Chicago Travel Blog

Welcome to Lincoln Square! Welcome to Lincoln Square!  This entryway greets visitors at the intersection of West Lawrence Ave. and North Lincoln Ave.  If you’re driving, take it slow.  There’s much to be seen, and the road is narrow.  If you’re strolling, take your time and enjoy. ...

Chicago is home to tons of small theater, dance, and performance companies, many of whom are making incredible work.  If you’re in town and up for something on the experimental side, check out a show at one of these venues. Links Hall celebrated its thirtieth anniversary in 2010.  Week after week,...

Chicago’s northwest side has a neighborhood that’s quaint and residential and still replete with incredible restaurants and delightful shops.  Lincoln Square is home to families, long-time Chicagoans, and a growing number of hip young people. Welcome to Lincoln Square! As you turn south onto North...

Chicago has so many high-quality coffee shops, and many of them are brewing up locally roasted beans.  The roasters range from large producers to tiny in-store operations, and they’re all worth sampling. Raw and Roasted Coffee Beans Intelligentsia coffee can be tasted all over the city at restaurants...

When it comes to dairy, Chicago is well connected (Wisconsin is Illinois’ neighbor to the north), and despite the cold, cold winters, even the most frigid Chicagoans have a warm spot in their hearts and bellies for good ice cream. Chocolate Raspberry Tartufo and Pistachio gelato from Bellezza Gelato...

If you love a good craft cocktail but want to keep it casual in atmosphere (and price), Chicago has plenty of great places to come to the rescue.  So loosen (read: remove) your jacket and tie, and pull up to these delicious concoctions and these excellent establishments. The Chrysanthemum at In Fine...

Vegetarian cuisine continues to build in popularity, and while almost all restaurants keep veggie-friendly options in mind, some are designing outstanding menus that will please carnivores and vegans alike.  Here is a rundown of some of Chicago’s finest vegetarian dining. Stylish soup at Green Zebra In...

Chicago continues to rise to the top of foodies’ favorite city lists for many good reasons.  Central to the urban gardening movement, the Windy City draws from local farms in Illinois, buIndiana, Michigan, and Wisconsin.  Some restauranteurs are getting their green thumb going in rooftop gardens...

Starved Rock State Park Starved Rock just as the snow is melting Located just 94 minutes from downtown Chicago, this beautiful state park offers tons of activities to suit any day-tripper’s fancy.  Depending on the season, you’ll find ample bird-watching, fishing, and even hunting throughout the...

Biking is a fun, active, and green way to see any city.  Voted the #1 bike-friendly city in the US by Bicycling Magazine, Chicago looks best from some of its bike paths.  Here is a run down of some of the most popular routes, so strap on your helmet and get moving! Biking Lakeshore Drive Lincoln Park This...