Liz over 6 years ago by Liz Adams

A Mini City Tour of Chicago with Rothy’s

Outfit 1: Reformation Blazer, Everlane Jeans, Rothy’s Sneakers c/o
Outfit 2: Halogen Turtleneck, J.Crew Jeans, Rothy’s Camo Loafers c/o

I’m often asked about my favorite spots in Chicago and because this is a beautiful time of year to visit I wanted to share some city love! Since moving to the suburbs a year ago, I’ve really figured out the locations that remind me so much of my time living in the city. Those spots that have my heart and feel like home! A lot of you may visit the city and miss those gems that really let you see Chicago from a local’s perspective. Hopefully this guide lets you put some new places on your radar!

I partnered with my friends at Rothy’s to take you on a mini city tour of my favorite coffee shops, lunch and dinner spots, city views, the best shopping and more. Rothy’s are without a doubt my favorite shoes for exploring Chicago! Super comfortable and the cutest shapes/styles to wear no matter the occasion. We take a 20-minute express train into Union Station from the suburbs, making it super easy to explore the city without worrying about parking, traffic, etc. I have been wearing these Rothy’s sneakers nonstop. So much so that I’ve already ordered them in Sand. They are so incredibly comfortable (no breaking in necessary!) and the price can’t be beat. Whenever we go into the city I have a plan for what our day will look like. It’s usually something like this…

My Perfect Day in Chicago

Coffee and pastry breakfast at La Colombe on Armitage Ave in Lincoln Park. I lived in Lincoln Park for 10 years and it is a neighborhood that is near and dear to my heart. Armitage is the sweetest street filled with amazing shops, restaurants and more. I love taking the L line to the Armitage stop, grabbing an almond milk latte and croissant at La Colombe and popping in and out of shops. A great place to start your day!

From there I take my coffee and walk to the Lincoln Park Zoo. Surrounded by parks and the lakeshore it is a great way to enjoy the nature paths with breathtaking views of the city, too. Whenever I have friends in town we will walk up the lakeshore path (from Fullerton to Oak Street beach) and enjoy the skyscrapers overhead. It’s the best way to get to one of my favorite blocks in the city – Oak Street! The shopping and dining can’t be beat.

There are two places that I always book for lunch: RL Cafe and Fred’s at Barneys. Two locations that you can’t miss! After a morning of shopping, a glass of champagne and a good meal is a must. Both of these spots are steps away from some of the best shopping in the city.

When our tummies are full we love to walk up Michigan Avenue to the Wrigley Building for some of the best views of Chicago along the river. A great place to sit and watch the busy city go by. From there we can walk to Millenium Park (you must go ice skating if you visit in the winter!) and I love to pop into Cindy’s Rooftop at the Chicago Athletic Association Hotel for an afternoon treat. The most breathtaking views of Grant Park and the lake! Come for breakfast, lunch or dinner – I promise it won’t disappoint.

By the late afternoon, I’m ready for a quick outfit change. One thing I love about Chicago is that is a stylish city that puts comfort first. We aren’t fussy when it comes to fashion. It’s a mix of high and low with an effortless vibe. On this particular day I packed my Rothy’s camo loafers, a new favorite in my closet! If you remember I also have the loafers in leopard and yellow. They are so so comfortable.

From Grant Park, it is easy to hop in a cab and check out the West Loop. So many amazing restaurants and retailers are opening shops on Randolph making this area the hot spot to live in the city. I never turn down an afternoon latte so I love popping into the Allis at Soho House for a quick pick me up. It is the most beautiful building and well worth the visit! Take your latte to go to explore everything West Loop has to offer.

When it is time for dinner my tried and true favorite is Le Colonial. Great for date night but also the perfect spot to celebrate a special occasion with your girlfriends. The food is fresh and delicious, the service is incredible and the ambiance is romantic. I love that you can get dressed up or walk in off the street after a day of running around the city. A place you could easily walk by but a meal you’ll never forget!

Thank you for joining me on my adventures around Chicago! I hope these suggestions come in handy next time you visit the city. Don’t forget your coat, some cute sunnies and your favorite pair of Rothy’s shoes. The most comfortable way to navigate around Chicago!

A big thank you to Rothy’s for sponsoring this post!