Chicago Lifestyle News

Chicago is unquestionably the greatest city on Earth. Well, at least in our opinion that is. For a glimpse inside what's it's like to call Chicago home, follow our lifestyle blog for up-to-date information on where to eat, drink, and shop all around the city. And if you're from out-of-town and are thinking about making a move to the Windy City, reach out to one of our local real estate agents in Chicago to discuss all your needs and wants in a new place to call home.

There are currently 56 blog entries related to this category.

There are plenty of reasons to want to live in Chicago, but traffic may not be at the top of your list. A newly released study found Chicago drivers spend a whopping 73 hours a year stuck in traffic. 

That’s considerably higher than the national average of just 54 hours. The study comes from the Texas A&M Transportation Institute. It recently released the findings as part of its 2019 Urban Mobility Report.

The report puts Chicago tenth in the nation in terms of the number of hours drivers waste commuting. Chicago took the number three spot in terms of the cumulative time spent in traffic.

All that time is also costing area drivers money. In Chicago alone, the study determined that’s about $1,300 per commuter. 

The study took a look at traffic

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Looking for a sweet urban loft near the 606 Trail on Chicago's northwest side? Here are a few loft conversions where you may find the most success.  

1820 N. Spaulding

With views overlooking The 606, the lofts of 1820 N Spaulding provide an ideal location to enjoy all of the nearby greenspace. The units also offer the enjoyment of high concrete ceilings, oak hardwoods and brick walls. 

2210 W. Wabansia 

For another option close to the trail, consider the lofts of 2210 W Wabansia. Also known as Pinnacle Lofts, the property offers up an easy walk to jump on the trail, the Blue Line, or visit one of the many restaurants, shops or coffee houses in the area. As well, you’ll also find high timber ceilings, exposed brick and private balconies.

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Things are heating up in Chicago, and it’s not just the promise of warmer temperatures in the forecast. The month of July is full of things to do and explore.

Fireworks at Navy Pier - through Labor Day

You don’t have to wait for the 4th to enjoy fireworks in Chicago. Catch a spectacular show, synchronized to music, on select nights through Labor Day. You’re in for a great show whether you stay on Navy Pier or head out on the water.

Taste of Chicago - July 10-14 - Grant Park

Sample a little of everything at Taste of Chicago. Noted as the largest food festival in the world, the event brings several days of food and entertainment to Grant Park.

PNC Chicago Bears 5K - July 13 - Lakefront/Soldier Field

Finally, lace up your running shoes, for

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Chicago is famous for its summer festivals, and with June being the month that really kicks the summer season off, there’s plenty to do around town all season long. In some ways, it’s hard to believe we’re already a week down in the month, but the good news is there is still plenty to look forward to over the next few weeks.  

Spring Awakening Music Festival - June 7-9

The latest electronic music festival in the Midwest hits Hoffman Estates June 7th thru 9th.

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Chicago Blues Festival - June 7-9

A spotlight on the famed Chicago-born music tradition at Millennium Park’s Jay Pritzker Pavilion.

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World Naked Bike Ride - June 8 

A clothing-optional bike ride hits the streets of Downtown Chicago. 

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Old

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It’s only been open a few months, but already Young American is creating quite a stir in Logan Square. This hip new progressive bar and restaurant recently opened its doors along Kedzie Avenue, but it’s far from ordinary.

If you want something truly unique, go for one of the bar’s CBD-infused cocktails. Customers can also choose to have CBD powder added into one of the bar’s spirt-free drinks. There’s even a drink on the menu called “Fort Nite”, but it has nothing to do with the popular video game.

Unlike the set-up in traditional bars and restaurants, at Young American it’s common for kitchen workers and servers to occasionally switch roles, then divvy up the tips at the end of the night. The location also includes space for a DJ and to dance.

Young

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If you’re looking for a new restaurant to try in River North, we found two great places that are definitely worth checking out.

Parlor River North

Parlor Pizza Bar recently opened its third Chicago location in the River North neighborhood. Like its other two locations, the new Parlor serves up an industrial vibe, while dishing up a variety of pies, local craft beers and cocktails.

The location also has two exclusive River North additions to the menu, including a pizza and a dessert. Parlor Pizza Bar River North is open every day of the week for lunch and dinner.

Wahlburgers

Just last month Wahlburgers opened its very first Chicago location. If the name looks familiar, that’s because it’s connected to Mark Wahlberg and his family. The chain

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Looking to get out and take advantage of all the fun things going on this spring? If so, here's a short list of events and festivities we're looking forward to most.

Baseball Home Openers- April 4 & April 8

Spring ushers in home openers for both the Chicago Cubs and the Chicago White Sox. The White Sox take on the Mariners April 4 and the Cubs take on the Pirates at home April 8.

Baconfest Chicago- April 5-6

UIC Dorin Forum

If you can’t get enough bacon, make plans to head to Baconfest Chicago. The two-day event features the chance to sample bacon-inspired dishes from dozens of chefs.

Star Wars Celebration- April 11-15

McCormick Place, Museum Campus

A galaxy far, far away takes center stage in Chicago mid-month for the Star Wars

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March Madness is here, and that means it’s time to not only catch some great games but also take advantage of some great specials in Chicago.

Budweiser Brickhouse Tavern

You don’t have to wait long to get into Budweiser Brickhouse Tavern. The popular Wrigleyville bar plans to open early on game day. You’ll find beer and food specials on the menu.

Lottie’s Pub

The one-and-only Lottie’s Pub in Bucktown also opens early on game days. You’ll find Boulevard specials when KU takes the court, then cheese curd pizza and Sheeps beer when its Wisconsin’s turn.  

Parlay at Joy District

Head to Parlay at Joy District to catch all the action on nearly two-dozen different TVs. The specials here include buy one, get one free beer buckets with purchase

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While it may not necessarily feel like it outside, spring is right around the corner. You’ll find plenty of things to do, see and experience in and around Downtown Chicago this March.

Chicago Polar Plunge- March 3

North Avenue Beach, Lincoln Park

Prepare to dive into a late blast of winter at the annual Chicago Polar Plunge. The event kicks off in early March at North Avenue Beach in Lincoln Park. The extremely chilly event helps raise money for Special Olympics Chicago.  

Chicago Beer Festival- March 9

The Field Museum

If you’d rather sip on a cold brew inside, head to The Field Museum during the Chicago Beer Festival. This event serves up samples from more than 70 different breweries. 

Chicago St. Patrick’s Day Parade- March 16

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In a city like Chicago, award-winning restaurants and mouth-watering eateries aren’t hard to come by when it’s time to grab breakfast, lunch, or dinner. But when its date night and the pressure’s on to impress that special someone, choosing the right place can make or break the evening. So in recognition of the upcoming Valentine’s Day celebration, here’s our short list of Chicago’s most romantic restaurants:

Tango Sur

This cozy, candlelit Argentinian steakhouse has been a Southport Corridor staple for year. There’s no denying that Tango Sur’s hearty Latin American menu is tops in Lakeview, and the atmosphere is perfect for a quiet Valentine’s Day dinner with that special someone.

Geja’s

Geja’s Café is known throughout Chicago for its romantic

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