I was actually born outside the city of Chicago and lived in a local suburb until I was 7. Then my family made the big move to California. California was and is again my mother’s home state and with all of her family out there it just seemed logical. However, at age 7 it seemed like the worst thing ever. I only went back a few times over the next few years and from the age of 14-24 I hadn’t visited at all. However, with my big move to Missouri...it meant that it would be a whole heck of a lot easier to visit the city. So, this Memorial Day weekend the BF and I made the 5 hour journey north! I had an enormous to do list…which mainly consisted of food because DUH. We stayed at an Airbnb on Ohio next to the pier and I would definitely recommend looking into that. Besides the frat-tastic guys at the pool and a few minor annoyances with the studio apartment it was a good deal and definitely an amazing way to see the city. In the photographs you will see some of my favorite foods and explorations. Open the photos in the slideshow for more details on each! Below are some of my favorite places from the journey, some did and some didn’t get photographed. They are listed in chronological order of our trip!

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Food:

• Longman & Eagle: Logan Square [fav food- Challah French Toast]

• Little Goat: West Loop [fav food- Chopped Chicken Salad]

• Acanto: Central Loop [fav food- Gran Tartufo Toscano Cheese]

• The Allis: West Loop [fav food- Pan au Chocolat]

• Jeni’s: Wicker Park [fav food- Roasted Strawberry Buttercream scoop]

• Eataly: River North [fav food- Hot Chocolate]

• Lou Malnati’s: Everywhere [fav food- Deep Dish Cheese]

• Stan’s Donuts: River North [fav food- Sprinkles]

• Pinstripes: River North [fav food- Ahi Tuna Flatbread] also bowling and bocce ball

 

Exploring:

• Fleur: flower and gift shop. Super modern and beautiful. Definitely a great stop.

• Riverwalk: some amazing food spots, gorgeous views, and great exercise.

• Randolphs Street Market: if you have a car and carry stuff back, definitely go and check out the amazing stuff these vendors have.

• Garfield Park Conservatory: free, beautiful, and amazing place for people of all ages.

• Walk Columbus: Walk through all the parks and see the amazing lake as well.

• Navy Pier: So touristy, but also super fun to walk around at night. And they have great churro sundaes!