Chicago Like a Local blog

Unique perspectives on the city from the people who live here.

Latest Posts

A new music festival will take over the Art Institute this winter

Cold weather calls for cool music. Midwinter, a new three-day music festival, will takeover the Art Institute of Chicago from Feb. 15 – 17. The…

Published on January 22, 2019 by Dan Morgridge

Romance blooms at Chicago’s lovebird-led restaurants

There’s no better was to celebrate Valentine’s Day than an intimate dinner for two. And there’s really nothing more fitting than booking a favorite Chicago restaurant…

Published on January 17, 2019 by Amber Gibson

Take a dip at The Beach Chicago at Navy Pier

WHAT: The Beach Chicago WHEN: Jan. 19 – Feb. 3, 2019 WHERE: Navy Pier, 600 E. Grand Ave. Ready to hit the beach…in January…in Chicago? Yes, you…

Published on January 14, 2019 by Amy Bizzarri

Chicago pizza: 12 must-try local spots

Chicago is known for so many iconic dishes, and perhaps one of the most famous is our one-of-a-kind pizza scene. The city is home to…

Published on December 26, 2018 by Kelsey O'Connor

Winter at Navy Pier: 8 things to do

If you think Navy Pier only shines in the summertime, think again: Chicago’s top family tourist attraction is just as wonderful in the winter. From…

Published on December 20, 2018 by Amy Bizzarri

5 holiday date night ideas in Chicago

The hardest time of year to get out of the house can also be the most rewarding (and romantic). Just because it’s snowy out there doesn’t…

Published on December 10, 2018 by Dan Morgridge

7 great books set in Chicago

Chicago has been the backdrop of both modern and classic literary works. And in many cases, the city acts as both the setting and a…

Published on November 26, 2018 by Amy Bizzarri

14 Chicago neighborhood bars where you can drink like a local

There are neighborhood bars in every corner of the Chicago, from basement dives to old-school taverns. The one thing they all have in common? They’re…

Published on October 29, 2018 by Kelsey O'Connor

Explore Chicago’s hidden underground

There’s so much to see on the streets of Chicago. But most people never see what’s lurking just below the surface. The city hides layers…

Published on October 18, 2018 by Choose Chicago

Arts, culture & entertainment, Free & cheap

The best cheap things to do in Chicago for Halloween

The spookiest season of the year can also get pretty expensive. Whether it’s splurging on the perfect costume or shelling out for a bar package,…

Published on October 11, 2018 by Kelsey O'Connor

Two of Chicago’s most historic hotels are also its most haunted. While guests at the Congress Plaza and The Drake enjoy luxury, comfort and meticulous attention to detail, they also revel in ghostly lore – particularly during Halloween season.

Published on October 8, 2018 by Timothy Inklebarger

Architecture & history

8 haunted Chicago sights you probably didn’t know about

Chicago is heir to a bevy of spine-tingling ghost stories, from the Congress Hotel, reportedly one of the most haunted hotels in the country, to the site of the Valentine’s Day Massacre.

Published on October 1, 2018 by Choose Chicago