Things to Do & Places to Eat in Chicago
We hope you have some time to explore the city while you are here! Whether you are looking for a neighborhood coffee, a tasty meal, or classic Chicago sightseeing, here are a few of our favorite spots near each hotel!
Staying at The Hotel at Midtown
Located in Bucktown, this hotel is close to some of our favorite Chicago neighborhoods, including Wicker Park and Logan Square.
Things to Do
- The 606 — You will find Megan & Cullen on this trail weekly! Walk, run, or bike ride along Chicago's elevated trail, which winds through Bucktown, Wicker Park, Logan Square, and Humboldt Park. It's one of the best ways to explore the neighborhoods like a local.
- Wicker Park & Damen Avenue — Spend an afternoon wandering the shops, boutiques, coffee spots, and bars around Damen, Milwaukee, and North Avenues. Some favorite spots include Mindy's, Oro, and Wormhole.
- Lincoln Park Zoo & the Lakefront — This is the area Megan & Cullen enjoyed right out of college and thus Cullen proposed here! Head east from Bucktown for a stroll through the free Lincoln Park Zoo, Nature Boardwalk, and surrounding park before walking along Lake Michigan.
- Explore Logan Square — Wander the neighborhood's tree-lined boulevards, grab a coffee or cocktail, and explore the restaurants and shops along Milwaukee Avenue. Some favorite spots include New Wave, Andros Taverna, and Daisies.
Places to Eat
- Best Intentions — Cozy neighborhood favorite cocktail forward with great smash burgers.
- Bungalow by Middle Brow — Sourdough pizza, fresh-baked bread, beer, and natural wine in a laid-back, plant-filled space.
- The StopAlong — Casual neighborhood stop near the 606 for pizza, burgers, and drinks.
- Chef's Special — Craft cocktail bar with a menu of Americanized Chinese favorites.
Staying at Aloft Chicago Mag Mile
Aloft is in Streeterville, just off Michigan Avenue and close to many of Chicago's most iconic downtown sights.
Things to Do
- The Magnificent Mile — Walk Michigan Avenue for shopping, people-watching, and some of Chicago's best-known architecture.
- Chicago Riverwalk — Walk along the river, stop for a drink or bite, and take in some of the best architecture and city views.
- Chicago Architecture Center River Cruise — If it's your first time in Chicago, this is one of our favorite ways to see the city. The 90-minute cruise travels along the Chicago River while guides share the stories behind the skyline. Our favorite to ride is the First Lady!
- Navy Pier — Megan & Cullen love running on the lakefront! Take a walk along the lakefront, ride the Centennial Wheel, or simply enjoy the views of the city and Lake Michigan.
- Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago — A great, manageable museum stop featuring rotating contemporary art exhibitions, just off Michigan Avenue.
Places to Eat
- Gino’s East — Enduring chain for Chicago-style deep-dish & thin-crust pizzas, plus Italian sandwiches & salads.
- Beatrix — An easy choice for breakfast, brunch, coffee, or a casual lunch close to the hotel.
- Ramen-San — Ramen joint for noodle soups, buns & chicken wings plus cocktails, sake & lots of whisky.
- Billy Goat — Well-known hub specializing in "cheezborgers", plus hot dogs & other fast food in a no-frills venue.
