0 hotels in Chicago

Sweet-treat lovers - look no further than Doughnut Vault. This little place in River North (you guessed it, just north of the river) sells out of its hot homemade donuts regularly so get yourself there early for a very special treat. Pointing south? Dat Donut in Chatham is renowned for it's super-sweet eats including their glazed yeast donuts. How could you resist?

If you're looking for a cheap and cheerful vegan milkshake with all the trimmings, the Chicago Diner has your back. Based in Bucktown, this is the go-to place for plant-based grub in the city. Or if you're going for something fancy, try PLANTA Queen's Asian-fusion delights. Try the dehydrated watermelon nigiri - you'll be amazed.

Virtue Restaurant in Chicago's Hyde Park pairs homey Southern cooking with delicious wine pairings. For that cosy feeling, Virtue's menu goes for comforting flavors that feel just like a hug. Go uptown for homemade Ethiopian cusine at Tesfa. Their classic East-African dishes are eaten with injera bread and are made to be shared with friends.

Fly into The Aviary for some innovative takes on the classics. This chic and stylish bar on the West Loop has become world-famous for its stunning drinks you won't be able to stop talking about. Or go for even more glamor at The Violet Hour. Over in Wicker Park, this swanky speakeasy serves specially crafted cocktails that will have you feeling like you're back in The Golden Age.

Millennium Park whet your appetite? Next on your list should be Lincoln Park - Chicago's 6.5-mile green space alongside the lake. Expect golf courses, skate parks and cultural spots in this well-loved space. Or if you like your own personal soundtrack, head to Union Park - the home of Pitchfork Music Festival. It's the place to be for all things cool on the West Loop.

Things can get pretty chilly out West in the winter, with temperatures regularly dipping below zero in January and February - and fewer crowds, of course. April through June can reach the mid-20s. Fall might just be the perfectly balanced season between the chills of winter and heat of summer - the Chicago parks turn beautiful colours and there are many events in the city. Pack a good jacket and your camera.

Some of the best things in life are free - and Chicago means it! See the lions and tigers and bears (for free) at Chicago's Lincoln Park Zoo. Explore the Smart Museum of Art with over 16,000 pieces of fine art on the University of Chicago campus, or get the best views of the Chicago skyline from Navy Pier.

Getting around Chicago without a car is super easy. Hop on the Blue Line from Chicago O’Hare International Airport to downtown, or the Red Line between the North and South Sides. There are also buses and plenty of cycle lanes, or maybe even nab yourself a water taxi if you're feeling adventurous.

Funnily enough, Illinois isn't even in the running for the top 5 windiest states! Chicago was called the Windy City in 1876 after a hurricane blew through it - a local newspaper used the name to highlight that the local politicians were 'full of wind'. You learn something new every day.

The mall is where it's at. Chicago Ridge Mall, a half-hour drive from the center of Chicago, has all the top brands in one place. With over 130 stores, this is the ultimate shopping experience in Chicago. Or for something a little closer to your citizenM hotel, set your sights on Michigan Avenue. Stroll down the Magnificent Mile for designer shops, independent boutiques and more.

Right next to Grant Park, you'll find the perfect spot to relax with a whisky sour. Pull up a seat at Jazz Showcase - the oldest jazz bar in the city - and sink into the soothing sounds of some slick sax.