brown Line, Red Line
great for fine dining, mainstream clubs, bars & lounges
1027 W Addison St, Chicago, IL 60613-4986
4.4
€-€€
6AM to 11PM
The famous Wrigley Field and the surrounding party atmosphere
Vibe:
Ballpark snacks, local brews
Get To:
Accessible via Red Line
a neighborhood built around its baseball stadium featuring many sports bars
Must Visit:
Millennium Park, Art Institute of Chicago
Chicago’s skyline is home to 1,100 high-rises, and the city has played a pivotal role in the development of jazz and blues music, with artists like Muddy Waters and Benny Goodman.
Places to Eat
809 W Randolph St, Chicago, IL 60607, United States
4.9
€-€€
4:30 to 9:30PM
Known for its innovative approach to shared dining.
Vibe:
Goat empanadas, Seasonal dishes
Get To:
Damen station (0.3 miles)
small plates with adventurous ingredients, family style, 2-3 months prior reservations recommended.
http://www.girlandthegoat.com/439 N Wells St, Chicago, IL 60654, United States
4.8
€-€€
10:30AM to 10PM
Known for its iconic deep-dish pizza.
Vibe:
Deep-dish pizza, Malnati's salad
Get To:
Diverse public transport options
Tip:
Cozy, Family-friendly
Chicago’s famous deep dish pizza can be found in this local favorite; be wary of long lines and expect at least a 40 minute wait
https://www.loumalnatis.com/chicago-river-north2002 S Wentworth Ave #103, Chicago, IL 60616, United States
4.8
€-€€
11:30AM to 9PM
West Loop
Vibe:
Accessible via CTA bus 8, 65
Get To:
Specializes in hand-made dumplings and noodles
housemade dumplings with various choices for fillings.
http://qxydumplings.com/951 W Fulton Market, Chicago, IL 60607, United States
4.7
€-€€
10AM to 3PM | 4 to 9PM
Known for its innovative approach to wood-fired cooking.
Vibe:
Wood-fired meats, Seasonal dishes
Get To:
Damen station (0.5 miles)
amazing brunch alert; the BEST chicken and waffles I’ve ever had.
https://www.roisterrestaurant.com/800 W Randolph St, Chicago, IL 60607, United States
4.7
€-€€
12 to 9PM
Known for its elevated burger experience.
Vibe:
Cheeseburger, Duck fries
Get To:
Damen station (0.5 miles)
the best burger in town” infamous for 2-5 hour waits; no reservations; Small Cheval ($) is a similar chain that offers the casual version of Au Cheval
http://auchevalchicago.com/2540 W Armitage Ave, Chicago, IL 60647, United States
4.7
€-€€
10AM to 9PM
Wicker Park & Logan Square
Vibe:
Accessible via CTA bus 74, 49
Get To:
Offers authentic Cuban dishes and vibrant decor
Tip:
Cuban Sandwich, Empanadas
Great Cuban food with nice outdoor seatings.
http://www.90milescubancafe.com/857 W Fulton Market, Chicago, IL 60607, United States
4.6
€-€€
4:30 to 11PM
A unique take on Asian cuisine with a sharing concept.
Vibe:
Peking duck, Dumplings
Get To:
Damen station (0.5 miles)
Chinese fusion small plates; same chef as above; truly 10/10 creative and delicious.
https://duckduckgoatchicago.com/Must Try:
Deep-Dish Pizza, Italian Beef, Chicago-Style Hot Dogs, Popcorn, Tacos
Places to Drink
1520 N Damen Ave., Chicago, IL 60622, United States
4.9
€-€€
4 to 8PM
Wicker Park
Vibe:
Accessible via CTA bus 56, 70
Get To:
Speakeasy vibe with artisanal cocktails
Tip:
Cocktails, Small Plates
Creative cocktails & small bites define this sophisticated, stylish bar.
http://www.theviolethour.com/12 S Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60603, United States
4.5
€-€€
Temporarily closed
Loop
Vibe:
Accessible via CTA bus 3, 60
Get To:
Stunning rooftop views of Millennium Park
Hip, stylish rooftop bar/eatery at the Chicago Athletic Association Hotel with choice seasonal fare.
http://www.cindysrooftop.com/
Music / Dance:
Jazz, Blues, House Music, Soul, Gospel
Places to Network
We'll be updating more places soon!
Key Industries:
Finance, Manufacturing, Tech
Chicago
“Chicago is the home of the blues and the truth of jazz, the heart of comedy and the idea of the skyscraper. With a wealth of iconic sights and neighborhoods to explore, there’s enough to fill a visit of days, weeks, or even months without ever seeing the end.”
Places to Shop
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Luxury
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Local Chicago
Deep-dish pizza, jazz music, and Millennium Park.
Chicago has the world’s first skyscraper, the Home Insurance Building, built in 1885, shaping modern architecture.
Chicago is a bustling metropolis on the shores of Lake Michigan, known for its skyline, history, and cultural richness. As the birthplace of jazz and blues, Chicago’s music scene is legendary, influencing global genres. The city’s architectural landscape is as iconic as its musical roots, with a blend of historic landmarks and modern skyscrapers. Chicago's diverse neighborhoods offer unique experiences, and its food scene is equally diverse, from deep-dish pizza to international cuisines.
Watch Out
Watch out for Crowded Areas
Skip
Skip Super Touristic Places
Off the beaten path places in
Chicago
Transportation
Efficient metro, buses
City Overview
Chicago blends a rich architectural heritage with vibrant neighborhoods, an innovative food scene, and Lake Michigan’s stunning backdrop. Known for its skyscrapers and deep-dish pizza, the city offers much more than meets the eye.
3 Day City Guide
- Day 1: Morning: Millennium Park and Cloud Gate (The Bean). Afternoon: Chicago Architecture Boat Tour. Evening: Dinner at a deep-dish pizza spot like Lou Malnati’s. - Day 2: Morning: Field Museum or Art Institute of Chicago. Afternoon: Navy Pier and Ferris wheel. Evening: Jazz clubs in the South Loop. - Day 3: Morning: Explore Wicker Park. Afternoon: Lincoln Park Zoo. Evening: Sunset drinks at the Signature Room in the John Hancock Tower.
Current Trends
- West Loop restaurants: Known for its trendy food scene, home to celebrity chefs and Michelin-star restaurants like The Girl and The Goat. - Craft breweries: Chicago is a hub for craft beer lovers, with spots like Revolution Brewing and Half Acre leading the way. - Rooftop bars: Popular spots like Cindy’s Rooftop offer skyline views and craft cocktails.
Local Events Guide
- Chicago Blues Festival (June): The largest free blues festival in the world. - Lollapalooza (August): One of the largest music festivals in the US. - Chicago Air and Water Show (August): Stunning aerial displays over Lake Michigan.
Local Insider Tips
- Logan Square for local breweries and quirky vintage shops. - Riverwalk for waterside views and cafés. - Pilsen for colorful murals and authentic Mexican food.
Sustainable Travel
- Divvy Bike Sharing: Eco-friendly bike rentals around the city. - Urban parks: Visit Lincoln Park or Garfield Park Conservatory. - Public transportation: The CTA (Chicago Transit Authority) operates electric buses and trains. - Sustainable dining: Uncommon Ground restaurant is a leader in eco-friendly dining, with a rooftop farm.
Explore the Best Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences:
Ready to see through a local’s eyes?
Our curated guide unveils top hidden gems, secret spots, and local favorites that you won’t find in typical travel guides.
Whether it’s a cozy café tucked away in a historic neighborhood, a scenic trail only known to insiders, or unique cultural sites, has so much more to offer beyond the tourist hotspots.
Dive into our off-the-beaten-path guide and discover the true heart —perfect for adventurous travelers, culture enthusiasts, and anyone looking for an authentic journey
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Unlock the Hidden Side:
Each spot in our City guide is handpicked to help you experience the city like a local, avoiding the crowds and discovering the best-kept secrets.
From charming local eateries and breathtaking viewpoints to tucked-away art galleries and vibrant local markets, this guide lets you explore beyond the surface.
Follow our recommendations for an unforgettable adventure and see why these places stand out as favorites among locals.
For more unique experiences like these, explore our full collection of off-the-beaten-path city guides and make every trip a journey of discovery.
More Cities to Visit:
Berlin Hidden Gems
Vibe:
Berlin is home to over 1,700 parks, including the sprawling Tiergarten, and is a city that blends history and modernity effortlessly.
Tip:
Berlin’s unique cultural blend creates an exciting atmosphere. It offers a perfect mix of history, art, and innovation. Explore the remnants of the Berlin Wall, immerse yourself in contemporary art at the East Side Gallery, and visit its 170+ museums. Berlin's ever-evolving food scene, from vibrant street food markets to upscale dining, showcases the city's fusion of tradition and modernity. Whether you're in a minimalist café or a techno club, Berlin is constantly changing, with new trends emerging every day.
Local Chicago
Vibe:
Chicago has the world’s first skyscraper, the Home Insurance Building, built in 1885, shaping modern architecture.
Tip:
Chicago is a city of contrasts, where the old and new coexist. Its towering skyscrapers, like the Willis Tower, offer panoramic views of the city. In contrast, the rich blues and jazz culture continues to thrive, with legendary clubs that have hosted the likes of Muddy Waters and Buddy Guy. The city's food culture is just as diverse, from its signature deep-dish pizza to the internationally recognized Chicago-style hot dog. Whether you're visiting for its architectural wonders, live music, or culinary delights, Chicago promises an experience like no other.
Hidden Lisbon
Vibe:
Lisbon is home to the oldest bookstore in the world, Livraria Bertrand, established in 1732.
Tip:
Lisbon is a captivating city that offers an ideal mix of history, culture, and modern vibrancy. Its ancient monuments and picturesque neighborhoods like Baixa and Bairro Alto are filled with art, while the lively Fado music captures the soul of the city. In the evening, Lisbon’s culinary delights—especially seafood—are a must-try for food lovers. Lisbon’s scenic tram rides give you an unforgettable view of this coastal gem.
11.5
8
Hungarian Forint (HUF) Ft
Budapest Unveiled
Vibe:
The Széchenyi Thermal Bath is one of the largest medicinal baths in Europe, with 15 pools and 3 outdoor pools.
Tip:
Budapest offers a unique blend of history, culture, and modernity. The city’s historic buildings, such as Buda Castle and the Parliament, are a testament to its rich past. The Danube River adds a magical charm to the city, especially at night when the bridges and buildings are lit up. Budapest’s thermal baths are a must-experience, offering visitors the chance to relax in natural hot springs. Whether it’s enjoying Hungarian dishes at a traditional restaurant, exploring the city’s museums, or dancing in the vibrant nightlife scene, Budapest is a city that never fails to captivate.
4-28°C
Moderate
US Dollar (USD) $
Academic
Vibe:
Home to Ohio State University, major business hub
Tip:
Columbus is a city in the midst of growth, offering a rich cultural landscape with numerous museums, parks, and theaters. The presence of Ohio State University brings an energetic vibe to the city, which is reflected in its ever-evolving food scene, music venues, and arts programs. Known for its eclectic mix of modern and historical attractions, Columbus also draws visitors with its diverse green spaces, bike-friendly streets, and dynamic local events. Whether visiting for business or leisure, the city offers something for everyone.
Unseen Vienna
Vibe:
Vienna has a rich tradition of coffeehouse culture, with many establishments dating back centuries.
Tip:
Vienna is a city where grandeur and tradition are beautifully intertwined. Its coffeehouses, with their rich cultural history, are perfect places to relax and enjoy Austrian pastries. The city’s classical music heritage, reflected in the Vienna State Opera, ensures that music lovers will be in paradise. Vienna’s artistic legacy, including its stunning palaces and museums, offers a wealth of experiences for culture seekers.
