A WEEKEND IN CHICAGO
We can't wait to celebrate our wedding with you in our beloved hometown. A rich history, vibrant food scene, and famous architecture help make Chicago a world-class destination. Our hotel is located in The Loop which is the central hub of Chicago. So whether you're walking, ride-sharing, or taking “The L,” getting to other neighborhoods is easy! If you're looking to explore the city, here are some of our favorite activities to help plan your trip.
MILLENNIUM PARK & Grant park
Along Lake Michigan, Chicago's parks are a perfect place to spend a couple of hours. The site of the world-famous Taste of Chicago, these pristine parks ensure that the lakefront remains a public space for everyone to enjoy. Selfie hunters will want to snap a shot in front of Cloud Gate (you probably know it as The Bean). Cool off in either the historic Buckingham Fountain or modern Crown Fountain. And, if you time it right, you might catch a free concert at Pritzker Pavilion.
View from the Top
Chicago is synonymous with skyscrapers. Take in awe-inspiring views at the top decks of some of the tallest buildings in the country. Located a few blocks from The Standard Club, The Skydeck at Willis Tower (better known as Sears Tower) gives you an unparalleled perspective of the city from 1,353 feet up. While not quite as high, The Hancock Building's Observation Deck offers an arguably more beautiful vantage point just off of the lake. Pro Tip: You can take in the same views from the bar on the 96th floor for the price of a drink.
The Art Institute of Chicago
Just a short walk from The Standard Club is The Art Institute which boasts some of the world's most famous artwork. Under one roof, you'll find Greek and Roman antiquities, one of the finest Impressionist collections outside of Paris, and a brand new modern wing filled with mind-bending installations. Some highlights: A Sunday on La Grande Jatte (Seurat), American Gothic (Wood), The Bedroom (Van Gough), Nighthawks (Hopper), The Old Guitarist (Picasso), and Water Lilies (Monet).
Museum Campus
If art isn't your thing, there are plenty of other great options nearby. Museum Campus is a 57-acre park that sits on Lake Michigan and connects three of the city's most notable museums, all dedicated to the natural sciences. The Adler Planetarium, the first planetarium built in the Western Hemisphere, is a space junkie's dream filled with astronomy and astrophysics exhibits. Get up close to a beluga whale at The Shedd Aquarium, home to over 1,500 different species of marine wildlife. Chicago's newest resident, a dinosaur named Máximo, will greet you at The Field Museum of Natural History. At 122-feet-long, he's the largest animal ever discovered. And, the campus has plenty of public artwork and lakefront views to enjoy without ever stepping foot inside one of the museums.
Bus & Boat Tours
One of the best ways to take in the city is by joining a tour. BigBus Chicago is a hop-on, hop-off, double-decker bus that offers breathtaking views and an affordable way to zip across the city. Architecture buffs should not pass up a ride on a Wendella Boat, which offers a unique perspective of the iconic skyline while floating down The Chicago River.
Navy Pier
One of Chicago's biggest attractions is an old naval station that's been transformed into an urban playground with amusement rides, shops, museums, and theatre. Those not afraid of heights should ride Centennial Wheel, a 196-foot Ferris wheel. It's maybe the best place to take in views of the city that once hosted the world's first Ferris wheel back in 1893. Kids will love the Chicago Children's Museum and IMAX theater.
CHICAGO THEATRE
While far from Broadway, Chicago is home to one of the most celebrated theatre scenes in the United States. Take in a play at Steppenwolf, The Goodman, or Chicago Shakespeare. Broadway in Chicago always has an exciting selection of first-rate musicals to see, including a little-known show called Hamilton. And, Chicago is the improv/sketch comedy capital of the world, so grab a seat at The Second City or iO Theater to scout some future SNL stars.
Chicago Sports
If you're in town on Thursday, you can head up to Wrigleyville for a Cubs game at The Friendly Confines. While The Cubs will be out of town for the rest of the weekend, fear not! Contrary to popular belief, there is actually another professional baseball team that plays in Chicago. Head down to Guaranteed Rate Field (we still call it Comiskey) to grab a beer and a dog, and take in a White Sox game. Historic Soldier Field sits on the lakefront and is a perfect place to take a stroll, even during The Bears' offseason. And, while you can't catch a Bulls or Blackhawks game in July, Michael Jordan's statue at The United Center is open to visitors all year round. It's customary to pay your respect to the god of basketball by taking a selfie with him.
LINCOLN PARK ZOO
If you want to see actual cubs, bears, and bulls, then head north to one of the country's oldest zoos. Lincoln Park Zoo is home to over 1,100 animals including big cats, great apes, monkeys, polar bears, giraffes, rhinos, and penguins. Spanning 35 acres, the zoo provides a welcome escape right in the middle of the city. And, best of all, admission is always free.
BEACHES
In the summertime, you'll find most Chicagoans outside. And, despite being a major metropolis in the Midwest, there are a surprising number of sandy beaches along the coast of Lake Michigan. Some popular places to catch some rays are North Avenue Beach, Oak Street Beach, and the Navy Pier-adjacent Ohio Street Beach.
MICHIGAN AVENUE & STATE STREET
If you're looking to shop or simply people watch, the two areas to know are State St. and Michigan Ave. A main thoroughfare since the 1800's, State Street is home to big, classic department stores. You can still see the old Marshall Field building, although now it's a Macy's. As Michigan Ave. stretches from the river up to Oak St., it becomes The Magnificent Mile which features high-end shops and historic buildings. Along your walk, you'll find the site of Fort Dearborn, The Wrigley, Tribune, and Hancock Buildings, The Chicago Water Tower, and Northwestern's Chicago campus.