We anticipate approximately a one hour gap between the ceremony and start of the cocktail hour. Here are a few suggestions of things to do during this time.
Stop by Jake Melnick's, a casual bar and pub, for a drink after the ceremony. Jake Melnick's is located three blocks from St. James Chapel and less than two blocks to The Peninsula.
Stop by Z Bar, a trendy cocktail lounge overlooking Michigan Ave, located on the 6th floor of The Peninsula.
Upon entering The Peninsula, take the elevator up to the main lobby. After getting out of the elevator, walk toward the concierge desk, take the first right, and take the elevator up to the Z Bar.
Visit Chicago's Starbucks Reserve Roastery, with each of its five levels featuring a different menu and design. The Starbucks Reserve is located on Michigan Ave, five blocks from St. James Chapel and three blocks to The Peninsula.
Visit Water Tower Place, an eight-story mall located on Michigan Ave. Water Tower Place has over 100 stores, restaurants, and a live theater. Water Tower Place is located less than two blocks from St. James Chapel and three blocks to The Peninsula.
Spending some extra time in Chicago? Here are a few recommendations of places to visit.
Stop by the LondonHouse rooftop for a cocktail, and enjoy the spectacular view of downtown. Take a peek around the east end of the rooftop to see the "cupola" where Matt proposed.
Visit Millenium Park and take a picture by "The Bean", a Chicago tourism classic. Face north, look up, and you will see the Aon Center (featured in the background of this photo). Kelly Jo and Matt work on the 61st floor.
There are countless restaurants and great places to eat in Chicago. Here are a few Chicago classics.
Enjoy a Chicago style deep dish pizza from Giordano's.
Enjoy a Chicago dog, Italian beef sandwich, or chopped salad from this iconic Chicago eatery.