Our Favorite Spots in Chicago:

As we celebrate this special moment in our lives, we wanted to share with you some of our favorite places within this incredible city that have played such an important role in our story. Whether you're here for the weekend or just looking for recommendations, we hope these spots bring you as much joy as they have brought us.

Restaurants:

Porter’s Kitchen and Deck – A sentimental choice! This was the location of our very first date.

Juno – An unforgettable omakase experience that has become one of our top culinary destinations.

Forno Rosso – A cozy pizzeria that delivers authentic wood-fired pizzas.

Avec – An ideal setting for sharing plates and enjoying thoughtfully-crafted dishes.

Ann Sather – A beloved spot known for its classic comfort food and iconic cinnamon rolls.

Demera – A warm, inviting atmosphere offering the best of Ethiopian cuisine.

Bars and Rooftops:

Grapes & Grains – A charming whiskey and piano bar perfect for intimate conversations and tastings.

Cindy’s Rooftop – A rooftop bar with breathtaking views of Millennium Park and beyond.

Koval – A local distillery known for its craft spirits; a great stop for those who enjoy artisanal drinks.

IO Godfrey Rooftop – An elegant space where you can enjoy sweeping views of Chicago’s skyline.

RAISED – A rooftop bar with unparalleled views of the river offering a sophisticated ambiance.

Lakepoint Tower – A stunning location for panoramic views of the city and lakefront

Activities & Attractions:

Lincoln Park Conservatory – A serene spot, and the place where our engagement story began.

Lakefront Trail – A scenic and peaceful way to take in the beauty of the Chicago shoreline.

Chess Pavilion – A charming spot for chess enthusiasts along the trail.

North Avenue Beach – A vibrant and lively beach offering stunning views of the lake.

Adler Planetarium – A breathtaking destination for stargazers and lovers of the cosmos.

Riverwalk – A peaceful stroll along the water offering a lovely view of the city and a variety of shops.

Green Mill – A historic jazz club where you can enjoy live music in a classic, intimate setting.

We hope you enjoy exploring these places as much as we have, and we look forward to celebrating our love in this amazing city with all of you!

Iconic Chicago Sites and Landmarks:

1. Millennium Park & The Bean (Cloud Gate)

A must-see if visiting Chicago! Take some fun "Bean" photos with the iconic reflective sculpture.

Enjoy a walk in the park and the nearby public art.

2. Navy Pier

Walk along the lakefront and enjoy views of Lake Michigan.

Ride the Ferris wheel for panoramic views of the city.

Check out local shops, restaurants, and entertainment.

3. Art Institute of Chicago

Explore one of the best art museums in the world.

Don’t miss famous works like Grant Wood’s American Gothic and Van Gogh’s The Bedroom.

4. Skydeck Chicago or 360 Chicago

Get a bird’s-eye view of the city skyline from either of these observation decks.

If you're feeling adventurous, step out onto The Ledge (Skydeck) or the Tilt (360 Chicago) for a thrilling experience.

5. The Magnificent Mile

A shopper's paradise! Browse high-end stores and local boutiques.

It’s also a great place to walk around eat and enjoy the vibrant city atmosphere.

6. Chicago History Museum

Learn about Chicago’s rich history from its founding to its impact on modern culture.

7. Try Deep-Dish Pizza

You can’t visit Chicago without tasting its famous deep-dish pizza. Check out places like Lou Malnati’s, Giordano’s, or Pequod’s Pizza.

8. Visit the Lincoln Park Zoo

A great way to spend a few hours outdoors in one of the country’s oldest zoos (and it's free!).

9. Explore the West Loop & Fulton Market

Known for its trendy restaurants, bars, and cafes, this neighborhood is perfect for foodies.

10. Take a Chicago Architecture Tour

Whether by boat or on foot, learn about the history and design behind Chicago’s iconic skyscrapers.

11. Check Out the Chicago Cultural Center

A beautiful historic building with free art exhibits, music performances, and more.

12. Visit the Shedd Aquarium

Dive into marine life with one of the largest aquariums in the world.

13. Walk Through Grant Park

Perfect for a leisurely stroll or a picnic. It’s home to the famous Buckingham Fountain and a number of public art pieces.

14. Catch a Show or Performance

Chicago has a lively theater scene. Whether it’s an off Broadway show, improv at The Second City, or a concert, there’s always something going on.

15. Explore the Field Museum

Visit this world-class natural history museum, home to Sue, the most complete T. rex fossil ever found.