We’ve got your top spots in Chicago for snapping the best Insta photos known to man! Get photo-ready for these amazing locations!

 

Cloud Gate (The Bean)- One of the most popular places in Chicago for photography and film. Be sure to arrive early to get your pics without gobs of strangers (and their photographers) in your shot.

 

Chicago Theatre– Does anything say, “iconic” like the Chicago Theatre sign? I don’t think so. Grab your perfect picture of this piece of Chicago history before hitting your next insta-pic destination.

 

 

Buckingham Fountain– Pretend you’re a royal, pretend you’re a mermaid (or merman), be whatever you want to be in front of this dazzling fountain where all things are possible—including the most perfect photo ever.

 

Michigan Avenue Bridge Viewpoint (DuSable Bridge)- You’ve probably seen this bridge in tons of movies. You can put on your most spectacular performance in your picture on this famous bridge spot.

 

Nature Boardwalk at Lincoln Park Zoo– If you can manage to get here and claim your spot before other engagement shoots, family shoots, or maternity shoots then you’re lucky! This is a hot spot for photo shoots and it’s easy to see why. The water, the bridges, the nature—all there to make you sparkle in your photos!

 

LaSalle Flower shop– Looking for that touch of romance and beauty? LaSalle Flower shop, founded in 1936, will have you looking like the heroine in a Jane Austen novel.

 

Beatnik– Need colorful? Need exotic? Then Beatnik has what your social media needs. Get ready for a whole lot of color and even more fun and tasty food!

Hampton Social– “Rosé all day” shirt not enough? Come here and take a pic in front of the beachy restaurant’s neon lights sign instead!

 

Sky Deck– Nothing says Chicago quite like the Sky Deck. Come take your most daring photos ever on this famous glass spot. Not for the faint of heart!

Garfield Park Conservatory– Come experience beautiful plant life of all kinds in this glass conservatory. A great spot for a photo shoot and to escape the cold of Chicago winters! Just be mindful, the conservatory is located in a less-picturesque part of town.

 

Maison Marcel– A lovely coffee shop with warm pastries, and bohemian-tropical vibes. Enjoy a cup of Joe and snap that pic while you’re at it.

North Avenue Beach– If a gorgeous view of the Chicago Skyline is what you’re after then look no further! Get the city sites in your feed here!

 

John Hancock Observatory-Check out the city of Chicago from the 95th floor of this 1,128-foot skyscraper.

 

Promontory Park– Want to see the beauty that a landfill can create? Go check out Promontory Point, which is a man-made peninsular that juts into Lake Michigan. Have fun getting in touch with those island vibes in the pics you take here.

 

Navy Pier– has it all to make your photos sing: a Ferris wheel, lights, the water, cool treats. Show your fun side at this beautiful Chicago destination.

 

Safety is a huge priority when visiting or living in Chicago. It’s a beautiful city with so much to see and do but don’t let all the beauty and fun fool you. It’s still important to be street-smart on these city streets while you’re out having a blast. So, we’re going to cover some basics to keep you safe, have you looking like a local, and prepared for anything.

Be alert
This sounds overly simplistic but with our technology-infused culture most of us are tuned into our phones instead of our surroundings. But being alert is the number one offensive thing you can do in a big city to be and stay safe.
You may not be able to control the types of potentially sketchy people around you as you walk, shop, or commute. But you can be aware of who is around you, what they are doing, how they’re interacting with others around you, and what to be on guard for. Not staying alert puts an instant target on your back for a deviant individual looking for an easy, you got it, TARGET. The key advantage of someone up to no good is to catch their victim off-guard, so stay on your guard.
Remaining alert accomplishes two things 1) it lets would-be attackers/thieves etc. know that you are not blind or clueless to them or what is going on around you. 2) it keeps you in a place of being informed and ready for anything that may go down.
Being alert can enable you to avoid being in close proximity of someone who is showing signs of aggression or instability. It will help you notice someone who may be following you or just anything odd, which is always a major tip-off.
Practical Tips:
Look up from your phone every now and then. Use your eyes and check out who’s around you, who’s watching you or giving off creepy vibes. Don’t give off the appearance of someone who is lost in their own world and not paying any attention to their surroundings.
Keep earbuds out. A former Secret Service agent has advised that earbuds should never be worn outside the house. That’s a hard one I admit but try leaving at least one of them out so you can hear what’s going on around you. You need all your senses in a big city like this with people from all walks of life.
Move to a different spot or car on the train if you feel unsafe (trains also have help buttons you can press to notify the conductor of an emergency). Don’t feel embarrassed to do what you need to do to remain safe.
Avoid eye contact, especially in enclosed spaces. You want to be aware of who and what’s around you but try and avoid direct eye contact, which many hostile individuals take as a sign of aggression. Even if not hostile, eye contact can also be perceived as an invitation for conversation—and a conversation with someone random on the street may be best to avoid.
If assaulted shout, “I don’t know this person! They’re trying to hurt me!” Most onlookers do not get involved in what looks like personal arguments/scuffles. But if you make others aware that you do not know the individual who is trying to grab you or makes you uncomfortable, others are more likely to step up and help out. Make your emergency known!

Be armed
Pepper spray or tasers are great small options that you can take with you in a bag, purse, or coat pocket. The aim with either weapons is, not to subdue your attacker, but to give you time to run away to a place of safety or to find help. These buy you time and in an emergency situation where every second counts.
Amazon has pepper spray for a mere $10 and tasers can be found online as well. Hopefully, you’ll never be in a situation to use a form of protection like these, but you can have a greater sense of security having them on your person.
Take self-defense classes…or at least watch videos. It’s surprising the things you can learn on TikTok and self-defense is one of them. If you don’t have the funds or time to take an in-person class, you can learn life-saving tips for getting out of choke holds, trunks, zip ties, and more from TikTok alone. Youtube is full of more in-depth videos as well. Your brain still digests information by observing and mentally practicing. So don’t underestimate the value of watching some tutorials for how to protect yourself and escape. It could save your life.

Be confident & use common sense
Another factor in keeping you safe is the energy you project to outsiders. In tandem with being alert, you also want to convey and air of confidence. Are you lost? Look like you know where you’re going. Do you feel unsafe? Pretend that you are afraid of nothing. This will trick your brain into a calmer, more clear-headed state and will be pivotal in deterring someone with ulterior motives from even thinking about messing with you. ‘Fake it til you make it’ really can help!
Studies have shown that for some odd reason walking hurriedly as if you’re late to an event will deter thieves. I guess thieves respect busy folks? Hmm…
Whatever the case may be, looking as if you’re in a hurry will be your best tool for staying out of harm’s way. So, master that look of being the busiest person in the world!
And lastly there are the basic common-sense rules to abide by:
Don’t walk alone at night, especially if you’re a female
Listen to your gut; if something feels off it’s for a reason—don’t ignore that sinking feeling!
Share your uber rides with a friend so someone always knows where you’re at and progress of your trip to your destination
Never take out your wallet in public
If a woman being asked for help by a man, be assured this is a trick; men ask other men for help as a general rule so don’t be duped by predators
Don’t follow strangers/homeless people to their cars/private places; there’s a way to help those in need without putting yourself in a vulnerable position
If you see someone twice in a city this size, that means you’re being followed. Find a nearby business to go into or a large group of people in a public place where you can alert them to the situation and get help (a number of women online in this very predicament began filming their stalker live on their phones to avert being kidnapped or worse. This is when technology can be your best friend).

∞

There are so many things in this life that we do not have control over, but your safety is not one of them. Be wise, be informed, and alert so you can be safe while having the time of your life in Chicago. Safe travels!

Planning a trip to Chicago or new here and looking for things to do? We’ve got you covered! The possibilities are near endless here in the Windy City. We’ve narrowed it down to the top 10 to make your adventure-planning a little easier. Let the fun-planning begin!

✤

 

1)      Millennium Park- Have you always wanted to take a selfie in front of that mirrored giant jelly bean featured in so many films and photos? Look no farther than Millennium Park where you can take as many pics with the Bean, a.k.a. “Cloud Gate” and have your Insta stories totally covered. Check out the outside ice skating rink in winter months, complete with free lessons on weekend mornings with reservations.

 

2)      Chicago Theatre- What’s says Chicago like the Chicago Theatre—with that gorgeous gold and red Chicago sign?! Located on N. State Street in the Loop, it hosts shows spanning from Broadway musicals to comedians and just about everything in between. Be sure to reserve a spot far in advance as this one books up quickly. And if you just need a cool photo in front of the legendary sign, that’s always available and free too.

 

3)      Chicago Riverwalk- Take a leisurely stroll (um… not in winter) along the scenic, flower-laden Riverwalk, bordering the Chicago River. Stretching 1.25 miles, enjoy sightings of boats, bridges, buildings, and other things starting with, “B.” Calm yourself from the hustle and bustle of the city with this little nature get-away. Another perfectly free bit of fun to complete your Chicago tour.

 

4)      Wrigley Field- For baseball lovers a must-see, whether to an actual Cubs game or to tour the empty historical stadium from the early 1900’s. Enjoy the iconic sports and movie (A League of Their Own) locale of the North Side Chicago and grab a Chicago hot dog while you’re at it. Play ball!

 

5)      Chicago Starbucks Roastery- Not a sports fan? More of a sit and sip kind of person? I get it! The Starbucks Reserve on Michigan Avenue is for you. Five stories high with themed levels and complete with a winding escalator—that’s right, winding! This Starbucks blows any regular Starbucks or coffee shop out of the water. The pastry and alcohol beverage-inclined will be thrilled to know individual floors are designated with them in mind. Have a seat and a Pistachio latte while you watch—and smell—the rotating buttery croissants! Willy Wonka has nothing on this coffee factory extraordinaire!

 

6)      Lincoln Park Zoo- Family fun doesn’t get any better than a zoo, except maybe one that’s free and open year-round! Enjoy the aquatic exhibits to the wild jungle life. There’s even a petting zoo nearby that has adorable furry friends out to play in the warmer months. Enjoy delicious food in the cafeteria or yummy snacks along the zoo sidewalks. And don’t forget Zoo Lights from November to January–a holiday treat for all ages!

 

7)      Chicago History Museum- Ever wondered how that Chicago fire got started…or at least the rumored tale? Let the Chicago History Museum fill you in on all the details and historical artifacts. See the bed where President Lincoln took his last breath and discover tributes to African American and Native American figures that forever impacted Chicago. For history nerds or Michael Jordan fans, this museum has it all. Set aside at least a couple of hours as there’s so much to see!

 

8)      Magnificent Mile- This is Chicago’s premiere commercial district and a must-see for the shopaholic or foodie in you. Magnificent Mile has it all from Tiffany & Co. to Nike, Zara, Neiman Marcus, and Bloomingdale’s. Your shopping dreams will all be fulfilled on this one glamourous strip. And when you’re famished from all that shopping, the Michael Jordan Steakhouse, RPM Italian, or the Grand Lux await you. 5-star hotels are within a five-block radius as well. Every luxurious thing you could ever ask for right at your fingertips.

 

9)      Navy Pier- Nearby the Magnificent Mile is the beautiful and eclectic lakeshore pier. Enjoy the Centennial Wheel, let the kids explore the children’s museum, gorge on some candy at the food court, or cool off at the splash park! So much to do and see in this one spot so come prepared for the fun and games!

 

10)   Tribune Tower- Come see the one-of-a-kind 463-foot neolithic skyscraper, renowned for the famous elements that make up its composition. Stones from the Berlin Wall can be seen, as well as Wawel Castle, a piece of steel from the World Trade Center, pieces of the Taj Mahal, the Great Pyramid, Notre Dame de Paris, Abraham Lincoln’s tomb, Great Wall of China, and many others. You’ll never see another building like this one, guaranteed!

✤

This is just a small glimpse of all that awaits you in Chicago. What are you waiting for? Start planning your adventures today! Chicago is waiting for you.

I tend to be a frequenter of bookstores, bakeries, and coffee shops. It’s the deep armchairs, cinnamon-sugary air, and coffee beans that practically whistle for me (and I dutifully come running every time). I’m discovering a different landscape that’s previously been uncharted by my armchair-loving self—that of pubs. One in particular, The Irish Nobleman, which is located near downtown Chicago.

To start, the name is simply gold. It paints a picture of Irish culture combined with historic richness. I imagine not just any old pub that merely commoners of, let’s say the 1800’s, would frequent but one fit for the high-brow tastes of a nobleman as well. The name, along with the beautiful exterior, is both a clue and a treat before you walk through the front doors.

Once inside it’s clear to see the pub and restaurant have been given an apt nomenclature. As a coffee shop and patisserie connoisseur, I’m accustomed to light, bright surroundings of coziness-meets-softness. The Irish Nobleman is refreshingly their opposite.

Classic rock hits or Irish music pulses through the speakers as your eye takes in the rich and dark décor, combined in the best way imaginable. (There is also a jukebox.) The dark wood of the expansive bar, mahogany paneling, etched ceiling tiles, and wooden tables ground the room in a down-to-earth ruddy elegance. And we can’t leave out the many TV monitors for the sports enthused or the green bar stool tops—a fitting not to Ireland.

As you enter, it feels like you’ve stepped into another dimension. This isn’t just another shop or store with a factory same-ness you’re accustomed to seeing, but an other-worldly quality that the typical eatery is severely lacking. The Irish Nobleman offers a time travel to the best parts of the past.

And it’s no wonder the pub is so unique, its interior was constructed by Irish owner Declan Morgan, a carpenter by trade. Using master builder skills, an eye for detail, and the talent of salvaging historic details from old buildings, he constructed a one-of-a-kind bar experience fit for television back in 1999. The building location is quite historic in itself as it’s very first Chicago restaurant was established in 1933. Declan and his wife run the pub in this current day, and it attracts visitors from all around the city, and across the globe. 

The bar wall is a salvaged 100-year-old arched wooden piece complete with an expansive mirror that catches the light from the rustic chandeliers and roaring fire. The bar itself is fitted with an old church pew fused into the tail end. Where else will you find such curated furnishings?  

I keep expecting to see a hobbit walking around or to get a tap on the shoulder from a suited Barney Stinson asking me if I’ve met his friend Ted. But this isn’t The Lord of the Rings or How I Met Your Mother, but a cool bar in real life that’s second to none.

Adding to the stunning surroundings are the delicious menu offerings. I have never tasted a more amazing shepherd’s pie as the one at the Irish Nobleman and it far surpasses my own home recipe (note to self improve home recipe).

The crispy breading of the Guinness battered fish and chips coupled with the scratch-made tartar sauce will have you eating like a Medieval times peasant or *cough* so I’ve heard. If hand-cut fresh french fries are more your speed, there’s always the parmesan garlic fries or black truffle fries (topped with real truffle zest!) to send you into a delightful food coma of bliss. Simply put, you can’t go wrong with any of the fresh gourmet options.

And I haven’t even touched on the outdoor seating area complete with a turfed surface for pups or the large room for parties and events. Did I mention they have coffee and pastries? Hmm…my typical coffee shop and bakery haunts look out!

I never used to understand the appeal of a bar. Watching Cheers with my parents during my childhood, I thought of bars as stark, boring, and void of any visual appeal or warmth. Now, after experiencing a space as grandly historical yet inviting as the Irish Nobleman, I can see why people seek out a pint of lager and that place where you are known by name. But not just any place—a place fit for a nobleman. And an Irish one at that. Slainte!

Irish Nobleman Pub is located at: 1367 W Erie St, Chicago, IL. Visit: www.IrishNobleman.com for more details and seasonal specials.

You’ve got your trip planned, plane ticket handy, and your lodging all set at your Airbnb. But have you ever wondered what some of the best practices are to observe as an Airbnb guest, especially in this current Covid-era? We’ll have you armed with awesome tips that will have you on your way to those 5-star reviews in no time!

∞

Communicate! If location is the watchword of real estate, then communication is the Airbnb equivalent. Anything can be navigated with clear and proper communication, so let that be your mindset as a great Airbnb guest! Arriving late, arriving early, or seeking to have early luggage drop-off? Communicate with your host. Do you need certain accommodations that you forgot to settle? Ask/inform your host.

Have you found your accommodations lacking in some way? Can’t figure out how to turn the TV on? Let your host know. I have personally experienced both a cleanliness and noise issue with separate Airbnbs. Upon informing the hosts politely of the issues, each were swift to remedy the problems. I felt valued as a customer and they felt appreciative of my honest yet respectful communication.

A good host will be willing to do what they can to assist a guest—they want those five stars too! And remember kindness goes a long way. Be an amazing guest and communicate!

 

Treat it like your home. You’re on vacay so that means no cleaning, right? Yes and no. True, you’ve chosen an Airbnb to get away from normal chores but that doesn’t mean it’s time to be an animal. It’s vital to remember these properties belong to individuals and as their financial investment.

Enjoy a weekend of no laundry or changing sheets but throw your trash in the trash can, place dishes in the dishwasher and run it before you leave. Take your personal items with you at check-out and leave the environment in the tidy state you found it.

Be considerate of other lodgers. When staying in shared spaces be mindful by keeping personal items in your room and maintaining cleanliness in common areas. Observe general quiet hours in the early morning and late at night to be respectful of others. Treating others as you’d like to be treated is as necessary now as it was in formative years. 

If your host has specific instructions about garbage removal, placement of dirty linens, or thermostat settings be careful to observe their instructions. Be sure to turn off lights before leaving and leave at proper check-out time. Make them glad they had you at their location and excited to have you return!

 

Follow guest regulations. Covid has changed just about everything, including Airbnbs. One thing in particular is No parties allowed. And no, this isn’t a Berenstain Bears title but an actual rule. This goes for all Airbnb guests globally. If you have booked your stay, have a blast! But sans soiree. Sorry.

Attempting sneak parties is not recommended. When found out, violators will be subject to suspension or removal from Airbnb’s platform altogether. It’s not worth the risk! The rule is in place for safety reasons, so put those party hats away for now. For large parties in general, 16 guests are the max allowed at any Airbnb that can accommodate that amount.

Furthermore, Airbnb does not allow third party bookings. If you are wanting to book a stay for another individual, that is not permitted. Persons staying at the Airbnb must be those specified on the reservation with no additions or supplications. Keep it simple and have all your guests (including you) be the only ones on your reservation and the only ones present at your Airbnb.

 

Write a review: the good, bad, and the ugly. Here we circle back to our lovely communication friend but, specifically, you’re taking the time to let your host know what you loved about their property and customer service. Your reviews help them better their job as hosts and inform future travelers of what they may be getting into with that Airbnb—for better or worse.

Your review can be a gamechanger for a future guest and can be crucial to help your host improve or to know where they’re excelling. This is also a great opportunity to thank them. Your voice matters here so let Airbnb, your host, and future guests know what you loved, maybe didn’t love, or would like to see improved in the future. Help us help you! Do remember though: Airbnb ratings will have a major impact on hosts who rely solely on the Airbnb platform. What does that mean exactly? Did you know that Airbnb actually has minimum thresholds for host and property ratings? If a host falls into the lower 4 star rating area, they are actually treated differently by the Airbnb company. Hosts who are in the lower 4 star rating area (or below) will show up less frequently in search results, will typically get less bookings, will wait longer to get problems fixed with Airbnb customer service, and may even get their listings removed from the Airbnb website all-together. Why do we mention this? Because in the eyes of Airbnb, essentially anything under 4 stars is treated as a failure and will affect the host negatively. Please, if a host handled maintenance promptly, communicated well, and gave you a nice place to stay… leave 5 stars in the review area. Send a private message with suggestions and for concerns outside of the host’s control. Your host will thank you, and welcome you back.

 

∞ 

Airbnb trips can be more enjoyable all around if you as a guest can be intentional to follow these handy tips. Your host will love you for it and your future hosts will welcome you as that 5-star guest of their dreams. Happy travels and stay safe!

Located right in Downtown Chicago, this park is a staple of the Windy City. 

 

Things to See:
–Cloud Gate, also affectionately known by the locals as the Bean

This 110-ton elliptical sculpture was created by British artist Anish Kapoor. This one-of-a-kind sculpture sits in just the right spot, capturing the entirety of the Chicago skyline (and the clouds above) in its shiny surface.

-Lurie Gardens

The “secret garden” of Chicago, this domicile is a place of rest and reprise from every day city life for both humans and wildlife alike. This garden showcases different plants and décor for the four seasons and it represents the change of Chicago from marshland to the City it is today.

-Wrigley Square

Wrigley Square is a tree-lined oasis for visitors to come and relax. Within the square, there is also the Millennium Memorial which was built to replicate the one that once stood on Michigan Ave and Randolph Street in the mid 1900’s. Carved into the limestone are the names of the Park’s founders.

–Crown Fountain 

Created by Spanish artist Jaume Plense, these 50 foot towers made of glass sit on either end of a shallow reflecting pool. Faces of Chicago citizens show on these blocks as tribute to the broad social spectrum of Chicago itself.

-Boeing Galleries and Exhibits (ever changing)

       –As of posting this article, here are the exhibits:

              — “When we call the Earth by way of distinction a planet and the Moon a satellite, we should consider whether we do no, in a certain sense, mistake the matter. Perhaps – and not unlikely – the Moon is the planet and the Earth the satellite! Are we not a larger moon to the Moon, then she is to us?” By Christine Tarkowski

              — “Screenhouse” By Edra Soto

*Due to Covid, Jay Pritzker Pavilion, the Welcome Center, the Great Lawn and the BP Bridge between Millennium Park and Maggie Daley Park are closed. 

**Please wear face coverings as they are required. Guests are asked to social distance from other group and their own group can be no more than 10 people. 

2 Locations:

Coalfire West Town: 1321 W Grand Ave

(312) 226-2625

Coalfire Lakeview: 3707 N. Southport Ave

(773) 477-2625

Website: https://coalfirechicago.com/

Why We Love ‘Em: Coalfire uses ingredients that are ALL sourced from local artisan butchers and growers. You know the food you are eating is the best. Not to mention that it’s hormone free, organic & non-GMO fresh produce. Plus, the food is just downright delicious.

All of their pizzas are made in a coal fired oven, making them super crispy and tasty. (And yes, they use real coal!) It’s not something you see every day.

Our Go To Favorite:
Pepperoni & Whipped Ricotta Pizza: Made with berkshire pork pepperoni, mozzarella, sauce, smoke mozzarella, whipped ricotta, garlic, and basil. This creation is basically a modern twist on your classic pepperoni, baked in a coal fire oven, leaving the crust nice and crunch. The whipped ricotta is to die for!

Drink offerings:
Both locations offer an array of wine and beer selection. Just ask your server for their recommendation/selection!

If you are a citizen of earth you’ve probably noticed how many movies are set in Chicago. Or, if you’re like me you don’t fully realize it until you live here and start noticing location after location that has you feeling like you live in a straight up rom-com or action flick. And silly me thought New York was the mega star of the big screen. Technically it is but Chicago is close at numero très following Los Angeles, which isn’t too shabby.

So, if your curiosity has been peaked by this cinematic city, then let’s dive deeper into some of its top moments on the big screen!

∞

While You Were Sleeping– The adorable Christmas romantic comedy starring Sandra Bullock, Bill Pullman, and that guy from Center Stage with the great eyebrows (note to self: Google eyebrow guy’s name). The trains are front and center in this one, specifically Randolph-Wabash El Station where Sandra’s character, Lucy, works and falls for the classy businessman (eyebrow guy) and eventually saves his life. Later, Lake Point Tower and Lady of Mount Carmel Church are featured as well as Emmanuel Episcopal Church. This movie highlights the warmth and familial beauty of Chicago that aren’t readily seen by an initial glance. Who said big cities can’t be homey?

My Best Friend’s Wedding– A more classic Julia Robert’s tale there was not…okay except Pretty Woman. But Pretty Woman lacks Chicago which is the heart of this film as its beautiful backdrop for love and love lost. O’Hare Airport is the memorable moment of Michael and Jules’ classic movie airport reunion.

From there, Fourth Presbyterian Church on E Chestnut St is where the rehearsal and the wedding were filmed. The Chicago Hilton is seen in the film as well as the Drake Hotel. The Chicago Union Station is in my opinion the most memorable as Jules chases after Michael, trying to undo the damage she’s done. Julia may not have gotten the guy in this one but Chicago sure had its moment of glory.

The Vow– This is an emotional romantic drama based on a true story of a woman who lost her memory and a husband who woos her for a second time into loving him. The wife played by Rachel McAdams is an artist…or she was before she lost her memory. It’s neat to see the artsy side of Chicago for those who may not march to that beat. The film shoots at Southlake Regional Healthcare, the iconic Millennium Park, The Roastery Coffee House, and Casa Loma. The tear-jerking moments are made worth it by the great Chicago sights and happy ending of course!

Divergent– To see Chicago in a post-apocalyptic, dystopian future is haunting yet still beautiful. Divergent is full of thrills and plenty of action with the trains of Chicago, Navy Pier’s Centennial Wheel, Pioneer Court, and the old Chicago Defender building still making their mark. Even if covered in a little rust and overgrown vines, they still fit the iconic bill. The Dauntless faction must jump from the trains as part of their fearless way of life. The grinding of metal cars against the steel rails is an unmistakable sound that follows you throughout the movie and, in real life, plays like the city’s very own soundtrack.

Never Been Kissed- Drew Barrymore fans know by heart that Josie Grossy’s place of work is Chicago…and no, she’s not Josie Grossy anymore! In this timeless comedy, we have Chicago Avenue on the Brown Line CTA stop featured. Also, Josie’s office interior and job scenes were filmed in Chicago. If you need some love maybe Chicago’s where it’s at? Or at least in the ever-loveable Never Been Kissed.

The Fugitive- Countless spots all over Chicago are featured in this iconic Harrison Ford film where he’s wrongly accused of murdering his wife. He must find the real killer as he’s being hunt down by an expert U.S. Marshall. No biggie for Harrison. The Chicago Hilton is featured at the end of the movie and, apparently, has also hosted four of the U.S. Presidents since opening. That’s hot.

Adventures in Babysitting- One of my personal childhood favorites of babysitting gone oh so very wrong as Elizabeth Shue, Chris Parker, takes a group of kids downtown to rescue a runaway friend with car-jacking rings, singing the blues, and skyscraper danger in between. The Michigan Avenue Tower is where the parents’ work party is held and superimposed into several shots.

The Dan Ryan Expressway is where the tire of the old station wagon blows, specifically between Monroe and Madison. The bus station exterior 20 E. Randolph Street is where they (spoiler) at last pick up Brenda in the end. The interior for the Silver Dollar Room/Fitzgerald’s Night Club is on Roosevelt Road where they can’t leave without singing the blues. This late 80’s flick shines as it warns of Chicago crime in, like, the most entertaining way ever.

Home Alone & Home Alone 2 Lost in New York– For the all-time most famous Chicago movie ever (I mean there’s no contest, right?) we have the Home Alone 90’s masterpieces. Winnetka, the suburb of Chicago, 671 Lincoln Avenue to be exact, is the address of the picturesque McCallister home. I don’t know about you, but this was the fanciest house my seven-year-old eyes had ever seen! And the fictional McCallister home—looking unchanged from the exterior—is still a hugely popular tourist attraction to this day.

Evidently, Covid lockdowns added to its tourist numbers as bored city dwellers flocked to Kevin’s abode (to the neighboring residents’ chagrin). This house bears a forever warm place in our hearts as the home Kevin so brilliantly defended and if nothing else, Chicago will remain on the map because of it.

And last but not least, the McCallister’s reunion in the enormous hotel room at the end of Home Alone 2 was actually filmed at the Conrad Hilton Suite in Chicago.

∞

And there we have just a drop in the bucket of some of Chicago’s most iconic movie set magic. Check out these links for some awesome Chicago Film Tours and make some movie magic of your own!

 

• Chicago Movie & TV Locations Tour | Chicago Tour Hub (chicagourbanadventures.com)
• Chicago Film Tour
• Chicago Movie Tours | Guided Walking Tours on Chicago and Movies
• Chicago Film Tour – Chicago | TourSales

Navigating in a big city like Chicago may seem daunting at first, but we’re here to help with your very own guide to our local transit system. 

First, a little background. The “L” gets its name from the elevated tracks it runs in the downtown area (sometimes, though, the tracks may be on the ground or even underground!) This way of transportation was inaugurated in June of 1892, covering 3.6 miles initially. Now, it spans over 224.1 miles and operates on 8 different lines; Red Line, Blue Line, Brown Line, Green Line, Orange Line, Pink Line, Purple Line, and Yellow Line.

 

Fun Fact: In 2005, the people of Chicago voted the “L” as one of the “Seven Wonders of Chicago”.

How to Ride Like a Pro:

1. Enter the Station and Pay Your Fare

There are turnstile gates that lead to the platform that have contactless readers for either Ventra Cards, Ventra Tickets, or, if you have your card attached to your phone or a contactless card, you can use those. 

We recommend using the kiosk just inside the station to buy a Day Pass if you plan to use any CTA more than once. They also have options for 3-Day, 7-Day, and 30-Day pass. These give you unlimited rides on the trains and busses throughout the duration of your ticket. 

       2. Follow Signs for Your Designated Train Platform

There may be multiple lines that run through that station, so make sure you know which one you need to board. There will be maps and signs spread throughout the station to help guide you to the proper platform. Make sure you pay close attention to the name of the train directions (ie Loop, 95th/Dan Ryan, Harlem) as the same line may be going in different directions. 

Before the arrival of your train, make sure to keep your distance on the platform from the edge. We recommend 6 feet.

       3. Board the Train

When your train arrives, there will be a verbal announcement of the train’s intended direction as well as signs in the window in the color of the line, stating the direction. 

Please allow current passengers to exit the train before boarding yourself. 

Board your train and enjoy the ride!

       4. Arrival at Your Destination

The train will be making frequent stops at a multitude of stations. There are maps in the car that show the train’s path. We recommend using this to your advantage in one of two ways. One, you could count how many stops there are before your own, or two, look at the name of the station before the one you need and prepare to disembark after departing that final station. Prior to every stop, the train will make an audible announcement of the upcoming station. Make sure to pay close attention to these so you don’t miss yours. 

       5. Exiting the Station

Some stations have multiple exits. Depending on the direction you intend to go, take heed of the signage that will direct you to where you need to go. 

 

Safe Travels! X