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Things to See and Do in Chicago

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I grew up about an hour south of Chicago and try to go back a couple of times a year. When I do, these are the spots that I like to make sure I hit when I am there.
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Food

These are the places I like to eat when I am in the city.

 
Wyatt McKinstry profile picture
I know that there is a HUGE debate over who has the best Deep Dish Pizza in Chicago, and I haven't been to some of them, BUT Lou's is my favorite
Lou Malnati's Pizzeria
 
Wyatt McKinstry profile picture
Uno's is the home of the original Chicago Deep Dish. While I do Like Lou's better, Uno's is a close second and the ambiance of the Ohio St location definitely adds to the experience!
Pizzeria Uno
 
Wyatt McKinstry profile picture
One of many great options for Italian Beef downtown. Don't leave without a piece of their amazing chocolate cake!
Portillo's & Barnelli's Chicago
 
Wyatt McKinstry profile picture
One of the best places for Italian Beef in the downtown area! Much like the pizza, the best Italian Beef places are much debated.
Al's #1 Italian Beef
 
Wyatt McKinstry profile picture
The first place I ever had Indian food! It is just steps off Michigan Ave on Ontario. They have the Best Saag Paneer and Baingan Bharta I have ever had!
Indian Garden Restaurant
 
Wyatt McKinstry profile picture
Ok, so now I live in California and getting my Chicago faves isn’t just a drive or Metra ride away. Thankfully there is Tastes of Chicago! Order Lou’s, Eli’s Cheesecake, Garrett Popcorn, Portillo’s and other Chicago cravings shipped right to your d...
Tastes of Chicago

Art & Entertainment

Cool places to hangout

 
Wyatt McKinstry profile picture
I have seen some great shows here, including Buddy Guy, Eric Clapton, Bo Diddly and Junior Wells! Buddy’s is also known for promoting up and coming blues artists such as Mike Wheeler and countless others. The entertainment is amazing and the food ...
Buddy Guy's Legends
 
Wyatt McKinstry profile picture
The Museum of Broadcast History is a great stop while in Chicago. Along with all of the great exhibits honoring radio and television pioneers both nationally and locally (Bozo's Circus, Ray Rayner, Svengoolie) they also have a very large archive of r...
Museum of Broadcast Communications
 
Wyatt McKinstry profile picture
See where so many of the SNL greats honed their skills and get glimpse of the next comedy superstars.
The Second City
 
Wyatt McKinstry profile picture
The best way to celebrate the holiday season in Chicago. Is it crowded? Yes it is. It is my favorite part about Chicago in the winter time!
Christkindlmarket Chicago

Shopping

 
Wyatt McKinstry profile picture
A great independent book store with both new and used books. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable, so I always leave with at least one book! Oh, and the vibe is excellent!!
after-words bookstore