11 Hidden Gems In Chicago Most People Don't Know Even Exist
By Elizabeth Crozier|Published August 15, 2017
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Elizabeth Crozier
Author
An Illinois transplant who grew up and went to school in Indiana for 22 years, Elizabeth holds a BFA in creative writing and has enjoyed traveling across the country and parts of Europe. She has visited half of the states, as well as parts of Canada, Mexico, and the Caribbean, and regularly travels home to the Hoosier State to see friends and family. With more than five years of writing experience, Elizabeth’s articles have been featured on several websites, and her poetry and short stories have been published in multiple literary journals.
Big cities are full of little-known, back-alley, underground secrets – and Chicago is no exception. From restaurants to parks, you may be surprised to find that there is so much more to do here than you originally thought. If you’ve already done all the popular attractions, try these 11 hidden gems.
Whether you’ve lived here all your life or just enjoy the occasional visit, you’re about to find something you didn’t know about the Windy City. Keep scrolling for more details…
Located in River North, this hip hotel features a fresh and modern design and is located close to downtown. Guests enjoy free coffee delivered to their rooms in the mornings and have several different sleeping options.
2. Chicago Pizza & Oven Grinder - 2121 N Clark Street
Opened in 1972, this much-loved restaurant is best known for its pizza pot pie, which is served in a bread bowl-like crust filled with homemade sauce made from fresh tomatoes and peppers, then topped with melted cheese. They also serve grinders, which are like pizza sandwiches.
Using all-natural cooking methods (which means no electricity or gas), this joint uses old fashioned methods to produce the best BBQ chicken, brisket, ribs, pulled pork, and burgers around. You can also get sides like cornbread, potato salad, and mac and cheese.
This budget-friendly venue embraces that thing Shakespeare said about the world being a stage. Actors play themselves and tell their own stories, so the shows are authentic, unique, and excellently unpredictable.
This super secret, hidden gem features sparkling wines from around the world. Enter through the alley where you'll find a charming outdoor patio. Guests may also enjoy the romantic and intimate candlelit interior, as well as the raw bar.
Located in Chicago's business district, this trail of bridges, concourses, and tunnels is a magnificent part of the city. It helps people get to work, restaurants, shops, and attractions, especially in rain or snow.
Like most Chicago parks, this fabulous place is open daily until 11:00 p.m. It is a project that continues to expand to include new play equipment regularly. It features several playgrounds, gardens, mazes, and other fun things to climb on and slide down.
8. 9th Level of the Harold Washington Library - 400 S State Street
This lovely glass top atrium is the perfect spot to spend a morning or afternoon in contemplation or reading a good book. It can also be rented out for events like weddings and corporate meetings.
Located inside an old brick building, this large stock of literature, children's books, magazines, and newspapers is a hidden gem worth regular visits. It also has a sister location that sells scholarly titles.
11. Baha'i House of Worship - 100 Linden Ave, Wilmette
As one of only eight structures of its type, this temple is the oldest surviving Baha'i House. It is popular for its incredible architecture, stunning dome, and intricate carvings.
Which of these hidden attractions have you been to? Do you know of other awesome secret spots to explore? Share your experiences and photos with us below!
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