Summertime Chi…What to Do When You Get Here
I went to Chicago for the first time during the summer after my senior year. Although I was there to visit my boyfriend and friends, Summertime Chi romanced me like no other. I was set to start law school in San Diego that fall. After exploring Chicago my plans changed. Fast forward six years later, I have that summer to thank for changing my life.
Regardless of what may be in the news about Chicago, one thing that is a constant about this beautiful city is the unforgettable summer it offers. After being locked away in their homes during the grueling winters, Chicagoans pour into the streets to enjoy the 2–3 months of nice weather. Not only does the city offer the typical summer activities, it also offers some truly Chi specific things that everyone should experience. With so much to do and so much to see I thought I would help narrow down some must-do activities while you are in the city.
It doesn’t matter who you are or where you’re from, you’ve heard of Chicago deep dish pizza. There are several options to choose from. If you ask a Chicago native they will likely tell you that Giordano’s is the go to place. A few others might suggest Lou Malnati’s for your deep dish needs. Personally I believe Gino’s East offers the best deep dish in Chicago. To some this is blasphemy…who gonna check me boo? (Pro Tip: deep dish pizza takes a while to cook so be ready to order when you arrive and mentally prepare for a longer than normal wait on the food)
One amazing thing about Chicago is the art it showcases all over the city. One popular piece is The Cloud Gate sculpture, popularly known as “the bean”. This sculpture is located in Millennium Park and is often overrun with tourists. The park that holds this piece of art is a beautiful jewel in the Chicago crown, but the sculpture is certainly something you want to stop by and take a picture with. (Pro Tip: get here early so you can increase the chance that you will get a good picture without a million people around)
Imagine being 1,353 ft in the air standing in a box made of glass extending 4ft. into the air. Chicago can be seen 103 stories below. Housed in the Willis Tower (Sears Tower if you want to sound like a true Chicagoan), the Skydeck is another popular tourist destination and an optimal photo opportunity. Admittedly I have been in Chicago for years and I have not experienced the Skydeck. I blame my fear of heights. (Pro Tip: make sure you go when the sky is clear so you have an optimal view of the city)
According to any Chicagoan you ask, Harold’s chicken with mild sauce is the greatest food combinations ever made by man. Harold’s was created by an African American entrepreneur back in the 1950’s and has grown into being a staple in the Chicago community. To be clear, the infamous mild sauce is a necessity when you order. (Pro Tip: order a 6 piece salt pepper mild)
As you can see from the above options, Chicago has some great food. One experience you cannot miss is the party brunch. Brunch is popular in most cities, but Chicago restaurants offer both great food and a day party type atmosphere that is unmatched. If you are looking for a hip-hop vibe with great music and amazing food, DrinkHaus is the best brunch option in the city. For top 20 music and a cool venue, Freemont is worth checking out. (Pro Tip: these restaurants are pretty popular, a reservation is a must)
All in all, Chicago is a vibrant city with a world that comes alive when the winter months pass. If you find yourself in Chicago June 15th meet us at the DrinkHaus Day Party at 5:00 p.m. for our Summertime Link Up!
