Free travel guides to the state of Illinois – by Illinois locals!
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I’m a Chicago local and in this guide, I overview the history and incredible exhibits at the Lincoln Park Zoo. Visiting this attraction is one of the best things to do in Chicago, and admission is even free! The zoo is home to vibrant gardens and nearly 200 species of animals. In this post, I…
Often referred to as the “food and drink capital of the world”, there are some seriously great restaurants in Chicago. As a Chicago local, I can attest that dining out and trying new cuisines is one of the best parts of being in the city. I absolutely love trying new places, and I have to…
I’ve lived in Chicago for over 5 years, and in this guide, I overview the best Chicago landmarks worth visiting. These include famous skyscrapers, city parks, historic sites, and much more. I also share tips and resources to help you build the perfect Chicago itinerary. 17 Famous Chicago Landmarks Willis Tower (formerly Sears Tower) The…
Let’s be real, the food in Chicago is next level. It’s a world-class city with so much to see and do, and yet you really could come here just for the food. I’ve lived in Chicago for 5 years and have experienced a ton of Chicago restaurants – I can honestly say it’s a paradise…
Today, I’m going to cover some fun Chicago facts to help you get to know my favorite city in America. You’ll learn that there’s a lot more to the so-called Windy City than meets the eye. Chicago is a vibrant and diverse cultural hub. Chicago draws millions of visitors each year for its world-renowned attractions,…
Whether you’re looking to move or visit on vacation, getting a feel for the best neighborhoods in Chicago is a great idea before you go. After all, Chicago has 77 community areas that vary widely. Not every area of Chicago is great for tourists, but even the safest Chicago neighborhoods offer something a little different….
Wanting to visit Chicago on a budget? Chicago is an amazing city, but it’s notoriously expensive. But never fear! I’ve lived in Windy City for five years, and I’m here to tell you all about the best things to do in Chicago on a budget. There are so many things to do and see in…
I’m a Windy City local and in this guide, I share the best things to do in Lakeview, one of my favorite Chicago neighborhoods. Lakeview is a walkable area is full of fun Chicago attractions for all types of visitors, including sports fans, film buffs, musicians, and more. I cover popular sites like Wrigley Field…
I’m a Chicago local and in this guide, I share insights into one of the city’s top attractions: Chicago’s Navy Pier. Learn the history of how the Pier transformed from a military site to a bustling center for culture and entertainment. Today, the mile-long pedestrian boardwalk hosts a variety of activities. These include shopping and…
From visiting Chicago for the first time to becoming a local myself, there are tons of Chicago travel tips I wish I’d known sooner. For example, don’t make the mistake of trying to visit all the attractions in one day, and note that some major museums are closed on Mondays. With these and more local…
It’s no secret that Chicago is home to world-class attractions for arts and culture, and on the top of that list is the Art Institute of Chicago! This impressive Chicago museum located in Grant Park is one of the largest and oldest art museums in the world, and is also one of the best things…
A trip to Chicago just isn’t complete without a visit to Grant Park. Also known as “Chicago’s front yard,” this 312.98-acre park is overflowing with some of the Chicago’s top attractions and events. Planning on visiting the Bean? The Art Institute? Museum campus? Then you’re in luck. These attractions and more are all located within…
If you revel in that first sip of coffee in the morning, then you’ll be delighted to hear about all the best coffee shops in Chicago. Getting your caffeine fix is a must for fueling each adventure-filled day, and Chicago has everything from classic hipster-esque coffee bars to eclectic neighborhood spots and coffee shops with…
Located in the northwestern corner of Chicago, there are a ton of great things to do in Wicker Park. Also known as Bucktown, this area is artsy and eclectic with tons of great restaurants, coffee shops, music venues, and secondhand shops. As a Chicago local, I can tell you firsthand that there are tons of…
There are five main ways to get around Chicago: public transportation, driving, rideshares (Ubers, Lyfts, and taxis), walking, and biking. Public transportation is by far the most popular method for getting around Chicago, but the type of transportation you choose will depend on the activities you’re doing, your budget, where you’re staying, and your general…
Planning a comprehensive Chicago itinerary is crucial to getting the most out of your trip to the Windy City. With Chicago being the third-largest city in the U.S., there’s a lot of ground to cover. From world-class museums to famous attractions, shopping, dining, and exceptional entertainment, there is no shortage of stuff to do in…
If you’re planning a trip to the Windy City, then you may be asking yourself, “Is Chicago safe for travel?” There are many reasons to visit the cultural hub of the Midwest region, but with Covid-19 and Chicago’s crime statistics, there are some things to know about safety in Chicago before you go. Never fear,…
Curious about the best festivals in Chicago? There is an endless list of festivals for anyone who’s planning a visit to the Windy City. As a local of Chicago for the past five years, I can tell you that attending Chicago festivals should be at the top of every list of stuff to do in…
![Driving in Chicago for Visitors | Rules, Tips, & Info [2023]](https://travellemming.com/wp-content/uploads/Driving-in-Chicago-for-Visitors-e1651763071802-768x336.jpg)
Worried about driving in Chicago during your upcoming trip? It’s a common anxiety – Chicago is a big bustling city with tons of traffic and driving nuances, after all! Driving here can be a challenge, but there are many options. Many visitors elect to exclusively use public transportation and taxis, but there are advantages to…
![20 Best Museums in Chicago [A Local’s Favorites in 2023]](https://travellemming.com/wp-content/uploads/Best-Museums-in-Chicago-e1651590858920-768x432.jpg)
Looking to visit the very best museums in Chicago? Chicago, IL has many amazing museums with a ton to offer visitors of all ages and interests. Having lived in Chicago for five years, I’ve visited a ton of Chicago museums and know that they are some of the top attractions in the Windy City. The…
When you think of Chicago beaches, stretches of glistening sand might not be the first thing that spring to mind. But rest assured that the beaches along the splashing shores of Lake Michigan make for a great summer vacation destination! Of course, Chicago beaches are seasonal and you won’t get the same experience during the…
Looking for an epic Chicago packing list? Then you’re in luck! It’s no fun getting to your destination and realizing you’ve forgotten an item or regretted not packing something else. Or, even worse, packing way too much stuff for the wrong season. Chicago’s unique city-on-the-lake setting gives you certain factors to consider that you don’t…
The perfect time to visit Chicago is between either April and June or September and early November. You might prefer to visit the Windy City during other times of the year, but these are the times that appeal to most based on optimal weather, crowds, and things to do. In my five years living here,…
When it comes to things to do in Chicago, this Midwestern destination is practically overflowing. The city offers an incredible food scene, vibrant arts and culture, access to beautiful Lake Michigan, and is one of the best sports towns in America (and this is just for starters). At the end of the day, there’s something…
Wondering where to stay in Chicago? Then you’ve come to the right place! There are plenty of great options for areas and places to stay in Chicago as it’s such a vast and action-packed city. But where you choose to book your accommodations should depend on what you plan to do and see – with…
Looking for the best day trips from Chicago? Then you’ve come to the right place! When it comes to cities, Chicago has it all: incredible architecture, access to Lake Michigan, and all the arts, culture, and attractions you could wish for. But every now and then, it feels good to escape the hustle and bustle…