Discover our locals' 116 hidden gems in Chicago
City Guide made by Locals from Chicago.
Let's hit it! Discover Chicago’s local favorites with Spotted by Locals! From jazz clubs tucked away in the Loop to the best deep-dish pizza outside the tourist zones, our Spotters reveal the city’s true character.
Our Spotters from Chicago:
Know your way in Chicago like a local.
Spotted by Locals
✓ Discover Chicago through the eyes of a local!
✓ Hidden gems that can’t be found in traditional guidebooks
✓ Our locals share their personal favorite spots in Chicago
Check out our latest hidden gems in Chicago
Our latest Spots in Chicago
Middlebrow
Natural wine meets fresh bread
I am always stunned by Middlebrow's appetizers, including "the big salad," which includes seasonal vegetables topped with plenty of pepper and shredded cheese.
by
Sophie
Amado
PIZZ'AMICI
Tavern-style pizza
Tavern-style pizza takes the crown at PIZZ'AMICI — thin, crispy crust, cozy vibes, and big local love since they moved from apartment to restaurant in 2024.
by
Sophie
Amado
Vito + Nick's
Breaking Chicago pizza stereotypes
Vito & Nick's doesn't make typical Chicago pizza: it's the thin crust that reigns supreme here. I drive out of my way to get there, but it's worth it.
by
Sophie
Amado
Reggies Chicago
Bar with music and shuttles
Reggies Chicago is a grunge bar, concert venue, and shuttle hub with great eats, Sox game packages, a beach bar and unique events like a pancake art show.
by
Sophie
Amado
The 606
Quiet nature path
The 606 (aka the Bloomingdale Trail) in Chicago is a repurposed walking trail on a disused piece of L train track. In my opinion, it's a piece of art.
by
Sophie
Amado
Luft Balloons
Decorating Chicago with balloons
Luft Balloons in Chicago isn't just a balloon shop – it's a female-operated & owned business that makes balloon sculptures specifically for marches...
by
Sophie
Amado
Little Madrid
A bit of Spain in Chicago
Little Madrid in Chicago feels so European, it's surprising — trust me, I've spent some time in Madrid myself. Great place for a date or coworker night.
by
Sophie
Amado
Rice'N Bread
Cozy Korean restaurant
Rice'N Bread in Chicago is a special spot for dinner or even pre-gaming a baseball game, a Korean restaurant that always makes my day. Try the bibimbap!
by
Sophie
Amado
Vegan Plate
Hearty Thai food
I'm not vegan but I do think that "Vegan Plate" in Lincoln Park is one of the best bang-for-your-buck restaurants in Chicago. Try the curry combo plate!
by
Sophie
Amado
Argyle Street
Chicago's only shared street
"Argyle Street" is Chicago's first shared street. The concept allows cafes to extend outside their doors and provide spaces for the summer night market...
by
Claire
Conway
KOVAL Distillery
Craft distillery
KOVAL Distillery doesn't only produce delicious craft spirits, they're also a city landmark — the first fully operational distillery in Chicago in years.
by
Sophie
Amado
Four Moon Tavern
Dive bar with panache
Four Moon Tavern in Chicago may seem simple on the outside, but this neighborhood bar has a lot to offer. Make sure to come here hungry!
by
Sophie
Amado
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116 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
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Our local Spotters share personal tips and secrets about their city. Nothing sponsored! These unique insights can’t be found in traditional guidebooks. Discover the city through the eyes of a local!
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We focus on hidden gems and unique places that aren’t crowded with tourists. Our Spotters’ tips help you avoid the crowds and have truly special experiences, far from the tourist masses.
Responsible Travel
Hi! Nice to meet you.
We are Spotted by Locals. An online travel community publishing city guides in 80+ cities. Our hand-picked local writers and photographers create all the content.
Our 488 Spotters (and counting) live in the cities they write about, speak the local language, and regularly update their tips. Their insights help around 1.4 million travelers each year discover the hidden gems of cities.
With insider advice from locals, we offer a unique, sustainable travel experience, allowing travelers to slow down and immerse themselves in the local culture, beyond the tourist hotspots.
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