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Live Like A Local
Live Like A Local
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Our staff knows just where to go!

Getting off the beaten path and discovering hidden gems is one of the wonders of travel. But how do you find those special places? Ask a local. Burnham Hotel helps you make the most of your Chicago stay by sharing our staff's favorite picks and insider tips.

We asked our intrepid staff: If you had only two days in Chicago, what would you do? Take a peek, have some fun and Live Like a Local.

One of a kind
Carlos Taboada

Carlos Taboada

Assistant Director of Housekeeping

  • The Wendella Chicago sunset cruises give passengers the opportunity to enjoy one of Chicago’s most romantic and unique settings aboard one of their proud vessels. 

  • The National Museum of Mexican Art has permanent and traveling exhibits, and promotes the art and culture of Mexico and its people.

Play
Suze Oostendorp

Suze Oostendorp

Guest Service Agent

  • The Shedd Aquarium is fun for all ages and is the only place in Chicago to watch dolphins, beluga whales, sealions and even jelly fish!

  • Rockit Bar and Grill is a great place to go on the weekends - bloody marys, mimosas, mijitos, and excellent brunch, with a great casual atmosphere!

Wellness
Paul Reynolds

Paul Reynolds

Engineer

  • A little piece of Ireland is here in Chicago!  The Chicago Gaelic Park hosts Irish sports like hurling and Gaelic football all year long!

  • If you like to exercise and run, you have to run along the Lake Shore Drive Trail.  It’s a great, healthy workout and there are beautiful sights of the Windy City!

Eat
Nicholas Bajal

Nicholas Bajal

Executive Sous Chef

  • Au Chevel is my favorite late night spot.  Their fried bologna sandwich and bourbon make the best combo at 2AM!

  • Visit XOCO, one of Rick Bayless’s “fast food” restaurants.  XOCO has one of the best tortas in the city and don’t forget to try the spiced hot chocolate and churros!

Retail therapy
Elizabeth Hansen Grujic

Elizabeth Hansen Grujic

Chief Concierge

  • Visit the North Bridge Mall where you can find 678 square feet of retail heaven!  Don’t forget to bring your pet – the North Bridge Mall is pet friendly, complete with a pet oasis on every floor!

  • Check out the shops in Bucktown!  There you can find small boutique shops, fun thrift stores, and even designer clothing from Nanette Lapore!

Drink
Ramon

Ramon "Ray" Anguiano

Lead Mixologist

  • One of my favorite music lounges is Andy’s Jazz, found in the lively River North Area where lots of locals go for Chicago nightlife!

  • I highly recommend The Gage; Eat some food, have a drink, and enjoy the views of Chicago’s magnificent Millennium Park!

For more information about any of these suggestions and additional favorites, contact Burnham Hotel's Guest Service team at (312) 782-1111

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