Things To Do
Cafe Ba-Ba-Reeba!
We went went to Cafe Ba-ba-Reeba! on our first date. Needless to say, we had a blast! Great for bunch, lunch, dinner or just an app & drink! Our favorites are the patatas bravas, bacon wrapped dates and sangria.
Green Tea Japanese Restaurant
If you know anything about Brandon, it's that he loves sushi. Green Tea is our favorite neighborhood sushi spot - great for takeout or BYOB dine-in!
Chicago Architecture Center
The Chicago Architecture Center River Cruise is a great, relaxing way to view some of the city's best views. Highly recommend on a nice day!
Lincoln Park Zoo
Linncoln Park Zoo is a free zoo along Lake Michigan. It's a great place to stroll through on a nice day and just blocks from our apartment in Lincoln Park! If you go, stop by Julia's favorite, the Red Pandas!
Green City Market Lincoln Park
The Green City Market Lincoln Park farmers' market is our favorite place to hit on Saturday mornings! We love the pastries from Verzenay or Phlour. Open from 7am-1pm on Saturdays in April-November.
Au Cheval
Au Cheval has Julia's favorite burger in the city. They don't take reservations & the wait can be long, but we recommend putting your name in a grabbing a drink (or a few) at one of the many fun spots in the West Loop like Haymarket, Moneygun or Timeout Market
Jinsei Motto
If you're looking to splurge on sushi, Jinsei Motto has some of the best omakase we've had in the city. They also offer a la carte if you're just looking for a taste! The restaurant is located in the CH Distillery where you can try a Chicago staple - Malort!
The J. Parker
Check out the J. Parker rooftop at the Hotel Lincoln for some great lake & skyline views!
Shop on the Magnificent Mile
If you're looking to do some shopping, the Mag Mile is the place for you! Check out the 900 North Michigan Shops, Water Tower Place & The Shops at North Bridge.
United Center
Check out a Blackhawks hockey game if they're playing at home!
avec River North
A favorite for brunch!
Avli River North
Fun Greek spot for brunch, lunch or dinner & a cute patio when the weather permits!
Jaleo by José Andrés
Upscale Spanish for the tapas lovers!
Forbidden Root Restaurant & Brewery
Fun West Town spot for good food & brews!
J.P. Graziano Grocery
Super casual Italian market and sub shop in the West Loop - a great option if you need a quick (& delicious) sandwich!
Millennium Park
Millenium Park is a public park located in the Loop. Perfect place for a stroll when the weather is nice!
The Art Institute of Chicago
The Art Institute of Chicago is one of the oldest and largest art museums in the United States! Located in the heart of the loop & open Mondays, Thursday-Sunday.
Shedd Aquarium
Shedd Aquarium is an indoor public aquarium in Chicago - open daily!