Chicago — Chicago winters test you, but summer rewards you—lakefront and riverside walks, rooftops, and sunsets that make all the cold days worth it.
It’s in the heart of the action in the West Loop / Fulton Market, which is the most vibrant neighborhood in Chicago (this is not up for serious debate). The Hoxton is literally steps away from some of the city's best restaurants, bars, and coffee shops, and the hotel itself is part of that scene. It’s trendy, but more than that, it’s a trendsetter.
It doesn’t just exist in the West Loop / Fulton Market; it reflects and drives the neighborhood’s energy.
This is taken directly from a Google review I agree with in all respects: “The food at Aba was so delicious. Every dish was packed with flavor and beautifully presented. The outdoor seating is absolutely stunning with amazing views—such a peaceful and beautiful setting to enjoy a meal. The service was great. The bathrooms smelled like Le Labo fragrances—such a chic and luxurious touch. Everything about this place felt elevated and thoughtfully done.”
Food, ambiance, and location!
Great atmosphere. Nice decor. Oh, and excellent food and the service to match.
Just fantastic. Fantastic location in the heart of the West Loop. Fantastic food. Fantastic service.
When people ask where to go to eat like a Chicagoan, I always steer them toward Jim’s Original. While living in the city, few things satisfied me, like their Polish sausages, especially late at night. The perfectly cooked sausage, soft hot dog roll, zing of mustard, and light sweetness of the caramelized onions (and the hot pepper, if you’re brave) hit just right–every time. Jim’s is more than just a food stand. It’s an important part of Chicago’s culture. Whether I was grabbing something on the go during the day or making a pit stop after hours, it never missed. It’s simple food, but always worth the stop.
Iconic.
I generally like to get to know a city by getting off the beaten touristy path. However, this is one tourist attraction I kept returning to even as a Chicago resident, and I continue to recommend it to any visitor! The architecture boat tour is a perfect blend of cultural storytelling and leisure (with booze), and it provides the best skyline views if you select the option that goes out on the lake. It's such a fun and memorable way to understand—and fall in love with—Chicago’s architectural spirit. During the day, it is fun; at night, it's even better!
Views of Chicago’s gorgeous skyline.
Shopping on the Magnificent Mile is a quintessential Chicago experience. It is packed with flagship stores, boutiques, bars, restaurants, and outdoor beauty all in one stretch in the heart of downtown. Even if you’re just window shopping (the Rolex store is a personal favorite), the energy is fun, and there is even better people-watching. Grab an iced coffee from what I believe is the world’s largest Starbucks or a scoop of ice cream, stroll the avenue, and have an afternoon. Check out the beautiful glass, riverside Apple Store, and be sure to bring your wallet!
A bit of everything.
Grew up in Philly, leveled up in Chicago. Lawyer by day, food explorer always.