My top ten things to do in Chicago
I was born and raised in the Chicagoland area and lived there until my early thirties. I love the city of Chicago for its great food, shopping, architecture, museums, blues music, and sports teams. It has a little something for everyone and the list below includes some of my favorite things to do when visiting the "Windy City." By the way, contrary to what most people think, Chicago's nickname is mostly credited to the city's politics in an effort to win the bid for the 1893 Columbian Exposition when Charles A. Dana, editor of the New York Sun, dubbed Chicago "that windy city."
Did you know that Midwesterners are known to be some of the friendliest people? Don't just take my word for it, check out this study on regional differences in personalities.
Top Ten List
Have lunch, or dinner, at Portillo's. I highly recommend the Italian Beef sandwich with home cooked sweet peppers and/or hot peppers. Great with fries and a shake. I'm happy to say there is a Portillo's in Orange County (1 of 2 locations in California), located in Buena Park near Knott’s Berry Farm.
Chicago is known for its deep dish pizza. My favorite pizzerias are Lou Malnati's and Giordano's Pizza. Gino’s East is another popular Chicago pizzeria but IMO, you cannot top Lou Malnati’s Buttercrust.
For spectacular views of the city, visit the SkyDeck at Willis Tower, formerly known as Sears Tower.
If you're in Chicago during baseball season, be sure to pay a visit to one of the city's more unique neighborhoods, Wrigleyville. If you're a baseball fan and have the time, take in a Cubs game at Wrigley Field during baseball season. My favorite bar to eat and drink before, or after, a Cubs game is Murphy's Bleachers.
If you like to shop, take a walk along the Magnificent Mile.
For Chicago shoreline sightseeing boat cruises, a breathtaking ride on a giant Ferris Wheel, summer fireworks and live music in a beer garden near the lake, and much more, visit Navy Pier.
See architecture at its finest and learn some of the history of Chicago by taking an Architecture River Cruise on the Chicago river.
If you like to laugh, visit the legendary comedy club, The Second City, where many famous comedians started their careers.
Museums galore! My favorites are the Art Institute, Field Museum and the Museum of Science and Industry.
Check out an outdoor concert and see your reflection along with the Chicago skyline in the Cloud Gate at Millennium Park. Also, Buckingham Fountain is a sight to see in the adjacent Grant Park, especially at night.
Honorable mention: If you like popcorn, you must give Garrett Popcorn or Nuts on Clark a try. My personal favorite is the Garrett Mix with a blend of CaramelCrisp and CheeseCorn at Garrett Popcorn. Yum!
