The weather is beautiful, businesses are open, and the city is buzzing (safely, of course), you’re probably itching to do something fun. Although travel might not be an option this summer, you can still plan a great staycation right here in Lakeview East! So pack your bag, get out of the house, and enjoy the Lakeview East neighborhood from a fresh set of eyes.
STAY
Step one is to book a stay at one of our amazing hotels, it’ll make your staycation feel even more real, plus that pile of laundry you’ve been meaning to do will be out of sight & out of mind (for now). Each of these hotels knows just how important it is to provide clean, well-maintained accommodations, and have many precautions in place to ensure you have a safe and enjoyable stay.
Best Western Plus Hawthorne Terrace Hotel
Best Western Plus Hawthorne Terrace Hotel everything you could need on your staycation, with a cozy European-style ambiance & luxurious amenities. This intimate and charming hotel is located in the heart of Lakeview East, they are just steps from Lake Michigan, Wrigley Field, the vibrant nightlife, and everything else the neighborhood has to offer with the personal attention of a small hotel and the confidence of a name you trust.
The newly renovated City Suites Hotel is a great place to get a good night’s rest for your day packed full of activities ahead. The hotel features Art Deco style décor, an urban inspired lobby, and remodeled rooms for guests. Located right off the Belmont L stop, this hotel has been reimagined to be as joyous and energetic as the surrounding neighborhood.
The Wheelhouse Hotel is luxurious yet unpretentious, and provides intimate lodging just steps away from Wrigley field. Playfully sophisticated room options welcome you to get a cozy night’s rest in the vibrant and spirited Wrigleyville neighborhood. The hotel also features a gorgeous rooftop overlooking the Chicago and Wrigleyville skyline, and will soon have a new restaurant and bar in the basement and 1st floor!
Hotel Versey offers a unique urban lifestyle experience that connects you to the local culture, music, art and food in the Lakeview East neighborhood. Their bold and eclectic new design and local art merge with the storied jazz and rock history to create a reimagined hotel. “Edgy, quirky and dramatic, we are Chicago and invite you to stay like a local.”
EAT
There are so many incredible dining options in Lakeview East, so you’re guaranteed to have an amazing meal wherever you decide to go. (Here’s a plug for the 2020 Dining Guide (link)). Maybe try somewhere you’ve never been or something off the menu that you’ve never had! This is your chance to explore and enjoy everything Lakeview East has to offer, so take advantage of your new role as a tourist. Because there are so many options, here is a selection to get you started:
Swift & Sons Tavern and Oyster Bar
Right across from Wrigley Field you’ll find Swift & Sons, Wrigleyville’s neighborhood tavern & oyster bar with a modern twist. Experience an elevated, but familiar dining experience with seasonal takes on American classics. If you’re already a fan, try something new off the menu! You are on staycation after all.
You might still be in Chicago, but you can take a quick culinary trip to Venezuela at Bolivar & Lincoln! They bring the experience of traditional Venezuelan cuisine and culture straight to the heart of Wrigleyville. This cafe has compiled a selection of the country’s most popular dishes, like their famous (and mouth-watering) Arepas, Empanadas, and Tequeños. Nothing beats trying a new cuisine than through authentic family recipes!
Matisse Tavern & Grill has an eclectic Gastropub menu including made-from-scratch items and the best quality meats. Check out the cozy lounge, fireplace, and especially the outdoor patio, where you can enjoy the beautiful Chicago evening. They’ve got a full-service bar that includes martinis, craft cocktails and an extended beer menu, something for everyone. As an added bonus, if you book your stay at Hotel Versey, you’re already right next door.
View a list of the businesses open for al fresco dining in Lakeview East here and Wrigleyville here.
TREAT YO’SELF
Don’t forget to treat yourself! Relax, unwind, step out of your day-to-day routine and take a little “me-time” during your staycation.
Blink & Polish is a great place to get pampered! They offer nail care including manicures, pedicures, no-chips, and dip powder manicures, as well as waxing services and lash lifts and tints.
\My Salon Suite offers beauty professionals the opportunity, space and equipment to own and operate their own business. Every location, including the one here in Lakeview East, hosts an array of beauty professionals ranging from hair stylists to nail technician, massage therapists, spa professionals and skin treatment experts. Plus, they’re a new business – so welcome them to the neighborhood!
Visit DeLaVie Day Spa for a uniquely tailored spa experience. The spa features the finest amenities for optimal wellness and relaxation. Find peace of mind and body, with treatments that are customized to meet your unique needs and desires. Restore, renew, and revitalize your body, mind and spirit.
DRINK
Chicago nightlife is truly one of a kind. Hit one of the many popular bars and party like it’s 1999. Order your go-to or take a risk and try something you’ve never even heard of. With so many craft breweries in the area, the beer is always flowing.
Located in the garden level of the Old Chicago Inn, Room 13 is a private, prohibition-era inspired speakeasy bar and members club. Take a step back in time with a classic cocktail mixed up by the resident bartender, using ingredients and recipes from the Jazz Age. Learn about the history of your drink, as well as some cultural anecdotes that bring the Prohibition-era to life.
Rocks Lakeview is a true neighborhood favorite with great food, local beers and a huge whiskey list. With over 100 whiskey options, and an ever-changing list of beers that always has great seasonals and hard to find craft selections, you won’t go thirsty.
Replay is the premier entertainment establishment. An extensive collection of the finest bourbons and a huge selection of craft beers (over 20 on tap alone!), Replay also boasts the largest collection of vintage arcade games in the East Lakeview!
SHOP
Shop around Lakeview East! Whether it’s clothing, gifts, or momentos – Lakeview East has every shop for anything you might need or want.
Whether you’re a thrill seeker or just a window shopper, you’ll be sure to find something cool at The House (formerly W82), Chicago’s original board shop. They stock a wide selection of snowboarding, skateboarding, longboarding, swimwear, footwear, apparel and accessories as well as the knowledge to find you the right gear for your unique adventures.
Don’t forget that you are a tourist, and every tourist needs a souvenir. You’ll remember this staycation for years to come when you pick out a souvenir from Wrigleyville Sports. They have everything for every Chicago sports fan and are located just across from Wrigley Field. Root for the Home Team in some new gear!
Record stores are a great place to spend some time and find cool new things. Flip through the collection at Reckless Records, and you may just find some new (or old) tunes to take home.
