Chicago

For every good thing I’ve heard about Chicago, I’ve heard 5 bad things. To put it simply, Chicago gets a bad rap. I’m glad I didn’t let its perception keep me away, because I would’ve missed out on one of the most beautiful cities I’ve visited thus far.

Over Memorial Day weekend I had the opportunity to visit one of my closest friends from college before she heads back to the East Coast. With only three days, or rather, two days and one night (thanks to a last-minute work emergency), we had a jammed pack itinerary of sightseeing, food and #summertimechi nightlife.

Here are a few tips for folks headed to Chicago:

Best Time to Visit

Now! (June-August)  It was still at little brisk as times while I was there at the end of May, but overall still gorgeous weather, no fog in sight.

Sightseeing

• One of the perks of great weather — we were able to do a Chicago Architecture (boat) Tour. We chose Wendella, but there are several different options to choose from. Whether a holiday weekend or not, get there early for a seat on the top deck! The tours take you along the Chicago River and out onto Lake Michigan — absolutely breathtaking.
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• There are 2 main options for an amazing view of the Chicago skyline — the Willis Tower Skydeck (formerly known as the Sears Tower), and the John Hancock Building.  With about 45-60 minutes to spare, we thought we would have enough time to grab a quick drink at the Signature Room at the 95th (the highest floor of the John Hancock Building), and head back down — wrong! So how did I capture this amazing view? A quick trip to the ladies room! My friend remembered just before we left that it allows for a great, free sneak peak of the skyline. Not exactly ideal, but the same great view!
• Unfortunately we missed the fireworks at Navy Pier by just a few minutes, but I imagine they’re absolutely beautiful on a clear night. Definitely check them out during the summer!

Nightlife

• Near North Side Bars.  The great thing about Near North Side was that there were so many bars right next to each other — it made it easy to bar hop. On the first night alone we checked out 4 bars that each brought something different to the table: El Hefe, Rockit, Social Twenty Five and Three Dots and a Dash.

Eats

• Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria. I had to get deep dish pizza!
• Harold’s Chicken Shack. My first stop of the day, an institution in Chicago.
• Beatrix. Brunch, brunch, brunch. We chose Beatrix and it did not disappoint. LOVE, the brown sugar bacon.
• Glazed and Infused. Spoiled by their red velvet donut.
• Garrett Popcorn. Gourmet popcorn anyone? Great snack on the go.

 

More pictures from my trip: