Chicago Guide
After living in Chicago for 4 years, I’ve rounded up my favorite pots to eat, drink, explore and relax. It’s so easy in Chicago to get caught up on Michigan Avenue, Lettuce Entertain You Group and restaurants that require a reservation a month out. Let this guide help you explore accessible spots in the city like a local.
Things To Do
Lincoln Park Farmers Market Every Saturday Morning from April - November and every Wednesday Morning from May - October. Stands highlighting local produce, meats, bakeries, flowers, cheese, sandwiches, popcorn, lavender and even dog treats. It gets busy, so try to get there early or go on Wednesday when it is more quiet.
The Art Institute I could stare at Sky above Clouds IV by Georgia O’Keeffe for hours. Amazing collection of Georgia O’Keeffe, Van Gogh, Picasso and more. For being in the midwest it’s a remarkable museum given the pieces and breadth of different art. Recommend going during the week to avoid crowds and enjoy a drink and a bite in the cafe after walking around.
Lincoln Park (Zoo) Perfect for all seasons and feel like you are taken out of the city. The walk around south pond is breath taking, just watch out for the red wing birds! Right by the free zoo and lakefront to continue your walk as you please.
South Pond, Lincoln Park
Where to Workout
Zen Yoga Garage Local studio in Bucktown with a variety of classes spanning traditional yoga and more unique like barre and burn. Each instructor is different and personalizes the class to their taste.
The Space Between VIBEY! Beautiful yoga studio in River North providing a full wellness experience. Classes feature meditation, sound bath and some moon experiences. A welcome space for all.
Core Chicago Pilates I went to a different pilates reformer studio every week one summer and this was my favorite spot. Has the perfect mix of traditional pilates while still being challenging and fun.
Summer evening, Tanta rooftop
Where to Eat and Drink
Tanta Must haves include any of the nigiris, lomo saltado and el chingon to drink
Elina’s My favorite cozy italian spot by the team behind carbone. Don’t sleep on the eggplant parm
Lyra Go for a late dinner for the full experience and dance with sparklers
Sushi Dokku/Booze Box Great sushi and dj on the weekends
Duck Duck Goat My favorite of Stephanie Izard’s restaurants. Dinner is hard to get a reservation, but brunch is not.
Topo Gigio When you need an italian spot that doesn’t require a reservation and the best martinis in the city.
UrbanBelly The coconut curry pho is my go-to doordash during the long winter
Spacca Napoli My love language for pizza. Sit on the patio and enjoy with a spritz or Lambrusco
Hing Kee Best soup dumplings
Ingrained Delicious vegan treats
Annette’s Frozen ice and my favorite the peanut butter froyo with oreo
J Parker at Hotel Lincoln Beautiful view over Lincoln Park and surprisingly good food
King of Cups Come on the weekend to have your cards read while you enjoy a cocktail
Vodka Rigatoni, Elina’s
Where to Shop
Eskill Just a cute shop, everything from candles, homegoods, coffee table books. Perfect when you just need something
Art Effect Like Eskill but also has clothes
Krista K Boutique Clothing boutique in Southport with a curated items featuring ALC, Ulla Johnson, AGOLDE and more.
Christina Karin When you want something different
Where to Treat Yourself
Essential Nail Spa Finally a nail salon that let’s you test out colors! Once you go here, you will never want to go to another salon. They don’t do walk-ins so you need to make a reservation at least a week out
Absolute Precision Experience a magical facial that combines spa relaxation with technology. My favorites are the dermalinfusion and oxygen facial.
The Now Perfect spot for a last minute massage
