Living In: Chicago (2nd Edition)
An interview with Senior Travel Designer
Courtney Caruso.
WHAT BROUGHT YOU TO Chicago?
I was born and raised in the Chicago suburbs. I always thought that I would want to move away, but once I moved to the city after graduating I fell in love. As travel advisors, we are lucky enough to travel far and often, so it's important to live somewhere that truly feels like home.
What is the best thing about your city?
Chicago summers are untouchable. Heading to a rooftop bar with your friends, cheering in the stands with a hot dog and beer in your hand at Wrigley, soaking up the sun on a boat in the playpen, listening to live music in the summer sun... Chicagoans know cold like no other, so we don't let a single day of summer go by unappreciated!
What would you change about where you live?
The weather. Would love some consistency!
What's the vibe of your neighborhood?
I adore Wicker Park! It really feels like a residential neighborhood within the city - the streets are quiet but the main strips that have the restaurants and bars are popping. It's not too hipster where there would be Lord of the Rings playing on all the tvs at the bar, but it's casual and comfortable where you can find cool boutiques, record shops and tattoo parlors.
What things should any visitor to your city absolutely do/see?
Walk around Grant Park where Lollapalooza is held every year, attend a Cubs game (even though I am a sox fan, you can't go wrong visiting Wrigleyville), go to brunch, throw an ice shot at Federales, walk the lakefront, do the architecture tour on the river - so many fun things to do!
What are some of your favorite hotels in Chicago?
The Langham on Wabash, the Viceroy, Waldorf Astoria, the James - there are so many!
What are your favorite restaurants?
Maestro's Steakhouse, Bavette's, RPM Seafood, Public House, Bar Cocina, Black Bull
