Things To Do
WNDR Museum
We got engaged here! Be sure to visit Yayoi Kusama's infinity room where Zach popped the question.
Architectural Tour
No matter how many times you take an architectural tour here in Chicago, you always learn something new. Great way to see the city!
The Green Mill
The best jazz club in the country - this place is riddled in history (and ghosts) from the Al Capone days. $15 cash-only cover, but you can stay 'til 4 a.m.
The Second City
To see some of the best comedy in the world, be sure to buy tickets ahead of time for a Main Stage show. This is where Tina Fey, Bill Murray, Steve Carell, and Amy Poehler got their start (just to name a few).
Montrose Point Bird Sanctuary
Needing a break from the city? We love strolling through the bird sanctuary with our binoculars - ample parking, beautiful views of the city skyline, and surrounding sandy beaches on Lake Michigan. With a newly paved path, this is stroller & wheelchair friendly!
The Art Institute of Chicago
One of the oldest and largest art museums in the country, the Art Institute is home to so many notable works. Our favorite? Visit the Thorne Miniature Rooms where Wes Anderson found his inspiration.
Drunk Shakespeare
See a modern and hilarious adaptation of a Shakespeare classic in this improvised show. The best part? One of the actors is selected to drink throughout the entirety of the show.
Lincoln Park Zoo
Free to the public, this zoo offers a great spot to hang with your kiddos and see the wild animals, or simply stroll with a view. Make a day of it by stopping in the Cafe Brauer for lunch.
Shedd Aquarium
Great place to bring the kiddos, the Shedd Aquarium is located right in the center of Museum Campus, featuring beautiful skylines and Lake Michigan views.
Field Museum
One of our favorite museums, this place has so much to see and will keep you busy all day long. Be sure to pay a visit to Sue - the most complete T. rex skeleton ever discovered!
Chef’s Special Cocktail Bar
A favorite of ours, this is a great first come, first served Americanized Chinese restaurant featuring exceptional cocktails and a cozy modern setting. Must try : ChiChi Colada & Walnut Shrimp
Lula Cafe
While the wedding will be catered by Lula (our favorite restaurant in all of Chicago), you may be hankering for more. Be sure to make a reservation well in advance to score a table at this is a popular spot in Logan. Must try : Brunch or Picnic Lunch is always a treat with their skilled pastry team.
Three Dots and a Dash
One of the best tiki bars in the country, this treasure trove is the Disneyland of cocktail bars. This bar requires reservations and can accommodate large parties with ample notice. Must try : Zombie (if you're with a group)
Sushi-san
Another fave, this spot has some delicious sushi and Japanese whisky offerings in a modern, upbeat atmosphere. Even their take-out comes in a boombox. Must try : Thank You Enjoy #3 & Tako Taco
Pequod's Pizza
If you must try the deep dish pizza, this is the place to do it. Deemed the best deep dish in the city by the true Chicagoans.
Redhot Ranch
A true Chicago experience, this cash-only Depression-style hot dog stand is nestled directly under the L. The hot dogs are great and loaded up with fries (yes, inside the bun), but Z comes for the burger. Must Try : Polish Dog & RHR Double Burger
Lonesome Rose
Our favorite Mexican food in the city, this spot offers indoor, outdoor, and rooftop dining. Bonus - there's a hidden bar in the basement called Golden Teardrops that's worth a visit while you wait for your table. Must Try : Truck Stop Nachos & Michelada
Cindy's Rooftop
Located in the beautiful Chicago Athletic Association building, this rooftop spot is prime real estate for a fantastic view of Lake Michigan. Indoor dining requires reservation, but also makes for a nice standing cocktail hour on the deck if visiting on the fly.
All Together Now
Our favorite lunch spot in the city, this cafe has a cozy eclectic interior with a killer natural wine menu. Hands down the friendliest staff makes this place a must-visit for a casual dining. Must try : Ask for recs from the waiters! They never fail to give great seasonal recommendations.
Estereo
Offering up Latin-accented draft cocktails and spinning vinyl, this is our favorite bar in the city. Must Try : Mezcal (draft cocktail)
Dorian’s
Looking for a swanky speakeasy? This is just the spot - thru the record shop you enter this lively cocktail lounge featuring live music and performances.
Ørkenoy
A Nordic-inspired spot, this place is great for casual dining for both lunch or dinner. You can also bring your laptop and get some work done in this hangout - great for kiddos! Must try : Smørrebrød & Caraway Knots
Alinea
If you're really wanting to ball out, this is the best restaurant in the country. Featured in Chef's Table, Grant Achatz turns wonder and surprise into a curious fine dining experience. *Reservations must be made far in advance. Full disclosure : We've never eaten here, but it's a dream of ours before we move out of Chicago.