Chicago is a beautiful city to visit in the summertime, and we were lucky enough to spend a warm, sunny weekend there in the summer. We stayed at the Hilton on N. Jefferson Avenue, a perfectly located hotel that made it easy to walk to many of the city’s best attractions.
One afternoon, we strolled down Michigan Avenue, home to exclusive shops, great restaurants, and the iconic stretch known as the Magnificent Mile. It’s one of those places where you can feel the energy of the city all around you.
Another day took us to Grant Park, named after Ulysses S. Grant, where we visited the impressive Buckingham Fountain. Its size and detail are even more striking in person. We also explored Millennium Park on Randolph Street near the Downtown Loop, a lively area filled with art, music, and people enjoying the outdoors.
Of course, no trip to Chicago is complete without a visit to Navy Pier. Stretching out into Lake Michigan, it’s a wonderful place for a long walk, with sailboats gliding across the water and plenty of cultural events happening throughout the year. It’s truly a spot that appeals to all ages.
One of the highlights of our trip was seeing the Sears Tower (now called the Willis Tower). Standing 1,450 feet tall to the roof—and 1,730 feet including its antennas—it remains one of the tallest buildings in the United States. Stepping onto the glass walkway and looking out over the city was an unforgettable experience.
Chicago also delivered on food. Girl & the Goat, located in Fulton Market, served an eclectic and delicious variety of dishes. We loved it so much, we even brought home a couple of bottles of their signature sauce. Another standout was Ciccio Mio, a cozy Italian restaurant on Kinzie Street. Their homemade pastas were out of this world, and the warm, intimate atmosphere made the meal even more memorable. If you’re visiting Chicago, Ciccio Mio is a must—trust me, you won’t be disappointed.
