If you already know the best ways to get around Chicago, we’ll assume you’re already familiar with most popular landmarks of Windy City. Even on the occasion that you’re not, but you still don’t want to follow the crowd of tourists from Chicago Art Institute to Millennium Park, from Cloud Gate to Magnificent Mile, or any other famous location, here are some alternatives you’ll enjoy.
In case you’re one of the people who prefer take the road less traveled, we roamed the depths of the internet, in hopes of finding a few fantastic places in Chicagoland which aren’t very “touristy” but nevertheless deserve to be labeled as the must sees they are .
Remember, you can always venture outside of the city lines, all the way to Naperville, Lemont, Hinsdale, Burr Ridge to Schaumburg, Barrington, Arlington Heights or anywhere else in wider Chicago area, and AJ Limo Chicago will gladly drive you there if you opt for a trusty livery service near me. However, with the assumption that you prefer to remain within the confines of the Chicagoland, but still yearn to see something that is not on every tourist pamphlet, read on and create your own adventure!
Northerly Island
1400 South Lynn White Dr.
Some have claimed that this parcel of land has the best skyline anywhere. Just a few steps from the city you can find your safe haven with its lovely beaches perfect for fishing, and beautiful hiking spots. If you’re a nature lover don’t forget to spot by! From time to time you have an option to attend really cool concerts here, so we’ll be on the lookout for that too.
Neo-futurists
5153 North Ashland Ave.
Want to experience something fun and new? Are you a fan of improv, and honest stories no matter how sad or happy? If you answered affirmatively then you simply must give a chance to this avant-garde theatre! With every performance, the ensemble tries to capture 30 plays in 60 minutes, that’s like 2 minutes a play on average, so the whole act is fast paced and never boring.
Chicago Photography Center
3301 North Lincoln Ave.
Count on this non-profit organization to satisfy all of your photo-curiosity. Whether you wish to learn how to produce wonderful pictures, master the art of photographic printing, or just look at beautiful and impactful works of other students, instructors and invited artist’, give it a go and see how far will the shutter take you.
Black Dog
859 North Damen Ave.
If you’re bored with the same old *chocolate or vanilla* choice when it comes to ice-cream, it would be a terrible shame if didn’t try some of the combinations which this artisanal gelato place offers. Flavors like strawberry balsamic, blueberry french toast, sesame fig chocolate chip are a completely normal part of the menu here.
Disclaimer: Yes, we know that ice-cream and gelato are not the same things. Turns out, that gelato is made from milk (not cream) and contains less of the unhealthy ingredients (like sugar, fat, and eggs, ergo = has lower calorie count), but is still creamier. Who would have thought?!
Germantown
*officially Lincoln Square, but locals call it Germantown
This is one of Chicago’s 77 well-defined community areas. It was founded by two brothers of German descent back in the 1840s, and you still can notice remains of this Germanic influences throughout the neighborhood. However, since those days Germantown has evolved and today it’s an interesting mix of contemporary influences and old-school charm. Give it whirl, you won’t regret it.
Redhead Piano Bar
16 West Ontario St.
After a long day of exploring the not-so-touristy side of Chicago, you deserve to take a breather in the best piano bar in town! If you like good jamming sessions until the early morning light with a well-made cocktail in your hand, don’t let the Redhead Piano Bar slip your mind!
In case your feet need on your way there (or back to your hotel), AJ Limo Chicago stands at your disposal. Enjoy your unusual tour of Windy City and let us know which of the hidden sports are your favorite!