Updates and Tidbits About Chicago

Famous Architecture in Chicago

Chicago is famous for its architecture. From soaring skyscrapers, historical wonders, and beautiful buildings, to anything and everything in between, Chicago is an architecture lover’s dream destination. Fortunately, there are a great many ways to explore Chicago’s famous architecture, as a variety of tours here highlight this extraordinary aspect of the city. There are boat tours devoted solely to Chicago architecture, as well as walking tours or bus tours that cover the same ground. Regardless of how you choose to go about experiencing them, here’s a list of ten famous examples of Chicago architecture.

Willis Tower

Formerly known as the Sears Tower—and still called that by the majority of Chicagoans—the Willis Tower is one of the most famous skyscrapers found anywhere in the world. Willis Tower was the tallest building on the planet for nearly a quarter-century, and at approximately 1,450 feet, it remains one of the Western Hemisphere’s tallest buildings today. Skydeck Chicago, Willis Tower’s 103^rd-floor observation deck, provides breathtaking views of the city in all directions, and is well worth a visit.

875 North Michigan

Another quintessential Chicago building that has undergone a recent name change (many locals still refer to it as the John Hancock Center), 875 North Michigan is one of the city’s most striking structures. Famous for its crisscrossing, “X-braced” exterior, the building rises some 1,500 feet from the ground to its distinctive twin antennas. 875 North Michigan is located in a prominent spot on the Magnificent Mile, just across the street from the high-end shops of Water Tower Place and one block north of the Museum of Contemporary Art. Its 94^th-floor observation deck, 360 Chicago, is a favorite of visitors from all over the world.

Aqua

All things considered, Aqua is one of Chicago’s newer high rises (having been completed in 2009), but it has wasted no time becoming one of the city’s most well-regarded structures. Designed by the acclaimed architect Jeanne Gang, Aqua takes its name from the irregular, wave-like balconies that adorn the building, giving it an almost, well, you guessed it, “water-like” quality. Sound crazy? It’s not, I promise. Seeing it from street level, with the sun hitting it at just the right angle, is a must for any architecture aficionado.

Marina City

The two identical towers that comprise the Marina City complex are so evocative that they’ve been featured in TV show credits and used as album cover artwork. You might already be familiar with them as “The Corn Cobs” because, frankly, looming over the Chicago River, they resemble nothing else so much as they do corn cobs. A fantastic way to see Marina City from an incredible vantagepoint is by taking a river cruise. Shoreline Sightseeing and the Chicago Architecture Center run two of the best boat tours in the city that focus on Chicago’s architectural brilliance.

The Wrigley Building

You need travel only two blocks east of Marina City to glamorous Michigan Avenue in order to visit our next two Chicago buildings of note. First up is the Wrigley Building, one of Chicago’s most beloved historical buildings. Dating to 1921, this gem was designed by Graham, Anderson, Probst & White, an architectural firm with ties to the legendary Daniel Burnham. It’s said to have been modeled on the elegant Giralda, the bell tower of the beautiful Seville Cathedral in Spain.

Tribune Tower

Just across the street from the Wrigley Building you’ll find its spiritual partner, Tribune Tower. Difficult as it is to believe today, the commanding Gothic Revival structure’s unmistakable design was actually the result of a 1922 contest sponsored by the Chicago Tribune newspaper, who decided the best way to come up with architectural plans for their new home was to throw it open to the public. The winners of the competition were the tandem of John Mead Howells and Raymond Hood. As you walk past Tribune Tower at ground level, look for the fragments of other famous buildings that have been embedded in the structure. It’s an odd but fascinating detail worth checking out.

Carbide & Carbon Building

The Carbide & Carbon Building, located at 230 N. Michigan Avenue, is one of my personal favorite downtown Chicago skyscrapers. Designed by the Burnham Brothers architectural firm (Daniel Burnham’s sons) and completed in 1929, the Carbide & Carbon Building stands today as an Art Deco masterpiece. This beautiful building’s exterior magnificently combines black granite with green-and-gold terra cotta, and the entire structure is topped off with a 24-karat gold cap. When you’re done gawking at its gorgeousness, walk one block south and treat yourself to a stop at the American Writers Museum. The building was recently the St Jane Hotel which closed due to the pandemic. A Pendry Hotel will soon take its place.

Chicago Water Tower

I fear we’re guilty these days of overusing the word “iconic”—I know I certainly have my moments—but there’s no need to apologize here: Chicago’s Water Tower is truly iconic. Built in 1869, the Water Tower may not have been the only building to survive the Great Fire of 1871 (as legend sometimes has it), but it’s certainly the most famous structure from that time period still standing today. A symbol of the city’s strength and resilience in the face of tremendous adversity, the Water Tower means so much to the people of Chicago that it’s even been incorporated into the design of Chicago Fire Football Club’s jerseys.

Field Museum

For all the fantastic exhibits on display at Chicago’s Field Museum, takes some time to appreciate the powerful architecture of the building itself. The grand building itself is nearly as famous as the vast collections within. The Field Museum’s permanent collections date back to the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition, and its Classical Revival, temple-like structure is no slouch either.

Marshall Field and Company Building

No list of famous Chicago buildings is complete without a mention of the Marshall Field and Company Building. Though the store itself has changed hands in recent years, and Marshall Field’s influential department store is no more, this massive structure remains a testament to the vision of early 20^th Century architects such as Daniel Burnham—who designed the building, including its signature Great Hall—and an artist like Louis Comfort Tiffany, whose mosaics adorn the ceilings here.

Best Things to do in Millennium Park

Chicago overflows with wonderful attractions, neighborhoods, and parks that make the city such a special place to live or visit. Yet for all the different things there are to see and do here in Chicago, there’s no denying that Millennium Park is one of the city’s crown jewels. Situated squarely at the core of the city, snugly between Lake Michigan and downtown Chicago’s famous Loop area, Millennium Park has been delighting locals and newcomers alike ever since it opened in 2004.

There’s so much to explore here, in fact, that you might find the following guide helpful. Keep reading for a quick rundown of the seven absolute most essential things to do in Chicago’s Millennium Park.

The Bean

If you’ve heard just one thing about Millennium Park, it’s probably the giant piece of sculpture known fondly as The Bean. This stainless-steel work was designed by artist Anish Kapoor and is actually officially entitled Cloud Gate. Regardless of what you call it, though, it’s something to behold: The Bean checks in at 33 feet high, 42 feet wide, and 66 feet long, all while weighing a whopping 110 tons.

When you see The Bean in person, however, you won’t be worrying about remembering its stats. You’ll be busy snapping selfie after selfie and basking in the sight of the Chicago skyline and your own smiling face reflecting off this beloved attraction!

Crown Fountain

Just a few hundred feet south of The Bean you’ll find the one-of-a-kind Crown Fountain. Designed by Jaume Plensa and constructed by the Chicago-based architectural firm of Krueck and Sexton, Crown Fountain consists of a 232-foot-long by 48-foot-wide black granite reflecting pool set between two 50-foot-tall LED video screens. These state-of-the-art video screens routinely display images of local Chicagoans, and periodically expel a spray of water perfect for splashing around in on a hot summer day.

The waterworks portion of Crown Fountain is active between the months of May and October, but no matter the time of year this is a terrific meeting place for visitors of all ages.

Jay Pritzker Pavilion

Another essential Millennium Park stop is Jay Pritzker Pavilion. Located at the north end of the park, Jay Pritzker Pavilion was designed by legendary architect Frank Gehry and is, in many ways, the centerpiece of the entire attraction. Throughout the year it hosts a number of special events, film screenings, and music concerts, including the ever-popular Grant Park Music Festival, a ten-week summer series of classical music concerts free to everyone that has, in one form or another, been in existence since 1935.

But nothing of any real note need be happening to make Jay Pritzker Pavilion an attractive spot to spend the afternoon. Its lawn is a wonderful place to have a picnic, lounge while watching the people come and go, or just sip a coffee while catching up with a friend.

Lurie Garden

Nestled in the midst of one of the world’s most memorable skylines, Lurie Garden is a botanical treasure just waiting for you to discover it. Whether you’re in the mood for a leisurely solo stroll, desire to take a guided group tour, or simply want to procure a private park bench for a few moments of quiet contemplation and peaceful meditation during an otherwise busy afternoon, you’ll love Lurie Garden’s many charms.

A 15-foot-tall hedge—called the “shoulder hedge” as an homage to the poet Carl Sandburg’s iconic description of Chicago as “The City of Broad Shoulders”—surrounds Lurie Garden on two sides and lends it a private, secluded air. Other highlights here include the Boardwalk, which runs over a gentle pool of water, and the garden’s two primary “plates,” physically distinct areas but conceptually linked natural spaces.

McCormick Tribune Plaza

McCormick Tribune Plaza is such an important segment of Millennium Park that it essentially pulls double duty. During the winter months—think between November and March, depending on the weather—this is the site of an outdoor ice-skating rink that’s pretty hard to beat when it comes to ambiance. Throughout the rest of the year, this prime piece of real estate is transformed into the home to one of Chicago’s largest outdoor dining establishments, a truly remarkable setting from which to enjoy a meal, grab a drink, or just chill out for an unforgettable afternoon of fun. Add it all together, and it doesn’t really matter when you find yourself at McCormick Tribune Plaza, because year-round it’s a great spot to be!

Keep Exploring!

The following two attractions aren’t technically in Millennium Park, but they’re located so close nearby that you’ll want to keep the good times rolling by checking them out just as soon as you’ve finished enjoying all Millennium Park has to offer.

The Art Institute of Chicago

This world-class institution is located just south of Millennium Park. It’s well worth a visit no matter where you’re coming from, but let’s get real, you can’t find yourself in Chicago, one block away at Millennium Park, and not make time to stop at the Art Institute of Chicago.

Chicago Cultural Center

The Chicago Cultural Center is an architectural masterpiece of a building is home to numerous art exhibits, film screenings, lectures, live performances, and more. It’s also where you’ll see the largest Tiffany stained glass dome found anywhere in the world, and best of all, most of the Chicago Cultural Center’s programming is free of charge! It’s situated on the west side of Michigan Avenue, just one block from Millennium Park.

Spring Sports in Chicago

No matter where you live, the return of spring occupies a special place on the calendar each year. The sun is shining again, the days are getting longer, and the temperature is steadily rising. We’re all trading our puffy coats and scarves for short sleeves and sandals, and excitedly going about preparing to emerge once more into nice weather, blue skies, and outdoor fun. And for many of us, that means one thing: spring sports are back!

All of the above is true and then some in the great city of Chicago. Some cities are what they like to call “sports towns”—communities where the local teams just mean more, and cheering them on to victory is a rite of passage and a way of life. Without a doubt, Chicago is one of these towns. Combine this with the fact that springtime in Chicago can be a beautiful time of year, and you’ve got a winning combination. If you’re going to be visiting the Windy City this spring, here’s a quick primer on spring sports in Chicago.

Chicago Cubs

Competing in the National League of Major League Baseball since 1876, the Chicago Cubs are one of baseball’s iconic brands, and a visit to their home stadium since 1916, the inimitable Wrigley Field, is akin to a holy pilgrimage for hardcore fans of the sport. Baseball’s marathon-like, 162-game schedule means there are plenty of chances to check out the Cubs throughout the year, but there’s no time quite like the spring to catch a game, when the outfield walls fabled ivy is just starting to come in and the fanbase is still excited by the promise of a new season.

But, if you’re in town on an off-day, don’t worry, just consider going on a tour of historic Wrigley Field. You’ll have incredible access to behind-the-scenes aspects of the stadium, and you can cap off your visit by exploring the electric Wrigleyville neighborhood, which has boomed in recent years with new restaurants and stores going up seemingly weekly. Plus, it’ll be less hectic to be out and about on a non-game day!

Chicago White Sox

Often unfairly overshadowed by their neighbors to the north, the Chicago White Sox have their own long, rich history to trumpet, too: first established as a club in 1900, they were one of the American League’s original franchises, and have three championship titles to their name, with the most recent coming in 2005. A fixture on Chicago’s South Side, the White Sox play their home games at Guaranteed Rate Field, which first opened its doors in 1991. It has undergone extensive renovations over the past 30 years, and stands today as a pleasant place to catch a game.

If you’re able to catch a game at Guaranteed Rate Field this season, be sure to keep an eye out for some of its unique features. Probably the stadium’s trademark feature would have to be the gigantic pinwheels that tower over the center-field scoreboard and light up spectacularly every time a Sox hitter smacks a home run. There are also a number of statues and plaques located throughout the concourses that honor White Sox legends from throughout their long history.

Chicago Fire

Soccer is truly the world’s sport, and as a world-class city, Chicago is not hurting for options on that sporting front either. Chicago Fire Football Club is the city’s beloved soccer team, having won some six major trophies in just 25 years of existence. Notable players who have suited up for the “Men in Red” include World Cup winner Bastian Schweinsteiger, Mexican international Cuauhtémoc Blanco, and well-known soccer radio host Eric Wynalda.

The Fire play their home games at another one of Chicago’s iconic stadiums (Noticing a trend here? We told you it’s a sports town!), the historic Soldier Field. This legendary venue has stood, in one form or another, alongside Chicago’s gorgeous waterfront for a century now (it’s also home to the NFL’s Chicago Bears). Soldier Field is part of Chicago’s famous Museum Campus, which includes such popular attractions as the Field Museum, Shedd Aquarium, and Adler Planetarium, and is also located not too far from Grant Park and Buckingham Fountain. All this is to say, there’s a lot to do in the area beyond just attending a soccer match!

Chicago Red Stars

Women’s professional soccer in the United States has an extensive and proud tradition of excellence and achievement, and the Chicago Red Stars have been there for all of it, every step of the way. The Red Stars were first established as a founding member of the Women’s Professional Soccer league, and transitioned into the brand-new National Women’s Soccer League in 2013, where they are a perennial playoff team regularly vying for the championship title.

The Chicago Red Stars play their home matches at the charming SeatGeek Stadium, located in Bridgeview, Illinois, just southwest of downtown Chicago. Some notable players that have suited up for the Red Stars include current Chelsea Football Club star Samantha Kerr, England international midfielder Karen Carney, and United States national team standout Julie Ertz.

Winter Sports?

Okay, okay, so it’s the case that this particular article is about looking ahead to spring sports in Chicago. However, I’d be remiss if I didn’t at least mention that two of Chicago’s winter sports fixtures, the NBA’s Chicago Bulls and the NHL’s Chicago Blackhawks, are still technically playing games each and every year until at least mid-April (if not longer, in years when either or both qualify for the playoffs). Which is another great sports option to keep in mind as you plan your spring visit to Chicago!

When in doubt . . .

. . . take advantage of your springtime visit to Chicago to get outside and stretch your legs firsthand. Whether you want to rent a bike from a vendor near Millennium Park, take a boat cruise along the Chicago River and Lake Michigan, explore one of the city’s fabulous public parks, or simply go for a stroll along Chicago’s unparalleled Lakefront Trail, it’s hard to beat the lovely spring activities available in Chicago.

Chicago Neighborhood Bars You Must Visit

When it’s time to sit back and relax, enjoy a cocktail or a brew, Chicago neighborhood bars deliver. From downtown Chicago bars with appetizers and scrumptious eats to Chicago sports bars with homemade brews, you have plenty of choices. Find fun things to do in Chicago when seeking out entertainment options with cold beverages, starting with this list of Chicago neighborhood bars.

Nisei Lounge

Known as Wrigley’s oldest tavern in Chicago, the Nisei Lounge offers sports fans a chance to celebrate a win or indulge in fun things to do in Chicago. This Chicago sports bar not only serves cold brews, but also offers patrons a chance to enjoy a competitive game of darts and board games. Known as a no-frills Chicago neighborhood bar, Nisei Lounge is located at 3439 North Sheffield Avenue in the Boystown neighborhood.

Archie’s Iowa & Rockwell Tavern

Known as a longtime Chicago neighborhood bar, Archie’s, located at 2600 West Iowa Street in the Ukrainian Village neighborhood, is an industry favorite. You have plenty of choices with a deep cooler of bottled beer available at this Chicago dive bar, and the selection includes more imports than you’d expect. Watch a Chicago Bulls game or root on the Bears when celebrating a Sunday Fun Day in Chicago at Archie’s.

Stella’s Tap

Offering a strong vibe for patrons to enjoy, Stella’s Tap has built a reputation as a Chicago neighborhood bar offering specialty cocktails, bottled beer and a welcome environment. Launched by Stella, known as a strong woman with Chicago-Polish heritage, this Chicago dive bar offers a charming aesthetic and cold brews for a girls’ night out or an informal gathering of friends. Stella’s Tap is located at 935 North Western Avenue in the Ukrainian Village neighborhood.

Skylark

Located at 2149 South Halsted Street in the Pilsen neighborhood, this Chicago neighborhood bar is a staple in the community. Frequently visited by both artists in the community and entrepreneurs seeking a classic Chicago happy hour, Skylark serves up typical bar food, cold brews and specialty cocktails for all occasions. While sipping on your favorite beverage at this Chicago neighborhood bar, admire the memorabilia on the walls, as this was the spot where scenes from “The Break Up” was filmed.

Shinnick’s Pub

While Shinnick’s is a Chicago hotspot on St. Patrick’s Day, you can celebrate your Irish heritage all year long at this popular Chicago pub. This family-owned Chicago neighborhood bar is a classic Chicago dive bar when you want to celebrate a White Sox win with a shot or cheers to a hopeful baseball season with cold draft beer. Located at 3758 South Union in the Wentworth Gardens neighborhood, Shinnick’s Pub is a Chicago neighborhood bar you’ll want to visit during the offseason, too.

Whether you’re looking for a Chicago sports bar or a Chicago dive bar, the Windy City doesn’t disappoint. Plan your next happy hour or Sunday Fun Day in Chicago at any of these popular Chicago bars. Check back often for even more Chicago neighborhood bars you’ll want to visit.

Romantic Date Ideas in Chicago During the Winter

Romance never sleeps in the Windy City, which is why when you’re looking to uncover the best romantic date ideas in Chicago during the winter, you have plenty of options. You don’t have to limit yourself to indoor establishments when Chicago serves as a winter wonderland for couples. Beat those winter blues and discover the adorable Chicago attractions that are perfect for date nights with that special someone.

Enjoy a Date Night at Chicago Museums

Who said learning isn’t romantic? At Chicago museums, you can plan on some learning and a great way to get to know each other better when choosing these indoor Chicago attractions as your date night destination. See scientist at work or dinosaurs on display when touring the Field Museum, located on South Lake Shore Drive. When the Adler Planetarium renovations are done, stop in at the Adler After Dark event that leaves the both of you staring at the stars and each other.

Opt for a Vintage Date Night in Chicago at Park & Field

Those cold Chicago winters beg the need for indoor activities, so why not cozy up by the fire at Park & Field, a vintage sports club and eatery located in Logan Square. Bring out your competitive sides when playing the variety of board games available or savor a glass of apple cider with Jack Daniels together. Park & Field also offers a full menu when hunger strikes that includes burgers, chicken sandwiches, salmon poke and starters such as bruschetta, skirt steak chili and more. This Chicago winter attraction offers you fun, food and drinks to share with your sweetheart.

Find a Hill and Share a Sled

Don’t let that snow go to waste when determining date night ideas in Chicago. Bundle up in your winter gear and take off for a sledding adventure in the Windy City. From small hilly spots in Millennium Park to Cricket Hill, located just west of Montrose Harbor, you can soar through the snow together while cuddling up to stay warm on your next Chicago date night.

Laugh Away the Night at a Comedy Show

Love together and laugh together on your next date night in Chicago. The Windy City is home to several comedy clubs that host renowned local and national comedians. Order a drink, sit side by side and get ready to laugh until you cry with this creative date night idea. Chicago is home to several popular comedy clubs, such as The Second City, located on North Wells, or the Briar Street Theater, located in Lake View Eat and home to the Blue Man Group.

Chicago date ideas are plentiful, fun and romantic. Treat that special someone to a surprise with a trip to the Windy City’s most romantic Chicago attractions. Steal a kiss, show your affection and let the magic of the city take over when opting for Chicago hotspots for couples. Check back often for even more date ideas in Chicago.