The Swift Bunny team is packing our bunny slippers and headed to the Magnificent Mile for the National Apartment Association’s 2021 Education Conference, Apartmentalize. After 18 months plus of laying low, we can’t wait to see so many of our multifamily friends! Some of our team members have added a few extra fun days to our trips. In case you did, too, here’s a (not exhaustive) list of some of our favorite things to do (and eat!) while you’re in the Windy City.
- Cloud Gate aka The Bean: Inspired by liquid mercury, The Bean’s stainless steel surface reflects the activity and lights of surround Millennium Park and invites visitors to touch and interact with its mirror-like surface. This one is made for your Instagram feed!
- The Art Institute of Chicago: Personally, we would have put bunnies at the entrance rather than lions, but I concede the cats do make a regal entrance. Prepare to have your breath taken away by the collection inside. My personal favorite: the Tiffany window.
- 360 Chicago Observation Deck: Head up to the 94th floor of the John Hancock Center to catch a view of the Chicago skyline, Lake Michigan, and four states. If you’re brave enough, you can hang over the side of the building in TILT, the giant moving platform.
- Chicago Architecture River Cruise: Get views of the city’s most famous and spectacularly gorgeous buildings including the Willis (Sears)Tower, Old Post Office, Wrigley Building, and more.
- Afternoon Tea Service at The Drake Hotel: Make your reservations now as they are required, and seating is limited. The Drake has been serving tea for nearly a century, and their service is not to be missed. Even the Queen and Princess Diana have made royal visits!
- The Second City: If smiling’s your favorite, plan on laughing at The Second City’s twice nightly sketch comedy and improv show, the 109th Revue. Reservations required.
- Museum of Science and Industry: Marvel fans, don’t miss the Marvel: Universe of Super Heroes exhibit currently on display.
- Museum of Illusions: Experience the unbelievable with over 80 astonishing and mind-bending exhibits that will mess with your head and shock your senses!
- Maroon 5 at Wrigley Field: If you’re headed into town early enough, catch Adam Levine and the band at famous Cubs ballpark.
- Buckingham Fountain: One of the largest water fountains in the world, Buckingham Fountain famously appears in the title sequence of the sitcom Married…with Children and is located in Grant Park. The Fountain produces a major water display daily starting at 9:00 AM; displays run every hour on the hour and last approximately 20 minutes.
- Nuts on Clark: Pack your extra-large pants because you’re leaving Chicago heavier than you arrived, I promise. The food marathon begins before you even get out of either Midway or O’Hare airports with a trip through Nuts on Clark to load up on Chicago style caramel and cheese popcorn.
- Chicago Hot Dog: I can’t possibly pick a favorite, so instead link you to this list of the 10 best stands in the city limits as ranked by Chicago magazine. This list is sure to start an argument with any locals.
- Deep Dish Pizza: Another argument-starter right here; you have a lot of options when it comes to deep dish pizza. I recommend Lou Malnati’s but wouldn’t say no if you invite me to join you for a slice at your personal favorite spot.
- Cindy’s Rooftop at the Chicago Athletic Association Hotel: Lisa Trosien clued me in to this spot, the perfect place to peer out at the spectacular Chicago skyline and sites while enjoying a creative cocktail. Reservations highly recommended.
- Swift Bunnies: I saved the best for last! Don’t forget to come see me, Tiffany Tamminen, Shannon Karns, Joe Bailey, and Jefferson Morris in booth #986 at Apartmentalize. We are so looking forward to connecting! Safe travels and we’ll see you in Chicago!
