Exploring the Windy City: Our 2023 Trip to Chicago, Illinois
In 2023, we set off on an exciting trip to Chicago, Illinois, flying from Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI) to O’Hare International Airport. The Windy City welcomed us with its bold skyline, rich history, and diverse culture — and we dove right in.
Arrival at O’Hare & Getting Into the City
With plans to explore not just Chicago, but also nearby states, we reserved a Toyota 4Runner rental, which we picked up right at the airport for maximum flexibility. Although we stayed outside the city — about a 30-minute drive from downtown — this gave us easy access to Chicago’s highlights while providing a quieter home base and the convenience of highway travel for day trips.
A Powerful Visit to the DuSable Museum
One of the most impactful parts of our trip was our visit to the DuSable Museum of African American History, located in the historic Washington Park neighborhood. This museum honors the legacy, struggles, and achievements of African Americans across the centuries — from slavery and the Civil Rights era to modern contributions in arts, science, and politics.
We were especially moved by the exhibits that focused on local Chicago history and the life of Jean Baptiste Point du Sable, the city’s Haitian-born founder. The museum gave us a deeper appreciation for the city’s roots and the stories often left out of mainstream narratives.
Cruising the Chicago River & Skyline Views
To take in Chicago from a new angle, we took a boat cruise along the Chicago River, which turned out to be one of the most scenic and unforgettable parts of our trip. As we glided through the water, we got spectacular views of the skyline, including architectural marvels like the Willis Tower, Marina City, and the Wrigley Building.
Our guide shared fascinating insights into Chicago’s architectural history, from the aftermath of the Great Chicago Fire to the rise of modern skyscrapers. The river cruise was both relaxing and educational — and offered countless photo ops of the skyline, especially as the sun began to set.
Parks, Landmarks & City Walks
We spent time exploring Millennium Park, where we of course took photos with Cloud Gate (a.k.a. “The Bean”). From there, we wandered through Grant Park and the lakeshore, enjoying green spaces and wide-open views of Lake Michigan.
Culture & Museums
Along with the DuSable Museum, we also made stops at the Art Institute of Chicago and the Field Museum. Both offered hours of exploration — from iconic art masterpieces to natural history exhibits that brought science to life.
Chicago Eats
Food was a major highlight. We indulged in classic deep-dish pizza at Giordano’s, tried a Chicago-style hot dog, and sampled local flavors in neighborhoods like Pilsen and Chinatown. Chicago’s food scene is as rich and layered as the city itself.
A Taste of Nigeria in Chicago
One of the most heartwarming surprises on this trip was enjoying lunch at K I African Restaurant, located at 7137 N Clark St in the Rogers Park neighborhood. This cozy spot specializes in traditional Nigerian cuisine, offering a flavorful journey through the country’s diverse dishes. MapQuest+4Vibemap+4DoorDash+4MapQuest
We indulged in classics like jollof rice, egusi soup, and fufu, each dish bursting with authentic spices and rich flavors. The generous portions and warm hospitality made us feel right at home. It’s a must-visit for anyone seeking a genuine Nigerian culinary experience in Chicago.
Neighborhood Vibes
Each neighborhood felt like a different world. We enjoyed the peaceful charm of Lincoln Park, with its free zoo and lakeside paths, and loved the creative energy in Wicker Park, with its coffee shops, indie boutiques, and street art.
Final Thoughts
Chicago left a lasting impression on us. Our visit to the DuSable Museum gave us historical depth, while the skyline boat cruise gave us visual wonder. The food, neighborhoods, and friendly atmosphere brought it all together. It’s a city that honors its past while embracing the future — and one we can’t wait to visit again.
From our flight out of BWI to our return home from O’Hare, our 2023 trip to Chicago was everything we hoped for and more.
✈️ Travel Tips for Visiting Chicago
1. Getting There:
- Fly into O’Hare International Airport (ORD) if you’re arriving from most major cities — it’s well-connected and accessible via public transportation.
- Take the CTA Blue Line from O’Hare to downtown. It’s budget-friendly and runs frequently.
2. Getting Around:
- Chicago has an excellent public transit system (CTA trains and buses).
- For neighborhood hopping, rideshares like Uber and Lyft are convenient.
- Bring comfortable walking shoes — Chicago is a great city to explore on foot.
- You can also get a rental car like we did for maximum flexibility.
3. Best Time to Visit:
- Late spring (May–June) and early fall (September–October) offer the best weather with fewer crowds.
- Summer is lively with festivals and lakefront activities, but it can get hot and busy.
4. Booking Tours:
- Architecture boat cruises sell out fast in peak season — book ahead!
- Museums often have free admission days — check their websites for details.
- Many top attractions are included in the Chicago CityPASS, which can save time and money.
5. Dining Out:
- Try deep-dish pizza at Giordano’s or Lou Malnati’s.
- For a taste of West Africa, K I African Restaurant is an excellent choice for authentic Nigerian cuisine.
🗓️ Sample 3-Day Chicago Itinerary
Day 1: Downtown & Iconic Landmarks
- Arrive at O’Hare, take CTA to your hotel.
- Lunch downtown.
- Visit Millennium Park & Cloud Gate (“The Bean”).
- Explore Grant Park and walk along Lake Michigan.
- Dinner and evening stroll on the Chicago Riverwalk.
Day 2: Culture & River Views
- Morning at the Art Institute of Chicago.
- Lunch near Michigan Avenue.
- Afternoon boat cruise on the Chicago River to admire the skyline.
- Dinner at K I African Restaurant in Rogers Park.
- Optional: enjoy nightlife or a show in the Theater District.
Day 3: History & Neighborhoods
- Visit the DuSable Museum of African American History.
- Afternoon in Lincoln Park (zoo, conservatory, walking paths).
- Explore Wicker Park or Pilsen for local vibes and street art.
- Wrap up with a Chicago-style hot dog and sunset by the lake.
Leave a Reply