Travel & Exploring Chicago
Recommended hotels and a list if our favorite activities in the city!
Hotel Recommendations
We have reserved blocks with preferred rates at the following hotels:
The Godfrey Hotel
127 W Huron Street
Chicago, IL 60654
Alternatively, you can call the reservation desk at 855-649-2200 and ask for the Dutmers+Garrett Wedding room block.
Hotel Felix
111 W Huron Street
Chicago, IL 60654
*The Hotel Felix is pet friendly for anyone traveling with a four-legged loved one.
The Moxy
530 N La Salle Drive
Chicago, IL 60654
*By popular demand, the Moxy is part of the Marriott family for Bonvoy members.
Things to do!
Make the most of your time in Chicago!
Things to do:
Enjoy a walk on the lakefront path: There is 18.5 miles of lakefront path to explore. You can also rent a Divvy bike and explore.
Walk the 606 and explore Bucktown: The 606 is a former train line that has been converted into a running / walking path. Jimmy enjoys daily walks here.
Shopping on Armitage: Armitage between Racine & Halsted has some great boutiques to check out. Art Effect is Molly’s favorite. Your visit to this historic street will be further enhanced by a visit to Armitage Alehouse or J9 Wine Bar!
Willis (but forever Sears in our hearts) Tower Skydeck: It is the tallest observation deck in the US. The observatory deck at the Hancock building (360 Chicago) is another great overlook within walking distance of the hotel blocks.
Visit the Art Institute: See one of the world’s top impressionist art collections at this iconic museum.
Wrigley Field Bleachers: If anyone is in Chicago early, the Cubs are hosting the Milwaukee Brewers on April 28th.
Architecture Tour on the Chicago River: Every time you go you learn something new!
Places to eat:
Club Lucky: Our neighborhood Italian spot and one of favorite spots for martinis and meatballs. Try Mikey G’s favorite, the half chicken oreganato.
Armitage Alehouse: If you are in Chicago for an extra night we highly recommend planning to go here. Reservations can be difficult to get and open 21 days in advance. The food is absolutely delicious!
Ciccio Mio: Another Italian favorite in walking distance of our recommended hotels. Reservations open 21 days in advance.
Ranalli’s: Enjoy a walk on the lakefront path and then head to Ranalli’s for Moscow mules and pizza on their patio.
Mindy’s Bakery: The baked goods at this popular Wicker Park spot are well worth the wait. Go early and beat the line.
Luxbar: The site of Molly & Michael’s first date and engagement dinner is walkable from our recommended hotels. The people watching in this area of town, aka Viagra Triangle, is also top notch.
Places to drink:
Clark St. Ale House: This bar is right near the venue and recommended hotels. Plus there are tons of German brews on tap.
The Green Door Tavern: This classic Chicago tavern is within walking distance of the hotel block.
Gilt Bar: Try the cucumber martini! Walking distance from hotel block.
River Shannon: Around the corner from Ranalli’s, with an equally tasty Moscow mule.
J9 Wine Bar: Molly & Michael can be found here, waiting for a table at Armitage Alehouse.
Lottie’s: This is Jimmy’s favorite place to get pets. This is nearby Big Star.
Lemings: Another spot nearby Big Star that offers a variety of beers and shots of Malort.
The Charleston: This Bucktown neighborhood bar offers great drinks and tunes on vinyl.