Mark Wiens in Chicago, IL: 5 Spots From the Video

Researched by Varedelo

Planning notes for Chicago

Must-try foods in Chicago

• Deep-Dish Pizza
  Deep-Dish PizzaThe quintessential Chicago staple featuring a buttery, high-walled crust, thick layers of mozzarella cheese, and chunky tomato sauce on top. While many debate the best, Lou Malnati’s is legendary for its 'buttercrust' and sausage patties that cover the entire diameter of the pie.
• Italian Beef Sandwich
  Italian Beef SandwichThinly sliced, seasoned roast beef simmered in 'au jus' and served on a long Italian roll. Locals order it 'dipped' or 'wet' to soak the bread in gravy, typically topped with spicy giardiniera or sweet peppers. Al's 1 Italian Beef on Taylor Street is the historic gold standard.
• Chicago-Style Hot Dog
  Chicago-Style Hot DogAn all-beef frankfurter on a steamed poppy seed bun, 'dragged through the garden' with yellow mustard, neon green relish, chopped onions, tomato wedges, a dill pickle spear, sport peppers, and a dash of celery salt. The golden rule: never add ketchup.
• Jibarito
  JibaritoA unique Chicago-Puerto Rican invention that replaces bread with flattened, fried green plantains. Smeared with garlic mayo and filled with steak, cheese, lettuce, and tomato, this sandwich was born in the Humboldt Park neighborhood and perfected at spots like Jibarito y Más.
• Maxwell Street Polish
  Maxwell Street PolishA grilled or fried kielbasa sausage served on a bun with a mountain of grilled onions, yellow mustard, and whole sport peppers. Originating from the historic Maxwell Street Market, Jim’s Original remains the most iconic 24-hour destination for this street food classic.
• Rainbow Cone
  Rainbow ConeA South Side tradition since 1926, this towering dessert features five specific flavors sliced (not scooped) onto a cone: Orange Sherbet, Pistachio, Palmer House (New York Vanilla with cherries and walnuts), Strawberry, and Chocolate.

Trip guide

• About Chicago
  About ChicagoChicago, incorporated as a city in 1837, is located on 234 square miles of land at the intersection of the Chicago River and Lake Michigan. The city's history includes its 1779 establishment as a trading post by Jean Baptiste Point du Sable and the 1871 Great Chicago Fire, which led to the 1885 construction of the Home Insurance Building, the first steel-frame skyscraper.
• When to go
  When to goThe best time to visit Chicago is from June to August or during the shoulder months of September and October, when the city is most vibrant and outdoor events are in full swing. While summer offers warm, humid weather perfect for lakefront activities, autumn provides crisp, comfortable temperatures and beautiful fall foliage. Summer is the peak tourist season with higher hotel rates.
• Getting around
  Getting around Chicago

  • Air Travel (O'Hare and Midway) Chicago is served by two major international airports: O'Hare (ORD), a primary global hub, and Midway (MDW).
  • CTA 'L' Trains and Buses The Chicago Transit Authority operates an extensive network of elevated trains (the 'L') and buses that cover the entire city. The system runs 24/7 on certain lines like the Red and Blue.
  • Metra Commuter Rail For traveling to and from the Chicago suburbs or reaching the city from outlying areas.
• Local tips
  Local tips

  • Purchase a Ventra card for easy, contactless access to the extensive CTA 'L' train and bus network to avoid the high cost and hassle of city driving.
  • Never ask for ketchup on a Chicago-style hot dog, as it is considered a major local culinary faux pas.
  • Expect to leave a gratuity of 18-20% at sit-down restaurants, as tipping is a standard social and economic expectation in the United States.
• What’s new
  What’s new in Chicago

  • Obama Presidential Center Grand Opening.
  • The Hand & The Eye Magic Mansion.
• Choose Chicago↗
  Choose ChicagoChoose Chicago is the official destination marketing organization for Chicago, providing travel guides, event listings, and visitor resources for the city.