Traveling for conferences often doesn’t allow for much exploration as the schedule is optimized for learning sessions and networking opportunities within the hotel so I tacked on an extra day to enjoy the city. I had worked for an ad agency years ago in Manhattan as a media director and when they launched a Chicago office, I handled the media there as well for a bit of time. I did many lunches and dinners at the famed steakhouses within the city, mostly because I was too young to speak up for myself and mention the fact that I was a vegetarian. I will say the chefs at most steakhouses would whip me up something special and my meals would often be intriguing to my media sales representatives. Gibson’s was my favorite, although I can’t speak for the quality of their steak.
Venturing on my own, I decided to check out the hotel I had been in for the conference for a change of scenery. I checked into the Hotel Chicago, part of the Autograph Collection from Marriott. The location is perfect for walking around downtown and it’s a nice, clean hotel with basic amenities and a friendly staff.
The weather was unseasonably warm so I really lucked out and was able to do quite a bit of exploring. I am not much for guided tours, however the architectural boat tour from Wendella is something I would highly recommend. The tour guides are knowledgeable and entertaining. While it wasn’t warm enough for actual beach time, I did start my day with a trip to Dark Matter for some coffee and then a walk over to the lake.
The food scene in Chicago never disappoints. If you have a chance to visit for Taste of Chicago, jump! I met up with a friend who lives in the city the day I checked out of the JW Marriott. We started off with some creative cocktails and great views at the rooftop bar at Apogee. Gilt Bar has a speakeasy style downstairs with clever cocktails as well as a great vegetarian menu and sidewalk seating in nice weather. I missed out on pizza this particular visit, however I am a fan of Bebu in Lincoln Park.
I am always a fan of a good dive bar and I was told I needed to check out Rossi’s. They open at 7AM so I made it a point to grab a breakfast pint before departing for the airport.