No matter what brings you to the Windy City after a few days of sightseeing, shopping or taking in a game, you’re going to need a place to chill, relax and hang-out for a few well-deserved moments. The chances are that if you’re on vacation you’re going to be traveling with like-minded people however, what if you’re not? What happens when the ideal hang-out is completely different for every member of your group?
In order to provide a little something for everyone, below are a few tantalising tasters to get you in the mood for hanging-out in Chicago and from hip and happening bars to fun and funky coffee shops, this is a must for families, student groups and cool couples alike.
Caffeine
Bridgeport Coffee House
As relaxed hang-outs go Bridgeport is up there with the best of them, however if you’re in the mood for some essential lap-top catching up time then you’ll find your very own lounge from where to explore the world. Named as the best coffee shop in Timeout Chicago as well as being a champion of charitable causes, Bridgeport on 3101 South Morgan is a complete and utter hang-out heaven.
The Wormhole
Located on 1462 N Milwaukee Ave, the Wormhole presents not just a coffee shop but more an insight into the hearts and minds of the quirky and friendly staff and owners. From 80’s retro furniture to geek chic of the highest order this is the place to be for the young and the reckless inhabitants of Chicago. Vintage everything, Peanut Butter Koopa Troopers and the best darn soy vanilla latte in the city – need I say more?!
Alcohol
Emporium Arcade Bar
Wicker Park neighborhood is primarily a haven for antiques junkies however, something new has emerged to place it on a far more contemporary nostalgia map. The Emporium Arcade Bar is full of classic arcade games and as soon as you swap your cash for tokens you’ll have your pick of Donkey Kong, Super Mario and Mortal Kombat to name but a few. Serves Midwestern beers in a low-key atmosphere surrounded by arcade machines – what’s not to like?
Drumbar
If you find yourself heading down East Delaware Place and happen to arrive at the Raffaello Hotel then look up, approx 200ft, and you’ll be standing directly beneath Chicago’s newest designer roof terrace and bar. Cocktails, beers, liquors and wines, whatever floats your boat can be found with a beautiful cityscape view to boot. Relax, unwind and take a load off because the Drumbar is an essential hang-out that’s literally head and shoulders above the rest.
Nature
The Shedd Aquarium
Aquariums are just perfect for rainy days and as Chicago tends to have more than its fair share then it’s a good job the Shedd is on hand to give you an enthralling day’s worth of underwater fun. Perfect for student travel tours, family groups or cultural couples, this is an awesome introduction to the delights of the deep with galleries such as: Amazon Rising, Caribbean Reef and Jellies providing a rich blend of education, fun and fascination.
The Notebaert Nature Museum
If you thought Chicago was all about those skyscrapers and jaw-dropping cityscapes then think again because dotted throughout are little pockets where you can experience the natural world. One such wildlife oasis is the Notebaert Nature Museum on Cannon Drive in Lincoln Park. This is a fabulous venue for discovering more about the local ecology and includes: a butterfly farm, a wilderness walk and plenty of hands-on exhibits.
Biog: Nicola is well on her way to falling in love with Chicago and can’t wait to suggest it as a venue for her next student travel tours.
Quirky Places To Hang-out In Chicago
