Chicago has no shortage of famous landmarks, but some of the best places in the city are the ones you won’t find on every travel itinerary. Whether you’ve lived here for years or are looking to find a home in Chi Town, there’s always another neighborhood, restaurant, or local spot to check out. We asked Chicago locals to share the hidden gems and unique places they think everyone should experience.
1. Hidden gems in the Loop neighborhood
As the city center of Chicago, the Loop neighborhood is full of unique things to do. From great eats to high-rises and attractions, the Loop has it all.
“When in the city, ditch the car in a garage and rent a Divvy bike to cruise between Chicago’s most iconic attractions along the lakefront,” the team at Chicago Real Estate Media shares. “When you are ready for a break, hop on a Chicago Water Taxi to navigate the city via the river or take an architectural tour. It is an incredibly fun, active way to skip the traffic and see the city’s famous architecture from every possible angle. Bonus: Take an evening tour to see the city in all its glory.”
Need a coffee buzz? Head over to Hero Coffee Bar
Hero Coffee Bar on Jackson and State is an excellent hidden gem in Chicago. Do you want to find Diagon Alley in the Windy City? “Look no further than this adorable cobblestone alley that isn’t easy to find – and don’t miss out on the Fairy Godmother latte with honey and lavender. It’s located in one of the oldest buildings in the city, an old stable that survived the Great Chicago Fire,” Megan with Color & Curiosity shares.
Explore the Chicago Art Institute South Garden
The Chicago Art Institute South Garden is truly a hidden gem. “It’s right on Michigan Avenue next to one of the most iconic museums in America, and no one knows it’s there. It’s a stunning, tranquil oasis and transports you from the Midwest to Italy in just a few steps,” Maura with Maura Black Photography details.
2. Hidden gems in South Loop
South Loop is one of those neighborhoods where there’s always something nearby. Between the parks, museums, lakefront trails, and local restaurants, it’s easy to fill a day without leaving the area.
For art lovers, check out the Wabash Arts Corridor
Stretching from just north of Harrison Street down to 16th Street between Michigan and State is the Wabash Arts Corridor. It includes dozens of murals hidden on buildings and alleyways from various students of Columbia College, as well as visiting and local muralists. “There are a variety of cultures, influences, and styles scattered here. If you’ve never checked it out, grab an electric scooter or bike on a sunny day, take a look, and finish the trip off at Aurelio’s on Roosevelt for some pizza,” Bane with Lock Chicago recommends.
3. Hidden Gems in the Streeterville and Gold Coast neighborhoods
It’s easy to spend an afternoon in Streeterville or the Gold Coast without ever making it to the places locals actually recommend. These are a few neighborhood favorites that are worth adding to your list. “At Ryan Corporate Housing, we place guests in some of Chicago’s most iconic neighborhoods, and even well-known areas like Streeterville, Gold Coast, and River North have hidden layers most visitors never discover,” the team at Ryan Corporate Housing shares.
“In Streeterville, the lakefront path north of Navy Pier offers stunning skyline views without the crowds, and the Museum of Contemporary Art sits just steps away from Michigan Avenue but is perpetually undervisited. Gold Coast’s quieter side streets are lined with some of the city’s best-preserved historic greystones, and the neighborhood’s local restaurants along Rush and State streets offer a more intimate dining scene than the tourist corridor suggests.”
4. Hidden gems in the River North neighborhood
As a former industrial district, the River North neighborhood is now a popular destination for those looking to move. The area has everything a resident needs, with many shops and restaurants all within walking distance.
“River North goes well beyond its gallery district reputation; tucked between the high-rises are independent coffee shops, chef-driven neighborhood spots, and rooftop terraces with views that remind you exactly why people never want to leave Chicago,” the team at Ryan Corporate Housing concludes.
Opt for a late-night cocktail in a speakeasy
A great hidden gem in Chicago is none other than the speakeasy-like lounge and music venue, Untitled. “There is something so special about being in River North, walking through the massive doors not knowing what to expect, then walking in to be introduced to the best vibes that are seriously irreplaceable. Try an infamous Manhattan or Old Fashioned cocktail,” Tamika with Bottle Rocket Media explains.
5. A hidden gem in the Wrigleyville neighborhood
Wrigleyville is home to the historic Wrigley Field, the second-oldest ballpark in the country. The neighborhood is also full of many unique restaurants, bars, and other hidden gems that are usually filled with locals, even when it’s not baseball season.
Enjoy a local favorite at the Music Box Theatre
Entering the Music Box Theatre on the north side is like being transported back in time. Mark, of Mark Toland Mind Reader, shares that, “this hidden gem in Chicago has special events that include holiday sing-a-longs, monthly midnight showings of Rocky Horror Picture Show, and screenings of new movies. Plus, they frequently showcase classic films on actual film, which is a mind-blowing movie viewing experience.”
6. A hidden gem in the Lincoln Square neighborhood
Founded by German immigrants, Lincoln Square brings a bit of Germany to the Windy City. The area is full of independently owned boutiques and specialty shops, alongside many restaurants and bars serving traditional German fare.
Get lost in a good book at The Book Cellar
The shelves in The Book Cellar are always stocked with the best reads – from bestsellers to quirky finds. “While you’re browsing, you can even sip on a glass of wine from their café. Plus, it’s an excellent spot for connecting with your community. They host the best author events with local and national writers and coordinate various unique book clubs,” Stephanie of Stephanie Storey unveils.
7. A hidden gem in the Portage Park neighborhood
Located on the northwest side of Chicago, Portage Park is Chicago’s largest Polish neighborhood. The area is named for its well-known park and is home to the National Veterans Art Museum, where you’ll find art created by veterans.
Try a mouth-watering Chicago-style hot dog at Hot Dog Box
If you are visiting Six Corners in the Portage Park community, you must stop at Hot Dog Box to try their classic and unique hot dog creations. “This new addition is run by a father/daughter team and started as part of a business pivot during the pandemic,” Amie with Six Corners Association shares. “The space is inviting and family-friendly, with large board games and other tabletop activities, definitely a hidden gem in Chicago worth checking out.”
8. A hidden gem in the Bucktown neighborhood
There’s always something going on in the Bucktown neighborhood, one of Chicago’s trendiest areas. From excellent coffee shops and cafes to shops and music venues, Bucktown is full of places you’ll want to explore.
Spend a relaxing afternoon at Red June Café
“Kim, the owner of Red June Café, is amazing and friendly,” shares Ashleee of Ray’s Bucktown B & B. The staff is knowledgeable and always welcoming. High-quality coffee and food items, and they have a super cute floral painted wall on the outside, so you can’t miss it.”
9. A hidden gem in the St. Ben’s neighborhood
Named for the 100-plus-year-old parish at its center, St. Ben’s neighborhood sits on Chicago’s north side and is a great area to escape the crowds of downtown Chicago. This charming community is full of independent neighborhood spots worth checking out.
Try German delicacies at the Laschett’s Inn
Amy with Chicago Arts Partnerships in Education recommends Laschett’s Inn for true German culture immersion. “If you want to transport to Germany, this local German, family-owned business is just the spot. Laschett’s Inn is known for its expansive beer menu and the best spaetzle, sauerkraut, and sausages around! Laschett’s has kept its old-world feel and is a mainstay of the St. Ben’s neighborhood.”
10. A hidden gem outside of the city
If you’re outside downtown Chicago, don’t worry; there are still so many hidden gems to visit, including many shops and restaurants.
Try the Plateia Mediterranean Kitchen
“The best Greek restaurant on Chicago’s Northwest Side is Plateia Mediterranean Kitchen,” Mircea with Echo Limousine details. “You have to try the Paidakia; it melts in your mouth. Another great choice is Feta Me Meli – a hot croissant with baked imported feta with honey, sesame, phyllo, and fig. The restaurant has a great atmosphere, Greek music, an outdoor patio, and attentive servers.”
