Hello to you all. Happy Tuesday. 

In late February, I travelled to Chicago, Illinois to explore this amazing city. Chicago is wholly unique and no matter where you go, each part has its own draw. It felt like I was in New York, but quieter, cleaner, and less expensive. 

During the 19th century, Chicago was a major hub for the shipping industry; present day Chicago is better known for its vibrant music scene—the city played a seminal role in the emergence of jazz and blues, and its symphony orchestra is a standout—but its history as a major port city is still reflected in Chicago’s vibrant waterfront district. Design and architecture buffs should plan a Chicago trip for some of the country’s most cutting-edge buildings and monuments, like Cloud Gate, the giant reflective bean sculpture found in Millennium Park.

From the O’Hare International Airport, I took the train to downtown. 

 BEST TIME TO VISIT

It’s best to visit Chicago in the spring or in fall, when temperatures are warm and the city offers plenty of festivals and activities. Peak travel season occurs during the summer months, when the weather is at its warmest—though the high season means larger crowds and higher prices at hotels.

 THINGS TO DO

With its architectural marvels, historical monuments, award-winning museums, expansive park system, and lakefront beaches mean you won’t have trouble looking for things to do in Chicago. There’s a reason the city draws millions of visitors each year.

For a relaxing, loosely structured day, visit Millennium Park to take in views of the Chicago waterfront and admire Cloud Gate, Chicago’s famous reflective bean sculpture. The Art Institute, Field Museum, and Adler Planetarium are experiences not to miss.

THE ART INSTITUTE OF CHICAGO

The city’s premier art museum, the permanent collection is home to over 300,000 pieces scattered throughout eight buildings. 

SKYDECK CHICAGO

For the best views in town you’re going to have to go up. Way up, 103 stories high that is, to the top of Chicago’s Willis (Sears) Tower. At 1,353 feet in the air, brave albeit daring visitors can get to experience “The Ledge,” a glass box that extends out just over 4 feet for hair raising views of the city below.

RESTAURANTS

Chicago restaurants reflect the city’s diversity and richness: on the casual side, there’s deep-dish pizza, beef sandwiches and hot dogs, but there’s also a wealth of restaurants helmed by celebrity chefs, and entire neighborhoods dedicated to certain culinary delights. Surprisingly, the prices at every restaurants I tried were very reasonable. 

HOTELS

Some of the best hotels in Chicago are located on or near the waterfront, making for spectacular views and easy access to many of the city’s tourist attractions. Most downtown hotels are conveniently located near public transportation, as well as tourist attractions like Millennium Park and Chicago’s Museum of Contemporary Art.

I stayed at The Westin Chicago River North. I was in Chicago on the weekend, and I honestly think this hotel is one of the most ideal Chicago weekend hotel for city explorers. Magnificent views of the majestic Chicago River, skyline and more that will leave you inspired to explore the Windy City.

It’s was a memoriable weekend getaway. And there you have it, my Chicago experience! Hope this helps inspire you guys to visit Chicago

All Images taken by me. Please do not use my photos without giving credits.