A Couple’s Guide to Chicago

Chicago is the perfect place to visit for a quick weekend trip or a longer stay with your significant other. Whether you want to celebrate an anniversary or just want to have fun together out on the town, there are plenty of safe and enjoyable things to do in Chicago. You never know—this trip could be your favorite vacation yet. With so many fun and exciting attractions open in Chicago this spring, we’ve compiled a list to assist you and your partner with having the best possible trip while in the city. Here is our ultimate couple’s guide to visiting Chicago this year.

Experience the Immersive Van Gogh exhibit

Experience art like never before—lose yourself in 500,000 cubic feet of flawless projections animating Vincent van Gogh’s artwork. Wander through entrancing, moving images that highlight his paintings’ brush strokes, detail, and color. You will be immersed in Van Gogh’s works, from his sunny landscapes and night scenes to his portraits and still life paintings. The installation includes Van Gogh’s The Potato Eaters, Starry Night, Sunflowers, and The Bedroom.

Spend the night at a boutique hotel

Spend your night at a luxury hotel in the city. You and your significant other can order room service and enjoy the hotel’s selection of drinks and delicious food. It can be especially exciting to stay at a hotel with fun features and amenities. Hotel EMC2 has hotel rooms that have both science and art fixtures, from artwork to whimsical touches like open-glass WetLabs. The hotel even has robots named Leo and Cleo who assist guests by bringing them things such as water bottles and towels. 

Explore the Garfield Park Conservatory

You can visit a lush, green jungle while visiting Chicago with your special someone. The Garfield Park Conservatory features 2 acres under glass, so you’ll be able to spend a good amount of time wandering through palm trees and the varied collections of cacti and succulents. Many Instagrammers flock to this colorful paradise because it houses beautiful flora and fauna to take pictures in front of. So, grab your camera, and get ready to be enveloped in a tropical utopia.

Watch Art on theMART

If you and your partner have a free evening while in the city, head over to the Chicago Riverwalk to experience the largest permanent digital art projection in the world. Art on theMART relaunched this spring with the world premiere of Astrographics, which was developed in collaboration with the Adler Planetarium. The light and sound show is projected on the riverfront facade of the landmark Merchandise Mart nightly at 8:30 and 9 p.m. all season long. 

Bike the Lakefront Trail

If you and your partner like spending time outdoors and an adrenaline rush from physical activity, then this activity is perfect for both of you. Select a starting point along Lake Shore Trail near Lake Michigan and rent a Divvy bike—there are various Divvy bike rental stations alongside the trail. Now, it’s time to start pedaling! Many people enjoy this activity in the spring and summer because the weather is warm and it’s an easy way to sightsee. While you’re riding your bike, depending on which direction you go, you’ll have views of Navy Pier, various beaches and parks, Lake Michigan, and the city skyline. This activity won’t disappoint with sweeping skyline views and an enjoyable cruise along Lake Michigan. 

Go to Happy Hour at the Albert

When you need a break from exploring the city in the evening, stop by with your partner for a drink at the Albert during Happy Hour. Located in Streeterville, the Albert has a striking atmosphere with thousands of books lining the walls, as well as unique artwork. The ambiance of the restaurant provides the ideal place to spend Happy Hour, as well as a delicious dining experience if you and your partner want to try signature and innovative dishes. Happy Hour at the Albert is from Thursday to Saturday, from 4:00 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. 

Visit The Art Institute of Chicago

One of the most exciting art museums in the city is the Art Institute of Chicago. This spring, you’ll be able to see an exhibit by Monet at the museum, the first exhibition to explore Chicago’s pioneering connection with the great Impressionist artist. Or, you can explore Bisa Butler’s Portraits exhibit that vividly captures personal and historical narratives of Black life. If you are an art fanatic, then you won’t want to miss the opportunity to spend your trip exploring one of the world’s great art museums.

Planning your visit

Whether you choose to visit Chicago now or later on in the future, you’ll have a unique and thrilling experience, especially if you bring your significant other with you. After you’ve selected your travel dates, you’ll need to decide where you’ll stay on your trip. Consider booking a hotel located in the heart of the city, close to nearly everything. Next up, pack your bags with essentials like comfortable walking shoes and a face covering to keep you safe and healthy. Now you’re ready for your upcoming trip to Chicago filled with breathtaking adventures and spectacular sights. 

Need a place to stay when visiting Chicago? Book your reservation here.