Chicago is such a neat city! This was the first time Zach and I had ever visited and man did it live up to our expectations! Incredible views, mouth-wateringly delicious deep dish pizza, exciting night-life… just doesn’t get any better that that! Here’s a quick recap of where we ate, slept, and played during our quick trip to the Windy City!
WHERE WE STAYED
After doing a ton of research on the best areas to stay as first time visitors wanting to be near the action, we decided on the Magnificent Mile. The Magnificent Mile is Chicago’s premier commercial district jam-packed with the trendiest restaurants, retail stores, and luxe hotels. Though there are quite a few hotels to choose from in the area, we instantly knew we wanted to stay at LondonHouse Chicago – a Hilton hotel.
LondonHouse, located in the beautiful historic London Guarantee and Accident Building, is centered in the heart of Chicago near some of the most popular Chicago attractions including the Navy Pier, Adler Planetarium, Chicago River Walk, Willis Tower, Shedd Aquarium and more. If you are looking for a spot right in the center of the action, you will not be disappointed at LH.
Some of my favorite things about LH include the unrivaled views out of every single window of the hotel (grab a bite to eat and a refreshing cocktail at the amazing rooftop bar!), the exceptionally clean (and beautifully designed) rooms and shared spaces, the friendliest staff that are always willing to go above and beyond to assist, and of course the amazing hotel amenities.
I am so glad that we decided to stay at LondonHouse Chicago for our first stay in the city and we cannot wait to come back!
WHERE WE ATE
Food is a big deal in Chicago and so that’s why I spent so much time researching the hottest restaurants in the area to make sure we hit as many as we could! Here’s where we ate during our trip:
DAY ONE:
- Lunch: Giordano’s– this iconic deep dish pizza spot has been serving up out-of-this-world pizza since the 70’s and it’s easy to see why it’s made such a name for itself! Giordano’s continuously tops “Best Pizza” lists and has won the heart of many who step foot inside the doors. They have several locations in Chicago and offer both dine-in and carry out options. Attire is casual. Tip: COME HUNGRY & SPLIT A SMALL FOR TWO PEOPLE!
- Dinner: Venteux Brasserie & Oyster Bar– this is a super stylish and modern French restaurant that serves contemporary French cuisine with a modern twist. Attire is smart casual.
DAY TWO:
- Brunch: Little Goat Diner– Stephanie Izard, James Beard “Best Chef: Great Lakes,” and Food & Wine “Best New Chef 2011,” opened Little Goat with BOKA Restaurant Group in December 2012. This spot came HIGHLY recommend to us and I am glad we went- the pancakes weren’t my favorite but Zach enjoyed his burger and would order it again. Definitely get a reservation far in advance for this spot.
- Dinner: The Dearborn– We were nervous about this one because it was a very last minute selection but the food was SO good! The vibe is warm and cozy and the menu has a lot of great meal options for whatever you’re in the mood for. We started with the most incredible bread rolls I have possibly ever eaten… seriously GET THEM and ended with a delicious thin crust pizza.
WHERE WE PLAYED
- 360 Observation deck – this was a neat spot to view the entire city + Lake Michigan. I would definitely recommend checking it out. I will add… I’d recommend skipping the $35 tickets (& the long lines) and instead heading up to the Signature Room & Lounge on the 94th floor (one floor short of the deck)- the view is just as good (free) and you can grab a drink and a snack if you want.
- Millennium Park
- The Bean
- Chicago Architecture River Tour- this is a great way to check out Chicago’s incredible architecture and learn a bit more about the city. If you are going during the colder months, I recommend getting in line early and grabbing a table inside. I would also recommend sitting on the right side of the boat as the tour guide referenced that side much more often. The views aren’t as good inside the boat as they are outside but you won’t freeze to death either.
- Comedy Club
- Navy Pier
- Starbucks Reserve Roastery- this was such a neat spot! Definitely check it out and order something new!
HELPFUL TIPS/ ADVICE
- Make reservations for all restaurants! Chicago is a popular foodie city and therefore reservations fill up quick. I recommend booking your reservations far in advance to ensure you get in.
- If it’s your first time visiting the city I highly recommend staying in a hotel on the Magnificent mile (like LondonHouse Chicago) because of its close proximity to so many fun restaurants and things to do! Ubers can easily add up so it’s best to stay right in the middle of the action.
- Make sure to check the weather before heading to Chicago- it can get super cold! We went in November and it was pretty chilly so dress appropriately and wear good walking shoes.