What are the best places to stay in Chicago?
Don't be surprised if the Five-Star Four Seasons Hotel Chicago has a file on you. The staff meets every morning to go over who's arriving that day and what they might need, whether it's something you requested prior to your visit or something they know by scrolling through their huge database of guests. It's this flawless service that makes a stay here feel exquisitely relaxing. It also doesn't hurt that the hotel recently underwent a thorough revamp, and is just steps from the city's best shopping.
Steps away is the Five-Star Peninsula Chicago, which mixes Old World opulence with Asian-influenced style. The hotel's graceful service befits the dignified atmosphere of this gem. But the Peninsula's crown jewels are also its most delicious. The trendy Shanghai Terrace serves Asian-inspired fare and cocktails, Pierrot Gourmet is a sunny morning spot to start the day with breakfast and brunch and a late-night room service order of a famous Chicago-style hot dog is practically mandatory during any Windy City visit.
You might be confused when you walk into Five-Star Trump International Hotel & Tower. Is it a hotel? Is it a condo building? It's both, and the understated but upscale lobby is a precursor to everything this well-done hotel has to offer: A sophisticated but relaxed lounge; a gorgeous, Five-Star fine dining restaurant, Sixteen; lavish rooms where every detail has been taken into consideration (down to Sub-zero refrigerators); and amazing views from everywhere.
Located high atop Water Tower Place along Michigan Avenue, Four-Star The Ritz-Carlton Chicago underwent a major renovation in 2010, giving rooms a sophisticated and modern makeover. The Deca restaurant on the 12th floor is a chic place for cocktails and bistro fare.
The Four-Star Waldorf Astoria Chicago is adorned with chandeliers inspired by Coco Chanel's jewelry and features only 10 rooms per floor, which include fireplaces, terraces, and white Carrera marble bathrooms. The elegant Parisian-style building has a cobblestone motor court, a Greek-columned spa, handsome bar and two fantastic restaurants.
With its cherry-wood design and gold and mocha accents, the Four-Star Park Hyatt Chicago is a prime choice for a striking stay in Chicago. Anything you could need is a question away with the hotel's butler service and oversized tubs and room views of the Windy City's famous skyline and Lake Michigan guarantee your a fair share of relaxation and beauty during your stay.
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2 days agoArt Smith answered the question:
What are the best restaurants in Chicago?
I love GT Fish & Oyster for oysters. I love to sit at the bar. If you want to sit in a room and do some interesting people watching, maybe even see a celebrity, RL Restaurant [at Ralph Lauren] is that place. I think Gibsons Bar & Steakhouse is by far one of the best steakhouses in America. And you can’t beat a Chicago hot dog. -
2 days agoArt Smith answered the question:
What are the best places for breakfast in Chicago?
My favorite meal of the day is breakfast. The best egg white omelet I’ve ever eaten in the world is at Eleven City Diner. They’re wonderful and huge and satisfying. Ina’s makes the best pancakes in Chicago. -
2 days agoArt Smith answered the question:
When is the best time to visit Chicago?
If you like to get bundled up in your Uggs and coat, I think Chicago is fun when there’s snow. I think spring, when things are blooming — particularly the tulips along Michigan Avenue — is beautiful. Fall is also really nice. -
2 days agoArt Smith answered the question:
What are the best Chicago museums?
My all-time favorite is The Oriental Institute of the University of Chicago. It’s where the Indiana Jones movies were said to be inspired. My second favorite is The Art Institute of Chicago — go there specifically for the impressionist collection. The dinosaur [Sue, the Tyrannosaurus Rex] at The Field Museum is also just amazing to see. -
2 days agoArt Smith answered the question:
What are the best things to do in Chicago?
Definitely take an architectural tour on the river. Visit some of the Chicago museums — they are some of the best in the world. Chicago celebrates sports better than anyone — there’s nothing like a Cubs baseball game or White Sox game or Chicago Bears game. Even though they may not win, you’ll have an amazing time. If you’re an athletic type or want to just take a walk, there’s nothing more beautiful than walking along the lake on Lakeshore Drive in the parks [Millennium, Grant and Lincoln]. Chicago has such diversity in its neighborhoods and they’re so close together that you don’t have to deal with traffic — I think just explore some of the neighborhoods because they are all so unique and different. Our Chinatown isn’t as big as New York’s, but it’s just the right size and has amazing food. And in New Chinatown [on the north side], you can get a fantastic bowl of pho, or you can go up to Andersonville and discover some great Middle Eastern dishes. -
2 days agoArt Smith answered the question:
What are the best markets in Chicago?
I’m a big believer in shopping in the area where I live. My favorite place here is a local market called Hyde Park Produce, and the Green City Market is great. We have a lot of organic markets that I go to also. -
On May 10Caroline Patek answered the question:
What are the best clothing boutiques in Chicago?
While large department stores are certainly my go-to when it comes to finding popular brands, I love a well-curated boutique. Thankfully, Chicago has a slew of charming stores worthy of giving your credit card a healthy workout. Southport Corridor (just north of the Lakeview neighborhood) is filled with options. A personal favorite is Perchance, a lovely shop filled with designers such as A.L.C., Equipment, Gryphon and Alice + Olivia. The staff is friendly and helpful without being pushy, and the interior design is fresh and clean with crisp white walls, trendy ghost chairs and wood accents.
Handle With Care on Wells is another great spot, and the shop is divided into two sides — one side is stocked with designer brands such as Diane von Furstenberg, Torn by Ronny Kobo and Parker, whereas the other side features more affordable options. Right next store is another boutique, Adelaide, which focuses on European brands (Malo, Bruno Manetti, Azaara). I love the shop’s exposed brick walls and dainty chandeliers.
Although space519 (inside the 900 North Michigan Shops) sells an assortment of goods, from coffee table books to small furniture to beauty products, I love its selection of clothing, too. The brands are unique and lesser known (Tribune Standard, Apiece Apart) and the jewelry is out-of-this-world (Dannijo, Eddie Borgo). The staff is also really passionate about the brands carried in the store, which makes perusing the racks and asking for suggestions all the more enjoyable.
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On May 10Caroline Patek answered the question:
What are the best clothing boutiques in Chicago?
While large department stores are certainly my go-to when it comes to finding popular brands, I love a well-curated boutique. Thankfully, Chicago has a slew of charming stores worthy of giving your credit card a healthy workout. Southport Corridor (just north of the Lakeview neighborhood) is filled with options. A personal favorite is Perchance, a lovely shop filled with designers such as A.L.C., Equipment, Gryphon and Alice + Olivia. The staff is friendly and helpful without being pushy, and the interior design is fresh and clean with crisp white walls, trendy ghost chairs and wood accents.
Handle With Care on Wells is another great spot, and the shop is divided into two sides — one side is stocked with designer brands such as Diane von Furstenberg, Torn by Ronny Kobo and Parker, whereas the other side features more affordable options. Right next store is another boutique, Adelaide, which focuses on European brands (Malo, Bruno Manetti, Azaara). I love the shop’s exposed brick walls and dainty chandeliers.
Although space519 (inside the 900 North Michigan Shops) sells an assortment of goods, from coffee table books to small furniture to beauty products, I love its selection of clothing, too. The brands are unique and lesser known (Tribune Standard, Apiece Apart) and the jewelry is out-of-this-world (Dannijo, Eddie Borgo). The staff is also really passionate about the brands carried in the store, which makes perusing the racks and asking for suggestions all the more enjoyable.
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On May 10Natalie Wearstler answered the question:
When is the best time to visit Chicago?
I grew up traveling to Chicago throughout the year to visit relatives just outside the city, and I have to say, the summer trips always stuck out as my favorite. There's a palpable energy in the air on long summer days. It's best experienced at some of the Windy City's best festivals — my personal favorite is the Taste of Chicago, a multi-day food festival that brings food trucks, pop-up restaurants and dozens of vendors offering their veresion of Chicago-style hot dogs, pizza and cheesecake, plus other specialty items. Lollapalooza and Pitchfork Music Festival also draw big crowds during the summer. I'm also a fan of taking a leisurely stroll through the Lincoln Park Zoo and an afternoon at North Avenue Beach. -
On May 7Jennifer Kester answered the question:
What are the best comedy clubs in Chicago?
You’ll find some of the country’s best comedy clubs in Chicago, which is known for being the birthplace of improv. The scene stalwart is The Second City, whose alumni reads like a who’s who of funny, including Tina Fey, Steve Carell, Bill Murray, Stephen Colbert, Jack McBrayer and John Belushi. If you catch one of the hilarious politically tinged sketch shows, pay attention to those faces — you’ll likely see some of them starring on or writing for Saturday Night Live soon; the show regularly scouts out new talent here. Book tickets early, since they sell out at least a week in advance. And don’t jet after the last act — the cast does a complimentary improv set after every show (excluding Fridays) and even brings other local comics up to the stage to join in at the Old Town venue.
For more laughs, head to iO in Wrigleyville. While the shows here don’t have the same sheen as Second City performances (the casts usually aren’t in costume, the theater space is smaller), this is the best place for improv in the city. Comedy legends Charna Halpern and Del Close perfected the art of improv, and here, Halpern teaches it to legions of students — who have included Amy Poehler, Seth Meyers, Mike Myers and Chris Farley. See it in action with The Harold, an ever-changing nightly show that’s created from an audience suggestion. To see masters at the craft, check out TJ Jagodowski and Dave Pasquesi improvise an entire 45-minute set during the pair’s weekly iO gig.
Up north in Andersonville, you’ll encounter a unique take on improv. The Neo-Futurists put on Too Much Light Makes the Baby Go Blind, an hourlong show composed of 30 improvised mini-plays (some lasting just 30 seconds). It’s a grittier space, and you have to endure lines and gimmicks like rolling a die to figure out your admission fee, but this is a local favorite for its quirky, cerebral humor.
Warning: Improv guru Mick Napier’s Annoyance Theatre is only for those who enjoy bawdy humor. But notable comedians cut their teeth with the Uptown company, including SNL’s Vanessa Bayer, Andy Richter and Jeff Garlin. -
On April 29Jaydine Sayer answered the question:
What are the best restaurants in Chicago?
Boy, are there a ton of restaurants to choose from in Chicago. Even low-key fare gets the gourmet treatment here — there are a slew of joints that have elevated street food to fine fare, from hotdogs (my favorite spot is Hot Doug’s) to doughnuts (Glazed and Infused is a must-visit).
But for a true fine-dining experience with a killer view, book a table at the Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star restaurant Sixteen. If you plan far in advance you might be able to score a table at chef Grant Achatz’s Five-Star Alinea. For upscale Chinese, head to The Peninsula Chicago’s Shanghai Terrace not only for the food, but for the incredible rooftop patio, too.
And while every Chicagoan has their own opinion on the best restaurants, I think you can’t go wrong with dinner at Girl and the Goat and The Publican in the West Loop, Trencherman in Bucktown, Frontera Grill in River North and Davanti Enoteca in Little Italy. Each of these spots has excellent food and the type of laidback vibe that feels very Chicago. -
On April 24Jaydine Sayer answered the question:
Where is the best shopping in Chicago?
If it’s luxury and big names your after, take a stroll down North Michigan Avenue to shop large boutiques (Chanel, Cole Haan, Tiffany, and the huge new Burberry) and trend-driven mega-stores (Zara, Forever 21, H&M). Just a couple blocks away in the Gold Coast neighborhood you’ll find more super luxe shops — think Prada, Barneys and Hermès.
But if you’re after a more cutting-edge shopping scene, head to Wicker Park and Bucktown. These neighborhoods have an interesting mix of brand names (Marc by Marc Jacobs) and independent boutiques (Sprout Home, Roslyn). Hip restaurants and bars line the streets as well, so if you need some liquid courage to splurge on a killer pair of boots, head to Big Star before buying.
For a leisurely shopping experience with a pleasant neighborhood vibe, head to Armitage Avenue in Lincoln Park or to the Southport Corridor to shop local and brand name boutiques. Both of these hoods are less of a scene, but great shopping and eating options still abound. -
On April 23Jaydine Sayer answered the question:
What are the best activities to do in Chicago?
You’ve likely heard about the big-time attractions in Chicago: Navy Pier, Millennium Park, the Magnificent Mile. While these spots are perennial favorites with visitors and are worth at least a quick look, you may also want to make like the locals while you’re here.
First up? Grab brunch — preferably at a spot with an outdoor patio like The Publican or Perennial Virant. Brunching is practically a rite of passage on the weekends here. During the warmer months, go for a walk, run or bike ride on the path along Lake Michigan or hit North Avenue Beach. In the cooler months, hit up a museum (the Art Institute of Chicago and the Museum of Contemporary Art are excellent choices) or an art gallery (Kavi Gupta in the West Loop is a favorite).
For an upclose view of the city you won’t find atop the Willis Tower or from the Ferris wheel on Navy Pier, head to one of River North’s luxury hotels for a cocktail — Trump International Hotel & Tower, The Ritz-Carlton Chicago and Park Hyatt Chicago all have outdoor decks high above the city streets. -
On April 22Lauren Viera answered the question:
What are the best spas in Chicago?
Most of the best spas in town are attached to luxury hotels. The Peninsula Spa Chicago, The Spa at Four Seasons Hotel Chicago, The Spa at Trump Chicago, and the Elysian Spa & Health Club at the Waldorf Astoria Chicago are all Forbes Star-rated winners, and deservedly so, offering unique body treatments, a wide array of services for men, and top-notch standard services like manicures and pedicures.
With a nod toward Asian treatments, the Peninsula Spa offers a traditional Thai Poultice treatment focused on muscle relaxation as well as Ayurvedic rituals and experiences meant to balance spirit, mind and body. The spas at Trump Chicago and Four Seasons Hotel Chicago are both more traditional, offering seasonal facials, body treatments and hand and foot maintenance and massages. The Elysian & Health Club also offers traditional services, as well as some pre-natal services and a wide variety of men’s grooming options, all in a luxurious setting.
Beyond the Forbes Star–rated spas, Bliss is a steadfast go-to for excellent day-spa treatments in a relaxed environment with a take-home line of products to match. Finally, if you’ve got wheels, the tantalizing Kohler Waters Spa at Burr Ridge is worth the trek for booking a full day’s relaxation. The little sister of the Forbes Five-Star rated Kohler Waters Spa in Kohler, Wis., the Burr Ridge location features several of the same treatments in an easy-to-get-to suburban Chicago location.
