Are you heading to the Windy City? Chicago is a city that everyone has to explore at least once because it’s filled with so many historical sites, entertainment options, top-notch food, and leisure activities. Let’s not forget the beauty of some of the tallest skyscrapers in the world that are glistening by the beautiful Lake Michigan.
If you’re heading to Chicago for the first time, you don’t need a list of 50 things to make the most of your experience in Chicago. Your first trip should be about soaking up all the beauty that this city has to offer.
So here are some things you can do to make your first trip to Chicago worth every minute.
1. Explore Downtown
Chicago’s bold architecture, breathtaking murals, and beautiful waters make it a top city to see! Get a Ventra card and explore the best of the downtown area. Walk around Navy Pier, take pictures by Buckingham Fountain, and see spectacular city views at the Skydeck Chicago in the Willis Tower (formerly known by Chicagoans as the Sears Tower).
If you’re looking for free activities you can always visit the Chicago Cultural Center and take advantage of free international film nights every Wednesday from spring until the beginning of the fall or be on the lookout for free festivals.
2. Eat Your Heart Out
There is an endless number of restaurants in Chicago that can cater to your every food desire. All you have to do is state your food preference and you’ll find restaurants all over Chicago.
For example, if you’re looking for some authentic Chicago-style breakfast you can always count on Sweet Maple Cafe to deliver. In 1999, Laurene Hynson used her prized family recipes and turned an abandoned restaurant space into a creative food venue for the community.
After you taste some fan favorites at Sweet Maple Café you can enjoy the surrounding area. Then, head on over to Ain’t She Sweet Café for lunch to grab smoothies and vegan bites from a black-owned restaurant in the historic Bronzeville neighborhood.
3. Hide Away In Hyde Park
Step on the soil of President Obama’s home when you head to Hyde Park. It’s a beautiful, vibrant treasure on the southside of Chicago that allows you to escape the hustle and bustle of the downtown area.
You’ll be able to explore art galleries, museums, and chapels at the University of Chicago, check out over 2000 exhibits at the Museum of Science and Industry, and unwrap African American History at the DuSable Museum. Hyde Park will give you a chance to discover hidden gems that many tourists may not be familiar with.
Charlene Rhinehart is an award-winning speaker, consultant, and coach who uses digital technologies to share inspiring stories with the world. She helps others live their best life as a Financial Coach at Wealthy Women Daily, Founder of the Career Goddess Academy, and Travel & Lifestyle Writer at BlackCoupleTravels.com.