By Katie Vaughn | Photos (clockwise): Choose Chicago, Alejandro Reyes, ©Kathleen Hinkel, Abel Arciniega, ©TequilaGraphics
STROLL: Feel the heartbeat of the city on the Chicago Riverwalk, a 1.25-mile path that hugs the south bank of the Chicago River, from Lake Street to Lake Michigan, providing views of the water and the soaring skyscrapers surrounding it.
SHOP: Shopping doesn’t get much better than on the Magnificent Mile, the 13 blocks of Michigan Avenue bursting with high-end and big-name retailers.
SEE: One of the most venerable art institutions in the country, The Art Institute of Chicago houses nearly 300,000 works of art from antiquity to present day. You could spend weeks exploring the galleries, but perhaps start with one of its stars: A work by Monet, Seurat, O’Keeffe, Cassatt, Wood, Renoir or Picasso.
EAT: Drawing culinary and design inspiration from the Mediterranean, Morocco, Italy and Mexico, Beatnik on the River is a feast in all senses. Tuck into a cozy banquette beneath flowers and lanterns and overlooking the water.
SIP: Savor views of Millennium Park and lush cocktails at Cindy’s Rooftop, a glass atrium lounge and rooftop terrace on the 13th floor of the Chicago Athletic Association hotel.
STAY: With floor-to-ceiling windows looking out on Lake Michigan and the city, Loews Chicago Hotel makes for a stunning home base, just north of the Chicago River in the lively Streeterville neighborhood.
EXTRA: Learn about the city’s striking skyline on the Chicago Architecture Center’s river cruise. The 90-minute boat tour glides you through the city and its fascinating architectural history.
