Searching for the perfect honeymoon locale? Look no further than these great American cities!
CHICAGO
Home to deep-dish pizza and world-class museums, urban beaches and vibrant neighborhoods,Chicago has been a traveler’s favorite since long before Ferris Bueller led a parade through its streets or Oprah made it her home. In recent years, the city has also become something of a foodie hub, as celebrity chefs have rolled into town, as well as a draw for architecture and music fans.
The lobby of Chicago's chic James Hotel. (Photo Courtesy of The James Hotel).
BY DAY: Chicago’s tour options are endless—and very specific. Visitors can explore by boat, bike, bus, Segway, foot or trolley, and focus on topics like food, history, music or sports. Along with the classic Chicago River Architecture Tour, a 75-minute sail past some of the city’s most iconic buildings, we love the Chicago Greeter program, which pairs visitors up with locals for free walking tours. Other highlights include window shopping along the Magnificent Mile, taking in an exhibit at The Art Institute of Chicago or the Museum of Modern Art, and soaking up the vibe in Grant Park or the Lincoln Park Conservatory.
WHERE TO EAT: First, get the signature foods out of the way: For cheesy, gut-filling deep-dish pizza, favorites include Gino’s East, Lou Malnati’s and the original Pizzeria Uno. For Chicago-style hot dogs—first introduced here by pushcart vendors during the Great Depression—locals like Superdawg on Milwaukee Avenue, Vienna Beef Company (which has a restaurant and gift shop) and Hot Doug’s, where the specials may include duck sausage wieners. Chicago also has more AAA five-diamond restaurants than any other U.S. city, so be sure to save room for a splurge at the French-inspired Tru, or at Everest, on the 40th floor of the Chicago Stock Exchange.
AT NIGHT: In the center of town, the swank Crimson Lounge sets the mood with velvet couches, flickering candles and an extensive martini menu. Pops for Champagne has been a longtime fave for its list of over 125 types of bubbly and the no-cover live jazz, offered Sunday through Tuesday. If the weather’s good, sip a cocktail on the 16th-floor Terrace at the Trump Chicago, which boasts views of the Wrigley Clock Tower and Lake Michigan.
WHERE TO STAY: A classic choice, The Peninsula Chicago, continues to deliver with its relaxed, elegant service, spacious rooms (many with panoramic city views) and acclaimed restaurants and bars. After a day spent exploring, the ESPA Spa, with its pampering treatments and cushy relaxation lounge, can’t be beat (rooms start at $675 a night; peninsula.com). Just off Michigan Avenue, and near many major attractions, The James Chicago puts a contemporary twist on luxury with its modern, art-focused design, cozy, streamlined rooms, and perks like complimentary downtown car service (room rates start at $159 a night; jameshotel.com).
