Magnificent Mile
This is Chicago’s premier commercial district. There is a lot to see and do in this area. There are plenty of shopping, dining, and sight seeing to do in and around the Magnificent Mile.
Chicago Architectural Foundation Boat Tour
One of the most memorable and meaningful visit from Chicago is taking this Chicago Architectural Foundation Boat Tour. I learned so much from this tour about Chicago.
The tour guide gives plenty of important Chicago history as well as the great architectural feats and fascinating stories that go with the notable buildings.
It is also another fantastic perspective to look up into Chicago’s famous skylines.
Riverwalk
Stroll along the waters to take your time soaking up the view and buildings up-close and personal around you.
Millennium Park and Grant Park
Visit these parks when you feel like participating in the activities they have to offer or take a stroll to soak in the sun.
Noteworthy Museums
The Art Institute of Chicago
The Art Institute of Chicago which is one of the oldest and largest art museums in the world. I unfortunately did not make it to this one but wish I had!
Field Museum of Natural History
I did make it to the Field Museum which had great displays and is also one of the largest museum of its kind, with many educational and scientific programs.
Great science and artifacts displayed!
Cloud Gate
Get up-close and notice how magnificent and interactive this art piece is! Try coming early in the day for fewer crowds.
Jay Pritzker Pavilion
A great outdoor pavilion for events.
Visit during the day and maybe catch a group exercise activity.
Visit at night, and you might be able to catch a concert! Beautiful views day or not!
Buckingham Fountain
Such a beautiful and elegant fountain!
Navy Pier
A pleasant walk along the pier and see the skylines from the side.
Chicago Botanical Gardens
A wonderful place to see beautiful and serene sceneries with a variety of plants.
Walkways to see more beautiful lotus and plants.
They have a fantastic butterfly house where you are sure to encounter many butterflies.
How many butterflies can you capture with your camera?
They also have these food stations in case that is easier to spot them.
Skydeck Chicago
Observe Chicago from high above!
Compare the land and sea sides.
Beautiful sights from above!
Eating in Chicago
Impromptu
Chicago Style Hot Dog
Gotta try a classic Chicago-style hot dog while you’re here! Say yes to the bright green pickled relish, tomato slices, poppy seed bun, and a sprinkle of celery salt to make it a true Chicagoan treat! You will find them everywhere.
Superdawg Drive-In
Superdawg is one place we encountered that was quick and had an outdoor area to quickly enjoy it and continue your Chicagoan adventures.
Garett’s Popcorn
Whenever I see Garett’s Popcorn, I always think Chicago! A fun experience and a place for flavorful rich gourmet fresh-popped popcorn!
Casual Dining
Chicago Deep Dish Pizza
You gotta have a Chicago deep dish pizza at least once! There are many options, but these two popular joints are well-known.
Lou Malnati’s
Giordano’s
Trendy Casual Dining
The Purple Pig
My family and I had a fantastic time eating here with creative delicious American-style fare by a James Beard award-winning chef.
Some star appetizer dishes like bone marrow and beets.
Hearty entrees to follow.
Elevated Fine Dining
Alinea
The incredible Grant Achatz is the chef at Alinea and have held three Michelin stars from the Michelin Guide for at least 12 consecutive years. I’d save up and fly here just to eat at this amazing molecular gastronomy establishment. They’ve renovated since they first opened and have different tiers. My photos do not do it justice and is only a portion of the meal.
Dessert as art. Or is it art as dessert? There were more surprises for dessert besides this one!
You’ll have to come here to experience this innovative, interactive, and modern take of fine dining. While certainly pricy and takes some planning, it is worth dining here for an ultimate food experience.