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Situated on Lake Michigan in Illinois, Chicago – the windy city – has world-class museums, unique architecture, diverse neighborhoods and signature cuisine. Discover the city’s secret spots and hidden gems that endear Chicago to locals – and visitors.
From food and urban gardens to museums and skyscrapers, there are many things to love about Chicago. It’s also known as the windy city and Second City, a reference to its spot as a runner-up to New York City in size.
Several things distinguish Chicago from other cities. For example, its gangster history (think Al Capone), hundreds of skyscrapers and popular places like Willis Tower and the Art Institute of Chicago. Perhaps most notable is the food. Chicagoans love their Italian cuisine, deep dish pizza and Chicago-style hot dogs.
Been there, done that and looking to get off the beaten path? From ethnically diverse Uptown to trendy Wicker Park discover 12 secret spots and hidden gems in Chicago.
TravelingMom Tip: It can be expensive to take a regular taxi around downtown Chicago. A more affordable, fun and scenic way is to travel by water taxi.
See Chicago’s Skyline
Chicago is known for its unique architecture and over 1,300 skyscrapers. You’ll get amazing views of the skyline from the Skydeck at the 1,450-foot tall Willis Tower. But for a less touristy experience, go to Navy Pier’s parking structure. Take the elevator to the top floor of the garage parking structure for expansive city views.
Garden of the Phoenix
Located on Wooded Island in Jackson Park, the serene Garden of the Phoenix is one of Chicago’s hidden gems. The azalea-studded Japanese garden features a waterfall and foot bridges. A gravel path meanders through Japanese maples, green spaces and pines. Find the garden just south of the Museum of Science and Industry.
Biking on the Chicago Lakefront Trail
Chicagoans like to walk and bike. In fact, biking is an excellent way to see the sights. Lakefront Trail is a flat, 18-mile paved path that follows the Lake Michigan shoreline. Bike rentals provide everything you need for a family bike ride. Chicago’s bike rental program, called Divvy, is a fun, affordable way to get around.
A bike tour is another option. It’s a great way to see the city, enjoy lake views and not worry about getting lost. Tours take you through neighborhoods, the lakefront, The Loop (another name for Downtown Chicago), Lincoln Park and more.
Sights to see along the way
Take time for sightseeing as you cruise along the bike path. Watch the beach volleyball players at North Ave., and visit the free Lincoln Park Zoo at Fullerton Avenue. Plus, you’ll also peddle past iconic downtown sites like Buckingham Fountain, Navy Pier, and Adler Planetarium. If you have more time, you’ll also have a chance to visit museums, such as the Field Museum, the Shedd Aquarium and Soldier Field.
The Driehaus Museum
Travel back to America’s Gilded Age (1870s to early 1900s) at The Driehaus Museum. Formerly the home of banker Samuel Mayo Nickerson, it was turned into a museum by philanthropist Richard H. Driehaus in 2003. He preserved and refurbished the mansion (dubbed The Marble Palace), which is an architectural gem.
When you visit, you’ll enter the museum through the same door as the Nickersons’ guests of the late 19th-century. All the rooms are grand and offer a peek into Chicago’s history.
Garfield Park Conservatory
The 184-acre Garfield Park Conservatory is free and has a lot to offer families. Stroll along meandering trails with massive, glass dome greenhouses filled with unique tropical plants, cacti and flowers. In addition, there’s a children’s play garden that encourages climbing. Take the Green Line L just a few stops west of downtown to the Conservatory stop. From there, it’s just a few steps from the front door of the Conservatory.
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Although the park is free, donations are appreciated.
Lincoln Park Conservatory
Another beautiful conservatory is the Lincoln Park Conservatory. The large greenhouse with the glass dome is situated next to the Lincoln Park Zoo. Both the lakefront Lincoln Park Zoo and Lincoln Park Conservatory offer free admission.
Ping Tom Memorial Park
Discover under-the-radar skyline views at the Ping Tom Memorial Park in Chinatown. Formerly an abandoned rail yard, the waterfront park is a scenic green space ideal for strolls, picnics and even kayaking. Summer events feature concerts and a Dragon Boat race.
TravelingMom Tip: You can also catch the water taxi from the park. The seasonal boat travels between Ping Tom Park from the Loop, making it an easy and scenic way to get to Chinatown.
Admire Public Art
After perusing The Art Institute of Chicago, get off the beaten path to find public art on walls and in alleys. See dozens of giant murals, depicting poignant stories, painted on walls in the Pilsen neighborhood. While in Pilsen, check out the National Museum of Mexican Art. The small but well curated collection features Mexican, Latino, and Chicano art and culture.
Another great hidden gem is the Wabash Arts Corridor in the Loop neighborhood. The open-air museum features murals, installations and large-scale projections. It’s one of the most expansive public arts program in the country. And it’s free!
The Lurie Garden
Visit a secret garden in Millennium Park – the 2.5-acre Lurie Garden. The garden’s design celebrates Chicago’s motto, “Urbs in Horto,” Latin for “City in a Garden.” The four-season urban oasis is a living art that represents Chicago’s unique culture, ecology, history and people. Plus, it’s also home to a wide variety of plants, animals and insects.
Next, walk under the Nichols Bridgeway, which connects Millennium Park to the new Impressionist wing of the Art Institute of Chicago.
Water Tower Place
When visiting Chicago, you’re likely to find yourself walking around Water Tower Place at some point. It’s a multi-level shopping area on the Magnificent Mile and is Chicago’s version of Times Square, according to a Chicago TravelingMom.
Escape the hustle and bustle. If the weather is nice, walk a few blocks north on Michigan Avenue and go through the underpass to get to Oak Street Beach. It’s a free public sand beach with a stunning skyline backdrop.
Visit Graceland Cemetery and Arboretum
Graceland Cemetery is one of Chicago’s finest and unique hidden treasures. Established in 1860, it’s located in the North Side community area of Uptown. The cemetery is the final resting place for many prominent Chicago athletes, politicians, industrialists and architects. But it’s open to the public to enjoy the architecture and lush gardens.
Enjoy Live Music
Aptly named the Hideout, the dive bar is not only a hidden gem but a historic one as well. It opened in 1934 as a hideout for those seeking creative freedom and artistic rebellion. It’s a place where you can let your hair down, and enjoy live music featuring alternative styles.
The Hideout hosts various events to support many local causes. Find the Hideout in the center of the industrial corridor along the North Branch of the Chicago River.
