Top 5 Things to Do in Chicago

At DePaul, a slogan that students pride themselves on is “The City is Our Campus.” The statement, being entirely true, exemplifies what possibilities are in store for students at DePaul when they are not in class or working on assignments. To escape the stress of student life, these are my top five places that are guaranteed to satisfy students’ wants and needs to explore the city. 

1. Millennium Park 

Just three blocks from DePaul’s Loop Campus, Millennium Park offers space to see concerts during the warmer months, take Instagram worthy pictures at The Bean, stroll through the Lurie Garden or the Boeing Galleries. 

 2. Lincoln Park Zoo 

 This open air, free sightseeing zoo is open to all those who love animals. With   several animals to see, the zoo offers the possibility to step away from the intensity   of student life and spend over 2 hours watching animals play all day. 

3. The Magnificent Mile 

One of the most famous “attractions” in Chicago is not necessarily a building or an establishment but a 13 block stretch of shopping galore. If you want to spend some big bucks here, shops like Burberry, Gucci, and Neiman Marcus are the go to places, but what is more intriguing to college students is the new Starbucks Roastery. This five story building brews coffee in front and you and has exclusive drinks only sold in that store. Here, students can spend hours tasting new drinks and finishing as much home work as possible before they get distracted

 4. The Second City 

 With alumni such as Tina Fey, Amy Pohler, Stephen Clobert, Steve Carrell   and more, The Second City is a great place to see a comedy show with some   future stars. The Second City offers shows nightly and offers student   discounts, and the possibility to take classes, same as the ones listed above. The Second City has also partnered with DePaul in offering a Comedy Filmmaking Concentration within the CDM Film & Television BFA where students are able to take classes at the studio and are trained by seasoned professionals. 

5. The Lakefront Trail

Anytime is a good time to walk, run, or bike. The best place to do that is the Chicago Lakefront Trail. This 18.5 mile trail starts at the Edgewater Beach and ends at the South Shore, but in-between, pedestrians can walk past Wrigley Field, the Lincoln Park Zoo, Navy Pier, and more! It basically spans the entire city of Chicago. This trail is great for anyone who wants to get out and exercise but I would recommend going before 10:00 AM or after 5:00 PM especially during the Summer because those times of days are when it’s the busiest and most crowded. 

– Nicole Wood