The Art Institute is one of Luke's favorite spots in the city. Back when Amber was working and Luke was still in school he spent countless hours there people watching or reading a book in the galleries while waiting for Amber to get off of work. Now, by virtue of working across the street, he likes to decompress at lunch or after work by walking through some of the museums less travelled corridors and taking in some of his favorite works. See some of the collections highlights such as Wood's American Gothic, Hopper's Nighthawks, and Monet's Water Lilies, or explore some of Luke's favorite less appreciated nooks and crannies of the museum such as 19th century arts of America (Gallery 171), Arts of Ancient Egypt (Gallery 50), and the Arms and Armor Gallery (Gallery 239).

Chicago is the birthplace and home of modern western architecture and has long acted as a sort of laboratory for the minds at the forefront of architectural innovation like Daniel Burnham, Frank Lloyd Wright, Mies van der Rohe, Louis Sullivan, and Bruce Graham, and there is no better vantage point to appreciate it than from the Chicago River. Enjoy a peaceful ride on the river's turquoise waters while peering up at some of the worlds most celebrated buildings. Along the way, get up close and personal with Chicago's iconic drawbridges, which Amber helps keep in tip top shape.

Take the fastest elevator in the western hemisphere over 1000 feet to the observation level of the iconic John Hancock Center, one of Chicago's most famous towers, and widely considered best view. Get an unbridled perspective of Lake Michigan's western shore and across downtown Chicago's north side.

One of Amber and Luke's favorite weekend activities is to head up to the northern suburbs (very near the wedding venue) to the Chicago Botanic Garden. The garden offers a much needed release from the urban swath of the city. Enjoy the gardens expanse of displays of flowers, forests, and lagoons. Our favorites include Japanese garden, English walled garden, vegetable and fruit garden, and the bonsai collection.

Head to the top of one of SOM's most iconic towers and view Chicago (and well beyond) from America's highest observation deck. While you're there, step out on the Ledge to see straight down 1350 feet to the cars on Wacker Drive below you.

One of the city's greatest assets is it's lakefront, and the best way to explore the lakefront is the Lakeshore Trail. Amber and Luke love to take jogs and bike rides along the trail on the weekends and enjoy the stops and skyline views along the way. The trail is also a great way to link some of the city's great locations. Plan stops along the way at Montrose Point Bird Sanctuary, North Avenue Beach, Lincoln Park Zoo and Conservatory, Navy Pier, Buckingham Fountain, the Museum Campus, and Northerly Island. Don't have a bike with you? We recommened renting one from Bobby's Bike Hike, located right off the trail in the Streeterville neighborhood.

A northern Chicago staple and great spot to stop in for a quick casual bite.

Near: Reception Venue/Hotel

One of our favorite spots to splurge on a summer lunch. Upscale Italian fare with a great view of the river.

Near: Chicago Riverwalk/Architecture Boat Tours

Best place downtown to snag a classic Chicago Dog.

Near: Art Institute/Buckingham Fountain/Museum Campus

Great spot for lunch or dinner, serving classic American food in a refined way. We first found this gem walking to our music classes in the lovely Lincoln Square neighborhood.

Near: Montrose Beach and Bird Sanctuary/Lakefront Trail

Deep dish pizza the right way.

Near: Ceremony Venue