CHICAGO RECAP

If you follow the blog on Instagram or Twitter, you know that I visited Chicago recently! I took a long weekend and spent four days in the windy city with some of girlfriends. From brunches to happy hours and everything in between (i.e. shopping) we had a blast. Check out some highlights from the girl's weekend below!

EAT + DRINK

Summer House Santa Monica
We had brunch at this California-concept restaurant one morning and it was so good. I had the avocado toast and a pot of loose leaf tea, but really, everything on the menu looked phenomenal. Be sure to make reservations a few days in advance as this popular spot is always booked! This is already on my to-do list for my upcoming Chicago trip round 2 in a few weeks (more on that later!).

The Signature Lounge
Located on the 96th floor of the John Hancock building downtown Chicago, this lounge boasts the best views for post-dinner drinks in the city. It was really quite amazing to be able to see the city skyline from that angle. Oh, and oddly enough, the floor-to-ceiling windows in the lounge's bathrooms provide a great opportunity to snap a photo!

RPM Italian 
When in Chicago, the RPM restaurants are a must. Famously known because of it's owners Giuliana and Bill Rancic, this restaurant did not disappoint. Hands down the best Italian food I've ever had — and trust me, I'm basically a food authority when it comes to carbs.

TOURISTY

Millennium Park + The Bean 

Would you believe it if I said I've been to Chicago plenty of times but never stopped at The Bean? I'm embarrassed to admit it, but it's true. A design wonder, The Bean is a massive stainless steel sculpture — formally named Cloud Gate. It's kind of like stopping by the White House if you're visiting D.C... you've got to visit The Bean if you're in Chicago. 

The Magnificent Mile
This is an upscale section of Michigan Avenue in downtown Chicago. This is the city's largest shopping district and is home to a host of luxury retailers. I always make a point to stop by The Mile when I'm in town because the shopping here just can't be beat. From Zara to J.Crew, Saks Fifth Avenue to Barney's New York and Chanel, Cartier and Salvatore Ferragamo, there's really something for everyone.

MISCELLANEOUS 

Lincoln Park Conservatory 

I'm always up for a good conservatory, and this certainly fits the bill. It was an especially nice treat to be able to escape the bitter cold for an afternoon and retreat into a lush paradise of tropical plants. While it might be difficult to kill a few hours here, it's definitely a great place to pop in if you're in the neighborhood. And it's free!

Restoration Hardware
Stopping by an interior design showroom might seem a bit strange to include as a "highlight" from the trip, but let me assure you, this is no mistake. This is one of the most stunning galleries of design I've seen... and hey, I live down the street from Smithsonian galleries. The interior designers brilliantly curate each showroom and the decor is phenomenal. It's a minimalist's paradise. There's also a beautiful cafe located in the center of the building for grabbing a bite to eat or a cocktail after browsing. Not to mention, walking around the showrooms with a glass of bubbly in hand is encouraged.

The Second City
We went to The Best of Second City sketch + improv show one night and had a blast! This is the company that launched the careers of Tina Fey, Stephen Colbert and Steve Carell (just to name a few). It was so funny, my stomach hurt from laughing so much by the end of it. 10 out of 10 would recommend!