Traveling to Chicago: A First-Time Visitors Guide

Must-see attractions in Chicago:

• Willis Tower for the Skydeck

• The John Hancock Tower's 360 Chicago Observation Deck: If you're pressed for time, I'd choose this over the Skydeck because it offers better views of the city, and you can do the iconic "Tilt" here. Visit around sunset and sip a drink while taking in the scenery!

• Navy Pier: An ideal spot to experience thrilling rides and city sights with a group of friends or if you have kids. Love the views of the Ferris wheel! From here, you can go on a boat tour or take the Chicago Water Taxi to the main city for a quick ride experience.

• Millennium Park - two words: The Bean (Cloud Gate)

• Other things to do in this area: Jay Pritzker Pavilion - watch movies or music performances based on availability, get wet at the Crown Fountain, walk (or run) through the Maggie Daley Park, Ice skating in the winter!!

Visit a museum:

• Art Institute of Chicago: If you love art, this place is a must.

• The Field Museum, the Shedd Aquarium, the Planetarium (my favorite). Somedays of the month are offered for free.

• Interactive museums: The WNDR Museum, Museum of Ice Cream and Museum of Illusions.

• Magnificent Mile — If you're feeling a bit bougie, grab a credit card and come shop on this street.

While you're there, take a boat tour of the Chicago Architecture Center to learn about the city's iconic skyline.

• Chicago Riverwalk — Take a walk along the Chicago Riverwalk, a scenic walkway that winds along the Chicago River.

• See a game at Wrigley Field — Home of the Chicago Cubs, or Soldier Field, home of the Chicago Bears.

Neighborhoods

• Chinatown - Can't go wrong with some dumplings and matcha.

• Little Italy - Small spot for Italian Ice is amazing

• Greektown- Get some gyros!!!

• Pilsen - amazing area for some birria tacos.

Day trips:

• Bridgeview - About 35 minutes away from the city, this is little Palestine, boasting with Mediterranean restaurants and local coffee shops.

• Naperville - Downtown Naperville is a nice getaway from the city, while still enjoying local shops.

Cafes:

• Nomad

• Ground Up

• Beatrix

• Maison Marcel

• 3 Arts Club Cafe

• Oud Coffee & Cafe.

Rooftops:

• Cindy's rooftop

• Chateau Carbide at the Pendry

• Nobu Chicago Rooftop

• Boleo Rooftop Bar at the Kimpton Grey Chicago

Deep-dish pizza:

• Giordano's

• Lou Malnati's

• Gino's East.

Other unique favorites of mine:

• Lyra - Greek restaurant, my favorite thing here is the dips and pita bread and the Octopus!

• Beity - Michelin-star Lebanese restaurant for that special occasion.

• Beatnik on the river - Great views, day or night and a unique experience with a unique menu.

• Andros Taverna - Best Greek food!

• Time Out Market

Chicago hot dogs!