Discover our locals' 114 hidden gems in 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.
City guides by those who know Chicago best!
Get to know our Spotters from Chicago
Check out our latest hidden gems in Chicago
Things to do in Chicago
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
Christkindlmarket Chicago – German Christmas market
I've been going to the "Christkindlmarket Chicago" for as long as I can remember. I definitely recommend visiting on a weekday!
By
Sophie
Amado
aliveOne – Cozy music bar
aliveOne is my favorite bar in Chicago for several reasons: the friendly staff, daily happy hour specials, a cozy atmosphere... I could definitely go on!
By
Sophie
Amado
Lincoln Tap Room – Dive with great drink specials
For decades, "Lincoln Tap Room" in Chicago has been serving Steelers fans and the general public incredible drink specials...
By
Sophie
Amado
Kibbitznest – Bookstore and bar
"kibbitznest" is a self-proclaimed 'book bar', a wifi-free space promoting face-to-face chats. A cozy collective and a hybrid space all in one!
By
Sophie
Amado
La Creperie – Chicago's staple French restaurant
I've been going to "La Creperie" on Clark in Chicago since I was a kid and it has never disappointed me...
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
Long Room – A bar with biscuits
"Long Room" in Chicago is as the name suggests: a long gathering room. Or rather, a long tavern. I love the wooden bar, the lack of television & the menu!
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
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
Side Street Saloon – Dive bar with pizza
I don't think there's a more quintessential dive bar than "Side Street Saloon" in Lakeview, Chicago, together with the Italian-restaurant-vibe out back...
By
Sophie
Amado
Will's Northwoods Inn – Wisconsin in Chicago
"Will's Northwoods Inn" is a Wisconsin-themed bar in Chicago. It's primarily a sports bar, but on non-game days, it becomes a cozy dive...
By
Sophie
Amado
Hey Traveller! Heading to Chicago?
Our Spotters' Local Favorites Only. Skip the Tourist Traps.
Find Nearby Spots and Navigate with Ease
Save Your Favorites and See Them on the Map
Hey Traveller! Heading to Chicago?
✓ Full access to local favorites.
Zero tourist highlights.
✓ Get to know our Spotters and
♥ their recommendations.
✓ Save your favorites spots
Categories
What to do in Chicago?
What to expect?
Authentic & Unbiased Content
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!
Go off the Beaten Path Gems
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
Instantly know your way in Chicago like a local!
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.