A distant view of the city streets near The Godfrey Chicago

THE BEST CHICAGO ATTRACTIONS ARE RIGHT HERE

Beginning first as an industrial area then transitioning to more of a warehouse district, River North turned into a neighborhood for struggling artists in the 1970s. As warehouses started to shut down, the studio spaces were quickly claimed by a variety of different artists, which has gradually been transformed into a trendy, cultural hub of eclectic art galleries, antique stores and boutique shops.

In addition to superb artworks of every kind, River North also has the highest concentration of restaurants in the city. Despite the neighborhood’s small size, it attracts a large number of visitors and locals alike each day. Bordering the Magnificent Mile and across the street from the Loop, River North is conveniently located for anyone interested in browsing a wide range of art, antiques and other wonderful treasures as well as top-notch eateries.

Experience Chicago

Dine, Experience & Explore Like a Local. Click Here for up to-date information on what's open in Chicago

Exterior view of DuSable Black History Museum near The Godfrey Chicago

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DuSable Museum of African American History
A Smithsonian Affiliate

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Pequod's Pizza

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Aire Ancient Baths

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Bordel

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Chicago History Museum

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Pinball machines in Emporium Arcade near The Godfrey Chicago

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Emporium Arcade Bar

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The Revival

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Harold's Chicken Shacks

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Experience Chicago like a Chicagoan

"She is always a novelty; For she is never the Chicago you saw when you passed through the last time.”
- MARK TWAIN

Lounge area on I|O Rooftop Lounge at The Godfrey Chicago

*Establishment is less than ten minutes (driving time) away. **Establishment is five or less minutes (driving time) away.

With a focus on education, conservation, and sustainability, the popular Shedd Aquarium offers over 32,000 animals for sightseeing. Hop on the Shoreline Water Taxi for a fun route in the summertime.

Other museum attractions to check out include The Field Museum*, the Art Institute of Chicago*, the Museum of Science and Industry, the Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago**, the Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum*, and more.

Sharpen your culinary skills and sign up for a cooking class at The Chopping Block** or Sur La Table**, which offer a range of culinary themes and easy online sign-ups.Partake in an active tour, like Chicago Running Tours, which features running and walking excursions while learning about popular landmarks or unexpected histories of the city.

It’s no secret that Chicago is known for its deep-dish pizza – secure a spot at Pequod’s Pizza* or Chicago Pizza & Oven Grinder** for the best pies in town.

Burger lovers will enjoy esteemed patties at Kuma’s Corner**, The Loyalist*, or Au Cheval*.

Other foodie must-try’s include fried chicken at Roister** or Harold’s Chicken Shack* and donuts from Do-Rite Donut**.

Those seeking a finer dining experience can opt for famed Michelin-starred restaurants around the city, like Oriole**, Blackbird**, Alinea**, Virtue and Yūgen**. Choose Chicago rounds up a complete list here including Bib Gourmand recipients.During the summer, Chicago offers many outdoor food festivals that are sure to delight all palates, including Chicago Gourmet, which features bites and beverages from top chefs, mixologists and sommeliers across the city.

Sit back and take in impressive city views with Chicago River Boat Architecture Tours** which feature in-depth, expert architectural-based river boat tours that delve into the Windy City.

Sweat, stretch, and take a deep breath during a yoga session at various studios around the city, including Yoga Loft Chicago** and Studio Three** in River North.Hit the sand and soak up some sun at one of the city’s many beaches, such as Oak Street Beach** or Foster Beach. AIRE Ancient Baths** offers a luxurious indoor water experience where guests can journey through traditional Roman, Greek, and Ottoman ancient baths.

Grab a couple drinks and laugh up the evening with live comedy shows at local theaters including Laugh Factory*, iO Theater*, The Comedy Bar**, and others.

Theater and music lovers can see shows at the iconic Chicago Theatre* marquee, the Lyric Opera of Chicago**, or the Chicago Symphony Orchestra*.

Millennium Park* features its Summer Film Series where guests can bring their own snacks, beverages, and blanket for free curated movie screenings.

The city has seemingly endless speakeasies to uncover for sipping on house crafted cocktails – some of our favorites are Moneygun**, Bordel**, Three Dots and a Dash*, and The Violet Hour*.

Look up stranger tours from Weird Chicago Tours** to learn about all things ghosts, gangsters, mystery and mayhem around the city.

Turtle races? Check! Old-school watering hole Big Joe’s offers turtle races every Friday night with beer and bar games.

THE BEST CHICAGO ATTRACTIONS ARE RIGHT HERE

Experience Chicago

DuSable Museum of African American History A Smithsonian Affiliate

Pequod's Pizza

Aire Ancient Baths

Bordel

Chicago History Museum

Emporium Arcade Bar

The Revival

Harold's Chicken Shacks

Experience Chicago like a Chicagoan

Learn Something New

Eat Something Delicious

Do Something Relaxing

See Something Entertaining

Discover Something Lesser Known

DuSable Museum of African American History
A Smithsonian Affiliate