Where to take visiting family in Chicago

Lincoln Park

Beacon Doughnuts

Beacon Doughnuts is a quick stop for a sweet treat, perfect for a casual breakfast or afternoon snack, costing about $5-15 per person. It pairs well with a coffee shop visit or a walk through the neighborhood.

Lincoln Park

Lincoln Park Conservatory

Thousands of exotic plants in an 1890 glass structure, plus outdoor gardens & fountains.

Near North

The Richard H. Driehaus Museum

Restored 19th-century mansion with notable Gilded Age architectural features & antiques.

Streeterville

Do-Rite Donuts & Chicken

Do-Rite Donuts & Chicken is a good spot for a quick, casual breakfast or lunch, offering donuts, chicken sandwiches, and coffee. Expect to spend $10-25 per person for a visit lasting about 30 minutes, especially if grabbing a quick bite.

Chicago Loop

Stan's Donuts & Coffee

Stan's Donuts is a good stop for a quick, casual treat. Expect to spend 20 minutes and $5-15 per person for gourmet donuts and coffee, best for a breakfast or afternoon snack.

Chicago Loop

ROOF on theWit

A summer hotspot on the 27th floor of theWit Hotel, with skyline views & upmarket cocktails.

Streeterville

Dunkin'

Dunkin' is suitable for a quick breakfast or coffee stop, often paired with a commute. Expect to spend $5-$15 per person for a drink and a snack.

Sports & Recreation

Seven Bridges Golf Club

Public 18-hole golf course, practice area & clubhouse with a bar, grill, pro shop & veranda.

Pulaski Park

Kennedy Rooftop

Stylish rooftop eatery offering sharing plates & hearty pub fare, plus cocktails, wine & beer.

Museum Campus

Shedd Aquarium

State-of-the-art indoor aquarium, famous for its variety of habitats & views of Lake Michigan.

Fulton Market District

Bottom Lounge

Venue for underground music, beer & casual American comfort food (including vegetarian options).

Chicago Loop

The Chicago Theatre

French Baroque-style 3,600-seat auditorium showcasing national musical & comedy acts since 1921.

North Center

Martyrs'

Small bar & live-music venue showcasing eclectic performers, with a menu of pizza & bar bites.

Pilsen

Thalia Hall

This landmark venue, designed as an opera house in 1892, hosts concerts by well-known musical acts.

Near North

La Bella Trattoria on Rush

Museum Campus

The Museum Campus

57-acre grounds with the Adler Planetarium, Shedd Aquarium & Field Museum, plus dining & lake beach.

Chicago Loop

LH Rooftop

Three chic levels of hotel rooftop drinking & dining with indoor/outdoor seats & sweeping views.

Chicago Loop

Aire Rooftop Bar Chicago

Seasonal cocktail bar on a hotel rooftop offering sweeping views, fire pits & a light menu.

Fulton Market District

Sawada Coffee

Chill spot for creative & classic coffee drinks in cozy, rustic-chic digs with Ping-Pong.

Chicago Loop

Cindy's Rooftop

Hip, stylish rooftop bar/eatery at the Chicago Athletic Association Hotel with choice seasonal fare.

Avondale

The Brewed

Lake View

Coffee Lab & Roasters

Trendy coffee roastery & shop dispensing hot & cold specialty drinks, plus pastries.

West Loop Gate

Alla Vita

Traditional Italian specialties plated in a stylish, elegant restaurant with a whimsical vibe.

Lathrop Homes

Hexe Coffee Co.

Chill coffee shop with a patio brewing specialty coffee, plus cocktails, sandwiches & pastries.