A Sample of Chicago's Striking Architecture

The astonishing Rookery Building

I lived in Chicago for seven years and never fully appreciated being engulfed by striking architecture. Every time I visit, I make a point of discovering new structures. Bonus points for buildings that stop me dead in my tracks, as occurred during my last excursion.

The Hunter Building boasts an incredible mural by Ella & Pitr 

The captivating Schatz Building

Design

Skyline views and lights of Buckingham Fountain

Canoodle with nature amongst skyscrapers

No fear of heights

Gargoyles at Harold Washington Library

Patterns

A fountain side view

My fave - artsy house in the South Loop

I can't wait to see what turns up next time. What are your favorite architectural spots in the Windy City?

What Makes Lacuna Lofts So Special?

What makes Lacuna Lofts so special and worthy of a trip to Chicago in itself? If you appreciate art like I do, allow me to show you.

I first learned about this artistic space following one of my favorite street art talents on Instagram. Wrdsmth, originally from Chicago, crafted several inspiring pieces at Lacuna Lofts. This alone made a trip to Chicago imminent. Hats off to Lanee Lee for stalking this fascinating guy and sharing his world with us (I only wish I had been the stalker) - http://huff.to/1oVdQE8


The moment I spied the structure I was hypnotized, even in the dismal splatters of rain. The rooftop patches of color immediately draw you in, allowing your mind to wonder what awaits you. My feet finally decided to make more progress towards the building, and once inside, I was oohing and aahing like it was the 4th of July. 

Lacuna Lofts is spacious and fetching, offering commercial studio space for rent with oodles of perks. In addition, Lacuna is sought-after for wedding receptions and other events. To learn more, check out their Facebook page.
https://www.facebook.com/LacunaLofts/

Here's a preview of the artsy side -

A typewriter never looked so stylish. Am I right?! 

I look forward to more exploration at Lacuna Lofts, especially the rooftop. Wouldn't it be grand if they rented out apartments?

2015 Hostel Reviews

Photo courtesy joblo.com

In my opinion, hostels are the way to go (don't believe what you see in those movies:) I stayed at seven different locations in 2015 with repeat visits at Freehand Chicago. I prefer hostels for the price, camaraderie, and because they are typically located in an area that is convenient to transportation and activities.

Orange Drive Hostel in Hollywood, CA
This hostel was originally a home from the 1920's and is oozing with charm and character. It's located in an ideal location right off Hollywood Blvd in Hollywood, CA. I love their scrumptious free waffles in the morning, friendly staff, and location. I have stayed in a spacious dorm room at this hostel many times, and will continue to do so when I travel to LA. 
http://orangedrivehostel.com/


Apple Hostels in Philadelphia, PA
I knew what I was getting into by securing a dorm room with 27 other females; however, it was worse than I expected. There are two separate rooms with no door, and it's bunk on top of bunk. A male staff person entered the room without announcing himself, and fortunately, I had just finished changing. Not to mention, it was hot, stuffy, pricey, and oh so noisy. I would not stay here again. 
http://applehostels.com/

DC Lofty in Washington, DC
This is another charming property with chandeliers and exposed brick. I stayed in a 4-person dorm with ensuite bath. The hostel was clean with a comfy bed, friendly staff, and a great location. I felt secure walking around, even from the subway late at night. Be sure to check out nearby 14th Street for fantastic bars and restaurants. I would definitely stay here again.
http://www.capitalhostels.net/

Hostel Detroit in Detroit, MI
I wrote an individual post for this hostel (bit.ly/1lAZebX). I had a great visit and would stay here again.

Freehand Chicago in Chicago, IL
Another property that I published an individual post for (bit.ly/1MWdC3T). I'm completely smitten with this hostel, and intend to have many more visits in the future.

Getaway Hostel in Chicago, IL
I always stay at Freehand Chicago when I visit the Windy City; however, I chose this location because it was within walking distance of my Halloween activities. The hostel is located on a lovely, tree-lined street and is aesthetically pleasing; however, I wouldn't stay here again. I base this on the location of the bathrooms being nowhere near the dorm room (you had to walk through two different areas), and the bunk beds are terribly unstable (my bed shifted with the slightest movement from my bunkmate).
http://www.getawayhostel.com/

The Cleveland Hostel in Cleveland, OH
I couldn't have chosen a better place to stay than the Cleveland Hostel. What a gem in a remarkable neighborhood. Immerse yourself in Ohio City for the architecture (especially the homes), phenomenal bars/restaurants, Great Lakes Brewing, and the West Side Market. The hostel is inviting, clean, tastefully decorated, and extremely accommodating. I will return for a summer visit to relish the rooftop deck. View photos here http://bit.ly/1MLnsFP

CHICAGO STREET FESTIVALS

When I can't travel abroad, the next best thing is a street festival. The possibilities for that are endless in the Windy City, and I hopped on Megabus this past weekend to experience a couple of them.

First stop was Stan's Donuts, to inhale a delectable pastry. I didn't exactly inhale this chocolate orange old-fashioned, as a fork was the way to go.

The opening festival was the Taste of Greece. Since this country still appears on my bucket list, I figured I could at least experience some food and drink while shouting "Opa." I imbibed on Hillas, a traditional Greek beer, which I thoroughly enjoyed, and I couldn't stop drooling over my delicious spanakopita.

I needed to walk off the food and beer before moving on to the next venue, so what better place than a stroll along the Chicago River.

Time for a train ride to the Albany Park World Fest. This was where I planned to dance until the cows come home with bands Magic Carpet (East African & Arabica) and Bossa Tres with Dil Costa Samba Dancers (Brazilian). These huge talents were absolutely mesmerizing and I didn't want it to end.

Sadly, I was in town only for the day and it had to end. Even when it's dark, you are beautiful and intriguing Chicago!

MOLE DE MAYO FESTIVAL AND MORE!

One of many phenomenal murals in Pilsen

I initiated a weekend in Chicago to attend the Mole de Mayo festival in the Pilsen neighborhood. I was determined to consume as much mole as my stomach could muster. This vegetarian savored a vegan spicy mole flauta, and "entree" that included rice, potatoes, mushrooms and sesame seeds smothered in a mole sauce. 
 

I was also eager to become acquainted with someone for the first time in person. We met online through a neighborhood Facebook page, and started following each other on Instagram. Ang is a brilliant jewelery maker, and I discovered she was going to have a vendor booth at Mole de Mayo. http://etsy.me/1KILCEq

Meet Ang Mir 

If you have never been to this wonderful cultural event, mark your calendar for 2016. Aside from the delicious food, there are vendors, live music, Lucha Libre, a mechanical bull, and more. 

After departing Pilsen, I did a quick check-in at the highly anticipated new hostel called Freehand Chicago. You can read all about my stay here http://bit.ly/1BmZ0qc

Live music at the Landshark Beer Garden at Navy Pier was next on the agenda. Nothing beats dancing under the stars on Lake Michigan, especially Wednesday and Saturday evenings with the addition of fireworks. http://bit.ly/1jxbvIz 

 
Sunday was a day to remember, beginning with an extraordinary meal at a new venue called LYFE Kitchen. I can't say enough good things about this aesthetically pleasing eatery that offers healthy and mouthwatering food.

Quinoa Crunch Wrap

A donut sign caught my eye after leaving LYFE and I quickly kept walking. My love for donuts was stronger than my willpower; therefore, I backtracked to check out the menu at Stan's Donuts. I couldn't resist this little beauty and enjoyed every morsel.

A "blurry" Lemon Pistachio Old-Fashioned

With a satisfied belly, I made tracks to Hopleaf Bar, which is one of the best venues in Chicago to indulge in a remarkable beer selection. They also have good food, and I inhaled an order of mac and cheese before getting a photo.

My friends and I ended the night at one of my beloved bars that I truly miss. Delicious entertainment and 200+ martinis await you at the one and only Kit Kat Lounge. 

Beer and martinis make for a sleepy Megabus ride home, which is a good thing. Until next time Chitown!

SWEET DREAMS AT FREEHAND CHICAGO

I contemplated not sharing this gem with the world, because I'm afraid I may not get a bed on my future visits. However, that wouldn't be fair to Freehand, because it's an exceptional new hostel located in the heart of downtown Chicago.

 

The minute I stepped through the door at Freehand, I felt like I had entered a boutique hotel. I had to exit back out and check the address again to make sure my eyes weren't deceiving me.

Once inside, to your immediate left is a charming and hip cafe called Cafe Integral, which will keep you fueled with caffeine during your stay. To the right, you will find friendly and eager staff waiting to assist you. 

In addition, the hostel offers distinct sitting areas in an engaging atmosphere and a lounge called Broken Shaker, serving up mouthwatering cocktails and street food inspired fare.

I stayed in a funky shared quad with four bunk beds and en suite bath. The neighborhood maps on the ceiling of the bunks are a playful addition.

Freehand Chicago Perks:

• Hotel design at hostel prices 
• Cafe and lounge on the premises
• Exceptionally friendly, helpful staff
• Location, location, location
• Drapery surrounding each bed for privacy
• Individual lighting and outlets
• En suite bath and lockers
• The front desk will hold your bags in a secure area

Once you get inside Freehand Chicago, you may forget that you are supposed to be exploring the city. There is also a Freehand Miami, and I can't wait to check that out.

http://thefreehand.com/chicago/

Holiday Pleasure in Chicago

One of the best times to travel to Chicago is the winter/holiday season.Yes, the weather is frosty; however, there are some first-rate events to tickle your fancy regardless of the temperature.
 
I traveled to the city last week to partake in a few of my favorite holiday festivities - the Christkindlmarket, the windows and great tree at Macy's on State, and the CTA Holiday Train. I plan to head back soon to catch a few more. 

Here are the events not to be missed:

• CTA Holiday Train through 12/23
• Christkindlmarket through 12/24
• Lincoln Park Zoo Lights through 1/4
• The Great Tree in the Walnut Room and  Holiday Windows at Macy's through 1/11
• Navy Pier Winter Wonderfest through 1/11
• Millenium Park Ice Skating Rink through 3/8

My day couldn't begin without a donut from Firecakes, and this little beauty is a Meyer's Lemon that I devoured in almost one bite.
 

 The Great Tree & Windows at Macy's

 

The only time I'm giddy when riding the "L"

Lunch time! I tried a new sushi place and so glad I did. Delicious vegan eats at Friends Sushi.

Bitburger and Gluhwein at the Christkindlmarket

Time's a-wastin' for some of these celebrations, so get yourself bundled up and head to Chicago.