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08.08.2026
Welcome
to Chicago
From world-class museums to iconic skyline views, Chicago offers endless ways to enjoy your stay. Here are some of our favorite experiences to help you make the most of your weekend celebrating with us.
Tour the city
Wrigley Field
For guests arriving early, there are several home games at Wrigley leading up to the wedding. Catch a Cubs game at one of baseball’s most iconic stadiums, located about 20 minutes north of the University Club. The neighborhood buzz, ivy-covered walls, and unmistakable Chicago energy make Wrigley Field a perfect stop for an early-summer afternoon.
Millenium Park
Just steps from the University Club, Millennium Park is home to Chicago’s most iconic landmarks, including Cloud Gate (“The Bean”) and the Jay Pritzker Pavilion. Take a short stroll through the gardens or enjoy the city skyline from one of downtown’s most beloved green spaces.
Lakefront Trail
Stretching for 18 miles along Lake Michigan, Chicago’s Lakefront Trail offers stunning skyline views, sandy beaches, and peaceful parks. Perfect for a morning jog, sunset stroll, or leisurely bike ride, it’s one of the city’s most scenic ways to experience the waterfront and take in Chicago’s beauty at your own pace.
The Riverwalk
Stretching along the heart of downtown, the Riverwalk offers a quintessential Chicago experience. Lined with cafés, wine bars, and public art, it’s the perfect place to unwind and watch the boats drift by. Whether for a morning stroll or golden-hour cocktails, it’s a must-visit destination just moments from the University Club.
The Art Institute
A world-class museum just a short walk from the University Club. Explore galleries featuring works by Monet, Van Gogh, Picasso, and more, or wander the serene gardens and Modern Wing overlooking Millennium Park.
Architecture Boat Tour
One of the city’s most iconic experiences, the architecture tour offers a breathtaking view of Chicago’s skyline from the water. Departing just a short ride from the University Club, guests can enjoy a guided cruise along the Chicago River while learning the stories behind the city’s most celebrated buildings.
Dining Near the venue
The Exchange
Cindy's Rooftop
Venteux Brasserie
Acanto
The Exchange
Cindy's Rooftop
Venteux Brasserie
Acanto
The Exchange
Cindy's Rooftop
Venteux Brasserie
Acanto
The Exchange
Cindy's Rooftop
Venteux Brasserie
Acanto
The Exchange
Cindy's Rooftop
Venteux Brasserie
Acanto
The Exchange
Cindy's Rooftop
Venteux Brasserie
Acanto
The Exchange
Cindy's Rooftop
Venteux Brasserie
Acanto
The Exchange
Cindy's Rooftop
Venteux Brasserie
Acanto
Our neighborhood favorites
Asador Bastian
Housed in a historic River North townhouse, Asador Bastian is a Spanish-inspired steakhouse that feels worlds away from the city's traditional steakhouse scene. The intimate dining room, exceptional wine list, and carefully sourced wood-fired steaks have quickly made it one of Chicago's most sought-after reservations. For a true Asador experience, order the Holstein ribeye and the bone marrow mashed potatoes. Whether you're celebrating something special or simply looking for an unforgettable meal, it's well worth the visit.
Obelix
Opened by brothers Nicolas and Oliver Poilevey, Obélix has quickly become one of Chicago's most celebrated restaurants. Located just a few blocks from Sophie and John's home, the restaurant blends classic French technique with playful creativity, resulting in a menu that feels both refined and approachable. From its outstanding wine list and French onion soup to inventive dishes like the famous foie gras taco, Obélix offers a dining experience that is unmistakably French without ever feeling stuffy. Whether you're stopping in for brunch, dinner, or a bottle of wine at the bar, it's one of our favorite spots in the city.
Gilt Bar
A longtime River North favorite from the team behind Au Cheval, Bavette's, and other beloved Chicago restaurants, Gilt Bar is known for its warm atmosphere, classic cocktails, and elevated comfort food. Tucked into a historic building just off Kinzie Street, it's the perfect place to settle in for dinner and drinks after a day exploring the city.
Asador Bastian
Housed in a historic River North townhouse, Asador Bastian is a Spanish-inspired steakhouse that feels worlds away from the city's traditional steakhouse scene. The intimate dining room, exceptional wine list, and carefully sourced wood-fired steaks have quickly made it one of Chicago's most sought-after reservations. For a true Asador experience, order the Holstein ribeye and the bone marrow mashed potatoes. Whether you're celebrating something special or simply looking for an unforgettable meal, it's well worth the visit.
Obelix
Opened by brothers Nicolas and Oliver Poilevey, Obélix has quickly become one of Chicago's most celebrated restaurants. Located just a few blocks from Sophie and John's home, the restaurant blends classic French technique with playful creativity, resulting in a menu that feels both refined and approachable. From its outstanding wine list and French onion soup to inventive dishes like the famous foie gras taco, Obélix offers a dining experience that is unmistakably French without ever feeling stuffy. Whether you're stopping in for brunch, dinner, or a bottle of wine at the bar, it's one of our favorite spots in the city.
Gilt Bar
A longtime River North favorite from the team behind Au Cheval, Bavette's, and other beloved Chicago restaurants, Gilt Bar is known for its warm atmosphere, classic cocktails, and elevated comfort food. Tucked into a historic building just off Kinzie Street, it's the perfect place to settle in for dinner and drinks after a day exploring the city.
Asador Bastian
Housed in a historic River North townhouse, Asador Bastian is a Spanish-inspired steakhouse that feels worlds away from the city's traditional steakhouse scene. The intimate dining room, exceptional wine list, and carefully sourced wood-fired steaks have quickly made it one of Chicago's most sought-after reservations. For a true Asador experience, order the Holstein ribeye and the bone marrow mashed potatoes. Whether you're celebrating something special or simply looking for an unforgettable meal, it's well worth the visit.
Obelix
Opened by brothers Nicolas and Oliver Poilevey, Obélix has quickly become one of Chicago's most celebrated restaurants. Located just a few blocks from Sophie and John's home, the restaurant blends classic French technique with playful creativity, resulting in a menu that feels both refined and approachable. From its outstanding wine list and French onion soup to inventive dishes like the famous foie gras taco, Obélix offers a dining experience that is unmistakably French without ever feeling stuffy. Whether you're stopping in for brunch, dinner, or a bottle of wine at the bar, it's one of our favorite spots in the city.
Gilt Bar
A longtime River North favorite from the team behind Au Cheval, Bavette's, and other beloved Chicago restaurants, Gilt Bar is known for its warm atmosphere, classic cocktails, and elevated comfort food. Tucked into a historic building just off Kinzie Street, it's the perfect place to settle in for dinner and drinks after a day exploring the city.
Asador Bastian
Housed in a historic River North townhouse, Asador Bastian is a Spanish-inspired steakhouse that feels worlds away from the city's traditional steakhouse scene. The intimate dining room, exceptional wine list, and carefully sourced wood-fired steaks have quickly made it one of Chicago's most sought-after reservations. For a true Asador experience, order the Holstein ribeye and the bone marrow mashed potatoes. Whether you're celebrating something special or simply looking for an unforgettable meal, it's well worth the visit.
Obelix
Opened by brothers Nicolas and Oliver Poilevey, Obélix has quickly become one of Chicago's most celebrated restaurants. Located just a few blocks from Sophie and John's home, the restaurant blends classic French technique with playful creativity, resulting in a menu that feels both refined and approachable. From its outstanding wine list and French onion soup to inventive dishes like the famous foie gras taco, Obélix offers a dining experience that is unmistakably French without ever feeling stuffy. Whether you're stopping in for brunch, dinner, or a bottle of wine at the bar, it's one of our favorite spots in the city.
Gilt Bar
A longtime River North favorite from the team behind Au Cheval, Bavette's, and other beloved Chicago restaurants, Gilt Bar is known for its warm atmosphere, classic cocktails, and elevated comfort food. Tucked into a historic building just off Kinzie Street, it's the perfect place to settle in for dinner and drinks after a day exploring the city.
Asador Bastian
Housed in a historic River North townhouse, Asador Bastian is a Spanish-inspired steakhouse that feels worlds away from the city's traditional steakhouse scene. The intimate dining room, exceptional wine list, and carefully sourced wood-fired steaks have quickly made it one of Chicago's most sought-after reservations. For a true Asador experience, order the Holstein ribeye and the bone marrow mashed potatoes. Whether you're celebrating something special or simply looking for an unforgettable meal, it's well worth the visit.
Obelix
Opened by brothers Nicolas and Oliver Poilevey, Obélix has quickly become one of Chicago's most celebrated restaurants. Located just a few blocks from Sophie and John's home, the restaurant blends classic French technique with playful creativity, resulting in a menu that feels both refined and approachable. From its outstanding wine list and French onion soup to inventive dishes like the famous foie gras taco, Obélix offers a dining experience that is unmistakably French without ever feeling stuffy. Whether you're stopping in for brunch, dinner, or a bottle of wine at the bar, it's one of our favorite spots in the city.
Gilt Bar
A longtime River North favorite from the team behind Au Cheval, Bavette's, and other beloved Chicago restaurants, Gilt Bar is known for its warm atmosphere, classic cocktails, and elevated comfort food. Tucked into a historic building just off Kinzie Street, it's the perfect place to settle in for dinner and drinks after a day exploring the city.
Asador Bastian
Housed in a historic River North townhouse, Asador Bastian is a Spanish-inspired steakhouse that feels worlds away from the city's traditional steakhouse scene. The intimate dining room, exceptional wine list, and carefully sourced wood-fired steaks have quickly made it one of Chicago's most sought-after reservations. For a true Asador experience, order the Holstein ribeye and the bone marrow mashed potatoes. Whether you're celebrating something special or simply looking for an unforgettable meal, it's well worth the visit.
Obelix
Opened by brothers Nicolas and Oliver Poilevey, Obélix has quickly become one of Chicago's most celebrated restaurants. Located just a few blocks from Sophie and John's home, the restaurant blends classic French technique with playful creativity, resulting in a menu that feels both refined and approachable. From its outstanding wine list and French onion soup to inventive dishes like the famous foie gras taco, Obélix offers a dining experience that is unmistakably French without ever feeling stuffy. Whether you're stopping in for brunch, dinner, or a bottle of wine at the bar, it's one of our favorite spots in the city.
Gilt Bar
A longtime River North favorite from the team behind Au Cheval, Bavette's, and other beloved Chicago restaurants, Gilt Bar is known for its warm atmosphere, classic cocktails, and elevated comfort food. Tucked into a historic building just off Kinzie Street, it's the perfect place to settle in for dinner and drinks after a day exploring the city.
Asador Bastian
Housed in a historic River North townhouse, Asador Bastian is a Spanish-inspired steakhouse that feels worlds away from the city's traditional steakhouse scene. The intimate dining room, exceptional wine list, and carefully sourced wood-fired steaks have quickly made it one of Chicago's most sought-after reservations. For a true Asador experience, order the Holstein ribeye and the bone marrow mashed potatoes. Whether you're celebrating something special or simply looking for an unforgettable meal, it's well worth the visit.
Obelix
Opened by brothers Nicolas and Oliver Poilevey, Obélix has quickly become one of Chicago's most celebrated restaurants. Located just a few blocks from Sophie and John's home, the restaurant blends classic French technique with playful creativity, resulting in a menu that feels both refined and approachable. From its outstanding wine list and French onion soup to inventive dishes like the famous foie gras taco, Obélix offers a dining experience that is unmistakably French without ever feeling stuffy. Whether you're stopping in for brunch, dinner, or a bottle of wine at the bar, it's one of our favorite spots in the city.
Gilt Bar
A longtime River North favorite from the team behind Au Cheval, Bavette's, and other beloved Chicago restaurants, Gilt Bar is known for its warm atmosphere, classic cocktails, and elevated comfort food. Tucked into a historic building just off Kinzie Street, it's the perfect place to settle in for dinner and drinks after a day exploring the city.
Asador Bastian
Housed in a historic River North townhouse, Asador Bastian is a Spanish-inspired steakhouse that feels worlds away from the city's traditional steakhouse scene. The intimate dining room, exceptional wine list, and carefully sourced wood-fired steaks have quickly made it one of Chicago's most sought-after reservations. For a true Asador experience, order the Holstein ribeye and the bone marrow mashed potatoes. Whether you're celebrating something special or simply looking for an unforgettable meal, it's well worth the visit.
Obelix
Opened by brothers Nicolas and Oliver Poilevey, Obélix has quickly become one of Chicago's most celebrated restaurants. Located just a few blocks from Sophie and John's home, the restaurant blends classic French technique with playful creativity, resulting in a menu that feels both refined and approachable. From its outstanding wine list and French onion soup to inventive dishes like the famous foie gras taco, Obélix offers a dining experience that is unmistakably French without ever feeling stuffy. Whether you're stopping in for brunch, dinner, or a bottle of wine at the bar, it's one of our favorite spots in the city.
Gilt Bar
A longtime River North favorite from the team behind Au Cheval, Bavette's, and other beloved Chicago restaurants, Gilt Bar is known for its warm atmosphere, classic cocktails, and elevated comfort food. Tucked into a historic building just off Kinzie Street, it's the perfect place to settle in for dinner and drinks after a day exploring the city.
Asador Bastian
Housed in a historic River North townhouse, Asador Bastian is a Spanish-inspired steakhouse that feels worlds away from the city's traditional steakhouse scene. The intimate dining room, exceptional wine list, and carefully sourced wood-fired steaks have quickly made it one of Chicago's most sought-after reservations. For a true Asador experience, order the Holstein ribeye and the bone marrow mashed potatoes. Whether you're celebrating something special or simply looking for an unforgettable meal, it's well worth the visit.
Obelix
Opened by brothers Nicolas and Oliver Poilevey, Obélix has quickly become one of Chicago's most celebrated restaurants. Located just a few blocks from Sophie and John's home, the restaurant blends classic French technique with playful creativity, resulting in a menu that feels both refined and approachable. From its outstanding wine list and French onion soup to inventive dishes like the famous foie gras taco, Obélix offers a dining experience that is unmistakably French without ever feeling stuffy. Whether you're stopping in for brunch, dinner, or a bottle of wine at the bar, it's one of our favorite spots in the city.
Gilt Bar
A longtime River North favorite from the team behind Au Cheval, Bavette's, and other beloved Chicago restaurants, Gilt Bar is known for its warm atmosphere, classic cocktails, and elevated comfort food. Tucked into a historic building just off Kinzie Street, it's the perfect place to settle in for dinner and drinks after a day exploring the city.
Asador Bastian
Housed in a historic River North townhouse, Asador Bastian is a Spanish-inspired steakhouse that feels worlds away from the city's traditional steakhouse scene. The intimate dining room, exceptional wine list, and carefully sourced wood-fired steaks have quickly made it one of Chicago's most sought-after reservations. For a true Asador experience, order the Holstein ribeye and the bone marrow mashed potatoes. Whether you're celebrating something special or simply looking for an unforgettable meal, it's well worth the visit.
Obelix
Opened by brothers Nicolas and Oliver Poilevey, Obélix has quickly become one of Chicago's most celebrated restaurants. Located just a few blocks from Sophie and John's home, the restaurant blends classic French technique with playful creativity, resulting in a menu that feels both refined and approachable. From its outstanding wine list and French onion soup to inventive dishes like the famous foie gras taco, Obélix offers a dining experience that is unmistakably French without ever feeling stuffy. Whether you're stopping in for brunch, dinner, or a bottle of wine at the bar, it's one of our favorite spots in the city.
Gilt Bar
A longtime River North favorite from the team behind Au Cheval, Bavette's, and other beloved Chicago restaurants, Gilt Bar is known for its warm atmosphere, classic cocktails, and elevated comfort food. Tucked into a historic building just off Kinzie Street, it's the perfect place to settle in for dinner and drinks after a day exploring the city.
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