Morgan Roznik Rossi and Michael John Shepherd's Wedding Website

Along with enjoying the festivities around our wedding, we hope you can use the weekend to experience the vibrant culture and history of Chicago, Morgan’s ‘big city’ growing up. Embracing the theme of "food and drink," we've curated a few suggestions that pair memorable experiences with delightful tastes, ensuring you all can make the most of the weekend’s celebratory occasion. Our recommendations are organized like a wine tasting: See, Nose, Experience, and Taste. Please take advantage of all Chicago has to offer and let us know if you have any questions along the way!

See: Architectural Boat Tour

Architectural Boat Tour: Marvel at Chicago's stunning skyline and historic architectural landmarks as you float along the Chicago River. We recommend booking the flagship experience through the Chicago Architecture Center, where you can also get a combination ticket for access to the Center’s exhibitions: Pair with: a crisp Miller High Life from the boat’s on-deck bar.

See: Lakefront Trail

Chicago Lakefront Trail: Walk or bike along Chicago’s 18.5 mile continuous Lakefront Trail to see the city’s beaches, parks, and stunning city views. Pair with: a cold bottle of water (you’ll likely need it).

See: The Art Institute of Chicago

Art Institute of Chicago: Explore world-class art collections and stare deeply into George Seurat’s “A Sunday Afternoon on the Island of La Grande Jatte” to have your own Ferris Bueller's Day Off moment. Pair with: an espresso from the Art Institute’s in-house cafe.

Nose: Chicago Riverwalk

Chicago Riverwalk: Stroll along the river and enjoy the scents of the Chicago Fall air. Pair with: freshly brewed coffee from Intelligentsia.

Nose: Garfield Park Conservatory

Garfield Park Conservatory: Experience the beautiful flowery scent of tropical climates, curated gardens, and the aroma of blooming plants. Pair with: an iced tea from a nearby shop

Nose: Chinatown

Chinatown: Wander through the streets and enjoy the aromas of delicious Chinese cuisine. Pair with: a bubble tea from various Chinatown vendors.

Experience: Millennium Park

Millennium Park: Visit The Bean and explore the various installations on site. Pair with: a picnic supplied by Eataly or the Chicago French Market.

Experience: Ohio Street Beach

Ohio Street Beach: Take advantage of Chicago’s Fresh Coast by relaxing at the beach or open water swimming with Chicago’s aspiring triathletes.

Experience: Frederick C. Robie House

Robie House: Head south to tour Frank Lloyd Wright’s famous Robie House and explore the surrounding Hyde Park, home to the University of Chicago. Pair with: a cool drink from the Plein Air Cafe next door.

Experience: Wrigley Field

Wrigley Field: Take a tour at Wrigley Field where features include its ivy-covered brick outfield wall, distinctive wind patterns off Lake Michigan, the red marquee over the main entrance, and the hand-turned scoreboard. Pair With: A famous Chicago-dog (no ketchup, please)!

Taste: $ Pequod's Pizza

Deep Dish Pizza: Come for the Lou Malnati’s, stay for the Pequod’s. Get the local’s Chicago deep dish experience at Pequod’s, where the caramelized cheese crust will convert you forever. Just make sure you save some time for a nap afterward.

Taste: $ Al's #1 Italian Beef

Italian Beef: Savor a Chicago staple at Portillo's or Al’s Italian Beef, or channel the "The Bear" with a visit to the original Mr. Beef.

Taste: $ Superdawg Drive-In

Chicago Style Hot Dogs: Get an authentic Chicago dog at Red Hot Ranch, Superdawg, or The Wiener’s Circle, complete with mustard, relish, onions, tomatoes, a pickle spear, sport peppers, and celery salt on a poppy seed bun. No ketchup allowed.

Taste: $ Billy Goat Tavern (The Original)

Billy Goat Tavern: Grab a famous “Cheezborger.” Pair with: a classic Coke.

Taste: $ XOCO

Xoco: Enjoy Rick Bayless’s casual Mexican spot in River North, offering delicious tortas, caldos, and churros.

Taste: $ Kyuramen x TBaar - Downtown Chicago 九汤屋拉面

Kyuramen x TBaa: River North ramen shop that’s an 18-minute walk from the Palmer House.

Taste: $ The Northman Beer & Cider Garden on the Riverwalk

Northman Beer & Cider Garden: On the beautiful Chicago River Walk designed by Gold Medal Winner woman architect Carol Ross-Barney.

Taste: $ Lou Mitchell's

Lou Mitchell’s: Frozen in time iconic downtown diner specializing in breakfast. Lou’s has been serving Chicagoans since 1923. Located at the beginning of Route 66 and a 20-minute walk from the Palmer House, across from Union Station.

Taste: $ Manny's Cafeteria & Delicatessen

Manny’s Cafeteria & Deli: The Katz’s Deli of Chicago (but better!). 30-minute walk from the Palmer house. Since 1942.

Taste: $$ Russian Tea Time Restaurant

Russian Teatime: Near the Palmer House, this restaurant has authentic Russian cuisine, from borscht to house-infused vodkas. Pair with: a Shostakovich Jazz Suite or an afternoon tea service!

Taste: $$ The Berghoff Restaurant

Berghoff Restaurant: A historic German restaurant and beer hall near the Palmer House, serving German fare since 1898.

Taste: $$ Au Cheval

Au Cheval: Diner style in the West Loop with a killer cheeseburger. Warning that there may be long lines, so plan accordingly!

Taste: $$ Greek Islands

Greek Islands: Located in Chicago's unique and famous Greektown, this family-style restaurant, a favorite of Morgan’s aunt and uncle, offers an array of Greek and Mediterranean dishes.

Taste: $$ The Gage

The Gage: Solid spot with Millenium Park views. Only a 4-minute walk from the Palmer House.

Taste: $$ Frontera Grill

Frontera Grill: This acclaimed Rick Bayless restaurant in River North specializes in creative Mexican fare. A 20-minute walk from the Palmer House.

Taste: $$ Alpana

Alpana: Wine-inspired cuisine from Restaurateur and Sommelier Alpana Singh located in the historic Gold Coast neighborhood. A 30-minute walk if you decide to walk from the Palmer House.

Taste: $$ The Italian Village

Italian Village: A 4-minute walk from the Palmer House and a Chicago institution like the Berghoff-soon to celebrate its 100th anniversary. Al Capone's favorite haunt and the birthplace of Chicken Vesuvio. NOTE-Only accessible via stairs, as the building is too old for an elevator.

Taste: $$ Cindy's Rooftop

Cindy's Rooftop: Hip, stylish rooftop bar/eatery at the Chicago Athletic Association Hotel with choice seasonal fare. Incredible views of the park and waterfront! A 12 minute walk from the Palmer House.

Taste: $$ Bar Sótano

Bar Sotano: Cool basement bar underneath famed Frontera Grill run by Morgan and Mike’s amazing friend Lanie Bayless and her family! 20 minute walk from the Palmer House.

Taste: $$$ Gibson's Bar & Steakhouse

Gibsons Bar & Steakhouse: A classic Chicago steakhouse in the Gold Coast with prime cuts of beef and a lively atmosphere, or enjoy a river-front view at Gibson’s Italia with equally delicious steaks.

Taste: $$$ Le Bouchon

Le Bouchon: Charming French Bistro in Bucktown with an intimate atmosphere and one of the Man of Honor's favorite restaurants!

Taste: $$$ Riccardo Enoteca

Riccardo Enoteca (or Trattoria): Cozy Italian in Lincoln Park serving classic Italian dishes.

Taste: $$$ UMMO

UMMO: Contemporary Italian in River North Entertainment District. An 18 minute walk from the Palmer House.

Taste: $$$ Tamu

Tamu: West Loop Japanese restaurant sushi bar and “roll it yourself” selection.

After Hours: Brando's Speakeasy

Brando’s Speakeasy & Karaoke Bar. Brandos is open until 2 am and only a 7-minute walk from the Palmer House.

After Hours: The Berkshire Room

Berkshire Cocktail Lounge: Great cocktails just a 20 minute walk from the Palmer House. Closes at midnight.

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