Quick guide to Chicago for First-Timers

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Chicago is a city like no other. Architecture, history, deep dish pizza – what more would you want? Having called this city my home for a few years, I am incredibly biased that it is the most under-rated city in America. You could spend months in this beautiful city and still have lots of food to eat and sights to see! Hoping this quick guide to Chicago helps you plan the perfect itinerary in the Windy City.

Having numerous sky scrapers, the city seems larger in size than it is, with the river running through the center of the city. The unique elevated trains are easy to use and allow visitors to see the stunning city different from any other city.

A Quick Guide to Chicago for First-Timers

Where to stay in Chicago

Courtyard by Marriott downtown/River North: Perfectly situated in the center of the city, the Courtyard by Marriott is in a great location. You can walk to all the main sights, shopping and are a stone throw away from amazing restaurants.

Where to eat in Chicago

Imperial Lamian – Upscale, modern Chinese restaurant with intriguing recipes and delicious xiaolongbao.
NoMi Kitchen/Garden – With NoMi Kitchen consisting more of a upscale tastting menu, NoMi Garden has a great menu, delicsious cocktails and great rooftop vibe when when the weather is nice.
Beatrix – Cafe during the day with a great range of dishes for breakfast & brunch, this place also is open for wine and dinner.
The Publican – Creative seafood dishes & Oyster variety. The West Loop in general is worth exploring.
Tre Kroner – Amazing Swedish inspired breakfast.
Deep dish Pizza – Due to the contraversy of which place serves the best, take your pick a Giordanos, Ginos East or Lou Malnati’s. Some also say Pequod’s PIzza is the best as well.
Intelligentsia Coffee – Coffee, donuts and treats for your morning of sightseeing.

What to do in Chicago

Shoreline Architectural Tour – If you do one thing, make it this! A beautiful 75 minute tour on the river learning about the history and buildings of the Windy City.
Visit Millenium Park & the Bean – Iconic part of downtown Chicago.
Grant Park and Buckingham Fountain – Close by to Millennium Park, with Lake Michigan as a back drop.
Shopping on State Street (visit the iconic Chicago Theater Sign or better yet, see a show)!
Drinks At the Signature Lounge – Skip paying $10 for the John Hancock Observatory and get a cocktail at the Signature Lounge on the 96th floor.
See a game at Wrigley Field (or if they are away, take a tour)! If you see Wrigley Field, walk around Wrigleyville as well, new restaurants and hotels post World Series win are popping up all over!
Explore Lincoln Park – Stop in to cute cafes or visit the Lincoln Park Zoo (for free) in Lincoln Park.
Visit Navy Pier – ride the Ferris Wheel, grab a meal and walk around looking out to Lake Michigan.