Check out Chicago

I went to Chicago often as a child, but it had been many years since my last visit. I was excited to visit again as an adult. Chicago is a vibrant and diverse city that offers something for everyone. Whether you're into art, culture, food, shopping, or nightlife, you'll find it all in Chicago. My trip in May was filled with rain and wind but also beautiful tulips and plenty of indoor attractions. Being centrally located, Chicago is also a great location for meetings.

Tea Time

I love trying different places for tea. There are a variety of different fancy tea options in Chicago. The best bang for your buck is the Russian Tea Time Restaurant. The brunch tea service is delightful and even better, it’s more affordable than other teas in Chicago. It includes scones, sandwiches, and sweet treats. I recommend the bottomless, house tea (a Russian, Black Currant). Reservations are smart, but I was able to get in without one. I saw several families with young children, men on a lunch break, and ladies celebrating a day out (they added sparkling wine to their tea service).

Other Tasty Treats

Chicago is a great place to eat, known for deep-dish pizza. This trip, in addition to teatime, I met a friend at the Nutella Cafe (so popular you have to wait in line to get inside) packed with Nutella-filled delicacies. I also enjoyed a great breakfast at Yolk, a tasty breakfast chain, and a delicious dinner with family at Miller’s Pub. Try them all! You won’t be disappointed.

Tiffany Stained Glass at the Chicago Cultural Center

Museums and Attractions

Chicago is packed with world class museums. On my most recent trip, I enjoyed a whirlwind visit to the Art Institute of Chicago. It’s not cheap, but it’s worth it. I highly recommend the Thorne Miniature Rooms (for all ages) and the Impressionists. Learn about art from across the world and throughout time. Spend a little time gazing at the gorgeous Tiffany stained glass window. You can find more Tiffany stained glass and mosaics at the Chicago Cultural Center. As a child I loved to learn about natural history at the Field Museum (especially SUE the T-Rex), engaged hands-on at the Museum of Science and Industry, and ventured under the sea at the Shedd Aquarium. Even people who don’t consider themselves interested in architecture recommend a Chicago River Boat Architectural Tour. (It’s been a few years since I went on it, so I don’t have a particular one to recommend.)

Shop ‘til You Drop

Chicago is a shopper's dream. You can browse the upscale boutiques and department stores along the Magnificent Mile or discover some hidden gems in the neighborhoods. You can find everything from vintage clothing to handmade jewelry to quirky souvenirs in Chicago. I got my husband a souvenir, funny taco cat shirt. (Did you know taco cat backwards is taco cat?)

Catch a Show

Online, I was able to get day-of, cheap, nose-bleed seats at the beautiful Nederlander Theater to see Into the Woods. What fun!

At least a rainy day makes for great pictures of mist topped skyscrapers

Transportation

You can get unlimited rides on the “L” (elevated train) and the bus with a day pass card purchased at the station vending machine. You can get from either of Chicago’s main airports on the “L” although it happened to be under construction from O’Hare Airport when I visited, making the route much longer. Chicago is quite walkable, and ride shares and cabs are also available. I’ve heard Chicago can be challenging for cars, especially finding and affording parking.