Chicago City Guide

Chicago offers iconic dishes like deep-dish pizza, Chicago-style hot dogs, and Italian beef sandwiches. The city has a wide international food scene, including Mexican, Asian, Italian, and Middle Eastern. Vegetarian and vegan options are widely available. Late-night food spots are common in entertainment areas.

Nightlife is varied with blues and jazz clubs, dance venues, dive bars, and lounges. Key areas include River North, Wrigleyville, and Wicker Park.

A thriving specialty coffee scene with many independent roasters and shops. Varied styles from classic to modern cafes.

Tipping is expected for most services, including restaurants, taxis, and deliveries.

SIM cards from AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon are available at carrier stores and electronics shops like Best Buy. eSIM options are offered. No ID needed for prepaid SIMs.

Cleanliness varies by area. Downtown is usually clean. Regular waste and recycling service exists, but rodent issues occur sometimes.

Many Walgreens and CVS pharmacies are 24/7. Convenience stores like 7-Eleven also operate round the clock. Some urgent care centers have extended hours. Late-night food options include diners and pizza chains.

Supermarkets like Jewel-Osco, Mariano's, Whole Foods, and Trader Joe's are widespread. International products are easy to find, especially in diverse neighborhoods. Farmers markets operate in warmer months. Stores usually open 7 AM to 11 PM and are open Sundays and holidays with shortened hours.

Most businesses accept card payments, and many prefer or only take cards. Cash is rarely needed for daily use.

ATMs are common at banks like Chase, Bank of America, and Wells Fargo, plus convenience and retail stores. Out-of-network withdrawals usually cost $2.50 to $5.00 in fees.

Local public schools are run by Chicago Public Schools. Notable international schools include British International School of Chicago and Lycée Français de Chicago. Instruction is mainly in English with some international language options. Admissions vary; international schools sometimes have waitlists.

Active meetups, events, and groups exist. Co-working spaces serve as hubs, though co-living options are limited.

The city has many parks and riverwalks with shaded paths and good running spots like Lincoln Park and Grant Park.

Popular routes include the 18-mile Lakefront Trail and city parks. Running clubs exist and the city hosts the Chicago Marathon.

Gyms range from high-end to budget-friendly, with many options including CrossFit and community gyms.

Many public and private tennis courts are available with online booking. Equipment rental is limited; coaching is widely offered. Padel courts are rare but emerging.

Few padel courts exist but are beginning to appear.

Many yoga studios offer varied styles including hot yoga and restorative, with drop-in and memberships.

Numerous gyms offer styles like BJJ, Muay Thai, Boxing, Judo, Karate, Taekwondo, and Krav Maga, with mostly English-speaking instructors.

Ski resorts are 1-2 hours away in nearby states with mostly beginner and intermediate terrain using artificial snow.

Kayaking, paddleboarding, sailing, and windsurfing are popular on the Chicago River and Lake Michigan with rentals and guided tours in warmer months.

Surfing happens on Lake Michigan at spots like Montrose Beach, but conditions are cold and inconsistent, mostly for experienced surfers.

Limited diving on Lake Michigan due to low visibility and cold water; mostly advanced wreck diving.

High-quality private hospitals like Northwestern Memorial and Rush University Medical Center have English-speaking staff. Public options exist but are less common. Pharmacies are abundant in supermarkets and standalone stores like Walgreens and CVS. Common OTC meds are easy to find.

Tap water is safe to drink and meets US federal and state standards.

The city has many playgrounds and family-friendly cafes, especially in Lincoln Park and Lakeview. Baby supplies are easy to find. Attractions like Lincoln Park Zoo, Shedd Aquarium, and Navy Pier suit families well.

Highly inclusive with many safe spaces and strong legal protections. Hosts large Pride events and has an active community.

Pet-friendly with many dog parks, restaurants, and veterinary services. Most accommodations welcome pets.