Chicago, Illinois

Must See & Do

The Ideal Trip 
Hidden Historical Gems

 These sights may be somewhat hidden, but are well worth seeking out when visiting Chicago.

You can visit these sights on several historical tours or do a little research on your own before you go.

Recommendations

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Stay... This lovely Grand Chicago Hotel is full of history and ambiance.  The Loop location is excellent, the restaurant is enjoyable, and the lobby bar is a must-visit stop for drinks. 

The hotel also offers an historical tour with lunch or an overnight stay. The hotel is convenient to major downtown destinations, close to the “L” (elevated) train, and near the Art Institute of Chicago.


Eat...
This award-winning and appealing restaurant serves excellent food consistently. The steaks are the real stars of the show, but all of the items served are of the highest quality. The restaurant is conveniently located just a few steps from the Merchandise Mart and offers a pleasant Chicago dining experience. This restaurant is a fun choice for adventurous diners and those desiring a new experience in Russian, Slavic, and Jewish dishes. The close proximity to the Art Institute makes it a convenient dining destination when you are in the area. The mood-enhancing décor and music adds something additional to this Russian dining experience. There are several places to stop for a snack or meal along the Chicago River while taking a scenic stroll on the Riverwalk. There are both permanent and seasonal restaurants on both banks of the river below the street level.  Al Fresco dining in the warmer seasons is a real pleasure on this urban walkway.
  • Regional Specialties
Of course, when in Chicago, you should do as the locals do when dining. This means trying Chicago Style Hot Dogs, Chicago Style Pizza, and Italian Beef Sandwiches. A dissertation could be written summarizing the many opinions on who has the best Chicago-style anything, so it would be futile to make those recommendations here. Instead, do your research and make it a priority to try as many as possible and form your own opinions and favorites. For delicious drinks (and healthy, too) in the Chicago area, seek out an Argo Tea location. This is a favorite spot for their signature drinks, teas, and coffee, and an excellent alternative to your usual Starbucks stop.