Friends. I love to travel. That is not a surprise. But sometimes you don’t have o go FAR away from home to have the very best experiences. Let’s talk about my recent trip to Chicago (just an hour flight or five hour drive from my home in St. Louis). I was a guest of Enjoy Illinois and the Magnificent Mile and the trip was truly so much fun. We packed in experiences, sight-seeing, FOOD and all things Chicago.
I’m so excited to share every little piece of my time there with you – from sightseeing to shopping, from fine dining to the most exquisite hotel stay.
Let’s start with the Claridge House Hotel….as much as I loved the atmosphere, I must start with the service. Every employee I encountered from the moment I arrived was truly exquisite. You must check out the ‘Chicago’ tab on my Instagram stories – not only for so much of my entire experience, but for a tour of my room – IT HAD A FIREPLACE.
The decor was beautifully modern and so clean. I could have stayed in that comfortable bed all day long. Located in the most darling Gold Coast neighborhood, they offer a variety of amenities including a spa, room service, an evening bar and restaurant for dining.
After checking in to the hotel and taking a quick few minutes to freshen up, we headed out for the evening. Our first stop – 360 Chicago. The views of Chicago from the top of the John Hancock building are, in a word, breathtaking.
We weren’t allowed to take photos or video while on the ride (you know I WANTED to!)….and I *may* have screamed a little, but it was a very cool experience.
And who can experience Chicago without the quintessential deep dish pizza? Certainly not me. Lou Malnati’s Pizza spoiled us like crazy. Appetizers, salad and the most divine, mouth-watering pizza.
Founded in 1971, they were instrumental in creating the recipe for this Chicago favorite. Don’t think I didn’t eat until I was positively stuffed….I DID. And I slept like a baby will a full belly.
In a span of an hour and a half, our docent (incredibly well versed tour guide) introduced us to more than 50 of the city’s most interesting buildings and he shared how Chicago grew from a small settlement into one of the country’s largest cities over the last 100 years….
Prepare to be jealous of this next experience…and I do mean experience: Eataly Chicago is more than a restaurant.
I simply cannot wait to go back.
Our lunch was followed by the most amazing shopping experience at the Shops at Northbridge.
One of my absolute favorites is the newly opened WinkyLux.
Our shopping was followed by more history of Chicago at the Driehuas Museum. Located just steps from the Magnificent Mile (we walked from the Shops at Northbridge), the museum focuses on explores the art, architecture, and design of the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
I have never visited Chicago and NOT stopped by one of my favorite stores on the Magnificent Mile – Coach. As a flagship store, this one always has the latest and most beautiful styles from the brand.
Also – I bought boots. Don’t judge me. I am obsessed with them.
Let them eat steak! Ohhhh is that supposed to be cake…. well, our final night in the city included an extraordinary meal at STK-Chicago.
With each course, they paired the perfect wine. The service was impeccable. If you are going to be in Chicago soon? GET. THERE. P.S. If you are celebrating your birthday? They is singing and sparklers. It is impossible NOT to have fun.
Speaking of fun, our final stop for the evening – wait for it – The Redhead Piano Bar.
The space and the pianist did not disappoint. Now….if only I could sing.
After this full day, you can imagine we needed to get some sleep. Remember I said I loved the bed at the Claridge House. Yep, perfection.
Lunch on our last day was a place I had never visited: Ramen-San in the Fulton Market. Specializing in being your favorite neighborhood noodle joint…I’m not sure what I loved the most – the food, or the constant rotation of 90’s hip-hop.
Well….I have certainly given you some options. Do tell, what do you want to check out first? I know, I know – it isn’t an easy choice. But, if you have a trip to Chicago in your plans any time soon, I so hope these suggestions help you to get the most out of the city.
It looks so fun and that food looks AAAAMMMAAZING!