Below, we have provided you some of the things we enjoy doing in the city if you are interested in staying around a little longer than the wedding itself!
Chicago
Iconic Chicago Sightseeing
- Skydeck at Willis Tower – Step onto the glass ledge for breathtaking views.
- 360 CHICAGO (John Hancock Center) – Enjoy panoramic views and try the TILT experience.
- Chicago Riverwalk – Walk along the river, grab coffee, and take in the city’s beauty.
- Millennium Park & The Bean – A must-visit for first-timers in Chicago.
- Architecture Boat Tour (If Weather Permits) – Enjoy a guided cruise of Chicago’s skyline.
Cultural & Museum Options
- Art Institute of Chicago – World-class art, including Monet and Van Gogh.
- Museum of Science and Industry – Interactive and fun for all ages.
- Field Museum – Home to Sue the T. Rex and fascinating exhibits.
Food & Drink Experiences
- Chicago-Style Pizza – Try Lou Malnati’s, Giordano’s, or Pequod’s (Definitely Pequads!).
- Brunch Spots – Beatnik on the River, The Bongo Room, or Wildberry Café.
- Coffee & Pastries – Visit Doughnut Vault, VooDoo Donuts, Stan’s Donuts, or Intelligentsia.
- Chicago Brewery Tour – Check out Revolution Brewing or Half Acre.
- Chocolate & Wine Tastings – Enjoy artisanal chocolate at Vosges Haut-Chocolat.
Late Night Options
- Rooftop Lounges – Enjoy drinks with a skyline view at LondonHouse or The J. Parker.
- Live Jazz & Blues – Green Mill Cocktail Lounge or Buddy Guy’s Legends for a classic Chicago vibe.
- Speakeasies & Cocktail Bars – Try The Violet Hour, The Drifter, or The Aviary.
Brunch & Cafés
- Girl & The Goat – Brunch Edition – A favorite for locals and visitors.
- The Publican – Amazing meats, eggs, and beer-friendly dishes.
- The Hampton Social – Coastal vibes with great cocktails.
Relaxing & Romantic Options
- AIRE Ancient Baths – A luxurious and romantic spa experience.
- Ice Skating at Millennium Park – A fun outdoor activity.
- Chicago Botanic Garden – A peaceful winter nature walk.
More Local to the Venue (NW Suburbs)
Local Attractions & Sightseeing
- Arlington Heights Historical Museum – A small but interesting local museum with historic buildings.
- Mitsuwa Marketplace (Arlington Heights) – A large Japanese market with authentic food, a bakery, and unique shops.
- Busse Woods Forest Preserve – If the weather is nice, this is a great spot for a nature walk.
- Lynfred Winery (Roselle) – A cozy winery offering tastings of locally produced wines.
Dining & Drinks
- Johnnie’s Beef – Matt’s favorite Chicago Beef (Even though it is in the suburbs, it’s authentic and true to Chicago tradition!)
- Gene and Jude’s Hot Dogs – FANTASTIC Chicago Dogs
- Hala Kahiki Tiki Bar – The reason you need Gene and Judes, right down River Rd
- Cooper’s Hawk Winery & Restaurant – A great spot for wine tasting and dinner.
- Mago Grill & Cantina – Delicious Mexican and Latin cuisine.
- Jameson’s Original Charhouse – A well-known steakhouse in Mount Prospect.
- Beer on the Wall – A craft beer shop and tasting spot in Arlington Heights.
Fun & Entertainment
- Metropolis Performing Arts Centre – Check for any Valentine’s weekend performances.
- Enterrum (Schaumburg) – A fun, upscale arcade and bowling lounge.
- iFLY Indoor Skydiving (Rosemont) – For adventurous guests wanting a unique experience.
Late-Night Fun
If guests want something to do after the wedding:
- Hey Nonny – A live music venue with a cozy, intimate atmosphere.
- Cortland’s Garage – A great late-night bar with craft beers and cocktails.
- Arlington Ale House – Club-like bar with lots of drinks and things to do.
- Kuma’s Corner (Schaumburg) – A popular burger joint with a punk rock vibe.
Brunch & Coffee
- Egg Harbor Café – A fantastic breakfast and brunch option.
- Golden Brunch – Great breakfast joint, gets crowded.
- Mr Allison’s – AMAZING greasy spoon diner with great cheap portions – get something with ham!
Relaxing(ish) Options
- Salt Spa Arlington Heights – A relaxing spa experience, perfect for couples.
- Chicago Botanic Garden (Glencoe) – A scenic nature escape, great even in winter.
- Woodfield Mall (Schaumburg) – If you want some last-minute shopping. Can get chaotic.