Whether you're staying in town for a few extra days, or you live in Chicago but don't come downtown often, these are our favorite things to do near our wedding venue at our favorite time of year.
The location of one of our fave holiday pop-ups literally can’t get any more convenient — it’s on the ground floor of the Chicago Athletic Association hotel. It’s basically an all-out explosion of all things Christmas: over-the-top decor, warm vibes, cheesy music and as many twinkling lights as possible. (We recommend the eggnog shots for the experience to be fully enjoyed.)
In the other direction, Cindys Rooftop is on the roof of the Chicago Athletic Association hotel. The food is to die for, and with jaw-dropping views of Millennium Park, Lake Michigan and the Chicago skyline, it’s one of the best rooftops in the city. Bonus: it’s headed up by Top Chef alum Kaleena Bliss! Reservations are encouraged, walk-ins welcome.
Listen... we know what we're about. If you need to grab something quick and yummy for lunch or a late night snack, Canes is right across the street. You can even mobile order for pickup — just watch out for the tourists.
The Art Institute is a Chicago landmark and one of our most-frequently visited places year-round — and it's less than a ten minute walk from the wedding venue! If you swing by, be sure to take a selfie by Em's favorite painting of all time, A Sunday on La Grande Jatte, and don't miss Jason's favorite exhibit, either: the Thorne Miniature Rooms.
A 16th-century German holiday market put up annually in Daley Plaza, this free-admission outdoor bazaar is the best spot in December for authentic bratwurst and soft pretzels, yummy spiced wine, Christmas shopping and all-around cozy vibes. Make sure to try the hot chocolate because it's Jason's fave.
One of our favorite winter attractions is the iconic holiday ZooLights show at the Lincoln Park Zoo. Weekend tickets are only $10 and includes admission to the zoo. If you're looking for something magical to do on Friday or Sunday evening, we can't recommend it enough.