We’re thrilled to welcome you to Chicago for our wedding weekend! With so much to see and do, we’ve put together some recommendations to help you make the most of your time in the city.

For Everyone

Chicago Riverwalk

Stroll along the scenic Riverwalk, just steps from River North. Enjoy waterfront dining, local art, and unbeatable skyline views.

Architecture Boat Tour

A must-do in Chicago! Explore the city’s stunning architecture while cruising along the Chicago River. Tours depart daily and are a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

Millennium Park

Visit the iconic Cloud Gate (aka “The Bean”), take a selfie, and explore the beautiful park gardens and public art installations.

The Lakefront Trail

Walk or bike the 18-mile trail along our beautiful lakefront

Shopping

Shop along Michigan Ave (The Mag Mile) from the river North to Oak Street. The area around Oak and Rush Street has recently added a lot more popular stores.

Attend a Cubs game at historic Wrigley Field

While the season will be over by October, we hope the Cubs make it to the playoffs so some of you can attend a game.

For Art & Culture Lovers

Art Institute of Chicago

Ranked among the world’s top museums, this gem features masterpieces by Monet, Van Gogh, and more.

The Museum of Contemporary Art (MCA)

Located just north of River North, the MCA showcases cutting-edge exhibits and innovative works.

Museum Campus : Located along the lakefront, Chicago’s Museum Campus is home to three incredible institutions:

1. The Field Museum

Dive into natural history with exhibits like SUE the T. rex, Egyptian mummies, and world cultures.

2. Shedd Aquarium

One of the largest indoor aquariums in the world, featuring beluga whales, dolphins, and vibrant marine exhibits.

3. Adler Planetarium

Explore the wonders of the universe through interactive exhibits, telescopes, and stunning views of the Chicago skyline.

Plan a visit to enjoy all three, or simply take in the lakefront beauty with a walk around this picturesque area.

For Foodies

Chicago Deep Dish Pizza

Try the city’s famous deep-dish pizza at Lou Malnati’s, Giordano’s, or Pequod’s.

River North Dining

This neighborhood is a culinary hotspot! Make reservations well in advance to check out these hotspots: RPM Italian, RPM Seafood, Bavette’s Bar & Boeuf (steakhouse) or Gibson's Italien. For more casual try Tanta, Peruvian (rooftop), Rosebud (italien), Sienna Tavern

or Ema (Mediterranean). Maggie and Ed frequent these restaurants in the popular "Triangle" area near their home: The Bellevue, Carmine's, Gibson's Steakhouse, Tavern on Rush, and LuxBar for lunch or brunch. All have outdoor seating.

Breakfast

Egg Harbor, Goddess & the Grocer, Yolk, The Original Pancake House, Sunnyside Up, Tempo, Beatrix, Lubar, Meli Cafe

Cocktail Bars

Sip craft cocktails at Three Dots and a Dash (a hidden tiki bar), Untitled (for live music), or City Winery on the Riverwalk. Our favorite rooftop views are from London House, The Park Hyatt, The Peninsula Hotel, and The Trump Hotel (p.s. don't wait in line to be seated; just walk past the line to see the view and get a drink at the bar). For a downtown rooftop with incredible views of the lake and Millenium Park, go to Cindy’s Rooftop.

Explore the West Loop!

Just west of downtown, the West Loop is a dynamic neighborhood known for its incredible food scene, trendy rooftops, and fun activities. Here are some top picks:

Dining Hotspots

Randolph Street’s Restaurant Row

This iconic stretch offers endless dining options, including:

Girl & the Goat: Stephanie Izard’s famous small plates with global flavors.

Monteverde: Award-winning Italian cuisine with fresh pasta.

Au Cheval: Home to what many call the best burger in the country.

Bar Siena: Elevated Italian street food in a stylish setting with large outdoor patio.

Cruz Blanca Brewery & Taquería: Chef Rick Bayless’s brewery serving craft beer and delicious tacos. Patio seating.

Rooftops & Bars

Aba: A Mediterranean-inspired rooftop with great cocktails and stunning views.

Good Night John Boy: A fun 70's themed bar with dancing

Nobu Rooftop: A chic rooftop bar atop the Nobu Hotel

Time Out Market: A food hall (about 15 great restaurants) with a rooftop terrace, offering a mix of Chicago’s best eats and drinks.

Fun Activities

Punch Bowl Social

A massive indoor entertainment space with bowling, karaoke, vintage arcade games, and great food.

Puttshack

A high-tech mini-golf experience with lively vibes and delicious cocktails.

Shopping & Art

West Loop Street Art

Discover Instagram-worthy murals and creative street art throughout the neighborhood.

Local Boutiques

Explore unique shops and pop-ups featuring everything from clothing to home goods.

Bike Rentals in Chicago

Specialized Chicago – West Loop /Fulton Market

Location: 925 W Lake St, Chicago, IL 60607 (West Loop)

Bobby’s Bike Hike

Location: 540 N Lake Shore Dr (Entrance on Ohio Street),

Bike and Roll Chicago

Locations: Millennium Park and Navy Pier

3rd Coast Cycles

Location: 152 N Lake Shore Dr, Chicago, IL 60601

Millennium Park Bicycle Station (HUB312)

Location: 239 E Randolph St, Chicago, IL 60601