Islands - Expert Travel Info & Tips: From Islands, to Mountains, & Everything In Between

This Charming Chicago City Park Right Next To Navy Pier Offers Intimate Lakeside Views

staff@islands.com (Erika W. Smith) — Tue, 14 Apr 2026 21:00:00 +0000

Any time you find a quiet getaway in a major city, it feels special. The same goes for this small park right in the heart of Chicago's downtown.

Illinois' Tiny Village Outside Chicago Is A Historic Golfing Haven

staff@islands.com (Rebecca High) — Tue, 14 Apr 2026 12:45:00 +0000

A tiny village near Chicago, Illinois has been a golfing haven since the days that most of its patrons arrived on horseback, and it remains renowned today.

Chicago's 4 Most Highly Anticipated Local Restaurants Expected To Open In 2026, According To Foodies

staff@islands.com (Rory Buccheri) — Tue, 14 Apr 2026 09:15:00 +0000

Discover some of Chicago's most anticipated restaurant openings expected in 2026, from taquerias and Peruvian-Japanese fusion spots to fine dining.

Illinois' Charming Chicago Suburb Is A Peaceful City With A Quaint Downtown, Antique Shops, And A Museum

staff@islands.com (Rory Buccheri) — Sat, 11 Apr 2026 02:45:00 +0000

If you want to visit a place that has plenty of entertainment while still avoiding the hustle and bustle of a city, head to this family-friendly Illinois spot.

Chicago's Downtown Hotel In River North Offers A Conveniently Walkable Location And Friendly Staff

staff@islands.com (Rebecca High) — Tue, 07 Apr 2026 15:00:00 +0000

If you're looking for a comfortable, fun place with a view in Chicago, you can head to this hotel that receives rave reviews for its kind staff members.

What Are The 5 Best Foodie Destinations In The US For 2026?

staff@islands.com (David McElhinney) — Sat, 04 Apr 2026 20:00:00 +0000

Travelers are planning vacations around food, leaning toward local restaurants and street food. But what are the best foodie destinations for 2026?

America's Best Diners That Are Dripping With Nostalgic Charm And Top-Notch Food

staff@islands.com (Jenna Intersimone) — Thu, 02 Apr 2026 14:30:00 +0000

Amderican diners are a comforting throwback that have been enjoyed for nearly a century. Here are the places serving the best eats across the United States.

The Best Deep-Dish Pizza In Chicago Can Be Surprisingly Hard To Get

staff@islands.com (Erika W. Smith) — Tue, 31 Mar 2026 16:00:00 +0000

It may come as no surprise that the Windy City's most highly rated deep-dish pizza can be incredibly hard to come by, despite having two locations.

5 Of Frank Sinatra's Favorite Places To Stay And Visit During His Life

staff@islands.com (Rebecca High) — Fri, 27 Mar 2026 02:15:00 +0000

Follow in the footsteps of 'Ole Blue Eyes in these five iconic American places that the famous singer, entrepreneur, and film star was known to frequent.

Chicago's 5 Best-Rated Greek Eateries

staff@islands.com (Erika W. Smith) — Wed, 25 Mar 2026 02:00:00 +0000

Whether you're looking for casual, late-night spots or an upscale, white tablecloth experience, these are five of the best Greek restaurants in Chicago.

The 5 Best Beaches Around Chicago, According To Reviews

staff@islands.com (Rachel Dennis) — Tue, 24 Mar 2026 22:45:00 +0000

Chicago and its surroundings are home to a wealth of scenic beaches, and if you're seeking a day in the sun, these five spots are your best bet.

America's Hands-Down Best Italian Restaurants, According To Reviews

staff@islands.com (Rebekah Winters Barton) — Sun, 29 Mar 2026 14:30:00 +0000

Italian food is one of the most internationally beloved cuisine. Whether you're searching for a gourmet meal or comfort food, check out these restaurants.

10 Best U.S. Destinations To Visit In 2026, According To A Tripadvisor Study

staff@islands.com (Rosheda Stephenson) — Mon, 23 Mar 2026 22:30:00 +0000

Dreaming of a trip within the United States in 2026? Tripadvisor just released its picks for the top U.S. vacation destinations, and here are the top 10.

Chicago's 5 Must-Visit Abandoned Places, According To Urban Explorers

staff@islands.com (Jess Simms) — Tue, 17 Mar 2026 21:00:00 +0000

If you're looking to explore some of Chicago's less traditional attractions, these incredible abandoned locations might be what you're looking for.

The Chicago Riverwalk's 5 Best Restaurants, According To Reviews

staff@islands.com (Erika W. Smith) — Tue, 10 Mar 2026 11:00:00 +0000

Whether you want to grab a drink surrounded by skyscrapers or walk with a coffee along the water, these are five of the best restaurants on Chicago's Riverwalk.

Chicago's Red Line Is Set For A Long-Awaited Extension

staff@islands.com (Rene Bennett) — Tue, 10 Mar 2026 10:00:00 +0000

In Chicago, Illinois, a transit expansion for the Red Line is underway that will connect the Far South Side to downtown while improving access to other areas.

Chicago's 5 Prettiest Coffee Shops For Social Media-Worthy Views, According To Locals

staff@islands.com (Garrett Palm) — Tue, 03 Mar 2026 17:00:00 +0000

From lush greenery to dramatic atriums, these Chicago coffee shops offer memorable views and IG-worthy spaces worth adding to your itinerary.

5 Go-To Places To Take Friends When They Visit Chicago (That Won't Break The Bank)

staff@islands.com (Rebecca High) — Wed, 25 Feb 2026 03:00:00 +0000

Looking for affordable things to do in Chicago? This guide highlights neighborhood experiences, cultural gems and local favorites that keep costs low.

Forget The Field Museum, These Are The 5 Most Underrated Museums Worth Visiting In Chicago, According To Locals

staff@islands.com (Erika W. Smith) — Mon, 23 Feb 2026 18:00:00 +0000

While the Field Museum is great, there are plenty of underrated museums to visit in Chicago if you're seeking an experience that's off the beaten path.

Chicago's Chic Shopping Destination Is An Affluent Lakeside Neighborhood With Skyline Vistas

staff@islands.com (Nola Sarkisian-Miller) — Tue, 17 Feb 2026 22:00:00 +0000

Take in views of Lake Michigan and downtown from an observation deck or rooftop bar and shop designer stores or retail malls in this Chicago neighborhood.