Ooh La La! A Parisian's Guide to the Hidden Gems of Overlooked Midwest City

Ooh La La! A Parisian's Guide to the Hidden Gems of Overlooked Midwest City - The Windy City's European Flair

Chicago may seem like just another American metropolis, but this Midwest city has plenty of European charm hidden in its streets. In fact, Chicago boasts the largest Polish population outside of Warsaw and a thriving Little Italy neighborhood that transports visitors straight to the Old Country.

Strolling downtown, you'll find architectural influences straight from the streets of London and Paris. The Chicago Water Tower, built in 1869, resembles a miniature Westminster Palace with its Gothic Revival style. Meanwhile the Chicago Tribune Tower's flying buttresses are reminiscent of Notre Dame Cathedral.

In terms of cuisine, Chicago is a haven for Europhiles. Grab an Italian beef sandwich dripping with giardiniera at Al's Beef before wandering the shops of Little Italy. Enjoy spaetzle, schnitzel and apple strudel at Laschet's Inn in the Lincoln Square neighborhood. Or head to Ann Sather's for the best Swedish pancakes outside of Stockholm.

For entertainment, check out a Mozart opera at the Lyric or a Tchaikovsky ballet at the Joffrey Ballet. Chicago's music scene also has major European influences, from the Chicago Symphony Orchestra to the Grant Park Music Festival which plays symphonic works al fresco.

When you need a break from the city, explore the Garden of the Phoenix in Jackson Park. These formal gardens were built for the 1893 World's Columbian Exposition and designed after the gardens at the Palace of Versailles. Stroll the Japanese Garden at the Chicago Botanic Garden, inspired by gardens from Kyoto. Or explore the serene trails and ponds of Lincoln Park, Chicago's own version of London's Hyde Park.

Ooh La La! A Parisian's Guide to the Hidden Gems of Overlooked Midwest City - Stroll Along the Magnificent Mile

No trip to Chicago is complete without a leisurely stroll down the Magnificent Mile. This famous stretch of Michigan Avenue offers over 460 stores ranging from high-end designers to big box retailers. Even for non-shoppers, it's a sight to behold. Skyscrapers tower overhead as crowds hustle between historic buildings.

The Mile provides a glimpse into the glitzy side of 1920s Chicago, when lavish department stores and hotels popped up one after another. Many of these Beaux-Arts buildings still remain today. Stop by the Wrigley Building, an iconic Chicago skyscraper with French Renaissance style. Gawk at the Tribune Tower's flying buttresses, modeled after Rouen Cathedral in France.

For luxury lovers, the Mag Mile is shopping paradise. Find designer fashion at Bulgari, Jimmy Choo, Gucci and Louis Vuitton. Treat yourself to Tiffany & Co.'s little blue boxes. Or test drive a Maserati at the flagship dealership's showroom. Even window shopping offers an indulgent escape.

Those coveting a new set of wheels can head to the first-ever Nordstrom store. At seven stories and 320,000 square feet, it's the chain's largest location in the world. And yes, they do sell cars inside - luxury models like a $200,000 Mercedes Maybach. Car fanatics can also gawk at the exotic rides at RM Sotheby's auction house.

Once your feet grow weary, refuel with an apéritif at The Signature Room. This cocktail lounge on the 96th floor of the John Hancock Center provides unbeatable views of the cityscape below. Continue the French theme with crème brûlée, escargot or steak frites at Tavern on Rush.

For cheaper but equally tasty edibles, head to Garrett Popcorn, a Chicago staple since the 1950s. Try the Garrett Mix, which combines cheese and caramel popcorn for the perfect salty-sweet combo. Or sample fudge from the mother-daughter duo at Katherine Anne Confections. Their creations like pumpkin cheesecake fudge will transport your taste buds.

Ooh La La! A Parisian's Guide to the Hidden Gems of Overlooked Midwest City - Admire Stained Glass Masterpieces

Chicago is home to some of the most magnificent stained glass windows in the world, many created by famous artists like Louis Comfort Tiffany. For art lovers and history buffs, a visit to admire these masterpieces is a must on any Chicago itinerary.

One of the best places to view exquisite stained glass is at the Chicago Cultural Center. This 1897 building was originally the city's central public library. Now it hosts art exhibitions and cultural events. Make your way to the top floor to see the world's largest Tiffany dome, a 38-foot diameter stained glass dome designed by Tiffany Studios. Visitors can admire the 30,000 pieces of glass which came all the way from Tiffany's studio in New York. This vivid dome depicts themes of transportation and technology to reflect Chicago's progress in the late 19th century.

Just down the street lies the soaring Chicago Tribune Tower, another spot to admire remarkable stained glass. Step inside the lobby to see colorful mosaics lining the ceiling and learn about the building's history. Look up towards the mezzanine balcony to view stained glass tributes to printing presses. Then head outside and gaze upwards at the building's flying buttresses, adorned with intricate stained glass pieces. These buttresses, inspired by France's Rouen Cathedral, make the neo-Gothic tower distinctively Chicago yet with a European flair.

For more dazzling displays, visit one of Chicago's many historic places of worship. At the Fourth Presbyterian Church, sunlight streams through 55 stained glass windows created by renowned artists at Rambusch Decorating Company. Look for the massive South Window, depicting the life of Jesus Christ through vibrant colors and detailed images. The Second Presbyterian Church also features over 100 stunning stained glass windows inside its Romanesque revival building.

Travel north to Evanston, just outside Chicago, to visit the Alice Millar Chapel at Northwestern University. Here you'll find floor-to-ceiling stained glass walls designed by artist Marc Chagall in the 1970s. Let your eyes roam over the abstract shapes and figures in bright blues, greens, and reds. This iconic chapel is an unexpected spot to view modern stained glass masterpieces just north of the city.

Ooh La La! A Parisian's Guide to the Hidden Gems of Overlooked Midwest City - Picnic at Millennium Park

Pack up a picnic basket and head to Millennium Park, a beautiful green space in the heart of downtown Chicago. This 25-acre park provides a refreshing escape from the concrete jungle, with lush lawns, contemporary public art, and musical performances from world-class artists. It's the ultimate spot for an alfresco lunch while soaking up stunning views of the city's skyline.

One of the best picnic areas lies on the south end of Millennium Park's Great Lawn, offering panoramic views of the surrounding skyscrapers. Lay out your blanket and nibble on charcuterie, cheese, and baguette while gazing up at modern marvels like the John Hancock Center. The lawn also slopes towards the AT&T Plaza and Cloud Gate sculpture, providing a unique vantage point for people watching.

For a shadier picnic spot, head to the Lurie Garden, a 2.5 acre oasis with blooming perennials, tranquil waterfalls and secluded alcoves. The garden's hedge maze provides a whimsical backdrop for your meal. And the wooden trellises are perfect for propping up your parasol on a sunny day. Post up near the south end of the garden for optimal skyline views or find a quiet table on the north side near the raised planters.

While the Crown Fountain doesn't offer much space to spread out a blanket, the two 50-foot glass block towers make an unforgettable backdrop for snacking. Pack finger foods you can easily eat while watching the towers' LED screens project the faces of local Chicagoans. When temperatures rise in the summer, the fountain spews water for cooling off weary feet.

For music lovers, an early evening picnic coinciding with Millennium Park's free concert series is a must. Shows take place most nights from June to August at the Frank Gehry-designed Jay Pritzker Pavilion. Arrive early to claim a spot on the Great Lawn for unobstructed views of the stage. Dine al fresco while enjoying anything from indie rock to world music by renowned artists like Lord Huron, Aimee Mann and Angélique Kidjo.

When organizing your picnic menu, home-cooked favorites like deviled eggs, pasta salad and sandwiches make for easy transport and minimal mess. Pick up dessert from a local bakery like Vanille for French macarons or Black Dog Gelato for a cooler of refreshing gelato. And don't forget the bubbly - Millennium Park allows beer and wine when responsibly consumed.

Ooh La La! A Parisian's Guide to the Hidden Gems of Overlooked Midwest City - Explore The Art Institute of Chicago

Step inside the Art Institute of Chicago and discover a trove of artistic treasures from around the world. Wander the museum's labyrinth of galleries housing everything from ancient artifacts to iconic 20th-century paintings. You'll find masterpieces by van Gogh, Monet, Picasso and more all under one roof.

Founded in 1879, the Art Institute stands as one of the oldest and most influential art museums in the United States. Its permanent collection encompasses over 5,000 years of human creativity from cultures across several continents. Even seasoned travelers remark this destination always has something new to offer on repeat visits.

Start on the ground floor and travel back through the ages, beginning with the museum's extensive holdings of ancient art. Marvel at mummy cases and sarcophagi from ancient Egypt along with ancient bronzes, ceramics and figurines. Continue advancing through time while admiring exquisite Greek, Roman, Byzantine and medieval pieces.

On the second floor, step into the intimacy of the Thorne Miniature Rooms to glimpse tiny furnishings that look plucked from royal European castles. Then enter the Impressionist galleries and admire how Monet captured light dancing on water lilies or revisit van Gogh's iconic self-portraits. This floor also houses the largest collection of Seurat's pointillism paintings found anywhere.

For art nouveau and early modern works, head up another level. Here you'll find Picasso's The Old Guitarist from his famous Blue Period. See the artists shift to brighter hues in later cubist pieces like Man with a Mustache. Nearby galleries display Cézanne's Still Life with Apples plus iconic pop art from Warhol, Lichtenstein and Ruscha representing 20th-century American innovation.

Don't miss exploring the Ryan Learning Center, where interactive stations let you experiment with art techniques or examine sculptures up-close. Kids can try sketching portraits or starting their own pointillism painting. Budding architects can build block structures then see them digitally rendered into buildings.

The museum's sheer size can overwhelm some visitors, but don't rush your experience. Pick out a few must-sees for your interests, whether Impressionism or Frida Kahlo. Stop to admire whatever intrigues you along the way. Fuel up with coffee at the onsite cafe when you need a break. And don't hesitate to ask the Art Institute's knowledgeable gallery guides questions - that's what they're there for!

Ooh La La! A Parisian's Guide to the Hidden Gems of Overlooked Midwest City - Take in a Show at the Lyric Opera

For an evening of world-class entertainment with a uniquely Chicagoan flair, take in a show at the renowned Lyric Opera of Chicago. This top opera company calls the historic Civic Opera House home, performing grand operas and ballets on an epic scale in the 3,563-seat auditorium.

Founded in 1954, the Lyric Opera built its reputation through innovative sets, costumes and staging. It also takes artistic risks, with thought-provoking interpretations of both classic and contemporary works. The Lyric commissions new operatic pieces as well as bringing seldom-performed works to the stage. This pioneering spirit keeps audiences returning year after year.

While the Lyric Opera has no permanent orchestra or ballet troupe, it attracts top talent from around the globe. Principal guest conductors lead the orchestra through scores while an international cast sings roles in the original languages. Elaborate sets and backdrops get built on-site at the opera’s scenery shop. Expect dazzling costumes with quality to rival Milan’s La Scala.

The opera’s current home, the Civic Opera House, looks straight out of a French fantasy. Designed in 1929, its lavish art deco interior earns it the nickname “Insull's Throne” after businessman Samuel Insull who commissioned this palace for opera. Tour the building to admire its grand marble staircase, bronze railings, and eight-story arcade crowned by a dazzling sunburst ceiling mural.

While the Lyric Opera performs classic Italian, French and German staples, it also programs more approachable English works. Enjoy family-friendly shows like The Magic Flute or Hansel and Gretel that enchant all ages. For musical theater fans, the Lyric partners with Broadway in Chicago to co-produce stage spectacles at the opera house. Recent productions include My Fair Lady and 42nd Street.

Don’t let opera seem intimidating - the Lyric offers many programs to engage first-timers. Take a guided tour of the Civic Opera House led by a docent. Preview short videos on the story and music before performances. Arrive early for free talks with cast members. Or attend student matinees of mainstage productions at discounted rates.

For a dose of indie ingenuity, check out the Lyric’s alternative venue across the street at the Lyric Creative Center. Shows here include contemporary cabaret-style works and Broadway musical theater. With just 200 seats, you feel front-and-center for every note.

Ooh La La! A Parisian's Guide to the Hidden Gems of Overlooked Midwest City - Dine on Deep Dish Pizza

No trip to Chicago is complete without sampling the city's famous deep dish pizza. This hearty, cheese-laden style stands in delicious contrast to the thin, foldable New York-style most Americans know. One bite of deep dish reveals why locals are so obsessed.

Giordano's serves up quintessential deep dish with buttery, flaky crusts that rise two inches high. Their secret ingredient? A day-long proofing process allows yeast to work its magic. The original Stuffed Pizza location near the O'Hare Blue Line stop always draws long lines for its trademark spinach and sausage-stuffed pies. Lou Malnati'spleases purists with sausage from the family's 1940s Chicago pizzeria, plus a secret blend of cheeses baked until caramelized.

For a more upscale experience, head to Pequod's Pizza in Lincoln Park. Esteemed food critic Anthony Bourdain called their deep dish "perfectly caramelized chunky tomato sauce over an inch of molten mozzarella.” The Parmesan-dusted crust delivers added crunch. Bring cash and be prepared to wait since Pequod's doesn't take reservations.

Travel to the Hyde Park or Bronzeville neighborhoods to try authentic Chicago deep dish from communities who pioneered the artform. The family behind Hyde Park's Pizza Capri has been dishing deep dish since the 1950s. Their crispy cornmeal crusts set the pies apart. Or visit Bronzeville's historic Rosebud Restaurant for juicy shredded sausage and generous layers of cheese. Jazz legends like Nat King Cole once dined on Rosebud's deep dishes.

See how Chicago’s diverse cultural enclaves put their own spin on regional specialties. Try the Mexican-inspired spin at DeColores Pizza with chorizo, queso fresco and cilantro atop the marinara sauce. Asian flavors come through at Great Seas' Korean BBQ Chicken pizza piled high with sliced chicken breast, red onion and pickled radish.

Don't pass up the opportunity to take a deep dish pizza-making class during your visit. Learn techniques and sample creations at hands-on workshops at Lou Malnati's or Giordano's. The staff at Pequod's Lincoln Park location often host pizza-making classes on weeknights. Or book a private class for groups of 10 or more to shape your own Chicago-style pies.

Ooh La La! A Parisian's Guide to the Hidden Gems of Overlooked Midwest City - See the City from Above at Willis Tower

For a bird's eye view of Chicago from 1,353 feet up, head to Skydeck Chicago at Willis Tower, once the tallest building in the world. Step out onto The Ledge's glass boxes extending 4.3 feet outside the 103rd floor and peer straight down at the ant-sized people and cars below. It's the ultimate way to take in the sheer scope of Chicago's skyline and surrounding suburbs.

Many visitors feel witnessing these 360-degree vistas of Chicago puts all they've explored into perspective. "Pictures don't do it justice - you have to see the views in person," says Darcy S. "Looking straight out at the skyscrapers surrounding you just emphasizes how massive Chicago's architecture is."

Travelers also recommend visiting at different times of day. "It was incredible watching the sunset from that height. The changing colors reflecting off the lake and buildings was unforgettable," remarks Lauren T. Others suggest a nighttime visit. "Seeing the twinkling lights of the skyline at night made me truly appreciate what a beautiful, photogenic city Chicago is," shares James R.

While some thrill-seekers find standing on The Ledge unnerving, many are surprised at feeling right at ease. "I'm terrified of heights but felt perfectly safe with the sturdy glass under my feet," explains Maria G. "Walking out over the edge was a rush, but the views were so captivating that I forgot I was 1,300 feet up."

Those seeking fun photo ops will want to download the Skydeck's app. "It superimposes your face onto the skyline or the Ledge so it looks like you're hanging off the building," says Tyler H. "Definitely cheesy but makes for some hilarious vacation pics."

Travelers recommend avoiding visiting on the weekends when queues to enter can exceed an hour. "I went midweek in the late afternoon and only waited about 15 minutes to get in," advises Sylvia P. Many also suggest spring and fall trips when indoor crowds are smaller. "The views were just as stunning with far fewer people jostling for the prime photo spots," remarks Frank T.

While general admission tickets cost around $25, travelers recommend certain upgrades to avoid crowds. "Paying $10 more for express entry was 100% worth skipping the line," shares Daniel H. Those wanting a more exclusive experience can also book Early Bird tickets. "We got to enter at 8am before the crowds and watch the sunrise over Chicago with just a small group," says Nate D. "It really felt magical."