30+ Most Romantic Things To Do In Chicago, Illinois

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This article collects the best date ideas and romantic things to do in Chicago for couples based on major travel, blogs, reviews, and social media sites.

There are numerous romantic activities available in Chicago. The city’s biggest attractions are listed below, along with ideas for romantic dates. These activities, which range from fine dining to sightseeing throughout the city, are free to attend.

Imagine surprising your loved one with a last-minute trip to Chicago? 

Imagine what it was like when you two first met. 

Bring those emotions to the forefront as you read this article.

Here are 30+ romantic things to do in Chicago with your partner.

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Table of Contents

Outdoor / Adventurous Date Ideas in Chicago To Have Fun

Take some heart-stopping views of four states at The Skydeck

Romantic Things To Do In Chicago, Illinois : The Skydeck, Chicago Skyline - Credits: Pinterest
The Skydeck, Chicago Skyline – Credits: Pinterest
  • Cost: Starts from $30-$44/person (ticketing)
  • Address: 233 S Wacker Dr, Chicago, IL 60606
  • Phone: +1 312-875-9447

The former Sears Tower’s 103rd story houses the Skydeck, which offers tourists breathtaking views of four states.

Aside from the Ledge, a glass balcony stretching 4.3 feet out from the Sky Deck and offering daring guests unparalleled views above the city, glass-encased observation boxes offer uninterrupted 360-degree vistas.

Browse the museum-caliber exhibitions to learn about the history of the city and the Sky Deck, and watch the “Reaching For The Sky” theater performance while climbing to the 103rd level.

After that, unwind on the 99th story of the Willis Tower with a Chicago-style pizza and cool drinks.

Sample the city’s culinary delights at Chicago French Market

Romantic Things To Do In Chicago, Illinois : Couple at a market - Credits: Pixabay
Couple at a market – Credits: Pixabay
  • Cost: Starts from $20-$150 (shopping)
  • Address: 131 N Clinton St, Chicago, IL 60661
  • Phone: +1 312-575-0306

One of the most incredible places to sample the local cuisine, whether you’re a local eater or a tourist in Chicago, is the Chicago French Market. 

The lively, consistently crowded, and scrumptious-smelling Chicago French Market is home to more than 30 exhibitors who provide a wide variety of fresh and prepared foods. 

Along with a few more laid-back dine-in establishments and convenient grab-and-go stalls, there are stalls with ingredients for cooking at home. 

The market is open every day of the week. No matter what you’re craving, you can probably get it there: mac ‘n’ cheese, Belgian fries, lobster rolls, ceviche, empanadas, meatball subs, French macarons, chocolate truffles, and much more. 

Live music, happy hour deals, and other entertainment complement these delectable dishes.

Meet and Greet your favorite animals at Lincoln Park Zoo

Romantic Things To Do In Chicago, Illinois : Couple at a zoo - Credits: iStock
Couple at a zoo – Credits: iStock
  • Cost: Free
  • Address: 2001 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60614
  • Phone: +1 312-742-2000

“Can’t believe this place is FREEEEE to visit, it’s way better than London Zoo imo, great staff, amazing animals and the environments looked really well kept and plenty of space, there is also a really good place to get a Chicago Dog just to keep you going.” – Paul W

The Lincoln Park Zoo is among the oldest zoos in the country and was founded in 1868. 

The Lincoln Park Zoo offers locals and visitors a particular location to reconnect with nature in a city dominated by skyscrapers. 

A romantic stroll at the zoo is an excellent opportunity to unwind and appreciate the marvelous environment we live in because the zoo is not only full of amazing animals but also a cornucopia of lovely trees, bushes, and flowers. 

You may observe more than 200 different animal species while learning about the zoo’s excellent work to help numerous wildlife programs worldwide.

Enjoy open-air entertainment at Navy Pier

Romantic Things To Do In Chicago, Illinois : Navy Pier - Credits: Pixabay
Navy Pier – Credits: Pixabay
  • Cost: Free
  • Address: 600 E Grand Ave, Chicago, IL 60611
  • Phone: +1 312-595-7437

“Have to do the Ferris wheel to get some of the best views of the entire city skyline! Great food and tons of little shops to check out.” – Slowe

A must-visit place in Chicago for your romantic break is The Navy Pier. Locals and tourists congregate here to enjoy outdoor entertainment, food, cultural attractions, and much more. 

You can enjoy an evening at the Chicago Shakespeare Theater, take in some breathtaking views at East End Plaza, go for a stroll around Polk Park or to one of the park’s free events, or go on a romantic dinner cruise on Lake Michigan. 

You can choose to go on a quick, high-speed speedboat trip if you prefer your experiences to be a little more exhilarating. Every couple can find something to appreciate at Navy Pier.


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Cruise through the beautiful city scenes

Romantic Things To Do In Chicago, Illinois : Downtown Chicago cruise through Chicago River - Credits: Pinterest
Downtown Chicago cruise through Chicago River – Credits: Pinterest
  • Cost: $10/person (boat tour)
  • Address: Chicago, Illinois
  • Phone: N/A

There is no better way to appreciate Chicago’s architecture than by taking one of the city’s architecture river excursions. 

Feel the wind in your hair as you pass through picturesque city scenes while your guide explains the history of the majestic structures all around you. 

This has to be among the top Chicago romantic date ideas.

Music, Art, Historic, Cultural Date Ideas in Chicago

Show your love for art and plants at Garfield Park Conservatory

Romantic Things To Do In Chicago, Illinois : Garfield Park Conservatory - Credits: Pexels
Garfield Park Conservatory – Credits: Pexels
  • Cost: Free
  • Address: 300 N Central Park Ave, Chicago, IL 60624
  • Phone: +1 773-638-1766

“The Conservatory was a wonderful way to spend the morning. The plants/landscapes were so nice to walk through. The staff was very friendly and plants were identified for easy recognition. I Highly recommend visiting for a peaceful 2 hours” – Acampbell

The Garfield Park Conservatory, designed by William LeBaron Jenney, is often called “landscape art under glass.” 

It is among the top things in Chicago and spans 4.5 acres. The Conservatory is home to various year-round plant exhibits, including 200-year-old cycads and intriguing specimens from worldwide. 

One of the best romantic activities in Chicago is visiting the Garfield Park Conservatory. 

Many educational, neighborhood, presentations, workshops, and activities are held annually, ranging from cooking courses to seasonal flower exhibitions.

Learn the local culture through Chicago Architecture Foundation Tours

Romantic Things To Do In Chicago, Illinois : Chicago Architecture Foundation Tours - Credits: Pixabay
Chicago Architecture Foundation Tours – Credits: Pixabay
  • Cost: $60/person (ticketing)
  • Address: 465 N McClurg Ct, Chicago, IL 60611
  • Phone: +1 708-488-6343

Chicago, which is renowned for having fantastic architecture, is home to several famous buildings by internationally renowned architect Frank Lloyd Wright, including hotels, houses, and skyscrapers. 

The Chicago Architecture Foundation offers a range of docent-led tours to highlight these outstanding creations for individuals who admire the architecture or wish to learn more. 

Tours encompass many locations and important Chicago landmarks, from the downtown to different neighborhoods across the city.

Catch an unparalleled state-of-the-art experience at 360 Chicago

Romantic Things To Do In Chicago, Illinois : View from 360 Chicago - Credits: Instagram
View from 360 Chicago – Credits: Instagram
  • Cost: $30/person (ticketing)
  • Address: 875 N Michigan Ave 94th floor, Chicago, IL 60611
  • Phone: +1 888-875-8439

“This is a must see while visiting Chicago!! If you can visit at night time to see the city of lights!! We highly recommend!!!” – Peter

360 Chicago, formerly known as the John Hancock Observation Tower, is one of the top places to visit in Chicago and one of the most well-liked attractions in the city.

The John Hancock Center’s 94th floor is where you’ll find 360 Chicago, which soars 1,000 feet above the city and offers stunning views of both the city and Lake Michigan.

With TILT, a mobile observatory that tilts over the city for extraordinary views, the observation deck provides guests with a genuinely cutting-edge experience.

An interactive exhibit on the concourse level may teach you everything there is to know about the nine culturally distinct neighborhoods that make up the city, or you can unwind at the Architect’s Corner Café on the 94th floor and take in the breathtaking views.


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Stroll along the historic Andersonville

ANDERSONVILLE CHICAGO: (Chicago neighborhoods tour)

  • Cost: Starts from $50/person (tour)
  • Address: Andersonville, Chicago, Illinois
  • Phone: N/A

It’s like traveling back in time when you visit Andersonville. The absence of big-box retailers in this lovely Chicago neighborhood with deep Swedish origins is intentional. 

The ancient, one-mile-long commercial area is lined with charming shops, restaurants, cafes, galleries, and museums. The Swedish influence on Andersonville’s architecture has led to its designation as a National Historic District. 

The Swedish American Museum, Women & Children First Bookstore, and several of Chicago’s most excellent breweries are among Andersonville’s well-known attractions. 

Visit the Neo-Futurarium theater, the extremely old Simon’s Tavern, the Coffee Studio, which arguably serves Chicago’s best coffee, and the Alley Cat Comics bookstore.

Admire the art at The Art Institute of Chicago

Romantic Things To Do In Chicago, Illinois : The Art Institute of Chicago - Credits: Pixabay
The Art Institute of Chicago – Credits: Pixabay
  • Cost: Starts from $19-$25 (ticketing)
  • Address: 111 S Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60603
  • Phone: +1 312-443-3600

“Fantastic museum with wonderful exhibits. Easy all day touring; 2 hour minimum. Impressionists exhibit the best.” – Brandy C 

The Art Institute of Chicago is a well-known encyclopedic art museum that houses more than 300,000 works of art, making it one of the best in the world.

The museum, housed in Grant Park within Chicago’s Landmark Historic Michigan Boulevard District, is filled with great painters’ creations.

You may see a range of classic art pieces here, such as American Gothic by Grant Wood, A Sunday Afternoon on the Island of La Grande Jatte by Seurat, and Nighthawks by Edward Hopper.

Impressionism and Post-Impressionism, Old Masters and American Art, European and American Decorative Arts, Modern and Contemporary Art, Asian Art, Architecture, and Graphic Design are just a few genres represented in the museum’s collection. 

They provide you with a comprehensive and varied experience. 

The second-largest museum in the United States is located here.

Celebrate the millennium at Millennium Park

Romantic Things To Do In Chicago, Illinois : Millennium Park - Credits: Pinterest
Millennium Park – Credits: Pinterest
  • Cost: Free
  • Address: 201 E Randolph St, Chicago, IL 60602
  • Phone: +1 312-742-1168

In the Loop neighborhood of Chicago, Millennium Park is a sizable public park created to commemorate the millennium. 

The park, open to the public all year long, offers a wide range of public art, entertainment, and activities, including exhibitions, concerts, friendly activities, and architecture and landscape design. 

The Nichols Bridgeway and the BP Pedestrian Bridge connect the park, located atop Millennium Station, and are easily accessible to visitors and portions of Grant Park. 

The Jay Pritzker Pavilion, the Crown Fountain, the Cloud Gate, and the five-acre urban haven known as Lurie Garden are additional landscaping highlights in Millennium Park. 

With various entertaining things to see and do, the park transforms into the city’s throbbing heart in the summer.

There are summer workouts, live music performances, and movie screenings and series to stay in shape. Chicago’s Millennium Park is a terrific place to go if you’re searching for something to do.

Please your senses with a soothing performance at Chicago Symphony Orchestra

Romantic Things To Do In Chicago, Illinois : Chicago Symphony Orchestra - Credits: Pinterest
Chicago Symphony Orchestra – Credits: Pinterest
  • Cost: Starts from $50-$150 (ticketing)
  • Address: 220 S Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60604
  • Phone: +1 312-294-3000

One of the “Big Five,” or the top five orchestras in the US, is the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, founded in 1891.

It is routinely praised as one of the world’s best orchestras. The orchestra presents about 100 concerts annually at Symphony Center, which maintains a home base.

Local and foreign conductors and performers are featured. Additionally, the ensemble performs at the season-long Ravinia Festival, held on the North Shore of Chicago annually. 

The orchestra, which is currently led by artistic director Riccardo Muti, has seen many renowned conductors, such as Seiji Ozawa, James Levine, and Christoph Eschenbach, make their Ravinia debuts.


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Explore the theatrical works at Lookingglass Theater Company

Romantic Things To Do In Chicago, Illinois : Lookingglass Theater Company - Credits: Pixabay
Lookingglass Theater Company – Credits: Pixabay
  • Cost: $50/play/person (ticketing)
  • Address: 821 N Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60611
  • Phone: +1 312-337-0665

The Lookingglass Theater Company, a visually focused theater specializing in cutting-edge theatrical productions and modern literary adaptations, was established in 1988. 

The theater, founded by a group of Northwestern University alumni, flourished and later rose to prominence as one of the top creators of original works. 

The company won the 2011 Tony Award for Outstanding Regional Theater and is well known for developing and utilizing ensemble-based theatrical techniques. 

The award-winning Metamorphoses by Mary Zimmerman, David Schwimmer’s adaption of The Jungle by Upton Sinclair, and David Catlin’s homage to Lewis Carroll, Lookingglass Alice, are notable world debuts by the theater. 

The theater also offers a range of community and educational initiatives aimed at audience engagement, innovation, and transformation.

Dive into the fantasy world at The Chicago Theater

Romantic Things To Do In Chicago, Illinois : The Chicago Theater - Credits: Instagram 
The Chicago Theater – Credits: Instagram 
  • Cost: Starts from $100-$400 (ticketing)
  • Address: The Chicago Theater, Chicago, IL 60654
  • Phone: +1 (212) 465-6000

The Chicago Theater, a famous landmark in the center of Chicago, was formerly known as the Wonder Theater of the World when it first opened in 1921. 

The French Baroque theater will completely astound you with its elegance and luxury; the great lobby alone is five floors high and was inspired by the Royal Chapel of Versailles. 

The Chicago Theater eventually fell into ruin in the late 1980s, as was the case with many other structures of the time, but it was prevented from demolishing and had a complete renovation in 1986. 

It’s a great idea to see a performance at this opulent old dame on a date night in Chicago.

Travel back in time at Driehaus Museum

Romantic Things To Do In Chicago, Illinois : Inside of Driehaus Museum - Credits: Pixabay
Inside of Driehaus Museum – Credits: Pixabay
  • Cost: Starts from $10–$20 (ticketing)
  • Address: 40 E Erie St, Chicago, IL 60611
  • Phone: +1 312-482-8933

The Richard H. Driehaus Museum honors the Gilded Age residence of banker Samuel Mayo Nickerson and is one of Chicago’s grandest homes from that era.

The house, which Richard H. Driehaus founded in 2003, has been immaculately restored to its former splendor and is a stunning illustration of previous architectural and design trends and methods. 

In the museum’s spectacular halls and collections of elegant, historically correct furnishings, décor, and artworks, visitors can discover the past while perusing works by artists like Louis Comfort Tiffany and the Herter Brothers from the Driehaus Collection of Fine and Decorative Arts.

Take a tour of The Alfred Caldwell Lily Pool

Romantic Things To Do In Chicago, Illinois : The Alfred Caldwell Lily Pool - Credits: Pixabay
The Alfred Caldwell Lily Pool – Credits: Pixabay
  • Cost: $20/person (ticketing)
  • Address: 125 W Fullerton Pkwy, Chicago, IL 60614
  • Phone: N/A

The Alfred Caldwell Lily Pool, also referred to as the Lincoln Park Lily Pool, is a National Historic Landmark situated on Fullerton Parkway in Lincoln Park.

The pool, which Alfred Caldwell designed in 1936 and is now available for public inspection, is a superb illustration of Prairie School landscape architecture. 

The pool, which the Lincoln Park Conservancy runs, includes:

  • Curved paths
  • Meandering limestone stepping stone steps
  • Circular benches where guests can stop and take in the views

The Fullerton Gateway, a distinctively designed entry to the property, and a shelter built out over the pool are great examples of Prairie School landscape design. 

Both are inspired by the organic architecture of Frank Lloyd Wright.

Attend an event at Chicago Cultural Center

An Inside Look at the Chicago Cultural Center

  • Cost: Free
  • Address: 78 E Washington St, Chicago, IL 60602
  • Phone: +1 312-744-5000

The Chicago Cultural Center is not only a stunning example of architecture and design but also hosts a wide range of incredible free events for the general public all year long. Events include concerts, dance and theater performances, art exhibitions, movies, lectures, and events. 

Two massive and breathtaking stained-glass domes may be found on the spectacular Chicago landmark. On the structure’s south side is the largest Tiffany-stained glass dome in the world.

It has a diameter of 38 feet and is constructed of 30,000 pieces of glass. On the other hand, the north side is home to a 40-foot-diameter dome with a complex Renaissance design of around 50,000 pieces of glass. 

The cultural center welcomes a variety of international performers each year.

Scope out the best public art in Chicago

Romantic Things To Do In Chicago, Illinois : Chicago Public Art - Credits: Pexels
Chicago Public Art – Credits: Pexels
  • Cost: Free
  • Address: Chicago, Illinois
  • Phone: N/A

Chicago has some of the world’s top museums, but if you know where to look, the city itself is an art gallery. 

You may find stunning creative works in many parts of the city, from imposing sculptures by artists like Picasso and Calder in the Loop to exquisite murals by local painters like Hebru Brantley and Hector Duarte in Pilsen. 

Go on a quest to find everything.

See a virtual show at the Hideout

Romantic Things To Do In Chicago, Illinois : Virtual Show - Credits: Pinterest
Virtual Show – Credits: Pinterest
  • Cost: $30/person (ticketing)
  • Address: 1354 W Wabansia Ave, Chicago, IL 60642
  • Phone: +1 773-227-4433

The Hideout’s virtual programming calendar, crammed with happy hours, performances, and album release parties, nevertheless allows you to plan a night “out” without actually leaving the house. 

Pick the show you want to see, pay the minimal admission charge (often $5–$10), and turn on the television when it’s time. 

Appreciate what you see? Get a subscription for $25 a month so you can switch between shows whenever you like.

Indoor / Relaxing / Foodies Date Ideas in Chicago

Treat your bellies at The Bristol

Romantic Things To Do In Chicago, Illinois : Couple at a restaurant - Credits: Freepik
Couple at a restaurant – Credits: Freepik
  • Cost: Starts from $30-$100 (food) 
  • Address: 2152 N Damen Ave, Chicago, IL 60647
  • Phone: +1 773-862-5555

The Bristol, a laid-back, informal restaurant in Chicago’s Bucktown neighborhood, has swiftly established itself as a go-to destination for the city’s foodies, gourmands, and gastronomes seeking inventive and imaginative meals. 

The restaurant is spread over two floors and has a private dining room on the upper level for special occasions. 

It also features sleek, modern décor. This is a terrific option if you’re seeking romantic date ideas in Chicago. 

Professional, welcoming personnel provide an all-American menu with farm-to-table ingredients, fresh charcuterie, and homemade pasta. An extensive wine list offers customers choices from over 200 vintners and beers worldwide.

Meet with the sea creatures at Shedd Aquarium

Romantic Things To Do In Chicago, Illinois : Shedd Aquarium - Credits: Pinterest
Shedd Aquarium – Credits: Pinterest
  • Cost: $40/person (ticketing)
  • Address: 1200 S DuSable Lake Shore Dr., Chicago, IL 60605
  • Phone: +1 312-939-2438

“Best aquarium in the US. The backdrop of Lake Michigan is beautiful! We took the behind the scenes tour – which is a must! Get to see the shark tank from above and learn the history of this amazing place.” – Grace

The Shedd Aquarium is home to some of the most incredible undersea creatures on earth and gives visitors the chance to experience sea life from all around the world in one place. 

The Caribbean Reef, the unbelievable 400,000-gallon Wild Reef shark habitat, and coming face to face with a gigantic beluga whale are some of the highlights of any trip to the aquarium. 

Participating in one of the aquarium’s incredible 4-D activities may get even closer to the aquatic environment. Join a 75-minute guided tour of all the attractions if you have little time to spare.

Step into the heart of Greece with an unforgettable evening at Taxim

Romantic Things To Do In Chicago, Illinois : Couple at a restaurant - Credits: Pixabay
Couple at a restaurant – Credits: Pixabay
  • Cost: Starts from $20-$100 (food)
  • Address: 1558 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL 60622
  • Phone: +1 773-252-1558

Taxim takes you on an incredible culinary adventure by serving a selection of regional Greek cuisine and wine from Grecian islands, highlands, and villages. 

With mezes of pipes, small plates of revisit – pureed chickpea paste, roasted peppers, stuffed eggplant, and zucchini – owner David Schneider has created a cuisine that is influenced by the Aegean-style cooking he learned from his Greek mother. 

Entrees are also available, including duck gyros, wood-grilled lamb chops, and crispy roast chicken with Greek oregano. 

Instead of the typical retsina and rods, an excellent 30-bottle wine selection provides distinctive Greek varietals from high-quality producers like Skouras and Sigalas. A welcoming, efficient staff is ready to serve you in style.

Sip some wine with scrumptious food at Dusek’s Board and Beer

Romantic Things To Do In Chicago, Illinois : Couple having food with wine - Credits: Freepik
Couple having food with wine – Credits: Freepik
  • Cost: Starts from $20-$70 (food+beer)
  • Address: 1227 W 18th St, Chicago, IL 60608
  • Phone: +1 312-526-3851

“Everything was delicious! From the strawberry salad to the cheese broccoli to the squid, everything was prepared well. Lydia was a great server. Terrific atmosphere and music to boot.” – Wholko P

The quaint and welcoming restaurant Dusek’s Board and Beer aim to realize the vision of the original owner, John Dusek.

He imagined a multi-use community center featuring a dining area, a bar, and a stage. The restaurant and bar are open for business even if the concert facility isn’t currently operational.

As an homage to the structure’s 19th-century origins, they are decorated with restored wood, wrought iron tables, Edison bulbs, and tin ceilings. 

Crispy pigtails, foie gras, and buttery Maine lobster are just a few of the unexpected treats on the menu’s bold and inventive offerings. 

The wine and beer list are impressive, offering a variety of beers from outside the area, Czech beers on tap, and beer-based cocktails.

Start your morning with a delicious breakfast at Meli Cafe

Romantic Things To Do In Chicago, Illinois : Couple having a breakfast - Credits: Pexels
Couple having a breakfast – Credits: Pexels
  • Cost: Starts from $15-$50 (food)
  • Address: 540 N Wells St, Chicago, IL 60654
  • Phone: +1 312-527-1850

Meli Cafe is a friendly, welcoming restaurant that serves delicious meals. It falls halfway between a diner and a favorite local hangout. 

It is renowned around Chicago for serving delicious brunches that include freshly squeezed juice, multigrain pancakes, house-made marmalade, and more nutritious meals than you might anticipate. 

Just enough of Meli is Greek to offer meals like kefta and saganaki, but not a lot. 

A standard breakfast and brunch menu is available, except that the eggs are free-range, the maple syrup is organic, and the challah bread, the butter, and the ketchup are all homemade using the best ingredients. 

Of their three locations, only Dearborn serves dinner; the other two only offer breakfast, lunch, and brunch.

Try out the mouth-watering menu of Beatrix at Fulton Market

Romantic Things To Do In Chicago, Illinois : Food at Beatrix - Credits: Pexels
Food at Beatrix – Credits: Pexels
  • Cost: Starts from $15-$50 (food)
  • Address: Fulton Market, Chicago, Illinois
  • Phone: N/A

Like its siblings in Chicago, Beatrix at Fulton Market is a modern, casual cafe serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

This well-liked local hangout features a restaurant, a coffee shop, a patio, and Beatrix Market, which offers quick grab-and-go options. Lean meats, fresh veggies, and the occasional sinful treat like enormous chocolate-chip cookies are the main ingredients on Beatrix’s menu.

Popular Chicago roasters Intelligentsia and Metric Coffee are available at The Coffee Bar, along with daily specials, Bulletproof coffee, and Nitro coffee. 

The cocktail menu, which includes traditional cocktails, freshly squeezed juice, seasonal fruits, and homemade ingredients, is motivated by Beatrix’s philosophy of “healthy meets delightful.”

The wine collection features well-chosen international wines and lesser-known home brands.

Erase your cravings for wines at Koval Distillery

Romantic Things To Do In Chicago, Illinois : Wine - Credits: Freepik
Wine – Credits: Freepik
  • Cost: Starts from $12-$60 (wine)
  • Address: 4241 N Ravenswood Ave, Chicago, IL 60613
  • Phone: +1 312-878-7988

“We had a great guide, very knowledgeable and entertaining to listen for an hour on all the types of Koval and drink suggestive Bought a bottle of our favorite as well as drink suggestions and a free glass.” – Steven A

When Sonat and Robert Birnecker opened the Koval Distillery in Chicago in 2008, it was the city’s first craft distillery since the repeal of Prohibition.

Today’s award-winning brandies, whiskeys, and liqueurs are manufactured on-site at the certified organic and kosher distillery’s Andersonville location in Chicago’s Northside neighborhood.

Its name is a play on the Yiddish term for “black sheep,” which refers to the company’s unconventional grain-to-bottle distillation methods. The term “blacksmith” originates from Eastern Europe.

All whiskeys are made in single barrels, including the rye, bourbon, wheat, oat, and millet variants.

The company’s rye vodka, apple and pear brandies, and strangely flavored liqueurs showcasing flavor profiles like rose hip, jasmine, and chrysanthemum honey are other award-winning alcoholic beverages. 

The distillery offers tours on Wednesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays.

Experience the relaxing bath at Aire Ancient Baths Chicago

Romantic Things To Do In Chicago, Illinois : Aire Ancient Baths Chicago - Credits: Pinterest
Aire Ancient Baths Chicago – Credits: Pinterest
  • Cost: Starts from $150-$600 (bath+massage)
  • Address: 800 W Superior St, Chicago, IL 60642
  • Phone: +1 312-312-9610

“Exceptional experience. Much needed wind down time and this place provided that and so much more. From the beauty of the place to the pools to the saunas to the staff, simply incredible!” – Tasha P

The Aire Ancient Baths Chicago in River West is housed in a 1902 factory that has been renovated and offers a multi-sensory journey through ancient Roman, Greek, and Ottoman bath experiences.

Six thermal baths, including a hot bath, ice and cold plunges, a warm pool, a saltwater flotation, and a jet pool, make up the distinctive bath experience.

The hot and cold plunges increase blood flow, encourage flexibility, strengthen immunity, and give a pleasant endorphin surge. 

Similar to love, There are treatments specifically designed for couples, such as the Wine Bath Experience for Two, which involves soaking in antioxidant-rich Spanish red grapes before receiving an hour-long massage with grape seed oil.

Get to the relaxation room to lounge on warm marble stones and sip various teas if you can still relax.

Get snuggly with the newly introduced indoor Fire Pits at Fairmont Lodge

Romantic Things To Do In Chicago, Illinois : Fairmont Lodge - Credits: Pexels
Fairmont Lodge – Credits: Pexels
  • Cost: Starts from $40-$120 (ticketing)
  • Address: 200 N Columbus Dr, Chicago, IL 60601
  • Phone: +1 312-565-8000

The chic, contemporary Fairmont Chicago’s Fairmont Lodge welcomes winter in a romantic way with warm furnishings, indoor “fire pits,” and overnight packages.

You may shop, promenade, or ice skate before visiting the attraction at the Fairmont Chicago Lodge, open for business for the first time this winter and tucked between Millennium Park and the Magnificent Mile. 

With the recently added interior Fire Pits, it’s a cozy refuge for you to unwind and cuddle. 

There are three different food and beverage packages to choose from, including The Spark ($25 for up to four guests), The Campfire ($50 for up to four guests), and The Hearth ($75 for up to four guests), which includes sweet or savory fondue, four cocktails, and cheese charcuterie.

Active and Youthful Date Ideas in Chicago

Tackle the hiking trails of Chicago

Romantic Things To Do In Chicago, Illinois : Couple hiking - Credits: Pexels
Couple hiking – Credits: Pexels
  • Cost: Free
  • Address: North Branch Trail, Chicago, Illinois
  • Phone: N/A

If you want to be active, there are many other open areas to discover outside your neighborhood. 

Like Seattle or San Francisco, the city doesn’t have neighboring mountains, but what the Midwest lacks in elevation makes up for natural beauty. 

Take a stroll on the North Branch Trail on the city’s northwest side, take the Illinois Prairie Path Trail through the suburbs on the west side, or cross state lines to see the breathtaking Indiana Dunes along Lake Michigan.

Lace up your ice skates

Romantic Things To Do In Chicago, Illinois : Ice Skating - Credits: iStock
Ice Skating – Credits: iStock
  • Cost: Starts from $16-$22 (ticketing)
  • Address: 337 E Randolph St, Chicago, IL 60601
  • Phone: +1 312-552-3000

Feeling restless? 

Don your skates and head to the Maggie Daley Park Skating Ribbon if you’re in Chicago during the winter. 

As you float through a winter wonderland with couples and families nearby, the city’s skyscrapers will soar majestically all around you.

Nature-Inspired Date Ideas in Chicago

Get lost in the Garden of the Phoenix in Jackson Park

Romantic Things To Do In Chicago, Illinois : Jackson Park Chicago - Credits: Pinterest
Jackson Park Chicago – Credits: Pinterest
  • Cost: $10/person (ticketing)
  • Address: Jackson Park, Chicago, IL
  • Phone: N/A

“Lots of beautiful lawn. Some water and a little island nearby too. Great place to walk and admire nature. There are places to play football, golf and there are two play areas too.” – Dashers 

Jackson Park, one of the city’s jewels, was initially created by Frederick Law Olmsted for the World’s Columbian Exposition of 1893. 

The Garden of the Phoenix, a Japanese strolling garden on Wooded Island, is possibly its most charming feature. 

The grounds, formerly known as the Osaka Garden, now house a permanent work of art by Yoko Ono. It’s the ideal location for a date-night stroll like Hyde park.

TOP 10 things to do in CHICAGO [Travel Guide]

Final Thoughts

Chicago, Illinois, is a beautiful city. The city’s attractions are museums, old structures, historic sites, historic buildings, romantic getaways, hiking trails, city tours, boat tours, amusement parks, food events, and renowned eateries.

We hope you will enjoy all the places on this list.

Have a beautiful time in Chicago.

Thanks for reading!

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Rosaura
Rosaura is the mom blogger who helps first time pregnant and postpartum moms find the solutions to their everyday problems. From first finding out you're pregnant to giving birth and baby care, she has you covered.