Chicago Like a Local blog

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

Latest blog posts

Family, Hotels

Deck the halls! 8 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 elaborate gingerbread…

Published on November 25, 2019 by Amy Bizzarri

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, Free & cheap, Holidays, Special events

Your guide to The Magnificent Mile Lights Festival 2019

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 July 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, Hotels, Sports & recreation

Chicago’s top 5 kid-friendly hotel pools

Traveling moms and dads know that a good hotel swimming pool is key to a fun family vacation. Forget seeing all the sights in town:…

Published on July 19, 2017 by Amy Bizzarri

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