Chicago Like a Local blog

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

Latest Posts

Architecture & history

Explore Chicago’s historic Pullman and Roseland neighborhoods

For me, it’s like taking a trip down memory lane. I was born and raised in the West Pullman neighborhood of Chicago, went to high…

Blog

Freehand Chicago hotel: laid back style on a budget

Freehand Chicago is located in the heart of River North, where you can find some of Chicago’s best restaurants, shops, and bustling nightlife. The funky…

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…

LGBTQ+, Tours & attractions

What to eat, drink, and do in Northalsted (aka Boystown)

Northalsted (also known as Boystown) is known around the world as the oldest official recognized gay neighborhood in the country.

Arts, culture & entertainment, Free & cheap

10 things you shouldn’t miss at Chicago’s Millennium Park Campus

The Millennium Park Campus is the heart of Chicago. Locals and visitors alike gather here to picnic in the grass, cool off in the fountain,…

Tours & attractions

Here’s all the baby animals at Chicago zoos this summer

There’s been a baby boom at Chicago zoos this summer. The city’s newest residents are also some of its cutest, from rare newborn rhinos to…

Tours & attractions

2 Chicago-area Wright buildings named UNESCO World Heritage sites

The Chicagoland area is now home to two UNESCO World Heritage sites. The Robie House in Chicago’s Hyde Park and the Unity Temple in nearby…

Tours & attractions

3 Chicago pop-up museums to check out

The pop-up phenomenon has been taking Chicago by storm. These limited-edition experiences span almost every industry, from retail to restaurants to full-on museums. And the…

Festivals

Behind the smoke: Meet the Windy City Smokeout pitmasters

Chicago is known for our food scene, and that extends to our festivals. The annual Windy City Smokeout (July 12 –14) brings some of the world’s…

Sports & recreation

Chicago sporting events this summer: 5 not to miss

Chicago is America’s best sports city, and this summer is the perfect time to experience it for yourself. The season is packed with world-class sports…

Theater & dance

Experience immersive theatre at Southern Gothic in Chicago

Imagine being invited to a dinner party where everything goes wrong. That’s the general premise of the Chicago play Southern Gothic, an innovative theatrical experience at the…