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Places I Pretend I Discovered First
26
items Your insider guide to MY top spots. These are the places I recommend to friends—and take my in-laws to when I’m trying to look like I have my life together.
Map
Sections
5
Places to eat
Musuems
Entertainment
Pubs
Hotels
Places to eat
Such a nice vibe. Food was great!
Zachary's Grill
They offer a mix of fresh seafood and delicious Asian cuisine—and the best part? You get a free mini seafood boil on your birthday! 🎉
Hook & Reel Cajun Seafood & Bar
The food is delicious, but the desserts? Absolutely amazing!
Bonefish Grill
This place is always spotless, and the sandwiches are seriously delicious. Do yourself a favor and try the potato salad—it's a must! 🥪🥔
McAlister's Deli
The broth was rich and flavorful, the noodles were perfectly cooked, and the toppings were fresh and generous. You can really tell they put care into every bowl. The atmosphere was cozy and inviting, and the staff was super friendly and helpful with ...
Ichiban - 10135 S Harlem Ave, Chicago Ridge, Illinois
This seafood place is perfect when you want quick, fresh, and delicious bites on the go. Their seafood is super fresh and packed with flavor. The portions are generous, and the staff is friendly and efficient. Great spot for a casual meal when you’re...
Seafood Junction
Musuems
You don’t even have to like art to have fun here. The exhibits are awesome!
WNDR Museum
Such a blast! Perfect for both kids and adults. Honestly, I think I had more fun in the ball pit than my son did, haha!
Color Factory Chicago
There’s a lot to explore at this museum, and we had such a fun day taking it all in as a family. I went with my husband and kids, and there was plenty to see and do—tons of great photo ops, and even a dedicated kids’ area where we ended up spending m...
Griffin Museum of Science and Industry
The Chicago Children’s Museum is an absolute gem for families! It’s packed with hands-on exhibits that keep kids engaged and learning through play. There’s something fun for every age—from creative art stations to interactive science displays and ima...
Chicago Children's Museum
The space is bright, clean, and thoughtfully designed to spark curiosity. It’s the perfect place for kids to explore, discover, and have a blast while parents relax knowing everyone’s entertained. We always leave with big smiles!
Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum
It’s like a tiny science lab, grocery store, and jungle gym had a baby—and that baby is loud. My kids had the time of their lives, and I aged approximately three years in two hours.
Children's Museum in Oak Lawn
Entertainment
I had an absolute blast watching this performance—it was my first time, and wow! Just a heads-up: avoid the splash zone unless you're ready for a surprise. I won’t spoil it, but trust me… you’ll thank me later 😄
Blue Man Group
We had such a great time at the baseball game—it was the perfect family outing! There was a fun theme night with music and giveaways, and the energy in the stadium was amazing. The kids had a blast playing in the designated play area, which was a hug...
Windy City Thunderbolts
The Second City delivers clever, fast-paced improv and sketch comedy—perfect for fans of smart humor and spontaneous moments. I had a blast!
The Second City
Zanies is all about classic stand-up with a cozy, old-school vibe.
Zanies Comedy Night Club
Pubs
Fantastic spot! Went here one weekend for drinks with a friend and had an awesome time. The food was excellent, and they even had a comedy show featuring local comedians. Great laughs, great drinks—definitely worth checking out!
Timothy O'Toole's Pub Chicago
This bar is one of my favorite spots—not just for the drinks, but honestly, sometimes I come here just for the food and karaoke nights.
Durbins of Midlothian
The Berkshire Room offers expertly crafted cocktails in a sleek, stylish setting. The creative drink menu and friendly, knowledgeable staff make every visit enjoyable. It’s a great spot for a relaxed yet upscale night out in Chicago.
The Berkshire Room
Three Dots and a Dash is an amazing tiki bar with a fun, upscale vibe. The cocktails are creative, delicious, and beautifully presented—perfect for a night out with friends. The atmosphere is lively and immersive, making you feel like you’ve stepped ...
Three Dots and a Dash
Hotels
Great hotel! The rooms were spotless and well-maintained, and the staff was friendly and helpful throughout our stay. It’s in a fantastic location—just a short walk to a variety of delicious restaurants and cafes. Parking was close, easy, and stress-...
Viceroy Chicago | Luxury Gold Coast Hotel
Staying at The Langham was an unforgettable experience. The rooms are spacious, elegantly designed, and offer breathtaking views of the Chicago River. The staff went above and beyond to make us feel welcome and comfortable. The spa and dining options...
Luxury 5-Star Hotel in Chicago | The Langham, Chicago
Our stay at The Gwen was wonderful! The hotel blends timeless elegance with modern amenities perfectly. Our room was roomy, stylish, and offered fantastic city views. The staff was friendly and attentive, making us feel right at home. We loved windin...
The Gwen
The Peninsula Chicago is the epitome of luxury and elegance. From the moment you step inside, you’re greeted with impeccable service and stunning design. The rooms are spacious and beautifully appointed, with plush bedding and breathtaking city views...
5 Star Hotel Downtown Chicago - Luxury Hotel
Big hotel. Bigger lobby. Feels like you’ve entered an airport that serves steaks and river views. The rooms are comfy, the minibar is priced for billionaires, and the walls are thin enough to know your neighbor’s sleep schedule. But hey — the locatio...
Chicago Riverwalk Hotel | Sheraton Grand Chicago Riverwalk
Room was so clean I felt bad being in it. Shower pressure strong enough to wash away my regrets. Staff were so friendly I thought they wanted to adopt me. 5 stars for making me feel like royalty... or at least like I pay rent on time.
Canopy by Hilton Chicago Central Loop