I’ve lived in Chicago for over a decade now and have seen so many changes take place over the past ten years. The city is constantly evolving, with new shops, restaurants, museums, and attractions that pop in and out of the city on an ongoing basis. As a local, I will say that the best experiences are better off the beaten path, but I do appreciate a consistent unhidden gem or two—and many other localsfeel the same.
In this post, I’ll provide an insider’s guide to Chicago, highlighting some of the best things that locals love most about the city. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned Chicagoan, this guide will help you explore the city like a true insider.
Eat and Drink as a Chicago local
- Grab tasty cocktails and delicious bites at these cool after-work spots in the West Loop or Downtown.
- Sample Chicago favorites like Pączki or Conchas from a famous bakery.
- Lounge at aspeakeasy or secret bar.
- Dining on rich Italian dishes from popular restaurant gems likeSapori Trattoria.
- Indulge in the quintessential summer dessert, like a frozen treat from an Italian ice spot.
- Sample a hardy selection of dim sum and other treats in Chinatown.
- Order a thin-crust tavern-style pizza from Italian Fiesta or other neighborhood hot spots.
- People watching or keeping it lowkey late-night at thePeninsula Hotel.
- Sample the best tacos in the city in the Pilsen or Little Village.
- Slurpe on the best ramen bowlsin Chicago in hidden spots and easy-to-find places.
- Quench your thirst with beer from a local brewery.
- Grab a drink from a quaint and cozy neighborhood bar.
- Pour endless breakfast beverages at popularbottomless and boozy brunch spots.
- Dine on dishes fromblack-owned bars and restaurants around Chicago.
- Grab a large group of friends and hit up a hiproof top bar.
- Munch down a Chicago dog or Italian Beef—they’re not just for tourists.
- Celebrate any occasion at a colorful Chicago restaurant.
Activities and Unique Things to Do
- Grab the best seat in the house at an iconic movie theater during a chill date night.
- Wake up early and take a long bike ride down Chicago’s lakefront.
- Shop for trendy threads at alocal boutique.
- Cheer for any Chicago sports team in the stands all year long.
- Take Insta media-worthy photos at an experiential museum
- Spend the afternoon exploring a new Chicago neighborhood.
- Visit a neighborhood coffee shop and sample the best items on the menu.
- Laugh out loud to witty jokes at a local improv or comedy show.
- Find a new novel at a local bookstore.
- Learn something new at an immersive museum.
- Experience the ultimate date night experience at a Candlelight Concert.
- Grab a few treats and catch a free movie at one of Chicago’s many parks.
- Cruise with ease down Lake Shore Drive on a warm summer night.
- Find unique goods from locals at a community market.
- Grab a group and set sail on a boat on Lake Michigan.
- Play mini golf at the localmini golf course.
- Experience something new at a street festival.
- Interpret art while visiting local art galleries.
- Discover new and emerging talent atneighborhood theaters.
- Elevate an outdoor run on the 606 Trail.
- Sit in serenity at a hidden park or garden.
Experiencing Chicago As a Local
Experiencing a city like a local requires time and effort. To truly be a part of a community, you have to engage with others in real life, be willing to step out of your comfort zone and be open to something new and different. Once you do this, you open yourself up to hidden gems and encounter people, places, and things you would’ve never dreamed of.
By taking the time to explore some of the local favorites highlighted in this guide, you’ll be able to experience the city like a true insider, discovering some of the best spots that Chicago has to offer. So whether you’re a longtime resident or a first-time visitor, make sure to add some of these local favorites to your Chicago itinerary – you won’t be disappointed!
Response to “Insider’s Guide to Chicago: Things Locals Love to Do”
[…] tour. This gives you an opportunity to hit up the most popular tourist sites, as well as some local favorites. The best part of walking tours is that they are almost always free and give you a local’s […]
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