“Eventually, I think Chicago will be the most beautiful great city left in the world”-Frank Lloyd Wright.
Chicago is a beautiful city and is only about a 3 hour drive from Terre Haute, Indiana. The drive is a bit boring but there is nothing like passing through the Illinois corn fields lined with giant robotic turbines that catch your eye. The aggravating traffic is surely something no one misses about the city, but once you’ve reached your destination it’s really hard to believe a city like this exists and people actually live with this bustle on a daily basis. Chi-town has always been on my radar, since I have friends who’ve chosen to reside in the city and deal with their terrible winters. of which I wouldn’t wish on my worst enemy. But their Summers, are something to dream about. The city comes alive when the sun finally peaks out and let me tell you, it is glorious!
Our first stop on our trek through Chicago is the downtown area. This area is what most of us tourists or out-of-townees consider Chicago when we speak of it. Smack dab in the middle of Chicago where all the best shopping is & the fanciest hotels is this beautiful eatery called Fig & Olive. Fig & Olive is an Instagrammers dream & the food is definitely something to brag about. The restaurant also has locations in New York, LA, Newport Beach, D.C., & Houston so if you aren’t in Chicago you can try it out at another fabulous spot. The restaurant features Mediterranean cuisine, concentrating on the freshest and simplest ingredients. The ambiance of the space features a ton of natural light, outdoor terraces, & olive trees galore. I chose an option off the menu that was light but something the restaurant was known for, their crostinis. The crostinis were delectable and the perfect choice for a lunch item. I washed it all down with a refreshing peach sangria, that I would recommend to anyone who loves a great Summer drink.
Next stop the Pilsen neighborhood for the most delicious lox on the Southwest side of Chicago. Cafe Jumping Bean is located on the corner of 18th street and Bishop. Located inside of a beautiful building with pink & purple windows, this cafe sits in the arts district and offers its customers a healthy menu of fresh ingredients and specialty coffee drinks. The coffeehouse is also a gallery space so check out the walls if you go inside. All of their items are reasonably priced, which is a plus for this area of town.
Let’s take a break from all the food Chicago has to offer & take a look at one of the most fabulous beaches near the Edgewater neighborhood. Kathy Osterman Beach also known as Hollywood Beach is situated in the northernmost tip of Lincoln Park. This beach is a famous spot for the LGBT community and is filled with attractive, sleek, & oiled men. Although about 98% of them were looking at each other and not me, it was a refreshing change of scenery. The beach-goers at Hollywood beach know how to have a good time and that’s what matters most. I suggest posting up near the bathroom & concessions so you don’t have to pee in the ocean if it’s not your thing. Grab a spot early because this beach fills up by midday. 
If you are looking for a few places to enjoy some cocktails and take a break from the heat of the city, I’ve got you! Forbidden Root Restaurant & Brewery is located in the Wicker Park district of Chicago. Forbidden Root is the first botanical brewery in Chicago. The founder Robert Finkel wanted to create a true-brewed root beer, hence the name. More than just a brewpub, they offer fresh and seasonal dishes that highlight their craft beers and elevate your dining experience. Also can we talk about their cheese & crackers plate coming with a whole Ritz sleeve of crackers, NAILED IT!
Lastly, stop into Park & Field on Logan Square if you want to see and be seen by the young hip crowd of Chicago. Park & Field is a vintage sports club & eatery aiming to integrate the old with the new. Modeled after a turn of the century gymnasium & with one of the largest patios in Chicago, this spot is the place to be. Park & Field has over 6,000 square feet of bonfire pits, bocce ball courts, & outdoor seating. This restaurant was also named the most Instagrammed interior of 2017, the asthetic and decor is gorgeous in itself. Their Frosé (frozen rosé with strawberries) was the best part of my whole trip. 
Until next time!
