The List Chicago
The top 10 must-dos in Chicago
Millennium Park
01 Millennium Park
The Windy City’s classy front lawn is a 124.5-acre ode to urban art and design in the heart of downtown. Stroll the wide-open green space and interact with world-class structures like the mirrored Cloud Gate sculpture (aka “the Bean”); the photo possibilities are endless. 201 E Randolph St; 312-742-1168; www.millenniumpark.org
02 Steppenwolf Theatre Company
What started in a church basement has triumphantly emerged as one of the nation’s most influential theater troupes. Founding members like Laurie Metcalf and John Mahoney regularly return to flex their dramatic muscles. 1650 N Halsted; 312335-1650; www.steppenwolf.org
03 Lakefront Trail
Whether walking on two legs or peddling on two wheels, hitting this 19-mile paved trail is the ideal way to get an up-close look at the tranquil blue-green waters of Lake Michigan. From Hollywood Ave to 79th St; 312-747-2001; www.chicagoparkdistrict.com
04 Longman & Eagle
This no-frills Logan Square gastropub scored a coveted Michelin star for its meat-focused menu. After dining on roasted marrow bones and maple-braised pork shank — and indulging in the $3 whiskey pours — consider spending the night in the rustic upstairs inn. 2657 N Kedzie Ave; 773-276-7110; www.longmanandeagle.com
05 Green Mill Cocktail Lounge
The green neon sign at this legendary jazz club has flickered for more than 100 years. Snag a plush velvety booth, order an extra dirty martini and get ready to be transported back to the Roaring Twenties. 4802 N Broadway Ave; 773-878-5552; www.greenmilljazz.com
06 Wrigley Field
The famous ivy on the outfield walls, the sun-drenched bleachers and the neighborhood setting combine to make an afternoon watching the Cubbies at Wrigley — the second-oldest park in the majors — the quintessential Chicago sports experience. 1060 W Addison St; 773-404-2827; www.chicagocubs.com
07 Rush Street Shopping
Long a dining and nightlife strip, this stretch of pavement has usurped adjacent Oak Street as the Gold Coast’s version of Rodeo Drive, attracting flagship shops from the likes of Mark Jacobs, Hermẹ̀s and Ted Baker London. N Rush St between E Cedar St and E Delaware Pl
08 The New Maxwell Street Market
It’s a hoot to haggle for bargains at this open-air flea market, but the real reason to visit is to sample authentic Mexican street fare from the 20-plus stands. Don’t miss the tangy pork tacos al pastor at Rubi’s or the brick-sized tamales doused with salsa verde at Tamales Oaxaquenos. 800 S Desplaines St; 312-745-4676
09 Robie House
This Hyde Park home created by Frank Lloyd Wright is a perfect example of the star architect’s Prairie style. Designed in 1908, it’s been designated by the American Institute of Architects as one of the 10 most significant structures of the 20th century. 5757 S Woodlawn Ave; 708-848-1976; www.gowright.org
10 Hot Doug’s
In a city known for its old-school hot dog stands, this kitschy, decade-old “encased meat emporium” has upped the game. Known for its gourmet sausages made from game meats like elk and venison, Doug's also delivers the goods when it comes to an old-fashioned Chicago dog — but remember, no ketchup! 3324 N California Ave; 773-2799550; www.hotdougs.com
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