Mentioned by Tales of a Backpacker
Free Things to do in Chicago Illinois
"The Lincoln Park Conservatory, with its glass walls and exotic plant species, feels like a sanctuary in the middle of the bustling city. The Victorian-era building is divided into four spaces: the Fern Room, Orchid House, Palm House, and the Show House. Each houses thousands of plant and flower varieties that thrive in the conservatory’s balmy conditions all year round."
"Lincoln Park Conservatory has been a beautiful getaway since the 1890s. Inside, you’ll find tropical palms, ancient ferns, and plenty of other exotic plants."
"Among the 26 different gardens here are the three-island Malott Japanese Garden, the 5-acre Evening Island, and the Grunsfeld Children's…"
"While Donald Trump is making headlines, the real story is taking place at his international hotel. The Terrace sits in the shadow of the Wrigley Building, giving it a daunting view of the majesty around it, but also serves color-changing cocktails infused with odd fruits from around the world for a drinking experience that is downright transcendent."
"Luxury spa services, fine dining and upscale amenities are among the unique services offered to guests at the hotel. Floor-to-ceiling windows showcase iconic views of Lake Michigan, Chicago River ..."
"If you’ve ever read the ingredients label on your lotion and felt slightly freaked out, head to this green boutique spa. For hair removal, they do sugaring. Their nail services use only 5- to 10-free polishes (meaning they’re free of harsh chemicals)."
"Probably the softest donut I have ever had and they have endless donut combinations!!. I could not recommend going here more !!"
"Once only open on weekends, popularity has necessitated more access to these yeasty wonders in North Evanston. Flavors rotate every two weeks, but favorites include the fanciful Fruity Pebbles, rich Nutella- or Lemon Curd-Filled, and the deep, dark Chocolate Ganache."
"Not much is better than fried chicken or doughnuts, except of course when you combine the two for a fried chicken doughnut sandwich ($6.96). That’s just what the geniuses behind killer maple-bacon-topped crullers and pistachio-crusted, Meyer-lemon-glazed cake doughnuts did. It’s not on the menu, but if you ask for the secret fried chicken doughnut sandwich, you’ll get a buttermilk-and-pickle-brined, flaky fried chicken breast slathered with lustrous housemade aioli on a sugar-crusted, old-fashioned doughnut, the very epitome of drunk food."
"Evanston & Navy PierAfter relocating to the States from Buenos Aires, cousins Sebastián Koziura and Enrique Schcolnik missed the moments they shared indulging in dulce de leche gelato with their grandmother. Thus, they decided to transport the sweet treat to Chicago with FRIO, a family-owned gelatería featuring Argentine favorites like Sambayon, Malbec Wine with Berries, Tramontana, and, of course, Dulce de Leche. The offerings range far beyond these, though, with up to 36 flavors in the portfolio including hyper seasonal musts like avocado, pumpkin, and white chocolate.How to book: Stop by for counter service or order delivery via GrubHub, DoorDash, or UberEats."
"Must Try: Fragola Camarosa This boutique gelato shop off State Street in Chicago’s Gold Coast neighborhood boasts exotic, European flavors. They serve gelato in ice cream sandwiches, cones, and there are even dishes where the ice cream is scooped and molded into the shape of a rose served with a mouth-watering macaron on top. This popular spot just opened a brand new shop in Water Tower Place making gelato a perfect snack to grab after an afternoon of shopping along the Magnificent Mile."
"This Mexican ice cream shop and its colorful paletas are a total must-try. La Michoacana’s extensive options, ranging all the way from tangy Michelada to creamy strawberry, will have you coming back and back again for more!. The shop also sells tangy mangoneadas, with blended mango sorbet, diced fresh fruit, lime juice and Tajin chili powder, another incredible option for cooling down in the hot summer weather!"
"There are a few La Michoacanas in Chicago, but the location we really like is in Pilsen. It has a drive-thru (much appreciated this year), the staff is friendly, and they have great paletas and regular ice cream. The treats here are very sweet, perfect for when you want a dessert that tastes like dessert because not everyone wants their treats to taste like goat cheese or earl grey tea."
"There is so much color, fun, and creativity in every dessert that you won’t be able to resist squeezing in a quick photoshoot before everything melts!. Looking for more fun things to do in Chicago?. Check out these posts to read more:"
"Street Food delivery spots are open as early as 8am in Chicago. Consider ordering from Taqueria Mi Linda Hacienda in Kelvyn Grove for your early order, or enter your delivery address to browse the places that are open and available near you."