5 Things You Must Do When You Visit Chicago

1. Go to a museum (or all of them!)

 

Chicago is known for having some of the best museums in the country. The Field Museum, The Museum of Science and Industry, The Museum of Contemporary Art—all of these places guarantee a good day filled with lots of “oohs” and “ahhs”. The only thing is that sometimes it can be a bit pricey. If I had to suggest where you spend a Saturday afternoon in the city, I would be remiss if I didn’t say The Art Institute of Chicago. You can get lost in the amazing exhibits. From the Classical period to the Modern Art wing, there is so much to explore and take in. Bonus: every single Thursday night from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM—admission is free! If tourist attractions aren’t really your thing, a quick Google search will direct you to countless art galleries that also have free admission.

 

2. Go to a Cubs game.

 

Due to their not-so-great record, bleacher seats for a Chicago Cubs game won’t break your budget. Not only will you get to spend the day in one of the most legendary and historic structures in Chicago, but you’ll be surrounded by an incredible sense of camaraderie. No one knows how to cheer for a team quite like Cubs fans. After the game, make sure to walk down Clark Street and enjoy all of the Wrigleyville bars. But gain, if you’re not into the whole tourist thing, you can always hop on the Red line and take it to the South Side where you can enjoy the much less intense, but still great Chicago White Sox.

 

3. Laugh your butt off.

 

Chicago is known for having some of the best improve comedy shows in the country. Tina Fey, Amy Poehler, and Steve Carrell are just a few names that got their start at Second City in Chicago. Who knows! When you head to a show, you could be seeing an up and comer! Second City is not the only great comedy club in Chicago. There are many more all around the city that will guarantee to make you giggle.

 

4. Go shopping!

 

I know the obvious location for the best shopping would be Michigan Avenue, but let me tell you, there are so many other amazing neighborhoods to shop in. Lincoln Square, Wicker Park, and Old Town are just a few of the places where I blow the most money. While some of the boutiques are a bit on the pricey side, there is no harm in doing a little window-shopping. And while you’re out shopping, stop inside of a coffee shop and grab a great cup of Chicago coffee.

 

5. Eat some pizza!

Of course I had to save the best for last. Chicago has the best pizza in the whole world (in my humble opinion…sorry Italy). You cannot pay a visit to the Windy City and not indulged in a little deep dish. My heart holds a special place for Lou Malnati’s pizza because it is literally the most amazing pizza I have ever had in my entire life, but Gino’s East and Girodano’s have great deep-dish pizza as well. With flaky butter crust and thick cheese, you’ll die and go to Pizza heaven. This is a must-do!