3 Amazing Off-The-Beaten Path Things To Do In Chicago
If you're a seasoned and savvy traveler, and you've been to all of the major tourist spots in Chicago many times before—Navy Pier, 'The Bean', The Magnificent Mile—add something extraordinary and curious to your itinerary this time around.
Chicago is full of excellent places to eat. getty
Now operating out of bigger and better digs, Duck Sel, Michelin-starred chef Donald Young's brainchild, is back in business. Since the initial launch in 2021, this culinary juggernaut has evolved into an experience like no other—especially since it was named a semifinalist for a James Beard Best Chef: Great Lakes award. But, I can't tell you where. It's a secret. Seriously.
Once you book your preferred time slot and date, you'll be notified that the address will be given just before your reservation. You'll be given a code and a secret password to enter and once inside you'll be taken on a wild and whimsical ride through 15 courses.
Young will walk you through each plated dish, relaying stories from not only his childhood, but also, his classical French training in France and his avant-garde techniques he learned on his own. There will be surprises—you won't find spoilers here. This will be the dinner you tell all your friends about later.
The Chicago Fire at a recent match at Soldier Field. Wendy Altschuler
Soon, there will be a new massive privately-funded soccer-specific stadium for The Chicago Fire, built in the city's newest neighborhood: The 78. But, until that grand day comes, The Men in Red will play at Soldier Field for loyal fans at home matches.
Whether you purchase a single-match ticket, or you're looking for something a bit more special with Premium Seating—Fieldside Seats and Lounges or Executive and Skyline Suites, you'll enjoy a thrilling time from the first whistle to the last.
Where to stay: Located within walking distance, Hyatt Regency McCormick Place Chicago has everything you might need. For dining and drinks, pop in Arc Bar, Sixes and Eights, or Third Star, or grab snacks from Market. The fitness studio and swimming pool also make this hotel an excellent choice for families. Hyatt, the official sponsor of Chicago Fire FC, is the perfect choice. For Fitness Buffs Who Love Fresh Air
The waterfront bike trail along the Lake Michigan shore, with the downtown skyline, is an incredible sight to see. getty
Chicago has plenty to do in the summertime and it's no surprise that the outdoors are where locals and visitors like to hang out. The Windy City's 18-mile Lakefront Trail, operated by the Chicago Park District, is the ideal place to go for running, walking, biking, and indulging in the best of what this season has to offer. Stretching from Ardmore Avenue on the north side to 71st Street on the south side, this trail provides not only access to the lake, parks, and beaches, but also, an opportunity to get your work out in while exploring the city. And if you get hungry, there are plenty of places to stop and eat along the way.
Pro tips: One of the city's best gems, the Lakefront Trail is a dream for cyclist. Whether you hop on the trail at Monroe Street, near Millennium Park and Buckingham Fountain; Museum Campus; or Montrose, you'll have a wonderful day riding along Lake Michigan.
For supreme comfort while riding, choose cycling jerseys, bibs, and shorts from Mission Workshop—you'll love the soft feel, extra pockets, and protective chamois. Finally, if you plan on riding the whole trail—or further—you may want to invest in an on-bike storage system that can hold all of your supplies. The longer you can be outside, enjoying Chicago's paved waterfront trail, the better.
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