I have decided to launch another series for all of you...the Chicago neighborhood series! Every so often once I feel like I've deeply explored a neighborhood of the lovely city of Chicago, I'm going to share some of my recommendations for hang out spots in that neighborhood. So, lets start with the Loop because well, it's the most "famous" part of Chicago to those traveling to the Windy City.
The Loop
The "downtown" area of Chicago. This is where your skyscrapers are, Union Station, major shopping, and 2 of the biggest parks are located. There is SO much to do and see in this area. You've got the John Hancock building, the lake, Grant Park, The Mag Mile, the Art Institute, the Sears Tower. There are a lot of "gems" in the Loop, but my 5 favorites would have to be...
1. Museum Campus
I'm a huge nerd and love museums. Chicago has 3 of their best museums conveniently positioned all in one place on the lake. Not only are the museums fun to explore, but the campus area is beautiful. You have a great view of the lake and the skyline, street vendors, coffee shops, just the works. The Field Museum, Shedd Aquarium, and Adler Planetarium are all located on Museum Campus on Lake Shore Drive.
2. Miller's Pub
This restaurant has been one of my favorites for years. I love going with friends, my family, or for a fun day date with Caleb. Their burgers are to die for. It's one of those fun pub style restaurants with all the pictures of famous people framed up on the wall who have eaten there or knew the owner somehow. It's located at 134 S. Wabash Ave. I love going to Miller's and then walking down to Michigan Ave because it is only a block away!
3. Millennium Park
I listed this one on my top 10 places to visit in Chicago post, and I'm going to list it again. I just love Millennium Park. The open grassy area is so fun to lay a blanket down and enjoy a summer day. They have concerts, the Bean, the garden, and it's right on Michigan Ave.
4. Prime Bar
A friend of mine picked this restaurant out for a double date, and I LOVED it. It has a nice laid back atmosphere, and it's located right on the Chicago River. The food is delish, and they have a great wine menu. Any place that lists my favorite white and favorite red will automatically shoot to the top of my favorite restaurant list. Prime Bar is located at 155 N. Wacker Dr.
5. Starbucks
I know that sounds weird, but I'm not talking about Starbucks in general. I'm talking about the Starbucks located at 200 S. Michigan Ave across the street from the Art Institute. This is the greatest Starbucks I've ever been to. Not only do they have spectacular coffee and pastries, but they serve wine, beer, and meals, too. I'm sure there are other Starbucks that do this, but this is the only one I've actually been to, and it is down right awesome. The fact that I can go and get a flat bread and some wine at Starbucks after a day at the museum or an afternoon at Millennium Park is just fantastic to me.
The Loop
The "downtown" area of Chicago. This is where your skyscrapers are, Union Station, major shopping, and 2 of the biggest parks are located. There is SO much to do and see in this area. You've got the John Hancock building, the lake, Grant Park, The Mag Mile, the Art Institute, the Sears Tower. There are a lot of "gems" in the Loop, but my 5 favorites would have to be...
1. Museum Campus
I'm a huge nerd and love museums. Chicago has 3 of their best museums conveniently positioned all in one place on the lake. Not only are the museums fun to explore, but the campus area is beautiful. You have a great view of the lake and the skyline, street vendors, coffee shops, just the works. The Field Museum, Shedd Aquarium, and Adler Planetarium are all located on Museum Campus on Lake Shore Drive.
2. Miller's Pub
This restaurant has been one of my favorites for years. I love going with friends, my family, or for a fun day date with Caleb. Their burgers are to die for. It's one of those fun pub style restaurants with all the pictures of famous people framed up on the wall who have eaten there or knew the owner somehow. It's located at 134 S. Wabash Ave. I love going to Miller's and then walking down to Michigan Ave because it is only a block away!
3. Millennium Park
I listed this one on my top 10 places to visit in Chicago post, and I'm going to list it again. I just love Millennium Park. The open grassy area is so fun to lay a blanket down and enjoy a summer day. They have concerts, the Bean, the garden, and it's right on Michigan Ave.
4. Prime Bar
A friend of mine picked this restaurant out for a double date, and I LOVED it. It has a nice laid back atmosphere, and it's located right on the Chicago River. The food is delish, and they have a great wine menu. Any place that lists my favorite white and favorite red will automatically shoot to the top of my favorite restaurant list. Prime Bar is located at 155 N. Wacker Dr.
5. Starbucks
I know that sounds weird, but I'm not talking about Starbucks in general. I'm talking about the Starbucks located at 200 S. Michigan Ave across the street from the Art Institute. This is the greatest Starbucks I've ever been to. Not only do they have spectacular coffee and pastries, but they serve wine, beer, and meals, too. I'm sure there are other Starbucks that do this, but this is the only one I've actually been to, and it is down right awesome. The fact that I can go and get a flat bread and some wine at Starbucks after a day at the museum or an afternoon at Millennium Park is just fantastic to me.