Girl & The Goat
$$$New American · West Loop
James Beard Award winner Stephanie Izard's flagship restaurant with creative, bold flavors.
Reservations recommended
Our Chicago
Our favorite spots in the city
Where to Eat
Au Cheval
$$American Diner · West Loop
Famous for their double cheeseburger - widely considered one of the best in America.
Portillo's
$Chicago Fast Food · River North
Iconic Chicago chain for Italian beef, Chicago-style hot dogs, and chocolate cake.
Lou Malnati's
$$Pizza · Multiple Locations
Deep dish pizza institution since 1971. The butter crust is legendary.
Reservations recommended
Frontera Grill
$$$Mexican · River North
Rick Bayless's celebrated Mexican restaurant featuring regional dishes and incredible moles.
Reservations recommended
Alinea
$$$$Molecular Gastronomy · Lincoln Park
Three-Michelin-star dining experience. Book months in advance for this culinary journey.
Reservations recommended
Pequod's Pizza
$$Pizza · Lincoln Park
Caramelized cheese crust deep dish that rivals any in the city. Local favorite.
What to Do
Chicago Architecture Boat Tour
TourCruise the Chicago River while learning about the city's world-famous architecture. Book with Chicago Architecture Center.
90 minutes First-time visitors, architecture lovers
Art Institute of Chicago
MuseumWorld-class art museum featuring iconic works including American Gothic and A Sunday Afternoon on the Island of La Grande Jatte.
2-4 hours Art enthusiasts, rainy days
Millennium Park & Cloud Gate
ParkSee 'The Bean,' stroll through Lurie Garden, and enjoy free summer concerts at the Pritzker Pavilion.
1-2 hours Everyone, photo opportunities
Navy Pier
EntertainmentIconic pier with a Ferris wheel, restaurants, shops, and lake views. Great for families.
2-3 hours Families, casual visitors
Skydeck Chicago (Willis Tower)
ObservationStep onto The Ledge, a glass floor 1,353 feet above the ground with views of four states.
1-2 hours Thrill seekers, views
Chicago Riverwalk
Walk1.25-mile pedestrian path along the river with bars, restaurants, and kayak rentals.
1-2 hours Evening strolls, drinks
Second City Comedy Show
EntertainmentLegendary improv comedy theater that launched careers of Tina Fey, Steve Carell, and more.
2 hours Comedy fans, date nights
Neighborhoods to Explore
River North
Upscale & Lively
High-energy neighborhood with great dining, galleries, and nightlife.
- Art galleries
- Trendy restaurants
- Nightlife
West Loop
Foodie Paradise
Former meatpacking district turned culinary destination. Home to many celebrity chef restaurants.
- Restaurant Row
- Fulton Market
- Boutique hotels
Lincoln Park
Charming & Green
Family-friendly neighborhood with the free Lincoln Park Zoo and gorgeous tree-lined streets.
- Free zoo
- Nature museum
- Beautiful brownstones
Wicker Park/Bucktown
Hip & Artsy
Trendy neighborhood with independent boutiques, great bars, and artistic vibe.
- Vintage shopping
- Live music
- Coffee shops
The Loop
Urban Core
Downtown Chicago with iconic architecture, world-class theater, and major attractions.
- Architecture
- Theater district
- Millennium Park
Insider Tips
- ✓ Get a Ventra card for easy CTA access. The trains are the fastest way around the city.
- ✓ Architecture boat tours book up fast in summer — reserve ahead!
- ✓ Deep dish debate: Lou Malnati's vs Pequod's. Try both and pick your side.
- ✓ September weather can be unpredictable. Bring layers and an umbrella just in case.