Chicago, Illinois
The Windy City. Chi-Town. Whatever you call it, Chicago is a rad place that I keep wanting to buy a plane ticket to. There's so much to see (and eat), one trip just doesn't do it justice. The past two times I have visited have been for work with the Taco Bell Foundation, but I had some time to explore the city with new and old friends. Here are some of my Chicago recommendations:
1. Millennium Park
Millennium Park is where you can find the Cloud Gate Sculpture. There's typically a crowd of people, but don't let that stop you from taking photos under, around or in-front of the sculpture.
The Cloud Gate Sculpture
2. Chicago Athletic Association
On the Association's second floor, you can find the Game Room. The Game Room includes: billiards tables, a full-sized bocce court, cards, checkers and chess tables, foosball, shuffleboard, and more. You can also grab drinks, some finger-foods and fancy pictures like this.
3. Taco Bell Cantina in Wicker Park
There are only a few Taco Bell Cantinas in the U.S. and this is one of them. Unlike most Taco Bells you're used to, there is no drive thru, localized artwork, an open kitchen, digital menu boards, a unique menu, and they serve alcohol. So basically, it's one of the coolest Taco Bells you could eat at.
I was out with a co-worker one night when we noticed a crowd in their 20s filing into this bar. So, we had to go check it out. If you see the pink "yes" sign below, you're in the right place. It's a hip, late night bar where you can have a drink with a friend (or 5) and listen to some good music.
If you love Chinese cuisine, then you're gonna have an amazing meal at Imperial Lamian. I'm not even gonna talk about this place because you're just gonna have to watch the video below.
So this might sound odd, but I'm gonna recommend two items that aren't pizza from Parlor Pizza Bar. Parlor Pizza Bread is like heaven. They top their house beer bread with garlic, mozzarella, shallot, parmesan, pepperoni, scallion cream, cherry peppers, and sesame seeds. I also recommend the Wood Roasted Half Chicken. Great... now I'm hungry.
This is not your ordinary diner. Little Goat Diner has a diner, bakery, coffee and bar menu. When you open up the menu, your eyes are immediately drawn to the Cereal Killers section because breakfast is all day. Yeah, amazing right?
8. The Skydeck
Looking for a great view? Head to Willis Tower to visit the tallest building in the Western Hemisphere. According to Skydeck.com, you are 1,353 feet in the air and the ledge's glass boxes extend out 4.3 feet from the Skydeck. You may even see some familiar friends from Ferris Buller's Day Off.
From the top of Willis Tower
Clearly, I'm Ferris.
Please, don't look at the arm brace smh.
I was going for that "I'm falling" look.
Okay, let's talk hotels. Thompson Chicago is a beautiful boutique hotel that's not very friendly on your wallet, but near a variety of shops and restaurants. If you're looking to ball out, visit Nico Osteria, an Italian seafood restaurant.
Yes, this beautiful blue couch was in my room!
10. Freehand Chicago
This hotel is super rad! Not only does it look cool on the inside, but you can opt for private or shared rooms. The hotel offers communal spaces and if you're feeling like mingling, check out the bar, Broken Shaker.
Want a peek into my last trip to Chicago? Check out the video below.
