Mentioned by Thrillist
The Coolest, Weirdest, and Best Museums in Chicago
"The Field Museum of Natural History traces its own history to the Columbian Exposition of 1893. The museum’s present structure was built in 1921 and is listed on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places."
"Illinois residents can spend a day at The Field Museum with complimentary admission on the following free days in 2020:. January 8, 15, 20, 22, 29"
"The Shedd is dedicated to "engaging, inspiring, entertaining and informing" the public about the life in oceans and waterways. You're in a building on Lake Michigan in downtown Chicago, but you are immersed in a world of coral reefs, rainforests, and the Pacific Northwest coast. The Shedd, on the Museum Campus northeast of Soldier Field, prides itself on its dedication to conservation and the protection of wildlife habitats."
"Many of these great kid friendly attractions are available on the Go Chicago® Card. Choose as you go from dozens of top Chicago attractions and save up to 55% off combined admission vs paying at the gate. Or, build your own pass and save up to 25% off."
"Built in 1930, more than 80 different habitats are represented. There are also live shows featuring dolphins, penguins, and even Beluga whales. Shedd Aquarium offers free days for Illinois residents as well as participating in Museums for All."
"Encompassing more than 50 acres (20 hectares) of prime Chicago lakefront territory, Navy Pier is truly a city within the city. With shopping, restaurants, parks and gardens, museums, stages and attractions galore, this Chicago landmark attracts millions every year."
"Celebrate the maritime pride of Chicago at this landmark pier on Lake Michigan. Featuring fun things to do all year long, enjoy waterfront attractions, sightseeing cruises, art, theater, and the Centennial Wheel. Category: Activities, Attractions, Family / Kids"
"LoopThis exotic escape from Bonhomme Hospitality is an instant mood enhancer with enough lush greenery and cheery colors to perk up any tired old Instagram account. Besides likes, the joint can be counted on for globetrotting cuisine from baba ganoush and ceviche to steak kebabs and a highly underrated Angus beef double cheeseburger. There will, of course, be drinks involved, so don’t skimp on the Oaxacan Old Fashioned or Two Minutes Turkish.How to book: Reserve viaResy."
"Beatnik has two locations, both with amazing, and unique, patios. Feel the breeze and take in the sights as the boats sail by at Beatnik on the River (pictured above), or pop over to the West town location for some sunbathing in their atrium that features a retractable roof. While it might not be a traditional patio, you’ll still be able to get your daily dosage of Vitamin D."
"Sweeping views overlooking the South Branch of the Chicago River enhance the sense of an Eden-like escape in the middle of downtown. A newly added transparent enclosure protects guests from inclement weather without obstructing views. Patio heaters will keep guests warm, too, allowing them to daydream their way to a tropical destination without chilly disruption."
"The family-owned Il Vicinato Ristorante has welcomed Chicagoland diners since 1983 and has changed little on its menu of Italian classics since its early days. The nostalgic neighb..."
"Yasmin Gutierrez, executive pastry chef and partner at the Lettuce Entertain You restaurant, created the cookies, with dough now available in six packs ($10.95) to take home and bake. Choose from chocolate chunk, butterscotch oatmeal, Nutella,, gluten-free raspberry filled coconut macaron and a house flavor called Magic (chocolate, toffee, marshmallow and cornflakes)."
"Beatrix has a combination of domes and little greenhouses, which will be available through Fulton Market’s “Dining Together, Apart” program from now through the end of November."
"Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account. View this post on Instagram. A post shared by The Gwen Hotel (@thegwenchicago) on Feb 13, 2019 at 4:07pm PST"
"Gourmet Mexican street food with intriguing options, such as coconut-crusted fried avocado and goat cheese quesadillas, are presented in an eclectic setting strewn with funky décor and laid-back vibes. There’s a lot of happy energy packed into this tidy space, and the exterior mural tribute to los Muertos is a must-see in one of the best restaurants in Chicago. Estrella Negra | 2346 W."
"Arguably the best of the city's arcade bars stands in Logan Square at the corner of Western and Fullerton. The converted hardware store sports an eclectic craft beer selection. The gaming aspect isn't an afterthought."
"Located in the South Loop in a building that was once home to a printing press and then a bank before it became one of the city’s favorite diners, Eleven City Diner is a traditional Jewish deli that serves a variety of deli-style fare in a casual diner setting. Boasting neon lights and the crackle of WWII-era tunes, the diner takes patrons back in time to the 1940s and 1950s with leather-button booths where bowls of matzoh ball soup and latkes can be enjoyed. The deli serves a variety of deli-style fare such as gargantuan gourmet sandwiches, fresh salads, mac and cheese, melts, and Reubens along with drinks from an authentic soda fountain, house-brewed root beer, and floats."
"Restaurants Diners Loop. Owner Brad Rubin scoured the country to research this Jewish deli/diner. His pastrami is tender, fatty and full of flavor; the milkshakes are thick and oversized; matzo balls are enormous; and the brisket is good enough that any grandmother would want to claim it, Jewish or not."
"The Water Tower Place-based family-friendly gallery serves as dedicated space for Dr. Seuss's artwork. Visitors may view the various collections--which include sculptures, illustrated art and "secret" art--and have the option to buy. Some of the works have never been exhibited before."