Joanne
I have been to Chicago a couple of times and both times enjoyed it very, very much. While on an architect river boat tour on my 2nd trip, the tour guide said something about Chicago being the best place to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day because they dye the Chicago River green and while I’m nowhere near Irish myself, this is definitely on our bucket list to see someday! (Photo courtesy of http://www.choosechicago.com/st-patricks-day/)
In the meantime, enjoy our list of the…
Top Ten Things to See/Do in Chicago:
(All photos provided by Joanne)
1. Walk & Shop the Magnificent Mile
the Magnificent Mile is a great walk in the heart of Chicago! There are many beautiful buildings, the river and many great shops you can stop in as well.
2. Take a photo-op with “the Bean”
This landmark is well-known in Chicago’s Millennium Park and nothing says, “I’m in Chicago!” more than this gem which is actually quite impressive in person.
3. Architecture River Boat Tour
On a nice sunny day, you should enjoy a river boat tour of Chicago. The landmarks & buildings each have a story to tell and the architecture is not only interesting, but beautiful as well.
4. Enjoy a Free Concert & Classes at Millennium Park
I went here in the Summer during my husband’s work trip so I was left to explore on my own. So, I checked out what Millennium Park had to offer & much to my surprise they had free classes out on the main lawn and I did all 3 in a row! (I had time to kill :)) I did Yoga, Pilates & Zumba! And not only were the classes free, but later I came back with my husband & some of his colleagues to a free concert in the park as well. It was packed and vibe was great! Check out what they have available today: http://www.cityofchicago.org/city/en/depts/dca/supp_info/millennium_park8.html
Video of the Concert in the Park
5. Have a Chicago Dog
When in Chicago, do what Chicagoans do, right? RIGHT! Be sure to stop by Portillo’s & get a hot dog the Chicago way & don’t dare ask for any ketchup! That’s NOT what Chicagoan’s do.
6. Eat Well, Drink Well!
Along with eating the staples that Chicago has to offer, be sure to check out the amazing food & bar scene here. My husband and I are big fans of Top Chef and definitely recommend stopping by Female Top Chef Winner, Stephanie Izard’s restaurant, Girl & The Goat for more unique dishes (top left). If you’re looking for more traditional American cuisine, try Benny’s Chop House where you can get a nice steak & lobster dinner (top right). If you’re looking for great drinks with a vibrant atmosphere & a view, try the ROOF on theWit where they also give complimentary cotton candy (bottom left & center). And because they have such a lively nightlife, you may just end up like the guy we found passed out in our hotel! Must’ve had a good night! (bottom right)
7. Have a Laugh! or Two! or Three!
Though I don’t have any photos from our show at the famous comedy club, The Second City, we very much enjoyed it! My husband and I love laughing and what better way to spend an evening than at this very famous venue.
8. Enjoy the Views
No need to pay for tickets atop the touristy John Hancock Tower. Instead, choose to have dinner, drinks or both at the Signature Room at the 95th which is also in the John Hancock Building for a wonderful view. Even the bathroom has amazing views with floor to ceiling windows!
9. Take a stroll along the Navy Pier
Great for kids and adults alike, the Navy Pier is a fun place to stop by if you have little ones or if you want to grab a bag (or two) of the very tasty Garrett Popcorn. Also, on a nice hot day, you can enjoy the beaches along the pier as well where families will be hanging out.
10. Have a Deep Dish Pizza
Lastly, don’t leave Chicago without having a slice of Deep Dish Pizza. On my first trip, I had Giordano’s Pizza and thoroughly enjoyed every single bite! Below is a photo of pizza from Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria and though it was good, I didn’t think it was as good as Giordano’s. Gino’s East pizza is still on our list to try as well.
Chicago is one of my favorite metropolitan cities for not only being friendly, but clean as well. They also have a lot to offer and even more to explore. I can’t wait to go back someday and maybe on St. Patty’s Day! 🙂
Happy St. Patrick’s Day!
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