Local Guide

Your Chicago Insider Guide

Curated restaurant recommendations and a seasonal events calendar to help you make the most of your stay — whether it’s your first visit or your fiftieth.

Where to Eat

A Curated Dining Guide

From Michelin-starred tasting menus to the best burger in America, Chicago’s culinary scene is world-class — and it starts minutes from your door.

Girl & The Goat

Girl & The Goat

$$
American · Small Plates
Stephanie Izard's award-winning West Loop flagship. Bold flavors, family-style plates, and a legendary roasted pig face. Reservations essential — book weeks ahead.

Au Cheval

Au Cheval

$$
American · Diner
The double cheeseburger here is widely considered the best in Chicago — maybe the country. Expect a wait, but it's worth every minute.

Monteverde

Monteverde

$$$
Italian · Pasta
Chef Sarah Grueneberg's James Beard-winning Italian. Hand-rolled pastas and creative regional dishes. One of the hardest reservations in the city.

Green Street Smoked Meats

Green Street Smoked Meats

$$
BBQ · Southern
Texas-style smoked brisket, house-made sausages, and craft beer in a relaxed, industrial-chic setting. Order at the counter, grab a booth.

Intelligentsia Coffee

Intelligentsia Coffee

$
Coffee · Light Bites
Chicago's iconic third-wave coffee roaster. The Randolph Street location is a beautiful, airy space — perfect for a morning espresso or remote work.

Kasama

Kasama

$$
Filipino · Bakery
Michelin-starred Filipino bakery and restaurant by day, tasting menu by night. The longanisa breakfast sandwich and truffle croissant are legendary.

The Walnut Room

The Walnut Room

$$
American · Classic
A Chicago institution since 1907 inside Macy's on State Street. Famous for the chicken pot pie — especially magical during the holiday season.

Alinea

Alinea

$$$$
Molecular · Tasting Menu
Grant Achatz's three-Michelin-star temple to molecular gastronomy. One of the most celebrated dining experiences in the world. Book months in advance.

Plan Your Trip

Seasonal Events

Chicago shines in every season. Here’s what’s happening when you visit — from summer music in the park to winter markets in the Loop.

Late March – Early April

Chicago Restaurant Week

Multi-course prix-fixe menus at hundreds of restaurants. The perfect excuse to cross off your dining bucket list at a fraction of the price.

Late March / Early April

Chicago Cubs Opening Day

Baseball returns to Wrigleyville. Catch a game at one of America's most beloved ballparks — just 20 minutes from the property.

April – May

Garfield Park Conservatory Spring Flower Show

Free admission to one of the largest conservatories in the nation. Spectacular seasonal blooms in a stunning architectural

April – May

Garfield Park Conservatory Spring Flower Show

Free admission to one of the largest conservatories in the nation. Spectacular seasonal blooms in a stunning architectural

June – August

Millennium Park Summer Music Series

Free outdoor concerts at the Jay Pritzker Pavilion every Monday and Thursday evening. Bring a blanket, grab takeout, and enjoy world-class music under the stars.

Late June

Chicago Pride Parade

One of the largest Pride celebrations in the country. A vibrant, joyous parade through one of the nation's first officially recognized gay villages.

September

Taste of Chicago

The world's largest food festival. Sample bites from dozens of Chicago's best restaurants in one place, with free live music.

Weekly, May – September

Navy Pier Fireworks

Free fireworks every Saturday night (and Wednesdays in summer) over Lake Michigan. Best viewed from the pier or a lakefront cruise.

Early August

Lollapalooza

Four days of world-class music in the heart of downtown. Sellouts are common — book your stay and tickets early.

September – January

Chicago Architecture Biennial

North America's largest architecture exhibition. Explore free installations across the city that celebrate Chicago's design legacy.

Mid-October

Chicago Marathon

One of six World Marathon Majors. Cheer on runners from 50+ countries as they wind through 29 neighborhoods. Book early — hotels fill fast.

October

Chicago International Film Festival

The longest-running competitive film festival in North America. Premieres, international cinema, and filmmaker Q&As.

Late November – January

Lincoln Park ZooLights

Millions of lights transform the free zoo into a winter wonderland. A magical evening for all ages — and admission is free.

Late November – December

Christkindlmarket

An authentic German-style holiday market. Glühwein, bratwurst, handcrafted ornaments, and a festive atmosphere right in the Loop.

Late November

Magnificent Mile Lights Festival

One million lights illuminate North Michigan Avenue in a spectacular tree-lighting parade. Kicks off the holiday season downtown.

November – January

The Walnut Room Holiday

Dine under a 45-foot Great Tree in a Chicago tradition dating to 1907. The chicken pot pie is the move. Reservations strongly recommended.

October – April

Blackhawks Season

NHL hockey right next door. The energy at the United Center on game night is electric — and you can walk home in two minutes.

December – January

Winter WonderFest

Indoor family festival with rides, ice skating, and holiday decor. A great way to enjoy Navy Pier when the lakefront is cold.

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