Your First Time in Chicago

Our Local Expert Says:

If you are in the mood for a relaxing day, Millennium Park is the perfect place for a afternoon picnic, where you can take in the art and architecture. In the summer catch a performance at Pritzker Pavilion, while enjoying a bottle of wine with friends from the Great Lawn.

Description:

Chicago is full of must-see attractions, but at the top of the Can't Miss list is Millennium Park. It debuted in 2004, several years overdue, but it was worth the wait. It is a true gem, right downtown between Michigan Avenue and the lake. One can easily spend an afternoon just sitting on the benches at the perimeter of the Pritzker Pavilion, stare at their warped reflection in Cloud Gate ("The Bean" to locals), and watch the rotating faces in Crown Fountain spew water every five minutes or so. Immediately to the south of Millennium Park lie the Art Institute and Grant Park, which all together would make for a wonderfully relaxing day. If you only have time for one of the three, though, do not pass go, do not collect $200- without going to Millennium Park.

Our Local Expert Says:

Conveniently located downtown to help begin your Chicago exploration.

Description:

The Chicago Cultural Center was built in 1897 as the city's public library, and in 1991, it was transformed into a showplace for visual and performing arts. Today, it's an overlooked civic treasure with a basic Beaux Arts exterior and a sumptuous interior of rare marble, fine hardwood, stained glass, and mosaics of Favrile glass, colored stone, and mother-of-pearl inlaid in white marble. The crowning centerpiece is Preston Bradley Hall's majestic Tiffany dome, said to be the largest of its kind in the world.

The building also houses a Chicago Office of Tourism visitor center, which makes it an ideal place to kick-start your visit. If you stop in to pick up tourist information and take a quick look around, your visit won't take longer than 15 minutes, but the Cultural Center also schedules an array of art exhibitions, concerts, films, lectures, and other special events (many free), which might convince you to extend your time here. A long-standing tradition is the 12:15pm Dame Myra Hess Memorial classical concert every Wednesday in the Preston Bradley Hall.

Guided architectural tours of the Cultural Center run at 1:15pm on Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday.

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1876 saw the founding of this team and the ivy-covered Wrigley Field is where one can get most of the action. The blue, red and white colors fly high as the blaze the ground with some much-loved and eagerly-awaited baseball skills. The last championship they won may seem a bit outdated, but the fans are loyal, nonetheless. "Maybe next year" is their rallying cry. The last time the Cubs one a World Series was in 1908, although they came close in 1945. In 1984, they were on their way again, but were eliminated during the National League playoffs. Oh well. Maybe next year.

Our Local Expert Says:

If you are eager to learn more about the city, these tours are a pleasant and fun way to do so!

Description:

Chicago's architecture is world famous. Luckily, the Chicago Architecture Foundation offers first-rate guided tours to help visitors understand what makes this city's skyline so special. The foundation offers walking, bike, boat, and bus tours to more than 60 architectural sites and environments in and around Chicago, led by nearly 400 trained and enthusiastic docents (all volunteers). I highly recommend taking at least one CAF tour while you're in town -- they help you look at (and appreciate) the city in a new way. Tours are available year-round but are scheduled less frequently in winter.

One of the CAF's most popular tours is the 1 1/2-hour Architecture River Cruise, which glides along both the north and the south branches of the Chicago River. Although you can see the same 50 or so buildings by foot, traveling by water lets you enjoy the buildings from a unique perspective. The excellent docents also provide interesting historical details, as well as some fun facts (David Letterman once called the busts of the nation's retailing legends that face the Merchandise Mart the "Pez Hall of Fame"). The docents generally do a good job of making the cruise enjoyable for visitors with all...

Our Local Expert Says:

This is another fantastic understated Chicago museum that provides a great way to see another perspective of Chicago history.

Description:

Located in Chicago's famous Hyde Park, the Dusable Museum of African American History, founded in 1961, is named after a black Haitian fur trader who settled along the Chicago River, becoming the first non-Native settler to do so. Set within Washington Park the museum was founded to preserve the contributions of African Americans and today unites African American art, history, and culture. The museums galleries feature 15,000 pieces of painting, sculpture, and memorabilia by African and African American artists. The museum also offers performances, discussions, workshops, and festivals.

Our Local Expert Says:

If you are interested in architecture, this is a must see. The trek to Oak Park can be long, so make the most of it by doing both the self-guided walking tour and the home tour.

Description:

For the first 20 years of Wright's career, this remarkable complex served first and foremost as the sanctuary where he designed and executed more than 130 of an extraordinary output of 430 completed buildings. The home began as a simple shingled cottage that the 22-year-old Wright built for his bride in 1889, but it became a living laboratory for his revolutionary reinvention of interior spaces. Wright remodeled the house constantly until 1911, when he moved out permanently (in 1909, he left his wife and six children and went off to Europe with the wife of one of his clients). During Wright's fertile early period, the house was Wright's showcase, but it also embraces many idiosyncratic features molded to his own needs rather than those of a client. With many add-ons -- including a barrel-vaulted children's playroom and a studio with an octagonal balcony suspended by chains -- the place has a certain whimsy that others might have found less livable. This was not an architect's masterpiece but rather the master's home, and visitors can savor every room in it for the view it reflects of the workings of a remarkable mind.

Tours cannot be booked in advance by phone, but a select number of...

Our Local Expert Says:

If you are traveling in the winter Garfield Park is a great place to warm up and enjoy some artful vegetation in the dead of winter.

Description:

The Garfield Park Conservatory is often referred to as "landscape art under glass" and is one of Chicago's best kept secrets. Off the beaten path, it is located on the West Side and is easily accessible by the CTA Green Line. In the late 19th century, each of the three large parks on Chicago's West Side (Garfield, Humboldt, and Douglas parks) had their own conservatories and greenhouses, but over 20 years they were not kept well, became obsolete, and were demolished. For their replacement, the Parks Commission decided in 1905 to build "the largest publicly owned conservatory under one roof in the world" at Garfield Park. The Conservatory now houses several natural landscapes; impressive among them are the Palm Room and the Fern Room.

Our Local Expert Says:

Even if art is not your thing, you must visit the Art Institute for its brand new Modern Wing that overlooks Millennium Park.

Description:

You can't -- and shouldn't -- miss the Art Institute. (You really have no excuse, since it's conveniently located right on Michigan Ave. in the heart of downtown.) No matter what medium or century interests you, the Art Institute has something in its collection to fit the bill. Japanese ukiyo-e prints, ancient Egyptian bronzes, Greek vases, 19th-century British photography, masterpieces by most of the greatest names in 20th-century sculpture, and modern American textiles are just some of the works on display, but for a general overview of the museum's collection, take the free "Highlights of the Art Institute" tour, offered at 2pm on Tuesday, Saturday, and Sunday.

If time is limited, head straight to the museum's renowned anthology of Impressionist art, which includes one of the world's largest collections of Monet paintings; this is one of the most popular areas of the museum, so arriving early pays off. Among the treasures, you'll find Seurat's pointillist masterpiece Sunday Afternoon on the Island of La Grande Jatte. The galleries of European and American contemporary art include paintings, sculptures, and mixed-media works by Pablo Picasso, Henri Matisse, Salvador Dalí, Willem de...

Description:

The University of Chicago has done it all, from the birth of the atomic bomb to the first living-donor living transplant to the birth of sociological study. On a lighter note, Chicago's famous Second City comedy group was conceived at the UOC, and the nation's first Heisman Trophy winner, Jay Berwanger, ran the pigskin here. Former home of Enrico Fermi, Albert Einstein, Milton Friedman and Saul Bellow, the UOC is rightfully proud that more Nobel laureates have studied or taught here than at any other university. The school was founded by the lakefront in 1891 and houses a richly detailed, gothic style campus. Take in one of many concert programs or events on campus, or take a stroll through scenic Hyde Park, the beautiful old neighborhood that engulfs the university.

Our Local Expert Says:

If you only have time for one museum, the Field Museum is it. Full of history, excitement, and exploration!

Description:

As part of the Museum Campus on the lakefront (in addition to the Shedd Aquarium and Adler Planetarium), the Field Museum of Natural History is always at or toward the top of the list when it comes to popular cultural attractions in Chicago. The Field Museum was originally named the Columbian Museum of Chicago for the World's Columbian Exposition in 1893, but changed its name to honor Marshall Field, its first major benefactor, in 1905. Since 2000, the Field Museum has housed Sue, the world's most complete and best preserved Tyrannosaurus Rex to date, in its main hall. The building itself was designed by famous Chicago architect Daniel Burnham, the mind behind the White City at the 1893 Columbian Exposition. Admission is free on the Second Monday of every month, and on additional days throughout the year as designated on the Field's website: www.fieldmuseum.org/plan_visit/free_days.htm.

Our Local Expert Says:

An original take on the traditional pizza that gives even Chicago deep dish a run for its money!

Description:

One of Chicago's oldest pizza joints, Chicago Pizza & Oven Grinder is a cozy establishment set in an old brownstone building with beautiful wood paneling and plenty of private booths to enjoy great conversation. Often frequented by couples to intimately share the restaurant's signature pizza pot pie, made with Sicilian dough, a delicious homemade sauce, cheese, and a selection of other fillings. Make sure to order the enormous garlic bread as you wait for your pizza. And, if you just love the pizza pot pie, take one frozen to go! The restaurant also has a delightful bar where you can wait for a table to open.

Description:

Owners Rick and Deann Bayless are widely credited with bringing authentic Mexican regional cuisine to a wider audience. Their restaurant is the place to taste real Mexican food, so don't show up expecting a plate of nachos with processed-cheese topping. The building actually houses two restaurants: the casual Frontera Grill (plain wood tables, terra-cotta tile floor) and the fine-dining Topolobampo (white linen tablecloths, a more hushed environment). At both restaurants, the focus is on fresh, organic ingredients supplied by local artisanal farmers.

At Frontera, the signature appetizer is the sopes surtidos, corn-tortilla "boats" with a sampler of fillings (chicken in red mole, black beans with homemade chorizo, and so on). The ever-changing entree list might include pork loin in a green mole sauce; smoked chicken breast smothered in a sauce of chiles, pumpkin seeds, and roasted garlic; or a classic sopa de pan ("bread soup" spiced up with almonds, raisins, grilled green onions, and zucchini). Yes, you can also get tacos (with fillings such as portobello mushrooms, duck, and catfish). The Baylesses up the ante at the adjacent Topolobampo, where both the ingredients and presentation...

Description:

Situated in the center of Logan Square, this haven of "hipsterdom" is ideal for a weekend brunch or a full meal before a concert at the adjacent Logan Square Auditorium. The menu is ideal for vegetarians, but with items ranging from a tofu scramble with ginger miso sauce to grilled pork loin, the diversity and freshness (almost all of the food at Lula is local) of the menu is sure to offer something for everyone. Prices are a tad on the expensive side, but the cost is well worth it.

Our Local Expert Says:

A simple, unpretentious, and precise fine dining experience, provided by a warm staff that will leave you completely amazed.

Description:

Schwa offers top-notch food in a laid-back environment. The focused, meticulously prepared menu is stunningly presented. Also, the minimalist atmosphere, lacking affectation and excess, consists of just fourteen tables. Both attributes combine to ensure that the emphasis is on the food and the restaurant's mantra of "food as art" is made apparent. Schwa Restaurant is BYOB, so bring along your favorite bottle of vino to compliment the meal. Reservations are recommended.

Our Local Expert Says:

The Fleet Foxes deemed this establishment the "best vegan diner in the world" at last summer's Lollapalooza! See if they are right...

Description:

If you think it is hard to find restaurants that cater to your vegetarian/vegan needs, the looking is over. Not only does the Chicago Diner keep your needs in mind, the entire menu is completely vegetarian and can be made vegan upon request. Plus, there is even a gluten-free menu that has more than just a few choices. This local favorite has an all-American diner feel, and includes a full brunch menu, plus a liquor menu featuring gluten-free beers, and local and sustainable wines and liquors. The restaurant offers free parking.

Our Local Expert Says:

Great history, great music, great fun!

Description:

This is the absolute best place to see jazz in Chicago! The Green Mill is a former speakeasy from days of Prohibition, where it was the headquarters Chicago gangsters, including the infamous Al Capone. Also famous for being the location where Joe E. Lewis was attacked with a knife. The ornate, sophisticated, and dark atmosphere has not changed much from the old days, and neither has the music. It has definitely upheld its mission to uphold a "mix of down-to-earth friendliness and class." There are different regular acts every night, with Big Band swing on Thursdays, Sabertooth Jazz Qunitet on Saturday and Sunday after 1am, and even a Poetry Slam on Sundays.

Our Local Expert Says:

Famous for its alumni, Second City will have you rolling on the floor and keep you entertained, plus the drinks and food make the experience complete.

Description:

Chicago is famous for comedy, and it has Second City to thank for that. Almost every famous comic to come out of Chicago spent time at Second City before they "hit it big." A few famous alumni include Stephen Colbert, Tina Fey, and Steve Carell. Don't miss the revue on the mainstage (does not play on Mondays), sure to skewer politicians local and national in the most hilarious way possible. As a general rule, Chicago politics equals comedy gold. Be sure to get to the theater about 30 minutes ahead of showtime, as seating is first come, first seated.

Our Local Expert Says:

This is the place to see great bands before they go big! Great venue to relax, eat, and drink while listening to your favorite bands.

Description:

This tavern is housed in one of the former Schlitz bars, but the Schlitz is gone. Instead, you will find a good collection of beer and a wonderfully eclectic variety of live music on a stage in an adjoining room. You can drink at the bar for no extra charge, but to hear the music, you have to pay a cover fee. Both parts of the tavern, performance and bar areas, tend to host a mix of locals from the Lakeview neighborhood and others from throughout the city who have come to check out this week's jazz, rock or folk act. If you get hungry, you can sneak away to the Harmony Grill, which is owned by the same person and attached to the bar.

Our Local Expert Says:

Unpretentious and chill way to see some of the best DJ's in the city!

Description:

Located beneath the Metro (another popular music venue), Smart Bar is one of the best places in the city to see music. Here a variety of music is featured by respected top notch DJ's. Here you do not need to worry about impressing security, being on the "in list," or buying bottle service. The scene is only about the music, creating a laid back but lively atmosphere to enjoy a night of dancing. It can get crowded depending on the show.

Tickets can be purchased at the Metro Store - cash only.

Our Local Expert Says:

This neighborhood bar boasts an extensive Belgian beer selection, as well as a fantastic draft line, but don't forget about the food that compliments the quality beer superbly.

Description:

If you don't know your Farmhouse from your Trappist or your Abbey-style ales, or perhaps, more importantly, if you do, then Hopleaf should be your next destination for a goblet or two. In addition to an extensive list of Belgian beers available on tap (over 15) or by the bottle (over 100), this tavern also features beers from all over North America and Europe. If beer isn't your thing (gasp!) then check out the wine list; Hopleaf features a number of wines available by the glass or bottle. Of course, with all this drinking you'll probably want to do a little eating. A few standout features on the menu include the mussels (white-wine steamed or white-ale steamed, your choice) and the frites with aioli.

Description:

Originally presented as a gift to the Art Institute, this theater is now the oldest and largest not for profit theater in the city. A new, much larger location, in the heart of the theater district, opened to rave reviews. While many students have honed their craft at the Goodman School of Drama, the theater has also won much acclaim for major productions like "Death of a Salesman" with Brian Dennehy as Willy Loman, and the annual production of "A Christmas Carol." Productions are of consistently outstanding quality, under the guidance of art director Robert Falls and his committed staff of associate directors and artistic staff.

Description:

This group's home on Navy Pier is a visually stunning, state-of-the-art jewel. The centerpiece of the glass-box complex, which rises seven stories, is a 525-seat courtyard-style theater patterned loosely after the Swan Theater in Stratford-upon-Avon. The complex also houses a 180-seat studio theater, an English-style pub, and lobbies with commanding views of Lake Michigan and the Chicago skyline. But what keeps subscribers coming back is the talented company of actors, including some of the finest Shakespeare performers in the country.

The main theater presents three Shakespeare plays a year; founder and artistic director Barbara Gaines usually directs one show. Chicago Shakespeare also books special short-run performances and events, such as a recent production of Hamlet by acclaimed British director Peter Brook. Shakespeare Theatre subscribers are loyal, so snagging tickets can be a challenge; reserve well in advance if possible. If you have a choice of seats, avoid the upper balcony; the tall chairs are uncomfortable, and you have to lean way over the railing to see all the action onstage -- definitely not recommended for anyone with a fear of heights.

Description:

If you're looking for more than just drama, visit the Joan W Irving B. Harris Theater, a center for a variety of shows by dance and music companies from the Chicago region. The companies that have performed at the theater are Mexican Fine Arts Center Museum, Old Town School of Folk Music, Chicago Opera Theater and Hubbard Street Dance Company. This is a great theatre to watch local talents perform. If you're in the city, check it out. Some of the highlights for the coming months are the River North Chicago Dance Company, La Resurrezione, an Opera composed by Handel and the Vermeer Quartet.

Description:

This theater is known the world over for its classic, "Chicago School" design and its acoustically perfect interior. Construction of this landmark began in 1887. It is one of the last remaining buildings in the city designed by the firm of Sullivan and Adler. Along with his partner Dankmar Adler, Sullivan invented the Chicago school of architecture, one that put "form over function" and replaced traditional neoclassical design with a uniquely American flavor. Fully restored to its original luster about 15 years ago, the theatre housed such stage spectaculars as "Les Miserables" and "Phantom of the Opera." Even if there is no show, it is worth a visit to view the beautiful interior. Join one of the tours offered by the Auditorium Theater Association. Admission to performances varies according to seating and show. Hours vary with performances.

Our Local Expert Says:

Located right downtown, lighting up State street every night, it is definitely an elegant theater offering a variety of upscale performances.

Description:

"The best of both worlds" is the phrase that best summarizes this classic Loop theater. It is opulent enough to appeal to the most discriminating of tastes, but refined enough to satisfy the most discerning theatergoer. It is too bad that recent years have not seen the stage shows to match. The biggest draw here a couple years ago was Donny Osmond in "Joseph." Since then, the Chicago Theatre has fallen off in presenting new shows as more theaters start to crowd the new Theater District. However, concerts are frequent, and an occasional movie is shown here on its giant screen. Hours vary with showtimes.