Chicago is famous for its incredible food and vibrant culture. Click a description below to view menus, excursion details, and to make reservations or buy tickets.
RESTAURANTS
Each restaurant link brings you to a Google landing page where you can check reservation availability and/or view their menu. All Restaurants are within 15 minutes’ walking distance of the hotel.
The National Chicago: If you’re looking for a quick bite without reservations, consider the Sterling Food Hall. 10 min
Miller’s Pub: A Chicago institution since 1935, serving traditional American pub fare, cocktails, and craft brews. 11 min
The Grillroom Chophouse & Wine Bar: This Loop steakhouse with modern decor serves all-natural steaks, salads, seafood, pasta & wine. 8 min
The Maharaj Indian Grill: Cozy eatery serving Indian dishes rich with flavor. 14 min
Exchequer Restaurant & Pub: Decades-old pub with pizza, ribs, burgers & other American grub plus a large beer selection. 13 min
The Marq Restaurant: Sandwiches, salads, & classic American fare. Upscale, but easily approachable. 12 min
Russian Tea Time Restaurant: Upscale Russian food & house-infused vodkas are served in an elegant, wood-accented dining room. 13 min
Momento Cantina: Modern Mexican cantina with great cocktails and vegetarian fare. You may also be eligible for a $25 coupon from their site. 9 min
Elephant & Castle: Chain with British pub vibes, a popular go-to in the area for fish & chips and other British classics. 6 min
The Village: Described as a romantic Italian eatery with an extensive wine list, this spot has been a tradition since 1927. 9 min
Bandol Brasserie & Raw Bar: French-Southern inspired bistro serving seafood, steaks, cocktails, and wine. 8 min
The Gage: Refined cuisine with a selection of beers, wine, and cocktails in a lively space with Millennium Park views. 11 min
Museums & Other Attractions
One of a Kind Show: Fine Art, Craft, & Flower Expo: An eclectic mix of live music, art vendors, food, and a stunning flower show. One of a Kind Show: Chicago is operating this indoor, spring-themed expo from April 24-26. Tickets are available now. Coat & package check is available for safe storage of any shopping, freeing up your hands for fabulous finds from artists of all kinds.
American Writer’s Museum: Inspired by the Dublin Writer’s Museum, the American Writer’s Museum was established in 2017. Featuring everything from vintage typewriters to interactive exhibits like word games and a “word waterfall”, most visitors can happily spend 1 – 1.5 hours here, but a true bibliophile could easily fill out 2.5 hours over all the exhibits.
Museum of Broadcast Communications: If television & Radio had a hall of fame, this would be it. The museum offers a glimpse into the past of tv & radio while also showcasing present media. While you’re here, check out set pieces (including the original host coffin) of Svengoolie – a Chicago-based show featuring vintage horror and sci-fi films. The show and its host, Rich Koz, have won multiple Midwest/Chicago Emmys. Admission is $24, $21 for veterans & seniors
Willis Tower Skydeck: Formerly known as the Sears Tower, today we know it as the Willis Tower. The skydeck remains the same, offering a vantage point for some of the most stunning views of the city. Tickets get you access to The Chicago Museum, the skydeck ledge (103 floors up), and views that span up to 50 miles and four states!
Adler Planetarium: Just a short Uber ride from the hotel area, be sure to check out DJ’s favorite attraction in the city! Founded in 1930, it is the first planetarium in the United States! Come peruse the exhibits, see a star show in their iconic dome theater (one of three theaters on site), or check out the Gemini 12 space capsule!
The Chicago Cultural Center is home to two magnificent stained-glass domes and many neoclassical architectural features. Expect to spend about 45 – 60 minutes here touring the Welcome Center, Exhibitions, GAR Hall & Rotunda, and Tiffany Dome. Be sure to stop by Buddy, their featured shop for local artists & creators.
Parks, Gardens, Zoo, Aquarium, etc.
Shedd Aquarium: If marine life is your thing, then Chicago’s Shedd Aquarium is for you. Save on admission by purchasing your tickets in advance. The green “buy tickets” button is on the top right of their website. You can checkout as a guest in lieu of creating an account. Come spend some time with the Rockhoppers and channel your inner Raffi by singing Baby Beluga to the Beluga Whales.
Lincoln Park Conservancy: Free, timed-entry tickets are required for the flower show in the conservatory and may or may not be available on site. There are several other parts of the grounds to be visited if you can’t get into the flower show. The conservancy operates as a nonprofit dedicated to preserving and enhancing Chicago’s largest, most visited park.
Lincoln Park Zoo: Hundreds of animal and plant species make the Lincoln Park Zoo their home. Tour the animal & garden exhibitions and learn about the science & conservation efforts in your free time. This part of the conservancy is free to attend.
Garfield Park Conservancy: Often referred to as “landscape art under glass,” the Conservatory showcases thousands of plant species from around the world throughout 8 indoor gardens. Visitors can enjoy the lush flora and tropical temperatures indoors, or more than 10 acres of outdoor gardens, water lily pond, and much more. Admission is $10, or $5 for those 65 and older.
Harold Washington Library & Indoor Winter Garden: The historic library offers music practice spaces, a maker’s lab, and genealogy database. Located on the 9th floor of the library, the stunning glass-roofed atrium provides a calm and serene place for pause in the midst of a bustling city. Self-guided tour brochures are available in the lobby. This link takes you to a list of top ten things to do at the library!
