From the thriving jazz and blues scene to the famous deep-dish pizza to the magnificent museums, Chicago is one of the world’s most vibrant cities. And, SHRM attendees: You’re in luck. The weather is starting to heat up, making June a perfect month to discover this Midwestern metropolis. Catch a Cubs game at historic Wrigley Field, explore beautiful Millennium Park or shop along Magnificent Mile – here’s our roundup of the top ten things to do in the Windy City in June.
And, while you’re at SHRM 2018, pay a visit to the TicketsatWork booth to meet fun Universal Orlando Resort™ characters and to enter for the chance to win amazing prizes and vacation packages.
Enjoy the view from the Willis Tower
Ride up the second-tallest building in the nation for a breathtaking view. SkyDeck Chicago features wide-open vistas of the vast city – time your visit for sunset, to see the glowing skies turn to night, as the skyline sparkles under the stars. Feeling daring? Step out onto a glass balcony that soars 103 stories above the city!
Shop along Magnificent Mile
Lined by iconic skyscrapers like the Tribune Tower and Wrigley Building, Mag Mile is paradise for fashionistas who are seeking out the world’s most popular brands – there are more than 450 retailers to choose from. If you love to shop, don’t miss a stroll down this famous stretch of Chicago that’s known for its architecture and major department stores.
Visit Navy Pier
Extending more than 3,000 feet out into Lake Michigan, Navy Pier is the top tourist destination in Chicago, attracting millions of visitors. This is the city’s epicenter for family fun, with an IMAX theater, the Chicago Children’s Museum and several amusement rides including the Millennium Wheel that offers amazing views of the city.
Groove to live jazz
Chicago is famous for its vibrant music scene, with a long history of launching popular jazz and blues acts like Muddy Waters and Nat King Cole. Head to River North to catch a blues band at Blue Chicago. For live jazz, Andy’s Jazz Club is just steps from the Loop. The Green Mill in Uptown make a perfect beginning or end to a night on the town.
Feast on deep-dish pizza
When you’re ready to dig into a slice of this classic Chicago dish, try Pizzeria Uno, Lou Malnati’s or Giordano’s. Deep-dish pizza is wonderfully rich and filling – arrive hungry!
Explore the Art Institute of Chicago
Dating back to 1879, this art museum is located in Grant Park in Downtown Chicago. Inside, you can see world-class masterpieces including Edward Hopper’s Nighthawks and Grant Wood’s American Gothic as well as works by Picasso, Warhol and Matisse. It’s one of the largest art museums in the country, so leave plenty of time to wander the galleries.
Catch a Cubs game
As one of the oldest ballparks in Major League Baseball, Wrigley Field is an unforgettable place to see a ballgame. From the famous ivy-covered outfield wall to the old-school scoreboard, this 1914 jewel box is a must-see for any baseball fan. They recently finished an upgrade to the park, so there’s never been a better time to cheer on the Cubs!
Discover Millennium Park
Nestled on beautiful Lake Michigan, this public park is one of the outdoor gems of Chicago. It’s home to free cultural events from concerts to family festivals. Don’t pass up the chance for a selfie at Cloud Gate, a stainless-steel public art sculpture that reflects the skyline for a one-of-a-kind photo op.
Nosh on a Chicago-style hot dog
Pizza isn’t the only thing that Chicago does a little differently when it comes to food. Chicago’s hot dogs are a thing to behold: An all-beef frank is placed in a poppy seed bun, and then finished off with a long list of toppings. You’ll find relish, tomatoes, pickled hot peppers, mustard, onions and even a whole slice of a dill pickle! Make your way to Superdawg, Portillo’s or The Wiener’s Circle to try the best.
Stroll along Lakefront Trail
Explore Chicago with the blue waters of Lake Michigan as the backdrop. This 18-mile route takes you on a well-maintained trail through several neighborhoods, with spectacular views along the way. You can ride a bike, walk or rollerblade, relaxing at sandy beaches that line the shoreline.
By: Craig Nelson
TicketsatWork Blog 