Chicago • New Resident
Just Moved to Chicago? Let's Explore Together
Millennium Park, hidden neighborhoods, local gems. Find a verified Chicago companion to show you around and help you feel at home in your new city.
Explore Chicago Like a Local
Start at iconic Millennium Park, then venture into neighborhoods like Lincoln Park, Wicker Park, and Logan Square. Your companion knows the best spots, local secrets, and how to make you feel at home.
Verified companions who love welcoming newcomers to Chicago.
Local Companions in Chicago
Verified residents ready to show you around.
Where to Go in Chicago
Restaurants, cafes, hotels, and attractions centered around Millennium Park. Everything a newcomer needs to explore Chicago's heart.
Millennium Park Cafe
restaurantAmerican
Millennium Park Visitor Center Cafe
barCoffee & Pastries
Chicago Athletic Association Hotel
hotelBoutique Hotel
Millennium Park
attractionPublic Landmark
Art Institute of Chicago
attractionMuseum
Your First Chicago Exploration Day
Here's how to make the most of your first outing with a local companion, centered around Millennium Park and Chicago's iconic attractions.
Morning
- →Meet your companion at a convenient Downtown/Loop location
- →Grab coffee at a cafe near Millennium Park
- →Get energized and chat about the day's plan
- →Discuss what you want to see and experience
Late Morning to Early Afternoon
- →Head to Millennium Park and experience Cloud Gate (The Bean)
- →Walk through the park, visit the Jay Pritzker Pavilion
- →Take photos with the Chicago skyline as your backdrop
- →Your companion knows the best angles and hidden spots
Afternoon
- →Explore the nearby Art Institute of Chicago or other museums
- →Walk the Chicago Riverwalk or Navy Pier area
- →Discover hidden gems and local favorites
- →Get insider tips on neighborhoods to explore later
Late Afternoon/Early Evening
- →Grab lunch/early dinner at a nearby restaurant
- →Options range from casual (Shake Shack) to upscale (Gibsons)
- →Your companion recommends neighborhood gems
- →Refuel and relax before or after sightseeing
Evening
- →Head to a nearby bar or lounge (Signature Lounge has views)
- →Reflect on the day and plan your next adventures
- →Discuss other Chicago neighborhoods to explore
- →Feel confident to explore more of the city on your own
Pro Tip: Your companion is a Chicago insider who knows the best spots, quieter times to visit popular attractions, and neighborhood secrets. They'll help you feel at home in your new city from day one.
Explore Chicago's Neighborhoods
From Millennium Park in the Loop to hidden gems in Wicker Park and Logan Square. Your companion knows the neighborhoods and can guide you through the city with confidence.
The Loop (Downtown)
0 miles from Millennium ParkChicago's heart—Millennium Park, skyscrapers, museums, Riverwalk. Where to start.
Hotels & Lodging
InterContinental, Park Hyatt, Chicago Athletic Association
Parking
Paid lots $25-35/night
Best For
First-time visitors, must-see attractions
Lincoln Park
1.5 miles north from Millennium ParkUpscale, lake-adjacent neighborhood—Lincoln Park Zoo (free!), beaches, trendy restaurants
Hotels & Lodging
Many boutique hotels; Airbnbs available
Parking
Street parking available; metered
Best For
Outdoor activities, neighborhood exploring
Wicker Park
2.5 miles northwest from Millennium ParkArtistic, hipster vibe—galleries, vintage shops, dive bars, independent coffee culture
Hotels & Lodging
Budget to mid-range; mostly Airbnbs
Parking
Street parking available
Best For
Discovering local art scene, nightlife
Logan Square
2 miles west from Millennium ParkCreative hub with Puerto Rican heritage—street art, breweries, live music, food scene
Hotels & Lodging
Trendy hotels; mid-range Airbnbs
Parking
Street parking; some paid lots
Best For
Food, nightlife, discovering local culture
Planning Tools & Resources
Helpful links for flights, parking, weather, and tickets
Flights & Travel
Weather & Planning
Parking & Navigation
Tickets & Events
Explore More
More Ways to Experience Chicago
Discover other ways to enjoy the city with a verified companion.