Welcome to The Loop
Making the Most of Your Time
The Loop has many "must-sees," including the Art Institute and the architectural boat tour so prepare for a long day. Browse the shops on State Street, then take a trip out on the Ledge at Willis Tower and snap a selfie at Millennium Park's "Bean." Later, catch a play or a Chicago Symphony concert. Set aside another full day to explore the South Loop's Museum Campus: the Field Museum, Shedd Aquarium, and Adler Planetarium are all top-notch choices.
Getting Here
If you're driving, you'll probably be taking the expressways—Kennedy from the northwest, Edens/Kennedy from the north, Dan Ryan from the south, and Congress from the west. Lake Shore Drive runs north and south along Lake Michigan.
If you’re relying on public transportation, you can come by CTA bus, by El, or by rail. In the suburbs, hop on the Metra or South Shore Line and arrive at Union Station (Canal and Jackson streets). CTA's Red, Green, Blue, Yellow, Purple, Brown, and Pink lines link the city with the Loop.
Safety
Some parts of the South Loop feel sketchy, so stick to well-lighted streets at night. In the West Loop near Ashland Avenue and the United Center, gentrification comes to a halt; streets around the Fulton Market area are deserted during off times. Exercise caution in both areas.
Quick Bites
Caffè Baci. For breakfast, lunch, or a quick snack, this is a great find. Try a "Jojo," the bistro's signature sandwich—it's a filone (an Italian baguette) stuffed with prosciutto, mozzarella, artichoke hearts, basil, and plum tomatoes. 2 N. LaSalle, Loop, Chicago, Illinois, 60602. 312/629–2216; www.caffebaci.com. Closed weekends.
Garrett Popcorn. Lines form early and stay throughout the day. The popcorn is so popular that there are nine other Chicago outlets plus branches in Dubai, Hong Kong, Singapore, Japan, Kuwait, and Malaysia. 26 W. Randolph St., Loop, Chicago, Illinois, 60601. 888/476–7267; www.garrettpopcorn.com.
Heaven on Seven. This Loop legend is famous for casual Cajun breakfasts and lunches that have area office workers gladly lining up to be served. 111 N. Wabash Ave., 7th fl., Loop, Chicago, Illinois, 60602. 312/263–6443; www.heavenonseven.com. Closed Sun..
Oasis Cafe. If your tastebuds crave a quick Middle Eastern fix, make your way to the back of the Jewelry Mall, walk up to the counter, and place your order for creamy hummus, crispy falafel, grape leaves, a shish kebab sandwich, or another snack. It isn't fancy, but it's good, and the service is snappy. 21 N. Wabash Ave., in back of the Jewelry Mall, Loop, Chicago, Illinois, 60602. 312/443–9534; www.oasiscafechicago.com. Mon.–Sat. 10–5 pm. Closed Sun.
Top Reasons to Go
Get cultured: Spend an afternoon at the Art Institute perusing everything from ancient mosaics and old master paintings to contemporary photographs.
See fabulous fountains: Watch the faces screened onto Millennium Park's Crown Fountain spit at delighted onlookers, then admire the rococo splendor of Grant Park's Buckingham Fountain.
Appreciate architecture: From late 19th-century beauties, like the Rookery, to late 20th-century marvels, such as the Willis Tower, the Loop contains some of the country’s architectural gems.
Get a taste of Chicago: Order a deep-dish pizza at Pizzeria Uno, where it was invented, or opt for authentic Mediterranean food in the West Loop’s Greektown district.
Explore the world and beyond: Spot stars at the Adler Planetarium, spy your favorite fish at the John G. Shedd Aquarium, and see Sue the T. rex at the Field Museum.
