48 Hours in Chicago
- Emily
- Oct 13, 2020
- 2 min read
Updated: Oct 3, 2022
CHICAGO! Just saying that gets me excited.
Chicago is one of my top 3 favorite cities in the U.S. Whenever I'm abroad and locals tell me they have never been to the US, but want to visit, I tell them Chicago is the place to go. 48 hours is enough time to take it all in, but I must admit, I find myself road tripping to this great midwest city once a year!
Chicago has a buzz. Great food, beautiful sights, and activities for all ages, regardless of the weather. Remember this is the Midwest, so think NYC, but with manners and a beach ;)
Let's get to it then... here's my roundup of the sites, stays, and eats in this magnificent city!
SITES //
Millennium Park is a fun, open area just south of the the Magnificent Mile. Day or night, the park has activities for all ages.
While the bean (aka Cloud Gate) attracts a lot of tourists, I must admit that it IS worth seeing, even if you have limited time to spend in the city.
One of my favorite art museums in the US (aside from the Met and the Cleveland Museum of Art), Chicago's Art Institute is the home of so many beautiful works.
My favorite art, Impressionism, is vastly on display, with an abundance of Monet, Pissarro, and Renoir. A slow stroll through the museum on a cold day is my favorite!
An American rival to the Champs-Elysées, Michigan Avenue provides all the retail therapy you could ever want or need.
Don't forget to grab some Garrett Popcorn while you peruse the city streets!
Definite must-do in the summer. Wendella's boat tour takes you along the river and onto the lake, providing detail on Chicago's history and upcoming developments. The sights are stunning!
STAYS //
Hotel EMC2 (photo by Marriott)
Marriott has been killing it with their Autograph Collection hotels. (Bonvoy members rejoice!) EMC2 is an affordable boutique, just a block shy of the Magnificent Mile. I would describe the design as sleek art deco-ish with a mid-century flare.
We stayed here on our last trip - I love how convenient its location is to everything.
A classic Chicago hotel, rooted in history. With views of Lake Michigan, the hotel is said to have housed a slough of presidents and celebrities since it was built in 1920.
Interested in splurging? Check out the Peninsula. It has out-of-this-world spa services and a rooftop bar with killer views.
EATS //
Go for a omelette, skillet or try the infamous apple pancake. SO good - you literally can't go wrong with anything on their menu! Arrive when the doors open, as there is often a line out the door, especially on the weekends.
The tastiest tacos, guac trios, and vegetarian enchiladas - Mercadito is a great atmosphere for 2 or a large party. Don't forget to check out the extensive cocktail menu!
Good 'za really needs no explanation. You MUST try some Chicago deep dish pizza while in town. I recommend Lou Malnati's , but you can't go wrong with Giordano's or Pizzaria Uno.
What are your favorite things to do in Chicago? I'd love to hear from you!
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