Chicago Like a Local blog

Unique perspectives on the city from the people who live here.

Latest blog posts

Blog, Family

Chicago summer fun bucket list for families

This summer in Chicago is going to be epic. After months of being cooped up at home, Chicago has fully reopened for everyone to enjoy.…

Published on July 12, 2021 by Amy Bizzarri

Blog, Family, Tours & attractions

What’s new at Navy Pier: reopening plans and more

After a winter hiatus, Chicago’s iconic Navy Pier is back just in time for summer. Located on scenic Lake Michigan, Navy Pier offers stunning skyline…

Published on April 27, 2021 by Amy Bizzarri

Blog, Family, Hotels, Special events

Deck the halls! 9 holiday hotels in Chicago

Chicago’s hotels go above and beyond when it comes to decking the halls every holiday season, making for a magical winter getaway. From festive decor…

Published on December 7, 2020 by Amy Bizzarri

Blog, Dining, Family, Hotels, Sponsored, Tours & attractions

Explore Chicago’s North Shore

Chicago’s North Shore is the perfect base for a trip to Chicago. Bordering the city along the shores of Lake Michigan, the North Shore is…

Family, Hotels, Sponsored

Experience the Village of Burr Ridge

Located just 20 miles southwest of Chicago along I-55 lies Burr Ridge, recently named the city’s #1 suburb by Movoto. Burr Ridge makes for a…

Blog, Family, Sponsored, Tours & attractions

Experience Skydeck Chicago

Make memories at the extraordinary Skydeck Chicago, the highest observation deck in the United States and voted one of TripAdvisor’s Top Ten World’s Most Popular…

Arts, culture & entertainment, Family, Museums, Sponsored

Discover the Art Institute of Chicago

Founded in 1879, the Art Institute of Chicago is one of the world’s great art museums, housing an extraordinary collection of objects from across places,…

Blog, Family, Festivals & special events, Holidays, Special events

Your guide to The Magnificent Mile Lights Festival

The holiday season is always an exciting time in Chicago. With countless events across multiple neighborhoods, there are so many ways to celebrate. One event…

Published on October 31, 2019 by Zoe Krey

Family

8 family-friendly things to do in Chicago this fall

While summer is coming to a close, your family fun in Chicago doesn’t have to end. A new season brings a fresh roster of kid-friendly…

Published on September 12, 2019 by Zoe Krey

Arts, culture & entertainment, Family

Beat the clock: The best escape rooms in Chicago

The idea of being locked in a room for 60 minutes may not scream “fun!” for everyone. However, escape rooms are gaining popularity across the…

Published on August 19, 2019 by Yvette Jaskiewicz

Family

It’s not too late for a summer staycation in Chicago

Chicago shines in the summertime. Beach days at Lake Michigan, patio dining, music festivals, Cubs games, and blue skies are just a few of my…

Published on June 16, 2019 by Amy Bizzarri

Arts, culture & entertainment, Family, Museums

5 Chicago museum sleepovers for knowledge-hungry kids

Imagine slumbering with sharks, dozing with Dinosaurs, or bedding down with butterflies. Kids aged 6-12 and their families can do just that at these five Chicago museums.…

Published on September 17, 2018 by Judy Giannetto

Family, Free & cheap, Tours & attractions

7 things you didn’t know about Lincoln Park Zoo

Chicago’s Lincoln Park Zoo is a popular destination for tourists, and is also a local hangout. It’s an especially nice place to spend time when…

Published on September 19, 2017 by Maddy Osman

Family, Free & cheap, Sports & recreation, Tours & attractions

5 things you didn’t know about the Lakefront Trail

If you haven’t been to the Lakefront Trail in Chicago, you’re missing a lot of natural beauty (all FREE for everyone to enjoy), efficient transportation…

Published on July 5, 2017 by Maddy Osman