Girls Weekend, Chicago Style

We know girls just want to have fun and what’s more fun than a weekend getaway with your besties? With more than 10 trains hailing from across the country, we think Chicago is the perfect destination to bring your girls together for a weekend to remember.

Looking for a few insider tips on the best places to eat, explore and get pampered in Chicago? We caught up with Christina Solomon, owner and editor of Chritiques, for suggestions on how to build the perfect girls weekend in the Windy City.

Amtrak: You and your girls are ready for a night out and want to kick it off with a fancy dinner. What are your go to restaurants?
Christina: When picking a restaurant for a Girls’ Night Out, I look for three things: location, ambiance, and food quality. The restaurant must be in a prime location so that once dinner is over, the rest of the night can quickly get started. The ambiance and decor of the restaurant set the tone for the evening. And, of course, fantastic cocktails and delicious food are required. Tanta has flavorful Peruvian share plates and the best Pisco Sour in Chicago – not to mention a fabulous rooftop patio; Fig & Olive offers a sunny vibe, lively music, and fresh, healthy dishes; Sunda nails upscale Asian Fusion and is known as a place for celeb-spotting; and RPM Italian has tasty salads, pastas, and wine.

Amtrak: What Chicago hot spots are perfect for a girls night out filled with good music and dancing?
Christina: Depending upon music preferences, Chicago has a spot for everyone. Havana offers sultry Cuban sounds with live performers and dancing. For live country music, Bub City and the award-winning Joe’s Bar are not to be missed. Untitled has everything from burlesque performances, to Swing music, Jazz, Rock ‘n Roll, and Blues. For late night dancing and world-famous DJs, Underground, Studio Paris, and Cuvee are the places to be.

Amtrak: Where do you take your girlfriends for an unforgettable brunch and a mimosa or two?
Christina: Brunch is a popular meal in Chicago, and the city boasts some terrific options. For oysters, French-inspired dishes, and one of the best outdoor patios in the city, head to RM Champagne Salon. River Roast has a phenomenal mimosa, a view of the Chicago River, and a menu full of soul-satisfying dishes that will cure any hangover. Beatrix offers fresh-squeezed juices and healthy offerings like quinoa cakes and lemon pancakes.

Amtrak: Where do you head for a little rest and relaxation? 
Christina: Who doesn’t love to be pampered? From relaxation rooms with hot tea and calming music, to fabulous locker rooms, indoor pools and fitness centers, the spas at the Peninsula and Langham hotels cannot be beat. Juko Nail & Skin Rescue offers a glass of wine or Champagne during each manicure and pedicure, and Belle Spa & Nails is BYOB – perfect for manicures and mimosas in the morning.

Amtrak: You’ve only got two days to show your girls Chi-town. What is on your must-see/do list?
Christina: For unparalleled views of Chicago’s skyline, and to learn about the city’s rich history and architecture, begin by taking a boat tour along the Chicago River and lakefront, especially one sponsored by the Chicago Architecture Foundation. Then, hit the Magnificent Mile for unbeatable shopping. Take a break and take in the fabulous views from the Signature Lounge on the 95th floor of the John Hancock Center. Be sure to check out the breathtaking view from the ladies’ room!

The next day, rent bikes or go for a walk or run along the Chicago Lakefront Trail. Then, take advantage of Chicago’s rich culture by visiting the Art Institute of Chicago, or any of the museums on Museum Campus, such as the Field Museum, Shedd Aquarium, or Adler Planetarium. Stop by Millennium Park, as well, for some fabulous photo ops with “The Bean”. For sports enthusiasts, a Chicago Blackhawks, Bears, Cubs or White Sox game should also be on the agenda.

We’ve given you the dish on how to have a fabulous weekend in Chicago, so go ahead, start planning for an adventure you and your girls will never forget!