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things to do in chicago: these are the best activities in chicago!
Are you planning a trip to Chicago soon and curious about what there is to do? In this blog post, I'll list all the fun things to do in the Windy City! Chicago is the third-largest city in America, and it shows; there's so much to do. From food to architecture and super trendy neighborhoods, you won't be bored in Chicago! The city is located on Lake Michigan, and in the summer, the water is bustling with boats. Unfortunately, they're not allowed in the canals. Otherwise, you'd almost feel like you're in Amsterdam. I recommend visiting Chicago during the warmer months. In the summer, it gets to around 25 degrees Celsius, but in the winter, it's very cold and freezes almost all day. A city break is much less enjoyable without the cozy terraces outside.
13 Fun Things to Do in Chicago
Walk the 606: New York has the High Line, which is so incredibly popular that you'll find few free benches to relax on during peak season. Well, Chicago has the 606, and this old train track runs through the trendy Wicker Park neighborhood all the way to Logan Square. Once a neighborhood you wouldn't want to visit, now they're both among the city's hippest neighborhoods. Be sure to bring a drink, because unlike in New York, you won't find vendors on the "tracks" here.
Visit the up-and-coming neighborhoods: Downtown Chicago is beautiful, but I personally prefer the up-and-coming neighborhoods just outside the city center. If you're in Chicago, definitely check out Logan Square, Ukrainian Village, West Loop, Fulton Market, and Wicker Park.
Tasting local beer: Are you crazy about craft beers? Then you'll want to go to Chicago Revolution Brewing in Logan Square. The labels of these local beers are interesting enough, but the flavors are even more so. Try a tasting at the brewpub and order a tasty treat!
Arts Institute of Chicago: If you love modern art, this museum is the place to be. It's a must-visit if it's raining and you're looking for an indoor activity. The building itself is impressive!
North Avenue Beach: YES, Chicago is right on the beach, meaning you can enjoy a drink with your feet in the sand in the summer. You'll find several great beach restaurants along the entire coastline, but North Avenue Beach is particularly popular because of its proximity to the city.
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Eating burgers at Au Cheval: Do you love burgers? For the very best, head to Au Cheval in the West Loop. Don't expect low-calorie dishes at this dark but atmospheric diner. No, this is where you go for comfort food and a delicious, juicy burger!
Millennium Park & the Bean: You probably know that statue of Chicago with a giant silver bean? You can find it in Millennium Park! The Bean is actually called the Cloud Gate and is the entrance to the park, where you can enjoy a lovely stroll. Tip: in the summer, there are often free concerts in this park!
Take the L-Train: Throughout Chicago, you'll see the train tracks of The Loop, also known as the L-Train. I think this train gives the city its distinctive character, making it instantly recognizable as Chicago. A ride on the L-Train subway is highly recommended, especially as it's surrounded by skyscrapers!
Dine at a Michelin-starred restaurant: WOW! Chicago is truly the foodie capital of the Northwest, if you ask me. During my trip to Chicago, I was lucky enough to have a look inside and sample some of the food at GraceThis restaurant has three Michelin stars, and if you're willing to spend some money there, I'd definitely recommend it. What I love about a city like Chicago is that there are also a lot of completely unpretentious Michelin-starred restaurants, like Longman & EagleTry to book a table and you'll have a fantastic evening. This is the restaurant all the locals recommended to me, and next time I'll be booking well in advance!
Magnificient Mile (Michigan Avenue): Want to do some shopping at the American chains before heading home? Then Michigan Avenue is the place to be! It's a shame the Dollar Store isn't so well-stocked, because this shopping street is a real treat.
Lakefront Trail: Walk off all those extra pounds you gained in Chicago on the Lakefront Trail. This enormous boulevard runs along the shores of Lake Michigan. It's also fun to rent a bike and cycle here when the weather is nice (and hopefully less windy!).
Food markets: There are tons of fun food markets in Chicago! Check it out here. our list of the best tips.
Chicago Architecture Cruise: One of my favorite things in Chicago was the river cruise, which was entirely dedicated to Chicago's unique architecture. It's especially wonderful on the boat, especially when you're soaking up the sun, and you learn all about the unique buildings along Chicago's canals.
Chicago Travel Tips
- How to get there: with Icelandair You fly daily from Amsterdam to Chicago with a stopover. Did you know that a stopover in Reykjavik, Iceland, is completely free for up to seven days? Two bucket-list destinations for foodies in one!
- These are YOURLBB'S favorite hotels in Chicago: Do you prefer to stay in a boutique hotel or a lifestyle hotel where you can completely unwind in your room after a day in the city or have a drink in the cozy hotel bar?
>> The Lincoln: hip and vintage interior (Old Town)
>> Longman & Eagle: 6 rooms above a Michelin-star restaurant (Logan Square)
>> The Drake: so American classic that it acquires charm (North Side)
>> Acme Hotel: modern lifestyle hotel full of art (River North)
>> The James: nice lifestyle hotel with bright rooms (River North)
>> The Langham: luxury hotel in a building designed by Mies van der Rohe (River North)
>> Millennium Knickerbocker: classic hotel with central location (North Side)
>> Holiday Jones: Officially a hostel, but with a really cool vibe! (Wicker Park)
>> Cambria: trendy hotel with a fantastic roof terrace (North Side)
WITH LOVE,
ANNE
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