Whether it’s a stroll by the lake or a romantic dinner-for-two, Chicago is chock full of lovely places to take your sweetie on a fun date night, for Valentine’s Day, or to celebrate an important birthday or anniversary.
Sometimes, just a few hours away together are all that’s required to reignite a romance, and to remind yourselves why you fell in love in the first place. Many of us love traveling on the Wanderlog team, so naturally we’re always on the hunt find the most popular spots anytime we travel somewhere new. With favorites like Garfield Park Conservatory – Reservations Required, Millennium Park, and Navy Pier and more, get ready to experience the best places in Chicago.
1. Shedd Aquarium
In Shedd Aquarium, Enjoy being kids again at the world’s largest indoor aquarium were you and your sweetie can enjoy the antics off sea lions, penguins, dolphins, and beluga whales. Also don’t miss the 90,000-gallon, floor-to-ceiling Caribbean Reef exhibit in the Shedd’s central rotunda. Before you go, stop by the gift shop for a plush toy sea lion to take home as a souvenir of a fun and memorable visit.
2. Millennium Park
Millennium Park is an awe-inspiring public space in Chicago that features an impressive collection of world-class architecture and sculptures. The park is home to the Jay Pritzker Pavilion, one of the world’s largest outdoor sculptures by British artist Anish Kapoor and Cloud Gate, one of the world’s largest pieces of public sculpture.
3. Navy Pier
With so much to do and see here, it’s hard to imagine a better place for a fun day out or an evening on the town. Begin with an awesome ride on the Navy Pier Ferris Wheel for spectacular views of Lake Michigan and the Chicago Skyline. Then, stroll over to the Smith Museum to be dazzled at the only museum in the United States dedicated exclusively to stained glass. As evening falls, head off into the sunset on a Navy Pier dinner cruise.
4. Buckingham Fountain
The Buckingham Fountain is a large, three-level rococo fountain located in Grant Park in Chicago. The fountain features a light and water show that is enjoyed by visitors of all ages, and it also has an outstanding background for photography.
5. River Walk
Take your honey for a leisurely stroll around the walkway that winds under the Michigan and Wabash bridges, providing an uninterrupted route along the river starting from Lake Shore Drive. Take in the unique views of the river as well as the city’s architectural wonders, and to top off a summer’s evening, stop by Cyrano’s Cafe and Wine Bar on the Riverwalk at Columbus for a romantic dinner.
6. Adler Planetarium
The Adler Planetarium is a world-renowned science facility that entertains families with exhibits on all things space-related. It has two full-size theaters, workshops, camps and special family programs to keep kids entertained for hours on end.
7. Buckingham Fountain
One of Chicago’s top landmarks, the beautifully romantic Buckingham Fountain in Grant Park was inspired by the Latona Fountain at the Palace of Versailles. The fountain operates from April to October, and it best seen at sunset as 20-minute dancing water shows are accompanied by music, and beautifully lit with the help of computerized color spotlights. During the winter the fountain is decorated with festive lights and remains a beacon for holiday merry makers.
8. AIRE Ancient Baths Chicago
Aire Ancient Baths Chicago is a unique spa that offers a variety of bath experiences from ancient Roman, Greek and Ottoman empires. Signature experiences include hot and cold plunges, salt water flotarium and jet pool. The experience is enhanced by the industrial setting and candlelit surroundings.
9. Ice Rink at Gallagher Way
The perfect date night during the holidays, the 8,000 sq. foot ice skating rink near Wrigley Field is open from November to February, and provides lots of opportunities for giggling and hand holding — as you glide along the ice to holiday tunes under twinkling lights.
10. Art Institute of Chicago
The Art Institute of Chicago is a world-renowned art museum with over 3000 pieces spanning 5000 years of artistic innovation. The museum is located in Grant Park on the city’s front lawn and features one of the largest school of architecture in the world.
11. Art & Culture
Show your love your more cultured side with tour of the city’s top art museums, including the Chicago Cultural Center (free admission), the Museum of Contemporary Art (free Tuesdays); and The Art Institute of Chicago (free Thursday evenings). Only steps away from Millennium Park, the Art Institute provides the worldwide art tour with an impressive collection of Old Masters, Impressionist, American, Eastern, ancient, and modern and contemporary art. End the evening with a romantic dinner at one of four world-class restaurants on site.
12. Chicago Athletic Association
From its 19th-century Venetian Gothic tower to its inventive rooftop restaurant and bar, the Chicago Athletic Association Hotel is a must-visit for architecture and cocktail buffs alike. With an unparalleled view of Millennium Park, the Art Institute of Chicago, and Lake Michigan, Cindy’s rooftop terrace is an idyllic spot to take in the cityscape. After indulging in some refreshment, you can play some classic games or work up a sweat at the hotel’s gym.
13. Night at Museum
The Museum of Science and Industry It will feel like Christmas morning when you visit ‘Chicago’s attic,’ jam-packed with wonders including a full sized submarine, a miniature fairy castle with 2,000 furnishings, a model railroad, the world’s largest pinball machine, and lots more to entertain your inner child.
14. Bavette’s Bar & Boeuf
Bavettes Steakhouse and Bar is a French-inspired steakhouse restaurant with an American menu. It has stylish chandeliers, red leather couches, and lively jazz music. The restaurant is dimly lit and has an ornate wood & brick setting. The menu features starters, fresh oysters, sea-food towers and platters, aged steaks, and a good selection of side dishes.
15. Geja’s Cafe
Geja’s Cafe is a fondue restaurant that offers romantic dining in an intimate setting. The food here includes Gruyere cheese fondue, chocolate fondue, and other premier options, all of which come with meats, breads, vegetables, and fruits for dipping. The cafe has been around for over fifty years and is known for its exceptional service and atmosphere.
