Things to do in Chicago

Summer2011Bride

Hello! I grew up in northern IL and have been to Chicago countless times during my life. But my FI and I are going there next month for a long weekend to celebrate our 6-year anniversary and I want to do something other than the usual stuff we always do....MIchigan Ave., Navy Pier, the museums, etc.

Anyone have suggestions for "off the beaten path" attractions or things that aren't necessarily "touristy" to do? Thanks!

Miracle520

What types of activities do you two enjoy? Would art galleries be something you'd like to see? More about seeing sights? Are you sports fans? Do you like guided tours? The architecture tours of the city are amazing even for city residents.

Summer2011Bride

We would enjoy sightseeing or art museums. I have actually never been to the Museum of Science and Industry so we may do that. What other neighborhoods of Chicago besides just the downtown and loop area have interesting things to do? I'd like to venture to some different sides of the city as well.

lkeefner

There is lots of great eating in the West Loop/Randolph Street area.
The Lakeview and Lincoln Park areas have some great bars and shopping.
The Wicker Park area is fun. Bars, Boutiques, Music, Restaurants.

Love is Bald

Are you a foodie?  We've been to a food tour and had a blast!  http://www.chicagofoodplanet.com/

MrsPaps

a River Architectural tour is a must! It's not super touristy and you learn a lot about how the buildings came to be.

Miracle520

If you like art, I'd strongly recommend the River North galleries. There's a wide variety of works displayed. Very eclectic and contemporary.

barbbhoww

I LOVE wrigleyville.  Not only is it awesome to see but it is a lot of fun!  The Cubs-theme bars are a blast and you can take guided tours around Wrigley Field.

kgrunow

Its a little outside Chicago but the Brookfield zoo is nice. You can take the metra train right to there. Since it is not in the city itself it is a bit off the beaten path.

 Also, a lot of the attractions in Chicago are joining together for deals. I am not sure what it is called but they run about 100 dollars and are good for most attractions.

Katie91980

Second City is a MUST...It's in Old Town and easy to get to...great restaurants within walking distance...all on Wells Street. If it's something you want to do I would get tix asap as they tend to sell out

hz80408

You'll be here for the Bears-Packers game, so be prepared for a crazy and fun day Sunday!

Also, a lot of the museums, etc are offering free admission right now:
-Art Institute
-Museum of Science and Industry <DH & I actually went there for the first time recently, it's crazy how big it is.  There are a lot of cool exihibits and also public transportation to get you there
etc.

Check out this site: http://www.chicagohotblog.com/chicago-museum-free-days

jessicaelisekane

All of those are always super fun. I did the Frank Lloyd Wright tour with my mother a couple of years ago in Oak Park and I really enjoyed it. It's an audio tour that just the two of you take at your own pace--a walking tour that takes about an hour or so and covers about 6 blocks total. Also, there's a couple arboretums around that I love! If you're wanting to travel a bit, Starved Rock State park in Utica, IL is beautiful this time of year, with frozen waterfalls and a nice lodge. There's a winery there--Illinois River Winery, just near the river too. It can be a quaint and romantic time!!! I do also love the Chicago Architecture Boat tour. Enjoy and congrats!