One of the largest cities in the United States, Chicago has so much to offer. The country’s third largest city has 2.75 million people behind New York and Los Angeles. So there is a lot to see and plenty of fun activities for every member of the family.
If you’re a sports fan, whether football, American or otherwise, baseball, basketball or ice hockey, there are outcome predictions today and plenty of sports teams to check out for any season of travel. There is so much to do for all interests. Here’s a rundown of some of the top places in the city affectionately known as the Windy City.
Cloud Gate
Chicago is an artsy city and one of its most famous attractions is Cloud Gate, one of the largest outdoor sculptures. Both tourists and locals walk up to the Millenium Park in downtown’s loop to visit the reflective sculpture, take selfies, videos and capture other images for social media and keepsakes.
Navy Pier
The 3,300-foot-long pier on the shoreline of Lake Michigan offers different shops, eateries and activities. Kids may enjoy a ride on the 15-story high ferris wheel, or any number of boat tours that include a sunset cruise, architecture tour, a speedboat ride or along the magnificent mile. Perhaps an opportunity is needed to get off your feet and see a movie, listen to live music, check out the gardens or visit the children’s museum.
Foodies, Bars and Breweries
There is no shortage of great eats in Chicago. Known for its deep dish pizza, there are many different places to try, including Giordano’s, Lou Malnati’s, Gino’s East and more. Beyond that there are great hot dog options (don’t use ketchup to give away that you’re a tourist), italian beef sandwiches are known to the area and more.
Local bars are a staple of different neighborhoods throughout the city. Wrigleyville is known for its great bars, especially when the Chicago Cubs are having a good season, or at least in town prior to and after games.
River North is typically a wild time, whether a weeknight or weekend. There are plenty of bars to hop between on Hubbard Street, and is one of the most popular places for younger crowds. You can also find Howl at the Moon, a top piano bar in the city.
Live music fills the bars of Wicker Park, typically bringing in hipsters and the like. Up and coming artists take their shot on the easygoing stages along Milwaukee Street, creating a vibrant area.
Lincoln Park is home to a good time for a lot of young adults, that includes DePaul University students who need a break from their small, private, Catholic research-based university.
There are plenty of breweries to tour and sample as well. Some of the favorites from locals include: Revolution Brewing, Lagunitas, 312, Metropolitan Brewing, Half Acre Beer Company, Dovetail Brewing and more.
Shows and entertainment
Artists popular and up and coming frequent many venues around Chicago. There are also shows held at the Chicago Theater and the Apollo Theater Chicago, or see a comedian at CIC Theater. The Chicago Symphony Orchestra is an option for classic music.
A lot of bigger name artists who sing hip hop, rap, country, and other popular genres will play shows at sports venues. Check out the United Center when the Bulls and Blackhawks are out of town, or one at Soldier Field, home of the Bears. Occasionally there are shows at famous baseball stadium Wrigley Field.
For the sports fans
Depending on the season, there is going to be something going on as Chicago is home to two professional soccer teams, two pro basketball teams, two pro baseball teams, an American football team and an ice hockey team. Depending on the successes of the teams, the dynamic pricing can be affordable for the family, or swing for the luxury seats for a date night for the sports fan in your life.
Overall, Chicago is a good mix of locals who grew up in the city or suburbs and those who relocated for work, or even many who come to the Windy City for the social aspects.
