The Top 5 Reasons to Visit Chicago, Illinois Now
WRITTEN BY 5 REASONS TO VISIT® EDITORIAL STAFF
PUBLISHED OCTOBER 2022 • 4 min read
Situated on the southwestern shore of Lake Michigan—Chicago has all the offerings you'd expect from a major city. From vibrant neighborhoods, shopping along The Magnificent Mile, famous skyscrapers like the Willis Tower, delectable farm-to-table cuisine and a summertime favorite of every Chicagoan: beaches. North Avenue Beach is one of the most popular and is situated in Lincoln Park. The beach features a sleek, ocean liner-inspired beach house that boasts some of the best skyline and lakefront views in the city.
Image courtesy of Choose Chicago
1. THE SHOPPING
The Magnificent Mile boasts more than 450 retailers, including flagship experiences, luxury department stores like Bloomingdale’s and Nordstrom, international designers and boutiques such as Gucci and Burberry, innovative technology and timeless jewelry like Cartier, home goods and travel necessities, and anchored by three major shopping centers. Explore a blend of luxury brands and local boutiques along this cosmopolitan, history-packed strip on downtown Michigan Avenue.
The Magnificent Mile in Chicago, Illinois
The Shops at North Bridge boasts a collection of upscale stores and restaurants that has expanded to encompass a six-block district. Discover unique merchandise and interactive experiences at more than 50 flagship retailers and brand houses, in addition to new store openings all the time. From capsule collections to product customization, popular brands and luxury labels, there is nothing quite like shopping The Magnificent Mile.
2. THE ART
Located in Midtown, the Museum of Contemporary Art is a massive gallery space housed in a former car dealership that features exhibits by both mainstays in the contemporary art scene as well as students and newcomers.
Museum of Contemporary Art in Chicago, Illinois
Art is everywhere in Chicago and the city is a living canvas—literally. Diverse artists, both local and internationally renowned, have used the city’s blank walls and viaducts to depict historical events, important cultural figures, environmental causes and abstract patterns to tell a story of both hope and struggle.
Murals are an essential part of Chicago and celebrate its eclectic sense of community. Neighborhoods to explore include Wabash Art Corridor with 20 large-scale murals, Pilsen, Humboldt Park, Rogers Park, as well as Logan Square and Wicker Park/Bucktown—home to over 50 murals, including the famed “Greetings From Chicago” mural.
3. THE COCKTAILS & CUISINE
Just north of Millennium Park, Rosebud on Randolph is a unique dining experience like no other. As their brand-new flagship location, Rosebud has been serving generous portions of hospitality and authentic Italian fare to Chicagoans and visitors alike for over four decades. For the ultimate cocktail, head upstairs and meet your guests at the third floor Cocktail Club that overlooks word famous Millennium Park from the penthouse patio. Here, you’ll enjoy the sprawling view, clinking cocktails and excitement. For your artisanal cocktail fix, we recommend trying their signature Aperol Spritz—concocted with Aperol, Prosecco and club soda.
Rosebud on Randolph in Chicago, Illinois
Boasting their classic Rosebud Italian menu—the Rosebud on Randolph dining experience is handcrafted from family recipes. Favorite dishes include Ribbons Bolognese with handmade mafaldine noodles, veal and beef tomato sauce, basil, and fresh mozzarella cheese, Linguine & Clams, an Italian specialty, Mama’s Meatballs, a hand-rolled veal & beef Rosebud family recipe, as well as Chicken Parmesan with thinly pounded chicken breast, parmesan breaded, marinara, and fresh mozzarella.
In the mood for something sweet? Try the Mile High Chocolate Cake, Crème Brulée or Godiva Chocolate Mousse Cake.
4. THE GARDENS
On over 385 well-manicured and natural acres, the Chicago Botanic Garden is spread across nine islands in the Cook County Forest Preserves. Featuring 27 display gardens in four natural habitats, take the time to discover McDonald Woods, Dixon Prairie, Skokie River Corridor, and Lakes and Shores.
Must-see gardens at the Chicago Botanic Garden include the Green Roof Garden atop the Plant Science Center, Evening Island and Linden Allee, along with so many more. You can explore all of the diverse gardens by walking or taking the tram. Tram tours include a panoramic overview or the intimate view of the gardens on the main island.
5. THE ARCHITECTURE
Over the last three decades of the 19th century, the Prairie Avenue Historic District and its landmark historic buildings on the South Side of Chicago has served as the residence of many of Chicago's elite families. By 1886 the finest mansions in the city, each equipped with its own carriage house, stood on Prairie Avenue and with over fifty mansions, the street was known as "Millionaire's Row."
Image courtesy of Choose Chicago
Over time, the district evolved from an upscale neighborhood to a factory district and back to an upscale neighborhood. Historic preservation in Chicago has saved some of the city's architectural heritage. A few of the mansions of the heyday still remain in the 1800-block, which include the National Historic landmark designated John J. Glessner House.
WHERE TO STAY IN CHICAGO, ILLINOIS
Seek out your stylish retreat in the Gold Coast at the Viceroy Chicago. On the site of a 120-year-old landmark building, it represents one of the finest hotels near Chicago’s Magnificent Mile. As you relax and reconnect in a neighborhood brimming with historic homes, you’ll get a feel for the city’s rich heritage. Luxurious guest rooms and suites open up to views of Lake Michigan and are just a short walk to Michigan Avenue and the shopping at Magnificent Mile that made Chicago legendary.
