“Take me out to the ball game. Take me out with the crowd. Buy me some peanuts and crackerjacks. I don’t care if I never get back. Let me root, root, root for the home team. If they don’t win its a shame.”
And the Cubs did win! What a perfect way to kick off the beginning of an amazing weekend adventure in the windy city. With this being my 1st MLB game, it was so important to me to fully immerse myself in the experience, so I inhaled a Chicago style hot dog (Sooo good!), cheered with the crowd and of course in my best voice sang, “Take Me Out To The Ball Game!”
Next Stop, Navy Pier. Unfortunately didn’t snap many photos here. As you walk down the boardwalk, you’ll see great options to grab a bite to eat or drink, Lake Michigan tours or simply some relaxing spots to soak in the beauty of the city. Hop on the Ferris wheel for a nice view of the Lake and City. Then headed to Cloud Gate, better known as, “The Bean.” A must see in the center of Millennium Park.
Day one would not have been complete without stopping for some Deep Dish pizza. The battle of the best Deep Dish pizza in Chicago will be left up in the air until my next trip. Let’s just say one stop was all my stomach could handle in 48 hours. In an epic battle between Giordano’s Vs. Shyla, the longstanding champion Giordano’s won the fight. And it was lights out after this cheesy masterpiece.
Day 2 started with a beautiful view 100 stories high (1,130 feet high) at the John Hancock observatory (360 Chicago). This place is truly breathtaking. You can take some time to relax, grab a drink and simply soak in the magnificent views. After embracing the 360 degree views of the city, just a short distance away is the Oak Street Beach.
As you leave the John Hancock center, you’ll be front and center to many shops as you step unto the Magnificent Mile. As someone that is obsessed with oceans and sand between my toes, checking out this “beach” was a must. Lake Michigan is so expansive that you’d really assume that it was an ocean, as there is no end in sight.
You would think going up 1,000 + feet in the air once would be enough, but oh no, I wanted to go higher! 1,353 feet to be exact. Where can you go higher? At the Willis Tower, formally known as the Sears Tower. This building was once the World’s Largest tower. Of course, if you are afraid of heights, stepping onto this glass overlook will probably not be your cup of tea, however it was worth the experience. (Side note… It only takes 60 seconds to get to the top)
At this point, starving was an understatement so stopped for a quick bite at “The Gage.” This mussels dish was AMAZING!
With this restaurant being in close proximity to Millennium Park, take some time to explore the attractions; waterfall, performing arts stage, grab a Chicago style hot dog, visit the food trucks, you name it and it’s at the park. Just a few blocks up you’ll find the beginning of Route 66 and not too far from there you will be in the mix of more shops, Garrets popcorn and the Chicago Theatre.
This amazing trip would not have been complete, if I didn’t go to a show at the world renowned, Chicago Theatre. Although, I missed Hamilton. Jamming to some of my favorite artists was the cherry on top to memorable time in the Windy City.
Can’t wait to get back to Chicago!
Feel free to ask more about my weekend itinerary.
XOXO, Shy
