Below, we have provided you some of the things we enjoy doing in the city if you are interested in staying around a little longer than the wedding itself!

Iconic Chicago Sightseeing

Skydeck at Willis Tower – Step onto the glass ledge for breathtaking views.

360 CHICAGO (John Hancock Center) – Enjoy panoramic views and try the TILT experience.

Chicago Riverwalk – Walk along the river, grab coffee, and take in the city’s beauty.

Millennium Park & The Bean – A must-visit for first-timers in Chicago.

Architecture Boat Tour (If Weather Permits) – Enjoy a guided cruise of Chicago’s skyline.

Cultural & Museum Options

Art Institute of Chicago – World-class art, including Monet and Van Gogh.

Museum of Science and Industry – Interactive and fun for all ages.

Field Museum – Home to Sue the T. Rex and fascinating exhibits.

Food & Drink Experiences

Chicago-Style Pizza – Try Lou Malnati’s, Giordano’s, or Pequod’s (Definitely Pequods!).

Brunch Spots – Beatnik on the River, The Bongo Room, or Wildberry Café.

Coffee & Pastries – Visit Doughnut Vault, VooDoo Donuts, Stan’s Donuts, or Intelligentsia.

Chicago Brewery Tour – Check out Revolution Brewing or Half Acre.

Chocolate & Wine Tastings – Enjoy artisanal chocolate at Vosges Haut-Chocolat.

Late Night Options

Rooftop Lounges – Enjoy drinks with a skyline view at LondonHouse or The J. Parker.

Live Jazz & Blues – Green Mill Cocktail Lounge or Buddy Guy’s Legends for a classic Chicago vibe.

Speakeasies & Cocktail Bars – Try The Violet Hour, The Drifter, or The Aviary.

Brunch & Cafés

Girl & The Goat – Brunch Edition – A favorite for locals and visitors.

The Publican – Amazing meats, eggs, and beer-friendly dishes.

The Hampton Social – Coastal vibes with great cocktails.

Relaxing & Romantic Options

AIRE Ancient Baths – A luxurious and romantic spa experience.

Ice Skating at Millennium Park – A fun outdoor activity.

Chicago Botanic Garden – A peaceful winter nature walk.

More Local to the Venue (NW Suburbs)

Local Attractions & Sightseeing

Arlington Heights Historical Museum – A small but interesting local museum with historic buildings.

Mitsuwa Marketplace (Arlington Heights) – A large Japanese market with authentic food, a bakery, and unique shops.

Busse Woods Forest Preserve – If the weather is nice, this is a great spot for a nature walk.

Lynfred Winery (Roselle) – A cozy winery offering tastings of locally produced wines.

Dining & Drinks

Johnnie’s Beef – Matt’s favorite Chicago Beef (Even though it is in the suburbs, it’s authentic and true to Chicago tradition!)

Gene and Jude’s Hot Dogs – FANTASTIC Chicago Dogs

Hala Kahiki Tiki Bar – The reason you need Gene and Judes, right down River Rd

Cooper’s Hawk Winery & Restaurant – A great spot for wine tasting and dinner.

Mago Grill & Cantina – Delicious Mexican and Latin cuisine.

Beer on the Wall – A craft beer shop and tasting spot in Arlington Heights.

Fun & Entertainment

Metropolis Performing Arts Centre – Check for any Valentine’s weekend performances.

Enterrum (Schaumburg) – A fun, upscale arcade and bowling lounge.

iFLY Indoor Skydiving (Rosemont) – For adventurous guests wanting a unique experience.

Late-Night Fun

If guests want something to do after the wedding:

Hey Nonny – A live music venue with a cozy, intimate atmosphere.

Cortland’s Garage – A great late-night bar with craft beers and cocktails.

Arlington Ale House – Club-like bar with lots of drinks and things to do.

Kuma’s Corner (Schaumburg) – A popular burger joint with a punk rock vibe.

Brunch & Coffee

Egg Harbor Café – A fantastic breakfast and brunch option.

Golden Brunch – Great breakfast joint, gets crowded.

Mr Allison’s – AMAZING greasy spoon diner with great cheap portions – get something with ham!

Relaxing(ish) Options

Salt Spa Arlington Heights – A relaxing spa experience, perfect for couples.

Chicago Botanic Garden (Glencoe) – A scenic nature escape, great even in winter.

Woodfield Mall (Schaumburg) – If you want some last-minute shopping. Can get chaotic.

H&M

Wedding Reception